A Happy Family

First Snow??

2012-02-20T15:24:00.003-08:00

I feel that the storm we had Saturday night was the first storm that really brought enough snow for the boys to go out and really enjoy.

Sunday morning the boys were out and loving it.

Jackson made a cameo appearance outside, but one fall and he was done.

Crazy Hair Day

2012-02-10T11:34:00.000-08:00

This week at school the boys had crazy hair day.

James surprised me with his "crazy hair" idea..

The kid wanted to be bald.

so we spent the night shaving his head.

Josh with his mohawk, we added a little color

With one kid bald and another with a red mohawk I sent the boys out the door.

I am so proud

Happenings

2012-02-02T15:19:00.000-08:00

Not much to blog about at the Bentley Compound. January is a brutal month. Glad we are on to February. We are loving spending time with Team Neider and Grandma Teri. I fear for the day Team Neider won't live close again. So Jackson and I will soak up all the girlie time we can get.

A favorite when Brad comes home from work. Tackle and a ride on "Glue stick". These three boys never get sick of it. "Glue stick" gets a little tired. Might be headed to the factory before to long.
In my efforts to keep Jackson and I entertained through the month, I have outings for us often. However, sometimes Jackson doesn't appreciate it. In my not so proud moments of being a Mom I let the kid enjoy a pack of Bubble Tape Bubble Gum. He goes through it all, chews and swallows. It keeps in happy.

Here is hoping to February is a lot more exciting.

Jackson's Birthday

2012-01-22T10:24:00.000-08:00

It was a blessing that my little "Jack Jack"'s birthday fell on a Sunday. I just don't have it in me to do anything fancy.

Sunday morning we had a few balloons for the kid to play with, besides a little nap before church that was just about it.

We did have cake and ice cream up at Jensen's.

See the fear in Jackson's eyes.

Glad the little guy doesn't remember. I just wonder how long I will be able to keep up the "low key" birthdays.

Church History Museum

2012-01-20T15:14:00.000-08:00

I hate to openly admit that I have never been to the Church History Museum. With no school Friday we needed something to entertain and the price was right.

Load up the kids and head down town.

We headed straight to the Book of Mormon exhibit and the the kids go.

Kids were happy for about 45 minutes and then they were ready to go. It is fun to see, but not an activity that will kill alot of time. The highlight of the adventure was playing the escalator. I could have just driven to the mall.

Glad we made the journey down to see it.

23rd Party

2011-12-31T15:52:00.000-08:00

December 23rd is a tradition on the Jensen side for as long as I can remember.

It has changed a few times, but the 23rd is a standing tradition.

We met up for a wonderful breakfast dinner. Nothing better than a Dodee (my Grandma) meal. Always a favorite.

I wish had a picture, but when I walked in the kitchen my Dad, Uncles and Aunt were all busy cooking and making meal preparations. Loved it.

Jackson thinks that if Maisy is sucking her thumb he also needs a finger in his mouth. I love these two together

Brooke was the perfect jungle jim

Nothing better then a smile from Miss ASisters

One of the many highlights of the night was the guessing game.

There were 12 different containers filled with different treats and we all guessed how many were in each one.

Of the 12 containers each boy won one.

So excited

After all the festivities ended Trent and Amy took all the kiddos (except Jackson) for a sleepover). Seriously, their 5 plus Annie, Maisy, James and Josh.

The kids loved it...Trent and Amy were exhausted.

Dear Santa

2011-12-30T21:34:00.000-08:00

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house...

the kids were in bed

Mom and Dad stewing about

and what do my wondering eyes should appear

was a note for Santa

with one question to answer

My sweet James left this note, but forgot to set it by the tree for Santa to see.

Until next year.....???

Christmas 2011

2011-12-30T19:18:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that Christmas has come and gone.

The New Year is upon us.

I feel that preparations for Christmas take so much time and the build up is so crazy and then it is over before I know it.

Boys opening their Christmas Pj's

Christmas morning

We told the boys they could come in to our room at 7:00

Once presents were opened we all got ready for church

I really liked going to church oh Christmas.

After church we changed and headed up to Mom and Dad's for Christmas brunch.

Love IT.

So much good food

Once brunch was done it was time to swap gifts.

Always a favorite.

We were showered with gifts.

Everyone was SO generous

Christmas night we headed to Bentley's for dinner and gifts.

No Christmas would be complete with out a Nativity acted out by the grandkids.

Joseph and one of the wise men

Cutest wise man
Another very handsome wise man

Full cast

It was an amazing fun filled day

I feel so lucky to have family close to celebrate with

One Crazy Weekend

2011-12-19T12:11:00.000-08:00

Friday morning we hit the ground running.

Josh had a Christmas program at school followed by a classroom Christmas party that I was in charge of.

Friday afternoon Aiden and Andrew were dropped off for a sleepover.

After video games, spy games and movies we had dinner followed by the most amazing Christmas house.

I saw this house on the news.

Well worth the effort to go by.

This house has over 80 blow-up decoration in the yard.

Needless to say the boys were in heaven.

We let them get out of the car and see it all.

Happy as can be.

The favorite was a Santa that pulled his pants down and had a tattoo on his "upper bum".

Later Andrew and Josh helped make snickerdoodles.

Josh and Andrew wanted to make giant cookies.

Nothing better then watching one another play video games. Sunday night we attended the Johnson Family Progressive Dinner. (When we told James we were going to different houses for different parts of the dinner James replied, "that makes no sense. Why don't we just stay at one house?"

Mom and Bill

Brooke and Maisy

Jackson getting in on the love

One of my favorite people, Papa Morris.

My Papa always has a hug and a smile.

Love this man

Maga specify asked me not to put this picture on my blog, but Maga I just couldn't resist it.

I love Maga. She is such an example, and Maga you look great. Please forgive me for posting the picture?

It was an amazing fun filled weekend.

We are so blessed to live close to family during the Holiday season.

2011-12-17T19:32:00.000-08:00

Christmas party at Grandma Teeny's.

Good times had by all.

My favorite moment was when all my boys were sitting by each other and I told them i wanted a picture and Evie jumped right up and headed into the frame.

Love having girls around.

Again, sweet Evie can't resist a cameo appearance

Santa comes and the kids get to tell him what they want.

Always, a highlight
Jackson looks a little unsure.

But once he saw that Santa had a few gifts in his bag the kid jumped right up on his lap.

Grandma and Grandpa

Jackson

2011-12-13T19:59:00.000-08:00

He looks like such a nice boy.

I have said it once and I will say it again.

This boy can turn on a dime.

However, he was eating up the opportunity to be in front of the camera.

Thanksgiving...St. George Style

2011-11-28T17:50:00.000-08:00

Blue skies, warmer weather and lots of family. Perfect recipe for a fun filled Thanksgiving weekend.

It started off Tuesday morning when the Boys and I headed down to St. George to met up with Grandma, Grandpa and Jenny.

Naturally once the car is unloaded it is time for a swim.

After swimming we clean-up and headed to dinner to met up with Jake and Candice as they head up to Idaho for their Thanksgiving weekend. A fine dinning experience at Smash Burger. Mike and Jamie and their family met up with us at dinner.

Jackson enjoyed dinner. This poor kid was well on his way to getting sick.

These two are so fun together.

Grandma teaching Jackson how to text.

Favorite picture.

We went shopping and lost Annie and the girl had climbed in and up on the racks.

So good.

The best part, she couldn't figure out how to get out. Jamie had to stick about half her body in to rescue her.

Girls ready to run the 1st Green Springs 5k Turkey Trot

Grandma and Brooke doing warm ups

Amy finishing strong

Trent was good enough to organize the race, but he finished so fast I don't think anyone had time to pull out the camera and be ready.

Jenny looking good finishing up
Dad has turned into an amazing runner. He is so dedicated. He is the incredible shrinking man. Every time I see him he keeps getting skinner.

Example of exercising and eating right.

Brooke finishing up.

The kiddos played while waiting for the 5k runners and getting ready for the kids run.

Josh and Aiden in prep for the start of their big race
Grand kids race Grandma

Sister race

Team NeiderThis kid is so happy in the water.

One of the highlights for the kids....

Having Big Brad and Cameron throw them in the pool. Aiden was able to get some air.

A little bit harder to get James up and out of the water.

Black Friday really started Thursday night at 10:00. A few of us headed to Walmart for the 10:00 deals. Crazy!!! Let me just say that the leader of the pack was non other than Cameron. He is a machine. He ran down the aisle to get a good spot at the DVD display. Don't mess around with him. You need anything he can get it. He even braved the electronic department.

Check-out.

After our purchases we headed to Target to met up with Trent and Amy in line, Target opened at midnight.

Once we

Let me say this. Trent and Amy were after some very specific items at Target and seeing the line-up outside I didn't know how good the chances were. After being sneaky (okay,...dishonest) I got in and headed to the electronics to find another line to wait and wait in.

Long story short and I don't really want to get into all my discretion's, we were able to get exactly what we needed. At 1:30 after our electronic purchases and seeing the check-out line winded through just about every aisle we carefully hid our treasure to buy later and went to Old Navy.We headed back to the house around 2:30 to get some sleep.

In the morning after a few hours of sleep we headed back out to tackle more shopping.

Once back at Target I found our treasure to still be where I carefully left them.

A visit to JCPenny's and Teri trying a dress over her clothes in the shoe dept.

It was a fun filled few days. Full of food, family, swimming, and lots of fun. Always crazy when so many of us get together, but nothing better than spending time with the ones you love.

Life with Boys

2011-11-20T10:29:00.000-08:00

You know you live in a house full of boys when while getting ready for church and pulling on my tights, Josh says, "why would anyone want to wear socks that tall?"

and James quickly replies, "people wear those on their faces".

So Brad and I had to explain that tights are not to be worn on faces, and sometimes people do that to disguise themselves.

And, girls wear tights with their dresses, or skirts.

Cheers to life with boys.

Halloween

2011-11-03T11:45:00.000-07:00

Halloween came and went and there was plenty of activities to go around. My favorite was Saturday night we had our ward Trunk or Treat.

Cousin picture

Annie and Maisy were so scared with James' costume.
After food and pictures we all loaded into The Beast.
I think we had about 13 people loaded in. The men stayed back to keep their eye on the Utah football game.

Halloween day was a marathon

School for a Halloween parade

A favorite tradition: Deseret First Credit Union

Jackson and Maisy loving

After Deseret First we all met up with Brooke at Cafe Rio.

I headed off back to school to do Josh's classroom Halloween party.

After school we headed up to Trent and Amy's to enjoy their ward trunk or treat.

Then finally back home and get ready to head out to trick or treat in the neighborhood. By Monday night the boys were so tired. The neighborhood trick or treating lasted about an hour.

Still plenty of candy to last.

Best picture from all activities.

Grandma surrounded by all her grandkids.

(missing James and Josh who were at school)

Look how happy she is.

Las Vegas Ragnar

2011-10-28T20:43:00.000-07:00

What an experience!!

I was in van #2 with Jake, Brooke, Trent (aka A Machine), Dad and Larry Veigel.

Friday October 21, van #2 met up at Jake and Candice's house.

Once we were all packed and proper advertisement of Team Bonk! we were off to met up at the first van exchange.

Marina at lake Mead.. team check in, safety meeting, prep to take over

Kimmy was the last runner in Van #1 and Trent was our first runner in van #2.

Trent (aka The machine)

he is amazing. It looks like he just glides over the pavement while running. Brooke waiting for Trent to come in and start her 1st run.

Love this picture of Brooke. She trained so hard and was ready to run. I loved that once you exchanged runners you would pass your runner while driving to the next exchange.

Always able to cheer your team mate.

Like I mentioned you pass your team mate running to cheer them on, you also drive what they will run. In the 90 degree heat of the Vegas desert. We drove ahead of Brooke and saw the large hill that she had to climb to end her leg of the race. Once we parked the truck Trent jumped out grabbed a bottle of water and ran back to met up with Brooke to dump water on her and give her a drink. H e then ran the last part of her leg with her. When I saw them both running together to the finish I was so emotional. It was awesome.

Getting ready for my first run

Waiting for Jake

Jake finishing and Dad starting

Dad finishingDad recovering

Larry into the first mile

Brad and the boys came to one of the van exchanges. I was so excited to see them.

Larry and Trent finishing Larry's leg. About 2 miles into his run Larry's leg gave out on him. However, he still pushed through it and ran (hobbled) the rest of this leg. Larry could not put any weight on his leg the rest of the weekend.

Siblings

Jamie, Jill, Brooke, Jenny, Trent, Me and Jake

Catching a few ZZZ's at a park waiting for our turn again.

Team Bonk! waiting for Trent.

Early morning in the gravel pit that was a second location to sleep.

Physical TherapyTrent finishing up his last leg at an amazing pace. Brooke starting her last leg.
Brooke passing off the slap bracelet has she finished. I was so excited for her. It was another hot and long run she had. I had a hot and long run in front of me, but Brooke finishing was so exciting. The excitement quickly left has I had to climb a hill in the hot Vegas sun.

Trent getting Jake water

Dad in the middle of his final leg. He did a great job. He had a sore knee, but was able to do it, and have style. Dad ran Larry's second leg in the middle of the night since Larry's leg gave out.Dad passing off to Trent, Since Larry was out Trent picked up his last leg.

Some of the support crewTeam Bonk! waiting for Trent so we can all run to the finish line togetherJake and Dad carried Larry across the finish line.
Team BONK!My favorite part was receiving hugs from all my boys. Once again I just loved seeing all the my boys.

My little support team.

I loved having them all there.

Ragnar was amazing. So challenging physically, mentally and emotionally. Loved being apart of team BONK!

Loved dinner at Raising Cain's on the way back to the hotel. Loved the hot tub soak. Loved crawling into bed.

Until April.....

Las Vegas..Family Time

2011-10-24T12:04:00.000-07:00

We had a few days before the big race to enjoy Vegas and all it has to offer with the boys. Our hotel was amazing. we didn't have to walk thru the casino to get in and out of our room, water slides, game room and a kids activity room. Good fun.

Game Room

The first morning we were up so early that I am pretty sure we were at The New York New York Hotel by 9:00. Played a few games in the kids area and headed to the M&M and Coke stores. After that we had seen enough we headed back to the hotel to swim.

Pool side snacks

After an afternoon at the pool we clean up for dinner, Mike and Jamie checked in to our same hotel. The boys were excited.

I am pretty sure Annie and Josh are from the same mold. Those two are perfect for each other.

Jake was nice enough to met us at our hotel and took us to a wonderful dinner. Raising Cane's, It was so good. Chicken fingers , fries and Texas Toast..who knew. So fabulous.

Jackson and Maisy had so much to say. Loved watching them interact.

After dinner Jamie took us to a shopping center with a play ground for the kids. We could have stayed all night. A little something for everyone.The next morning the boys took me to Jake and Candice's house to met up with the 2nd half of team BONK!

Let the race begin........................

Ragnar Las Vegas

2011-10-23T19:43:00.000-07:00

188 miles

33 hours

12 team members

2 cars

90 degree heat

1 injury

4 hours of sleep

36 race legs

15 support members

(Teri, Jenny, Jill, Mike, Jamie, Annie, Maisy, Miles, Candice, Brad, James, Josh, Jackson, and President and Sister Neider)

1 amazing finish

endless cheering one another

Van #2 getting ready to leave...lots more to come........

James' Party

2011-10-17T13:27:00.000-07:00

In my last post I stated I would head to a local venue for the next party....and that I did. They did everything for me. When we arrived a room set up with balloons, party bags for each guest, a pinata, birthday cupcakes, lots of food and game cards for everyone.

All I had to do was show up.

They had a dance party and this kid could not get enough. Every time music came on he was was right in the middle dancing.

I loved every minute of it.

If you participated in the dance party they loaded $3.00 more dollars on your game card. Another hour of fun.

This was a game that you swung the hammer to see how strong. Aiden got Brad to do it and all the boys gathered around to watch, and loved it.

Such a fun party, and the best part was no set-up or clean-up. I loved it.

I can't believe James is 9....time flies.

Josh's Birthday

2011-10-08T19:06:00.000-07:00

As a mom I will take the blame. We start the count down to birthdays around here about a month in advance.

Is there really anything better then your birthday as a kid??

this year Josh wanted an Army birthday, so obstacle courses, grenades, a mine field and a tank pinata (I am sure there are plenty pinatas in the army, right?)

Let the party begin

After all the events and party goers went home, I was tired.

Next party....head to the local party venue where they do all the work for me.

School

2011-10-02T19:26:00.000-07:00

On the first day of school as I joyfully sent both James and Josh out the door, Josh to 1st grade so that means both are gone all day, I was excited.

After about the first three days things with Josh started to crumble.

He was in tears each night and I would ask questions has to what was going on, didn't get a real answer.

Went to school to talk his his teacher, "Is Josh doing okay?"

Teacher, "Yes, he is such a good student and always does what I ask."

Left puzzled.

Day after day, Josh gaining his strength to go to school, and I not being able to figure out what he is struggling with it became clear.

One afternoon while enjoying a lunch with my Mom and Grandma, while only having one child I received a call from the school.

Seriously!!!!

Josh is sick.

When I get to the school, Josh is sitting in the office and when he sees me he gets a little smirk (I had been had)

When I get to him, he starts to cry saying he is sick. Really??

After talking with him I finally figure out that Josh, "just really misses me while at school". I wish the feel was reciprocated.

After talking him down and spending a little time in class with him, he was able to finish the day. I would receive random phone calls with a very sad Josh on the other end and a very patience teacher letting him talk to me and then go back to focus in the class.

He teacher let me know that Josh would be fine in class and as soon as he started to think about home he would fall into tears.

(really? my son that has a mohawk and fears nothing? Man card taking away)

Realizing Josh has to go to school each day I came up with an idea.

We would both wear red yarn on our wrist so that thur out the day we could look down and know that each other is thinking of us.

So now, each morning with a pep rally and yarn we are managing school.

I think things are getting easier, slowly, but surely.

Jackson also wanted to get in on the love fest.

on a side note...

We had a park day with Grandma, Jamie and her hoard.

Always love being with my Mom and Sister.

ABC Awards

2011-09-18T20:24:00.000-07:00

Last Friday morning James and Josh both receive the ABC award.

The award is given to them by there school. The teacher nominate kids that are doing well in the classroom as well and being better citizens.

I was so proud that both boys received it and I loved that they both received it on the same day.

Love these boys.

Race Day

2011-09-17T16:35:00.000-07:00

In our attempt to prepare for Ragnar, Brooke and I decided to run this race. Due to recent events of the summer this was the perfect race for us.

Hard to see the sign on our backs, but Brooke made us back signs that said "In Loving CELEBRATION of Brad" I feel truly blessed as many of the runners had back signs for those that lost the fight to skin cancer.

It was hard but it felt so good to run across the finish line.

Cheers to Brooke that was an amazing partner.

Remembering the Good

2011-09-12T18:28:00.000-07:00

I have to remember these moments......

"He looks like such a nice boy"
Remember the good.....things can change in the blink of an eye.....
*
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*
*
*
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Annie and Maisy

2011-09-03T17:35:00.000-07:00

We have been so lucky to be spending so much time with Mike and Jamie's girlie's.

They are so much fun to have around. I like a little having a little "girl" time to talk about princesses, long pretty hair and pretty dresses.

A night in the front yard awaiting word on Baby Boy.

Jackson and Annie just love each other....
never mind

note to those leaving Grandma and Heidi in charge.....

we let your kids eat a cupcake anyway they want....

with as much frosting as possible.

Love having Mike and Jamie so close again. Not a fan of the cross country living.

Love spending so much time with Miss. A. and Maisy Mo.

Motherhood

2011-08-31T15:06:00.000-07:00

Motherhood: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

You know your a Mom when.....

you place your order at Sonic and when you get to the window you realize that you don't have your wallet

you drive-thru the car wash and the back door is slightly ajar and you don't realize it until half way through ( no wonder Jackson hates when I go through it, he is always getting hosed down)

you realize that is the second time you have done that

you count that as his shower

you take kids to get Slurpee's and they all over flow after warning to, "be very care they fill up fast and over flow"

no matter how hard you try you just can't go to the bathroom without assistants

about 1 out of every 10 showers you are actually alone

you drink your drink and see little floates and shrug your shoulders and drink any way grateful the floates are not bigger

you doze while listen to your child read

you are asked where ___?___ is, knowing full well you were not the one to last use it, or used it at all

you kick up your heels after dropping off kids the first day of school

you see one of your children comfort another, and get a bit choked up

your lap and arms seem to make the world all better

nothing feels better than snuggles

1st Day of School

2011-08-23T16:33:00.000-07:00

It came...

I am a fan....

** SCHOOL**

Josh - 1st Grade

James - 3rd Grade
As I left them both for the first day I just might have cried.....TEARS of JOY.
What a beautiful day.

Best Party!!

2011-08-20T18:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks Trent and Amy!!!

Best party ever!!!

Check out this cool cat enjoying the comforts of the shade.

Just love my Little Guy

It Really Happened...

2011-08-14T14:39:00.000-07:00

It really happened......

It really ended.......

We are alive to tell about it.......

It was harder than I EVER thought...........

We added a child.....

Lots of tears.....

Short years and LONG days....

But it really happened.....

Friday August 12, 2011 8:00 AM

Marriott Center

Brad had his graduation ceremony from the EMBA program at BYU.

I see this picture and I am amazed, not that Brad made it, but that it came to an end. (that is actually one of the differences between Brad and I..the guy loves learning and really enjoyed school. I, on the hand...not so book smart)
Brad shaking hands with one of his professors (Dr. Burke Jackson)

So Proud.

My boys.

What an example Brad is to our boys.

Graduation Robes??, Seriously it is a dress.

This is how we ended the festivities.

Project

2011-08-08T09:37:00.000-07:00

Josh has become our neighbors project.

Once a week Josh gets the sides of his head shaved to get this mo hawk with a rats tail in back. It's real attractive.

Not only does our neighbor love shaving and then "styling", but Josh is loving it. He will has for lots of gel to keep hair "up".

Sunday morning Josh asked me to spike his hair and as I was working on it he looked up at me and told me, "You are not doing it right". He asked if he could run over to our neighbors house to have him "do my spikes right". 8:30 Sunday morning Josh run across the lawn to have his hair done.

Following Josh's latest shave we thought it was only appropriate that Josh get a "tattoo" to fit into the white trash model we are trying to achieve.

Naturally, Josh asked for skull and cross bones .

UP!!

2011-08-08T09:31:00.000-07:00

Totally worth seeing with kids.

Carl on the porch with the boys
Not worth paying for the kiddos to go inside. $5.00, put if you go to the garage you can get your grape soda pin.

Tennesse Fun

2011-08-02T17:08:00.000-07:00

I recently spent 5 fabulous days with these 4 lovely ladies. It was so much FUN.

I love heading to a new city to explore; new surrounding, new restaurants (found some good ones), and new shopping (some might say it is the same shopping, but nothing better than finding TJ Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls. Not only do I love shopping in these stores in SL, but love finding as many as I can in a new city to explore. Treasures to be found.)

The "Divine Miss. A." being crowned by Grandma. This girlie is a Princess all the way through.

I was thrust from the "boy" world and into "girl" world in no time.

These little darlings are just lovable.

Annie and Maisy see anything that sparkles, fabulously embellished, pink, or ruffles and their little eyes light up.

A drive by the Parthenon with a quick stop for a photo opt

Fried Green Tomatoes

simply wonderful, never would have guessed

Found some great fried chicken, southern BBQ and just good food

Other highlights....

Home of Andrew Jackson

Civil War Sites

CeCe's Frozen Yoguart

Nashville Tennessee Temple

Grand Ole Oprey

Downtown Nashville (Broadway)

Lots of time with my Best Friends

Happy Day!!

2011-07-26T09:54:00.000-07:00

After a long and stressful week, we at the Bentley Compound are proud to state we are well.

We received the good news this morning.

Thanks for all the prayers, thoughts and fasts on our behalf.

Our family has been blessed.

A Vacation...

2011-07-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

"A vacation...from my problems"

We have needed to lighten the mood at the Bentley Estate and nothing better than spending the afternoon at the pool with the ones we love.

Hiking

2011-07-18T08:58:00.000-07:00

We took advantage of living so close to the canyons Saturday and headed up to snowbird for a hike. It was amazing. The weather was perfect, the company was prime, and the boys were loving running through the mountains.

Jackson is HUGE!!!!

When I saw this picture I realized that maybe the "baby" carrier is no more. It looks like I have a 1st grader strapped to me chest.

These boys have so much fun together. If Jackson is in therapy when he is older for family identity issues one will know why.

I am pretty sure Jackson things Hudson is his brother.

I am sure he is happy has can be realizing that if he heads next door he can get whatever he wants. Our fabulous neighbors usually have a drink in the fridge with his name on it. They have his favorite ice cream treats in the freezer.I guess if down the road we have a few therapy bills it will be worth it for having neighbors that treat Jackson like their own.

Jackson waving to the crowds.....OK, just Dad

It was a perfect evening. Grateful for our neighbors getting us "indoories" people out.

Summer Fun

2011-07-13T10:30:00.000-07:00

We headed out to the Bingham Copper Mine Tuesday. It is free admission this week and for the on-slot of people venturing out they have you park by the main gate and they bus you up. Might have been the best part for Josh and Jackson.

How many kids can you fit on the platform???

Jackson just wanted to stare at the boys.

Outside the gift shop. Like most gift shop it was packed with all kinds of trinkets and Josh zeroed in on a pocket knife that had his name engraved on it.

Moth to a flame.

The kid was so excited.

Like a responsible parent I bought it for him, unsure how soon the first injury would take place.

(day #2 no blood) all just a matter of time.

I found a splash pad out in Herriman and I think Jackson was the only one that liked it.

James and Hudson (my adopted child) did not want to get wet.....

Josh played for a little while then lost interest.

Jackson had the time of his life.

I am learning I just can't please everyone.

Summer Staple

2011-07-10T19:56:00.000-07:00

One of the many things I love most about summer is heading into "Maga's Pool" (Evergreen Swim Club)

Nothing exceptional about the pool, but it is a great place to gather and enjoy one another.

We always seem to gather Saturday morning at the club and try to gather as many of my siblings as possible. (I miss Team Neider TERRIBLY)

The more the merrier.

I love that growing up I spent countless hours swimming with my cousins and I love that my boys now have the same opportunity.

Love tricks off the diving board, raspberries on the toes from jumping on the bottom of the pool to keep afloat, love once the length of the pool seemed impossible to swim....

Always a good time.

I know it looks like I beat Jackson, but we think he is having an allergic reaction to something. The poor little guy looks like he took one right to the eye.

Cheers to another great day at the pool and many more to come.

July 4th...

2011-07-05T08:31:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing weekend with lots of activities.

We found 4 ducks in the storm drain and were able to play with them for a bit. Josh wanted to keep them and have them for his pets.

After having the ducks for a few hours one duck expired and headed to duck heaven. I decided to take them to the river.

Taking the ducks down to the river

Tibble Fork Reservoir

We headed up with our next door neighbors

Good times had by all.

This Kid could not be any happier

Me and my boys

When the boats were on the shore Jackson would climb in and out

Kayaking for the boys

Saturday afternoon I painted the boys with some tribal war paint

July 4th

Salt Lake Swim and Tennis Club

After swimming we headed to Bountiful for some grub and fireworks
The sounds scares the kid and then we get a clap and a smile

Love the fireworks

Alittle Dad time

Smoke bombs

How many people does it take to lite a parachute?

Takes a whole group when working against the wind

The kiddos waiting for their parachute to be launched

The Spectators

(sadly missing Team Neider and Sin City Dwellers)

The adult only Fireworks

The excitement

Thanks to Trent and Amy for all the fun.

Summer Bowling

2011-06-23T15:41:00.000-07:00

kidsbowlfree.com

I signed my kiddos up and they can bowl everyday 2 free games. I just have to rent the shoes for $2.00. Great summer fun.

You can still register your kids online.

Totally worth it.

While the boys bowl Jackson heads into the arcade.

Graduation Dinner

2011-06-22T07:25:00.000-07:00

**Disclaimer**

I am so sorry that I am doing yet another post about having school behind us. If you are tired of reading about it skip this.

Tuesday night Brad and I were able to go to the EMBA Graduation dinner.

I never thought it would come. I can't believe we made it two years. Blood, sweat and tears okay, just really my many tears.

Sitting at the dinner with Brad, I could not wrap my head around that thought that his schooling is all over. There were many days I laid curled in the fetal position wondering if it would all end.

I was a wonderful night with Brad celebrating his accomplishment.

**
**

I loved getting to see the people we traveled with in Asia.

There are amazing people in Brad's class, and love their spouses as well.

6 weeks away from the graduation ceremony.

HALLELUJAH!!!!!!

2011-06-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

HALLELUJAH, HALLELUJAH, HALLELUJAH, HALLELUJAH

I can't believe it is over. Brad went to his last class of his MBA career yesterday. It is a beautiful thing.

I can't believe we survived the two years. It came close to disaster a few times, but we made it.

I am so proud of Brad.

Graduation ceremony is in August and I am sure we will celebrate then, but for know I will enjoy having a husband on Tuesday and Thursday nights as well as through the weekend not having homework.

We had a "blue" (I say blue due to the fact that my heart belongs to the Utes. I couldn't even bring myself to have BYU letters in the house. A girl has to have standards.) party when Brad got home. We made he favorite food and enjoyed the weight that has been lifted.

Liberty Park

2011-06-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

Que music.......

"Feed the birds tuppence a bag

tuppence, tuppence, tuppence a bag"

The kiddos were loving feeding the birds.

Amy brought a bag of goldfish and the kids were chasing seagulls trying to feed them. After a bit they figured out that if they left the crackers on the sidewalk and walk away the seagulls were come eat them up.

We had some water fun

We had some learning moments from James about the clouds

With any outing that takes me close to downtown there is a stop at Banburry Cross. I walk in with the boys and we all get excited seeing the case of donuts.

Jackson enjoying a donut hole.

Love outings with the Jensen Hoard and Grandma.

Weekend of Fun

2011-06-12T17:56:00.000-07:00

We had so much playing time this weekend. It was no-stop fun for all.

We started Friday afternoon by heading up to Trent and Amy's to watch the kiddos.

I took all 8 kids to the grocery store and I loved watching people around us count us all.

After some food we all played

Brooke came home from work and the kids were excited. Who doesn't love Brooke?

Saturday we met up at Mom and Dad's stake family fun day for lots of fun and food.

The kids hit the large slip-n-slid

Brooke brought the hoardGrandma and Grandpa enjoying every bit of the fun.

I have decided...don't let Grandpa fool you, every time I turned around he was talking to someone knew. I think he really enjoys social activities.Lunch with the masses.

Lots of fun.

I didn't take pictures, but the Hoard come over after family fun for some water fun.

I always enjoy activities with the kiddos. They all love being together. Nothing better.

Dinner?

2011-06-01T07:08:00.000-07:00

Learing to feed ourselves

Scouting???

2011-05-23T18:59:00.000-07:00

I knew scouting was in my future at some point it just came up on me so fast. I know nothing.

However, I know I better get use to it because it will now be a part of my life for a long time.

The Rain Gutter Regatta

Thailand

2011-05-23T07:39:00.000-07:00

Thailand was AMAZING!!! I loved every minute of it. I would go back. I love that we stayed right on the river, I loved that it is so cheap, I love that you get to take boats for transportation, I love the shopping.

One evening we headed across the river to the night market for some shopping.

Some of the houses on the river. Very humbling.
One of the many temples.

I couldn't resist a picture of these. Gross.

The Royal Ground

Our last night in Thailand we had a dinner cruise with the group. It was wonderful. I wish I enjoyed the Thai food, but it was so nice to float on the river.

India

2011-05-20T08:16:00.000-07:00

I have decided that India is a place all it's own.

When we arrived at our hotel we were taken through airport like security to even get into the hotel. We were not allowed to touch our bags as the employees had to scan the bags before they went into the hotel. Through all this there were about 4 security guards watching our every move with large machine guns over their shoulders.

Where am I??

Once we cleared security and walked into the lobby we were greeted with flowers and a red dot between the eyes for good luck.

People would be sleeping all over the place.

One positive about India, you can use the bathroom just about anywhere. This little "bathroom" was on the corner of an intersection.

A little rickshaw ride back to our bus. Clearly not made for large Americans.

The second hotel we checked into in India had their own idea of a king sized bed.

A Favorite!!

We did the Taj Mahal at sunrise one morning and it was amazing. I loved walked the grounds. It was beautiful.

This was our Sunday service we had out in the hotel court yard.

We rode jeeps up to Amber Fort over looking the city. Beautiful, but very hot.

I bought this fabulous umbrella on our way up and loved every minute of it. A few of the locals wanted to have a picture.

We were able to ride elephants. It was amazing. They had the elephants all painted with bright colors.

Gandhi's House
Oreo Ecstasy.

Need I say more.

In a land of very interesting food I was happy with small treasures.A little shopping with the ladies.

The men of the group got together to do a picture and the Indian men slowly started to gather around to be in the picture. It was amazing how they would just step right in with the group. Some even handed their cameras off to have pictures taken.

I decided to spice it up a bit.

It was amazing to see India and all it has to offer. The Indian people are the most happy people I have seen. They have very little, but always have a smile to share.

China Part 2

2011-05-18T07:20:00.000-07:00

During one of the business visit the students went on the spouses decided to do a little shopping together. We braved the Beijing subway, which I am sure all of China was on it with us, and headed back to the Silk Market for some bargain hunting.

I had so much fun with the spouses. It was a great group of women to hang out with.

We stayed at an amazing hotel in Beijing and this guy's job was to stand by the elevators and push the button for you. We were treated like royalty.

We went to the Summer Palace in Beijing and the tall guy was the tourist attraction. There was another student in the group that was about 3 inches taller than Brad that got some attention. It was good fun.

A lesson I quickly learned in China....always look at the signs on the door of the bathroom stalls.

This first sign is the one I kept my eyes open for.

Squat over the hole in the ground if you dare.

The flight from HELL!!!

We boarded a flight in Beijing to Shenzhen, China one evening. Once our sit backs were up and tray tables were in the up and locked position we slowly backed away from the gate, right on time.

After a few moments the crew made an announcement that we would be delayed a bit as to weather in Shenzhen. As minutes slowly passed and tensions started to rise the Captain again made the announcement that would be "sitting on the runaway for a long time." Time slowly crept along. As the flight attendants started to deliver meals we knew it would be a long time.

Meals were delivered and the smell was enough for me to decline a meal and work on the peanut butter crackers I brought along.

Brad on the other hand accepted his meal and once looked it over decided the roll was about all he would stomach.

To his surprise, he broke open his roll, and...................

what looked like poop, was bean paste in the middle. Seriously, where were we. Stuck on a airplane, in the middle of China, with smelly food. Could it get any worse????

YES!!!

Lucky me I was sitting next to a man that was clearly starting to get upset that we were not taking off. What does he do. He explodes. He was so mad that he broke his tray table. Scary, Yes. I was so nervous. Brad was sitting next to me and couldn't keep a straight face. the man grab his things and wanted to leave, however he wanted to leave before Brad and I could move out of our seats. I climb on my seat and Brad was trying to move as fast as he could, but this guy was ready to move. He walked up to the front of the plane. In amazement as i wounder what just took place and grateful to be alive..He comes back and wants to sit down again not waiting for us to move.

Lucky, the Captain came back and this guy followed him.

After my brush with a mad Chinese Man the flight crew announced that we were clear to take off. After 3 and a half hours locked in a plane with nasty food and angry men, I will trilled to be taking off.

After the episode with the mad Chinese man the flight crew made the announcement that we were cleared to take off. 3 and a half hours after boarding, nasty food, and crazy town we took off.
On a side note...Crazy guy went to 1st class. Seriously???

China

2011-05-16T19:10:00.000-07:00

The trip of a life and came and went so quickly. Looking back i can't believe it is over. Lots of fun memories.

Since Brad started school two years ago we knew this trip was upon us. The MBA program he is finishing up goes on a trip. The school group goes to different countries and cities and the group will met up with different companies.

We left Friday April 29 and flew to Seattle to catch a flight to China. Our flight was delayed for two hours maintenance, but that slowly progressed to 5 hours before Delta finally decided to place everyone in a hotel for the night. Needless to say lots of tired mad passengers. (An email will be sent to Delta)

We finally took off Saturday morning at 8:00. By the time we landed in China it was 10:00 am Sunday morning.

Once we arrived in Beijing, China we went straight to the Great Wall. It really was amazing. A surreal feeling to be there and walk down.

We took a ski lift up and walked down about a mile and then took an Alpine Slide down to the bottom.

The Silk Market...My Favorite. This place had six floors with just about anything and everything to buy. With a little patience and some bargaining you could get whatever you wanted for a fair price. I loved it and could have spent a few days going up and down the rows of merchandise.

We had a meeting at a Golf Club in Shenzen, China.(Mission Hills) It was the most amazing golf course I have ever seen. It has twelve different courses. We had lunch there and the Executive of Hong Kong Disney talked. It was very interesting.

Hong Kong at night. I would love to go back and explore the city more. We were only in Hong King for a night, but we made the most of it. We found a night market that was once again bargaining for what you want. The next morning we went to a Jade Market with lots of local vendors selling their jewelry.

After lunch we checked out of our hotel and headed to Hong Kong Disney for the rest of the day. So much fun!! The park is small. I would guess that Hong Kong Disney has about half the rides the Disneyland has in CA. For the afternoon that we were there we were able to do it all. No lines.

After a day at Disney we had to catch a late night flight to Delhi, India.

Alive and Well

2011-05-15T12:30:00.000-07:00

We made it back alive and well.

Lots to report, but I need to catch up on my zzzzz's.

A big shout out to all those that took care of my crew so we could go for two weeks.

Spring Break

2011-04-24T20:29:00.000-07:00

I love nothing better than a trip to St. George. My boys love it. I love it and everyone is happy.

Since the boys had a week off of school, and Bentley's were not using their condo I jumped. The boys and I drove down Friday after school and brad drove down Friday night after work. We found plenty to do and the weather was perfect.

White donuts and Diet Coke. Jackson was in heaven.

A fabulous hike with the Clines. It was one the boys could and i wouldn't hear complaints and there were little water falls and pools the boys could play in.

Plenty of Easter Egg hunts the local Wal-mart had an Easter Egg hunt that I took the boys to. We also did an Easter Egg hunt at the pool. We placed pennies in plastic eggs and the boys had to dive for them and turn in their pennies for a prize. We had an egg hunt at the park by the river.....plenty of treats and fun for awhile.

An evening at the Jensen's to place a cherry on top of the perfect St. George experience.

Lifes A Beach

2011-04-23T18:52:00.000-07:00

We headed to St. George for part of Spring Break...It was wonderful. Sun, Sand and Fun.

I ran into a friend that told me about a park that was on the Virgin River Bank, and had great sand.

We decided to check it out.

IT WAS PERFECT.

The sand was just like the soft warm sand found at Lake Powell and the river was perfect depth for the kiddos to play in.

It was all to perfect.

Plenty of soft warm sand, a slow flowing river, and lots of fun.

Jackson would just lay down on the sand. I think it loved that it was soft and warm. Perfect spot to be with him.

A new favorite for this crew.

Can't wait to make it back.

Waxing = $10.00

2011-04-11T08:16:00.000-07:00

On Sundays anything can happen. Lots of time and Aunts looking for something to do.

Sunday afternoon Brooke and Jenny came down to have their eyebrows waxed.

Brooke thought it would be fun to wax Josh.

With much persuasion and $10.00 on the line Josh buckled.

I think at this point Josh is re-thinking all of this.

Totally impressed...Josh didn't scream or anything. He took it like a man.

$10.00 later and a red forehead he is happy.

We are off to Target after school.

Josh's Award

2011-04-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

Josh came home from school with one of those notes addressed "To The Parents of Josh Bentley"

What could my sweet little boy have done to warrant a note home.

He got an award from from school for doing so good in school.

He was so excited. We had a count down each day.

The morning finally arrived.

He was just as excited as Christmas morning. He was up at 5:30 ready for things to get going.

It was so fun to go to school and see this kid smile from ear to ear.

I was so proud of him.

Haircut

2011-03-27T16:45:00.000-07:00

For his first haircut he started out all smiles......

his mood quickly changed... He looks so good.

A face plant Sunday gives the upper lip a dirty look.

Boys, Boys, Boys

2011-03-21T10:25:00.000-07:00

We had some extras this past weekend, and it was an energy filled weekend.

We had Aiden and Andrew Friday through Sunday.

Having my 3 + Aiden + Andrew +Hudson(Our favorite neighbor)=6 boys full of life.

Friday evening I took all 6 boys to Dollar Tree and Pizza. I wish I had a picture of us leaving Dollar Tree with our treasures.

It was non-stop movement.

Friday night Josh distributed sleeping pills to the boys and we all had a goon night sleep.

Saturday we hit Yogurt Plant with the group followed up by one of the many wrestling rounds that took place.

I am truly surprised that we didn't have a broken bone or had to get stitches. It got rough.

After a sacrament meeting to remember (Andrew pretended to smoke with a pretzel, while James turned up the volume on Brad's cell phone for a game)

Brad and I got a nap while the boys played, Sunday afternoon.

I can't believe the amount of energy that those boys all have.

It is unending....I need some of that.

What I Love...

2011-03-18T09:25:00.000-07:00

Sun

Water

This little guy...

Survival

2011-03-04T19:23:00.000-08:00

I have said it so many times, that I HATE TUESDAY AND THURSDAYS. Brad goes to school those nights and I am a single Mom all day.

Enter my limited ability to entertain kids while keeping a smile on my face and a spring in my step.

The other night the boys and I made bouncy balls.

I found the kit on clearance at Target.

Kept them happy for awhile.

The sun broke out for about an hour and we tried to enjoy and soak up as much sun as we could in that hour.

Jackson loves pulling things apart and making as many tiny pieces has possible.
The kid needs a roll of toilet paper and he is happy.
It is such a mess.
However, it keeps him happy on those long days and he has already pulled the toilet paper off the roll for me. I now just have to grab a hand full on my way in.

FHE

2011-02-21T20:07:00.000-08:00

Nothing better than a FHE with the WHOLE family.

It was really fun that everyone wanted to come and enjoy.

We first hit up Bountiful Rec Center for a swim. My boys love it up there. Although, Josh wanted to go out side to swim.

I was most excited for dinner afterwords.

Firehouse Pizza.

it doesn't get much better.

This is always such a group.

My favorite people to hang out with.

Drugs??

2011-02-18T10:30:00.000-08:00

Our latest attempt at helping Josh sleep at night.

The kid is the last to go to sleep and the first to wake up.

Brooke's Birthday!!

2011-02-14T18:58:00.000-08:00

Brooke has made sure we are all aware that her birthday was coming. We had daily reminders along with a wish list. So, on Saturday the Jensens gathered for a birthday celebration lunch. It was wonderful. We met at Spaghetti Factory. We were able to pull off a surprise even with all birthday reminders.

Good food, good friends and family, and good fun. It is always fun to get together and always crazy.

Spaghetti Factory was smart to place our group up on a balcony away from it all. it was fabulous. The kids were all able to sit at their own table.
Aiden was all over the ice cream.

Cute love birds.

Brooke with some of her friends. They were able to get Brooke to lunch for the surprise.

We had lots of fun.

Happy Birthday Brooke!!!

No Joke...This is My Life

2011-02-09T20:34:00.000-08:00

Tuesday night (I parent solo since Brad is at school), I finally had the kids in bed, when Josh shows up with a tooth that feel out. He was so excited!!! Josh placed it in a sandwich bag to show Brad in the morning.

Come Wednesday morning and the routine of getting kiddos out the door for school.

Boys out the door....Mom..".sigh"...

I pick up Josh from school and once we are home he asks about his tooth. I asked where is placed it..

Josh.."I put it on the counter before school"

Mom.."It is not on the counter and I haven't seen it"

Josh.."I set it on the corner"

I call Brad to ask if he saw it.

Brad made James' lunch...

(you can guess where this is going)

Brad..."There was a bag on the counter while I was making James' lunch, but I didn't see a tooth in it."

Mom..PANIC

I grab Jackson and Josh and we jump in the car to catch James before lunch.

James is out at lunch recess.

Josh.."James, did you see my tooth in your sandwich bag?"

James.."No, but there was something hard in my sandwich and I spit it out and threw it away."

GROSS

At least he spit it out.

I can't be positive, but I bet that Brad used the bag that had Josh's tooth in it to put James' sandwich in.

I don't know if I should laugh or cry, but this is my life.

Crazy Hair

2011-02-03T10:39:00.000-08:00

Today at school it was crazy hair day. James wanted me to shave his hair so it was "crazy" for the day.

He told me where to shave and this is what he ended up with.

So funny. He was so happy. We will have to see how long he wants to keep it this way.

Cake Boss

2011-02-02T08:09:00.000-08:00

For Jackson's Birthday the Boys wanted to get a cake for him to play in. The best part was watching the boys get all excited and Jackson looking around not really knowing what to do. After awhile he got into and enjoyed making a mess.

Josh was licking the frosting from the top of the cake container.

I pushed Josh's face into the cake and the kid loved it.

AirBorne

2011-01-22T10:38:00.000-08:00

With Friday being some type of holiday that the boys didn't have school (again)...we needed something to entertain.

Enter...Airborne!!

It is an arena with trampolines all over.

Jackpot...

The boys had gone once before and loved it and I was able to get in at half price.

Also, being the most amazing person ever.....Brooke (on her day off) brought down the hoard to join in the fun.

Kids were in heaven. Nothing better than playing with the ones you love.
These three were meant to be together.

How many people does it take to help Paige up to the top? josh and Aiden were awesome getting Paige and Morgan up.

Who doesn't love a "Hannibal Lector" kiss from Jackson. Oakley just loves Jackson and I think the feelings are mutual.

My position for the time.

It was good times had by all,

and nothing better then getting all the energy out.

Random Thoughts

2011-01-20T20:14:00.000-08:00

Random thoughts and experiences.

I was able to go with Brad to one of his classes and his to lecture. I really enjoyed it. However, I never thought I would willing walk into a classroom at BYU.

Jackson is eating his way through his crib. I don't know how to stop him.

Nothing better than a trip to Haggermans

Why is it that my kids have an endless supply of energy and I never seem to have enough?

I try not to buy happiness, but I saw these and loved them. My signature color black with some bling. I saw them and they made me happy. I just wish I was headed somewhere warm to enjoy them.

*
*
Sunday is the day of rest...not at my house

*
*

I like being loved and needed, but how do I get this little guy to "need" me less? I have to move within a 3 foot radius or my little guy losses it. Not loving the needy phase.

*
Pei Wei
I don't know why, but I just can't get enough.

Nothing better than a Jensen lunch date. One of my favorites. Today we met up at Yanni's with Mom, Maga, Jill, Brooke, Jamie, Annie Maisy, Me, Josh, Jackson, Amy, Aiden, Andrew, Oakley, Paige, Morgan, and Oliver. We all showed up. We were a sight and had many looks from others. I love to watch when we gather and you can see people counting kids. Love lunch dates.

*
*

I hear that going through trials makes us stronger.....I often wonder if I really want to be stronger??

Two Wheels

2011-01-17T15:51:00.000-08:00

Today was the day!!!

I am so excited.

Brad took the training wheels off Josh's bike.

Josh took to it with no problem.

I tried last summer to get josh to ride on two wheels and he wouldn't.

It's a beautiful thing.

With Josh's new found freedom it can only be a matter of time before his first major wipe out will take place.

Happy Birthday Jackson!!

2011-01-15T12:51:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it. My little guy is 1 year old. A year ago today this little guy came into the world and I couldn't have been any happier.

Barbara Bush once said, "parenting makes for long days and short years".

I look back at the past year and it went screaming right by, but I had many days that I thought would never end.

I am so grateful for my little guy.

His smile is contagious

He growls like a lion
Loves his brothers

Is happy as can be in the bath

Gets so excited when it is meal time

I love having this little guy as my companion through out the day. He keeps me smiling and I love watching him play with his toys and discovering new things.

Love this little guy!

Movie Round-Up

2011-01-01T08:44:00.000-08:00

Over the past week I have seen so many movies. I am beginning to wonder if I really did anything else.

How Do You Know

"Awkward"

That is the way the movie felt. I always love the shows Reese Witherspoon does, but this one feel short. Not a fan.

Yogi Bear

The boys and I went to see this one the other day and the boys loved it. I really like the actor, Tom Cavanghan from his days in the show Ed. Good Clean family fun.
Tangled
We hit this show with Annie and Jamie. As a mom of all boys, to sit in a princess movie with Miss. A (the princess Guru) I have a new outlook on the Disney Princess magic that can touch a little girl. Like all Disney movies this one was great.

Nanny McPhee Returns

As a HUGE fan of the first movie I hoped the second would live up to it.

Wonderful. Loved the ending.

I love all the color that these movie have.

Salt

Loved the first hour of the movie, but then went down hill from there. She needs Brad Pitt has her on screen co-star.

Inception

Like everyone that saw it before me I was trying to figure it all out after credits. I am sure I will have to watch a few more times to really understand it all.

I loved the music for the main title.

Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps

It was a good sequel, but didn't keep up with all the "wall street" vocabulary.

...also watched The Notebook one afternoon. I just love it!!!

I guess know that Christmas break is coming to a close we will all have to get back to real life.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-30T07:59:00.000-08:00

Christmas came and went so fast around here. It takes so much work getting ready and it is over before I know it. We had good times with our families and feel so lucky to have family close to share the holidays with.

Christmas Eve and the boys getting their pj's.

Christmas breakfast at Grandma and Grandpa's. The food was so good.

The kiddos could not wait for their gifts.

My favorite picture. Annie had just had enough!! I love that girl.

It is always wonderful to have Maga and Papa at my parents house for Christmas breakfast.

This kid had enough.

Christmas night we headed to Bentley's for dinner and gifts. The grand kids put on the nativity. James was the angel and made his own star.

The Holidays were wonderful and packed full of fun. I can't believe how tired I am after all of it, and I need to get the second wind to clean up the aftermath.

James' Baptism

2010-12-27T10:14:00.000-08:00

I honestly can't believe that I have an eight year old. I look back on the last eight years and I can't believe all that has happened. It was so fun getting James prepared for this day. He was so excited for this day.

I feel so blessed that Brad has the priesthood and was able to baptism and confirm him.

I don't think it gets much better.

This is one of my favorite pictures. Three generations and to have both grandpas there and being witnesses and apart of the confirmation. I wish I would have gotten a picture of all those men that came to support James and were in the circle. It was an amazing sight. It was a wonderful moment as they all circled around my little guy.

***On a side note....doesn't Josh just look like he is cooking up some trouble??***

A Visit with Santa

2010-12-21T16:15:00.000-08:00

The love/hate relationship that kids have with Santa is amazing. I love the stages that my kids are at. James is starting to ask ALOT of questions about Santa and how "one person can really go to all those houses in one night". I can see the kids wheels turning as he asks many questions in an effort to figure it all out.

My Joshie can't get enough of Santa, and all things with Santa. How doesn't love someone dropping off presents that you ask for. A true believer.

Jackson could not be more up set with the idea of a big old man with a white beard. He looks at him from a distance, but placed on his lap....meltdown.

Bake Day 2010

2010-12-11T18:54:00.000-08:00

It comes around just once a year and it is the true test of ones kitchen abilities. We start early and eager to get things under way. We actually scaled down a bit this year with only two different types of cookies to make instead of the usual 5 different types. the same amount of ambition is needed each and every year.

***First a HUGE shout out to Dodee and Lori for all the hard work and prep. Lori 12 times one recipe. I don't think I could even figure out how to do that. ****

We make the most amazing cookie, my favorite, a sandwich cookie made with sugar cookie dough and frosting in the middle. HEAVEN... Lots of rolling dough and cookie cutters. However, I found the most amazing kitchen gadget that you are able to roll the cookie cutters.

This is the ceremonial use of the tool. Those of us that are always at bake relish anything to make the process abit more slick.
Let me say mission accomplished!!! Happiness all around.

A sampling of some of the goods.

While the ladies were in the kitchen a few men were working to remold a bathroom and the toilet made it to the lawn and Brooke took a little break.

Never a dull moment with Brooke around. That girl can make you laugh!! I love her.

I tried not to disturb.

Another bake day in the books.

Cheers to the pounds of butter, the bags of sugar, and the cups of flour that it takes along with the MANY hands. It is a wonderful tradition.

Thank you Dodee and Lori.

Gingerbread House, Attempt

2010-12-10T16:46:00.000-08:00

I try so hard to be a fun Mom. My latest attempt was a wash. I bought this gingerbread house thinking it would be fun to do with the boys, but the idea of Christmas music playing in the back ground with happy boys helping and me with my "June Cleaver" apron and and happy attitude to be in the kitchen was a sorry fantasy. It all looked so good in my head.

The icing bag broken open twice with icing all over the counter. Bags of candy ripped open falling on the floor, and my happy "June Cleaver" attitude quickly vanished. After the icing spilling we only had enough to cover about half the roof.
I always was so impressed when the boys would make their gingerbread houses at pre-school, and I would think to myself...."It can't be that hard. If a pre-school teacher is able to pull it off." Clearly, my appreciation for pre-school teachers once again gets a "those teachers are angels". I figure that I will leave it for teacher to do with my children from now on.

Odds and Ends

2010-11-28T18:40:00.000-08:00

Still alive and kickn'. If for nothing else this post is for my own journaling.

The boys have lived in the snow as of late and I love that they love being out there.

I honestly can't get enough of this kid's smile. I love that the nose wrinkles.

Lots that has yet to be posted....

James' Baptism

Thanksgiving

Black Friday

White Christmas

I hope one of these days I will have a rousing up lifting post about the blessing of a paycheck, but don't hold your breath.

If anyone knows of a job opening let me know!!!

Go Utes!!

2010-11-27T20:46:00.000-08:00

Loves these Boys in red!!

Examples

2010-11-16T19:35:00.001-08:00

I am sure I take for granted all the amazing people that are a part of my life. I have truly been blessed with some of the most exceptionally good examples that have been constants throughout my life.

My sweet little James turned eight last month and he choose to be baptised. It was such a sure real event for me as a mother. As I watch my children experience things that I remember experiencing as a child, I realize how fast time goes.

After James was baptized a close relative (example #1) gave James 30 one dollar bills. When the money exchanged hands James was given a challenge associated with the dollar bills. Example #1 challenged James to use those dollars to help someone else. James could use it any way he saw fit. The idea behind this challenge was to help James to think of others. James will be help accountable for the money has example #1 will ask every so often what he has done. He just needed use it within the year.

I didn't know how James would react, but he took the dollar bills and placed them on the dresser.

Last week James came to me and stated that he had an idea of what he would like to do. He remembered that last year an individual (example #2) placed money in envelopes and as example #2 would be out and about through the holidays they would random hand out these envelope to total stranger.
Two nights ago James places one dollar in 20 different envelopes to hand-out to people that he sees that might need it. He placed the envelopes in my bag and told me that he will look for people when we go out.
As I lay in bed that night so grateful for the many examples that are in my life. I am grateful for the examples that are apart of my boys' life.
I thank you!!
I thank the good people in my life that are examples to me and my boys.
I thank you for doing good when you might not realize little ears and eyes are watching.

This Is Halloween

2010-11-01T07:06:00.000-07:00

Halloween......I am pretty sure it was celebrated for 5 days. It seemed that the activities kept coming.

We first started off with a Halloween party up at Bentley's house with all the cousins. Nothing better than a toilet paper mummy wrap. This is always a favorite.

Next up...

A Halloween party at school along with a parade.

Nothing better then trick - or - treating at Desert First Credit Union and University of Utah Credit Union.

These little lovers

Trunk - or - Treat at the ward.

A week full of activities and fun... and bags of candy.

My Boys

2010-10-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

Love these two!!

Happy Birthday James!!

2010-10-23T09:51:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that my boy is 8!! He will be baptized on November 6th. He is growing up so fast. It is so wierd has a parent to have a child experience things that I remember from my childhood. It really is amazing how fast time flies.

Our monthy family dinner at Jensen's topped off with cake and ice cream for Brad and James.

The following day we headed to Boondocks with the Boys and our next door neighbor. It was perfect. No one was there.
Alittle Golf

Bumper Boats

Race Cars

The boys had so much fun.

Happy Birthday James!!

James' Prayer

2010-10-15T21:29:00.000-07:00

Tonight it was James' turn for family prayers. His prayers are always so insightful into what is going on in his mind. Tonight was no different.....

James "please bless Mom to get alone with everyone."

The kid singled me right out. I clearly have some work to do.

I always thought I was the one that went with the flow.....

Leave it to my kids to humble me.

Devil Inside

2010-10-11T18:49:00.000-07:00

"the devil inside, the devil inside

every single one of us the devil inside" INXS

Classic lyric from a great song from the eighties.....

However, Josh's "devil inside" is never really "inside"

Today we went to Target and has we walked down the isle Josh saw this display with all the Halloween piggy banks,

Josh "Oh Cool!"

and runs to pick up the one that caught his eye......

*Should I really be that surprised??

Jackson and Maisy

2010-10-03T12:19:00.000-07:00

It Just doesn't get any better then this.

While in Vegas we were short one stroller so we stuck Miss Mo and Jackson in the stroller together.

Jackson looks alittle more excited to be sharing then Maisy does.

Happy Birthday Josh!!

2010-10-01T06:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Josh!!

This kid has been so excited for his big day. I have to say that as a mom I love that my kids get so excited. The day came off great.

So happy that his day as finally arrived.
Josh wanted to go bowling so we headed to the local bowling ally and let every one bowl to their hearts content. Really, I would say half way through the first game bowling had lost a bit of it's appeal with the kiddos. Fun times!!

After bowling we headed back home for the pinata that Josh wanted. Once the pinata broke it was the slowest pick-up of treats I had ever seen. All I can say is I hope they all got exactly what they wanted.

It was a wonderful day. I am so grateful for Josh. I experience the full range of emotions with him.

Frustration, anger, wonderment (is that a word?), amazement, confusion, excitement, happiness, enjoyment and many more.....

Josh keeps me guessing and I just never know what each day will bring.

I love you, Josh

Isn't It Ironic???

2010-09-27T13:09:00.000-07:00

An employee at McDonalds pointed out the irony of Brad with his BYU shirt and Jackson in his Ute onies.

Talk about sending mixed signals.

Blast From the Past

2010-09-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon the boys, along with our neighbors were in need of an activity. So I decided to introduce them to an all time favorite for me growing up. I am unsure how the game came to be, but as kids when were we able to play we LOVED it.

The Flour Game.

items needed...

canister of flour

penny

cup

plate

knife

Place the penny at bottom of the cup and pack in the flour. Once flour has been packed place a plate over the cup and flip over. Ever so slowly pull the cup up so you are left with a tower of flour and a penny right in the middle.

Each player takes a turn to cut part of the flour tower. As each player takes a turn to cut the tower becomes smaller and smaller with the prospect of the tower crashing. If you make the tower fall you go in after the penny, without the assistance of hands. Once you find the penny you have to pick it up with your teeth.

This is what you get!!!! The boys used their foreheads to move the flour around to find the penny.

It was so fun to watch the boys play. I can clearly remember playing the flour game as a kid around our kitchen table.(I think having the flour game outside is a must) The kids loved to play and the group of kids kept getting bigger. I quickly realized how unsanitary this game is and as the group size increased I had to call the game on account of too many kids. My germ-a-phobia kicked in on high.

With flour in everyones hair and all over my driveway I considered the game a success. Nothing better then being able to hose them constants off when the game is over.

Round #2

2010-09-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

Today we had another appointment up at Primary Children's Hospital for his heart. I have such anxiety going into these appointment, but I am happy to report

things went well.

Brad and I both knew Jackson still had the heart mummer. It was still audible at the Dr.s office during his well child check ups.
After a night of little sleep I headed up to PCH early this morning. I am so lucky that my Mom was able to go with me. Our first stop was at Radiology to get chest x-rays and my boy did great. After x-rays we headed to cardiology to met with the Dr. and have the rest of his testing done. This kid was all smiles as we wait for the nurses and Dr. to get to work on him.

Once in Cardio the little guy was weighed, measured and blood pressure taken. After being man handled Jackson was hooked up for his EKG. Once again the kid was a champion. He had about 12 stickers placed all over his chest and belly and then hooked up for a few minutes. Jackson played with a set of keys and never let out a cry. After the test they have to take off the stickers and I cringe as the nurse starts to take them off, Jackson didn't even seem to notice.

After the tests and meeting with the Dr. the diagnoses is the same that I had anticipated. Jackson still has a little hole in his heart, but the Dr, assured me that with most cases the hole will close on it's own. We will still have to have check-ups about every 6 months with the cardiologist, but as long as Jackson keeps growing the little hole will not be a problem.

I feel so blessed!!! While walking the halls at the hospital I saw plenty of little kids that truly have struggled through some major physical hurdles. I feel blessed that the prognosis for my little Jackson is positive. I feel blessed that I have two other boys that are physically healthy. As Brad and I have struggled through some hurdles of our own lately I realize that to have our own healthy and happy children is truly a blessing.

Until another 6 months......

Two Worlds

2010-08-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

This is my life.....

We found a snake in the yard the other day and Josh has taken it in. It sits on the porch in a bucket.

It has been a great source of entertainment for this kid. He has found worms for the snake to eat and checks every morning on it.

Josh named this little pet snake snakes. He told Brad, "It's a snake and it has eyes"

Everyday Josh tells me he will keep it for three more days.

I can't believe the little guy has hung on this long.

While in the middle of raising three boys, I have found that life is very different then raising girls. I love spending time with Jamie and her two little girlies, and when I say girlies....I mean Annie loves everything that is "pretty". Pretty shoes, pretty dresses, pretty jewelry, pretty bags....it goes on and on. Since I am without a female child I don't experience this on a daily basis.

Last week Josh, Jackson and I head down to PG to hang out with Jamie.

While hanging out my world of raising boys took a shock to the system. I am pretty sure the Cinderella movie was on repeat play. Annie looked for pretty dresses all over the house (Jamie has hidden many of her dresses so she doesn't change all day long) Annie recently acquired this little tutu (thanks grandma) and after taking off all her clothes she pulled on her tutu, grab some of Jamie's high heels and wanted to dance.

Needless to say boy and girl world are two different places.

My "Mother" Heart

2010-08-25T14:42:00.000-07:00

Lately I have noticed a surplus of those "mother" pains that I feel in my heart. I know that I seem to be feeling everything a bit more deeply these days, but as certain events have taken place I find that that those aches and pains I get in my heart are a sure sign of my complete transition into motherhood.

I never thought I would be here. I remember saying that I never wanted kids. That I never wanted kids to spit-up on me, or wrinkle my ironed shirt. I knew deep down I was to be a mother. As I have had my kids and stay at home each day with the kiddos I often wonder, "really, this is my life???"

As life has unfolded I realize that life is amazing and goes by in a flash. Those aches that I feel in my heart are those aches associated with growing.

I am weaning Jackson from nursing and as I thought about the days that I no longer have to calculate what I do around a feeding schedule I am giddy with excitement. Once again, as I have feed Jackson in the early morning hours I have that ache that I will soon no longer have those quite moments that his little body cuddles into me and those sweet little noises has he fills his belly.

Josh, my sweet little wild card!!! The things this kid figures out. He took on the neighbor boy 10 years older then him and I tell him, Josh you will end up crying....5 minutes later tears. I want to shout I TOLD YOU SO, but the mother ache in my heart grabs him up to hug and kiss the pain away. Is it really possible to feel the same pain my children does?

James started 2nd grade this year and the night before his first day we were getting things ready. In my mind I am so excited for school to start. I am so excited that someone else can work on entertaining and teaching my child. Sad summer has wrapped up? NO.

However, Sunday night as James and I were pull things together I told him I will drive him in the morning and walk around back to the doors with him. James is quite for a moment and looks at me, "hum, I will just walk by myself"

Hip Hip hurry for Independence...Yes, but the ache in my heart as I realize that my boy is growing up and is happy to do things without Mom by his side.

"My plan to faze myself out is almost complete"

One evening James was saying family prayers and his prayer stated this, "please bless mom to be more patience." Do I laugh? No, I feel that ache and realize that I have failed my kids, and James understands to much now days.

I sometimes find myself wishing away these days. For some reason I think once my kids are grown and self-sufficient all will be right with the world. I now know that as my little kiddos continue to grow and slowly spread their wings I find those pains in my "mother" heart when I least expect it. I never thought I would feel bad when I stopped nursing, I am ready for my body back!!! Sad when Josh of all is the one crying when he gets hurts....No, I am sure he had it coming. James growing and needed me less and less.

Life is amazing and I truly and grateful my little guys and the spice they continue to add to my life. Onward and upward, and I will continue to experience my little aches and pains.

Library Square

2010-08-18T17:19:00.000-07:00

First let me say, not my smartest idea with my three boys and our neighbor on a hot day, but we did it.

This morning we started the day off right with a trip to Banbury Cross (A gift from heaven I am sure) Oh so good. You can smell the fat once you open your car door, but every bit is worth it. We walk in and admittedly graced with the sight of sprinkles covering every inch and the shelves lined with cinnamon heaven. One of my favorite places. *On a side note one girl that works there said,"I didn't know you had another baby. I remember seeing you prego with the two other." What does this tell me.....#1. I go way to often!!!!

After loading up with our savory treasures we headed a few blocks south to Library Square. I thought it would be fun to hike the stairs to the roof and eat our donuts. I place Jackson in the backpack and load up a bag with drinks and donuts and we head out. After just a few steps up and feeling the full effect of a hot day, I wondered why I thought this would be fun??

We eventually made it to the top walked around and once the boys spotted the elevator quickly replayed, "We didn't need to walk all those stairs"

It was fun to do and sad to say that was my first experience at Library Square. (My first time at Library Square and I seem to be a regular at Banbury. I could have my priorities just a little switched)

Staining a Cabin for Dummies

2010-08-14T21:39:00.000-07:00

The DREADED project (that is staining the cabin) came around this year. It is a project that comes around once every 5 years or so. Thanks to our organizational director (Jake) that got this project on the calendar and then failed to show......(Jake we can square later)

After many emails worth of planning and discussion the weekend was set. With a crew headed up on a Friday to tape all windows and a crew the next day to stain. The staining fell over into the following Saturday to finish things up.

So after the work is done and clean-up finished I reflect back on a few things I learned...

1. (I am sure the most important) Is having a great foreman to over see all the work that is being done. (make sure foreman has a cold drink in hand to place foremen in a euphoric state of mind)

2. Make sure to have a well supplied staff that is ready and willing to help.

3. Have a bunch of kids close by looking for trouble.

4. Find a crazy to do the hard to reach spots.

5. Be sure to have a "taxi" to get all your hard workers to their next assignment.

6. Watch out for any and all individuals looking creepy

7. Be sure to have the background check done on all workers before placing them with an assignment.

8. Refer back to rule #3

9. Be sure to have has many individuals as possible (preferably little kids that have to be watched closely) in close proximity to where you are working for best results.

I am glad the deed is done!!!! Everyone worked so hard. Thanks to all the work that went on behind the scenes to help get the job done.

Cheers to have the cabin stained......

My Favorite Things

2010-08-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

Since I lately feel that I live in the lone and dreary world, I thought it a good idea for myself to reflect, take stock, acknowledge some of my many blessings and a few things that make me smile.....

*Laying in bed at night with the window open, hearing the rain and having the rain air blow through my room

*My hospital mug from being in the hospital having Jackson. Most expensive mug ever, but it makes me happy to have it around

*My little Jackson when he sees me and his little face lights up

*Sitting in Sacrament meeting and during the sacrament Josh leaning placing his hand out in front of his face and asking, "Mom, which finger is the bad finger?"

*Listening to my boys say their prayers and James asking to, "bless Mom with more patience."

*James and Josh taking care of Jackson (at times it is alittle scary, but I appreciate their willingness to help)

*James and Brad getting all excited about a show on TV about the universe. (I lay in bed next to them thinking...NERDS, but I love them)

*I found a vending machine that has Diet Coke so cold it has little diet coke ice crystals in it.

*Hanging out at the pool with my sisters

*Having families that rally around me and my family

*The Gospel

*A "grin and bare it" mentality, for when life gets alittle overwhelming

*Having my 9 year old next door neighbor tell me I am a "good cooker"....Who would have thought?

*Being surrounded by amazing people

*When I see James and Josh happily playing with one another

*Seeing those quiet acts of service that help others

*A lunch at Pei Wei

*Being around others that make me laugh

I truly am blessed!!!

TIRED....

2010-07-18T19:05:00.000-07:00

This picture sums up how each and everyone of us felt at the end of our vacation. Lots of driving, walking, little sleep and enjoying the most of every moment.

CHEERS....to a fabulous nine days of fun.

Now, back to real life.

July 4th

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

We have started a family tradition on the 4th....We gather at Trent and Amy's for a BBQ and fireworks. It is so much fun. This year I decided that the kids like the smoke bombs, snaps, and parachutes just us much if not more than the ones that light up.

I am still a little unclear while the kids love to get in the middle of the smoke. the all come out gasping for breath with red eyes. I guess one day they will learn.

What would the 4th be without making potions

Brooke was in charge of lighting off the fireworks that the kids would grab. Brooke was just as entertaining as everything else. Never a dull moment with Brooke!!

The Family

These three are TROUBLE!!! Yet they never seem to get enough of one another.

Front row seats to the wonderful firework display

Nothing better than a cuddle with this boy.

I will say another successful July 4th celebration. Thanks Amy for the good times.