Mrs.EBG

Lights At The End Of The Tunnel

2012-02-09T12:50:00.000-08:00

I think I speak for my entire family when I say that these past 7 months have been long. It has been very hard having a sick Daddy with no rhyme or reason to his illness. We have learned to work around it and have learned to help each other, but we miss having Daddy healthy.
After going to every dr known to man kind {PCP, neurologist, endocrinologist, cardiologist, pulmonary} we finally were pooped and had no answers. Finally one day Bry had an appointment with his endocrinologist and I went with him. He was going over his MRI report with him, so I wanted to be there. We went in and the dr kinda shrugged it off and said it was a normal MRI and set it down next to me. So I picked it up and said, "wait, what does it mean thyroid nodule?" and that question led us to a blank stare. I didn't like that. I came to work the next day with the report and showed it to all of my dr's. They all agreed a new endocrinologist was in order, but also that this needed to be looked at by someone new {mind you, these were the same people who told us Bry had bone marrow cancer and sent us to the Cancer Center within a day of test results}. That afternoon my bestie called me and gave me the number to the Edocrin department of the Mayo Clinic. I made the call and told them about the nodule and was told that because of that he didn't have to go through the approval process. We were given an appointment 3 weeks out. That day was horrifying. We got to the parking garage and I lost it. Now, I've been extra emotional for a lot of his appointments {I may have left one crying in the middle of the dr talking...oops} but I just suddenly felt overwhelmed. We had put all of our eggs in the last basket and it was do or die time. The appointment left us less than impressed with the ever so prestigious "Mayo". I was discouraged. Bry was discouraged. We just didn't know what to do next. The next day I went to work and Bry went to work. That night after we put the little's to bed I was playing with Scotty and Sophie and Bry came around the corner to scare us and started laughing hysterically, then he passed out. It was so scary. It didn't last long, but it was long enough. The next day he called his PCP and went in for a visit. They did an EKG and it showed some abnormalities and his blood pressure was CRAZY high {this was a new symptom} so they told us to see our cardiologist. I called and we were put in for the next week. We went to the cardiologist and he did another EKG and confirmed that Bry had had a heart attack. WHAT?! He's 32! How could this be?? As was our luck, with every question we had no answer. That night I prayed harder than I think I ever have prayed in my life. I was having a Daddy/Daughter talk with my Heavenly Father. I needed Him and I needed help. I needed direction and guidance. I was praying and crying for a good 10 min. {I think it's safe to say that not a word I said was understandable to a human ear} I fell asleep crying that night. The next morning I was laying in bed awake, waiting for my alarm to go off when Bry came back from the restroom and said, "honey, I'm having chest pains bad. You need to take me to the hospital" he was short of breath and grabbing his chest. I got out of bed and walked over to help him get his shoes on when he passed out. I called 911 and the ambulance came. SCARY! My kids were all home and so worried. The took us to the hospital where Bry was poked, prodded, and tested for 4 days. The hospitalist that was assigned to him knew the docs I work for and listened to all of what Bry had been going through since August. She pulled out her cell phone and said, "I want you to go see this dr and have him check you for intracranial hypertension". I called the Dr and they got us in the next business day. And then things really started moving. This dr {neuro ophthalmologist} called a neurologist who got Bry in the next day and between the 2 of them they confirmed that Bry indeed did have intracranial hypertension, which was causing his migraines and all sorts of other problems. As we've gone to more appointments we have found that this has been the problem all along. Bry was also diagnosed with empty sella syndrome, which all the dr's had been blaming everything on, though they believed that it was something that happened at birth. Finally some answers, all the additional fluid that was coming from the intracranial hypertension was pushing down even more on his pituitary and his body was going in overdrive. This caused his high blood pressure, which caused his heart attack, it's the cause of his migraines. What a mess! This Monday Bry will be going to get a spinal tap and then we will discuss surgery to get a shunt placed. Finally we have answers.
It is truly amazing to see the Lord's hand in this whole process. Had Bry not had the chest pains that morning we would have never met the dr who referred us to the dr who diagnosed him. Amazing. Simply amazing. I feel my Savior's love has never been a truer statement!

Traditions

2011-12-05T19:50:00.000-08:00

I'm in love with this time of year. Not only do I love that it's so cold right now my fingers are permanently blue, but I love the Spirit that fills the air. I love strangers being nice to one another. I love the Christmas music, hot cocoa, sugar cookies, Christmas lights. I love the chocolate covered peppermint joe joe's that Trader Joe's sells ONLY this time of year... I love it all!

A few traditions that we have I've carried on from when we were little. Each year we drive around looking at Christmas lights and singing Christmas songs. We also as a family chose someone who is in need and do Secret Santa. This is a tradition my kids LOVE. And probably one of the only times that my kids keep a secret. ;) Tonight we did another tradition that we used to do when I was little. Bry is at a work function and so the kids and I went to my parents house for dinner and FHE. After dinner we went in the living room and my Dad read us Christmas stories. Now, I've heard these same stories year after year for probably 20 years and every time I hear them I cry... tonight I didn't disappoint. The tears were stronger than ever {I'll blame it partly on the hormones! lol} and the Spirit I felt was amazing. It was so neat to sit with my littles and share these stories. After that my parents told my kids about Christmas when they were growing up. It was such a fun night!

This year I also started another tradition of letting my kids help decorate the Christmas tree. I can remember being little and wanting to help sooo bad. My Mom would let us help and then stay up all night long re-arranging the tree to make it look perfect. A few weeks ago I told Bry my suggestion of allowing the kids to help. He knew this was a big deal for me and told me it was up to me. So I did it. It was hard at first and I took a lot of deep breaths and counted to 10 a dozen times, but we made it through it. The kids had a hard time realizing that not every ornament needed to be on the tree, and with the new pup who is mischievous we couldn't put the ornaments too low either. Once we got those rules established it became really fun. This year we decorated our tree with ornaments that my Mom had given me from when I was a kid. It was so fun telling the stories behind the ornaments as we hung them on the tree. When we got done Bry was giving me a hug and I said, "Be honest, how does it look?" his reply was, "baby it looks like a family decorated it together" my response was, "That's what I was afraid of" ;) I'm actually really pleased with the way it turned out.

Last night we watched the First Presidency Christmas devotional {another thing I LOVE about this time of year} and I told the kids the story of when my roommate and I drove up from Provo to Salt Lake to go to the devotional. This was before the conference center was built so it was in the tabernacle. Well we didn't have tickets but thought we could get in. Thankfully there was a sweet usher that told us she had the perfect seats for the two of us... stage right to the Tabernacle Choir! YIKES!!!! Our parents called us after and told us how they saw us on TV-- and noticed that I had a horrible case of the giggles! It was such a fun memory that I loved sharing with my kids. I loved the words that President Uchtdorf spoke regarding trying to make Christmas perfect. His words spoke directly to my heart.

I'm excited for Christmas. I love reflecting on our Savior and Redeemer and the life He lived. I love taking this time to recognize the things that I can do to try a little harder to be a little better. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year!

Journaling

2011-11-17T21:34:00.000-08:00

When I went to TOFW with some of my girl friends a few weeks ago we had this wonderful idea to leave our journals on our seats to "save" them for the next day. Well, we got there and our journals were gone! We were sooo sad! Our Bishop is the manager of Deseret Book, so we went to him and told him what happened, checked lost and found... nothing. I didn't know what made me more sad, the fact I had taken such great notes the night before or that I wouldn't be able to take notes that day.

The journal loss made me realize the importance of keeping a journal. There has been so many amazing events that have happened in the past 8 months that I didn't document that I wish I would have. I have documented somethings, and I love when I find a piece of paper with a thought on it or a quote I liked. But I need to be better about writing in my journal. There is something so refreshing about writing. Or typing, same diff, right? :)

So, because I may not be back on this blog for a while I thought I would end by journaling what I am thankful for.

1. I am thankful for my Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.

2. I am thankful for the atonement and the opportunity I get to use it in my life

3. I am thankful for the truthfulness of the Gospel, and the peace and true joy it brings to my life.

4. I am thankful for my husband and the strength he is to me

5. I am thankful for my amazing children

6. I am thankful for forgiveness; being given forgiveness and being able to give others forgiveness

7. I am thankful for the Lord's tender mercy's

8. I am thankful for my family. I never really realized how glad I would be that my parents bought a home so close

9. I am thankful for my ward family. I am truly amazed by these wonderful people that surround me each week.

10. I am thankful for the knowledge that I am a daughter of God and that He knows me, He loves me, and He wants me to be happy.

11. I am thankful for the doors that have closed and the "friends" that have left so that I could move on and welcome true friends and great opportunity in.

12. I am thankful for the knowledge that I will be living with my family forever.

13. I am thankful to be serving with such amazing women in my ward, truly a calling that I needed desperately

14. I am thankful for the scriptures... searching, pondering, and praying are daily routine and make my days amazing

15. I am thankful for mine and Bry's jobs. We are so fortunate to have the ability to have such great jobs and great benefits when so many people are suffering. We truly are blessed.

These past 8 months have been hard, but have made me a stronger, more faithful, and more loving person. I am thankful for the trials that I have had. I am so thankful that I made a decision with Bry early on that regardless of what we were going through, things were beyond our control and the only thing we could control was our attitude, and we were going to make sure it was a good one. So, with that being said, my most favorite quote from TOFW will be my good night! :) {oh, and btw, our journals were found 4 days after TOFW ended! Thankful for CVS being close by that we went and bought new ones at lunch! ;)}

"The Atonement isn't to help you get home, it's to help you feel at home when you get there" ~Brad Wilcox

Paradise

2011-03-10T18:28:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow seems so far away... but tomorrow I will be in Paradise. For a beautiful long weekend Bry and I are getting away {sans kids, mind you!}. I'm looking forward to sleeping in late, having someone else cook me breakfast {lunch and dinner, too!}, doing some shopping, maybe catching a movie, and spending some much needed and quality time with the love of my life.

Ahhhhhh.... weekend away... you can't seem to come fast enough!

Thankful

2011-03-04T13:20:00.000-08:00

Today feels perfect to me... sure it's 80 outside and I feel like I am baking in the oven, but it's beautiful out there! I know not everything is perfect, but I love those days where you can look at it and think, "ahhh I really am this lucky to have this life"...

A few things I'm thankful for today

1. My hubby-- while neither of us are perfect, he is perfect for me. I couldn't ask for a better man in my life. He is such a hard worker, he loves me, he makes me laugh, he sings to me, he holds me when I'm sad, and... the other night I was having hot flashes {thank you new medication lol} and he swapped me sides of the bed so I could be closer to the fan. Now that's true love!

2. My three kids-- Without a doubt every day they make me laugh so hard. They try so hard to do what is right and be good. Even though we were going to be late this morning, they thought it would be fun to wrestle until Giovanni threw up he was laughing so hard. See-- they are always thinking of others! ;)

3. My parents-- it's hard to have your parents live with you, I'm sure anyone could say that. But I am so thankful they are here right now. They are my friends and they are so helpful to me. Almost every Friday night they watch the kids so Bry and I can go on a date. Most nights I come home to a clean house and dinner on the table. Such a blessing in my life especially right now.

4. My friends-- I've had a rough few months and I can't tell you how thankful I am for the friends that have stuck by me and supported me. I'm thankful for the new friends I've made and the old friends I've reunited with.

5. Mine and Bry's Jobs-- It's hard being a mom of 3 and working full time while your hubs does the same. We are so blessed to both have great jobs that allow us to afford the things we do and allow us to have pretty great benefits. We both also work with some pretty awesome people that help the day go by! And let's not forget, our jobs allow us to afford my shopping problem ;)

6. Forgiveness-- I'm thankful for being forgiven and for affording others forgiveness. It's not always easy to forgive but I've tried remembering lately how am I supposed to expect forgiveness if I don't show forgiveness. I'm thankful for second chances, and for the opportunity to repent of things I've done wrong.

7. Anniversary Get Away-- I'm especially thankful that in 1 week from today I will be leaving town to get away with my main squeeze for a much needed get away!

Those are some things I'm thankful for... what about you?!

Hanging On

2011-02-25T12:51:00.000-08:00

Giovanni has had a tooth that has wiggled and jiggled for what has felt like forever! We have been convinced that the Tooth Fairy was going to pay Giovanni a visit for months. Well, last night I came home and noticed the tooth was loose and turning dark, so it was dying. After a ton of tantrums-- I mean, after Giovanni getting over his fears and becoming strong and courageous he {finally} let Mommy tie a string around the stubborn tooth and pull it out! He was a great helper, after we were all done he said, "you were pushing the string {which he calls shring love it!} down, finally you understood I was telling you pull up and my tooth popped out. You have to pull up on it like you do the weeds, Mom" If only we had listened to him 30 min earlier!

So, finally after 6.5 long years, Giovanni was paid his first visit by the Tooth Fairy, who had to call in for back up because Giovanni didn't want the tooth to fall off his bunk bed so he secured it rather well! ;) He was so excited this morning when he found the money the Tooth Fairy had left him! Now let's see if the tooth next to it that is wiggling and jiggling like crazy moves a little quicker this time! :)

Have You Ever?

2011-02-14T16:21:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had one of those Sunday's where you went to church and everything that was said was meant just for YOU? That is exactly how yesterday was.
I woke up and went in to wake the kids to find that Andy was super sick so I got the other 2 up and had Andy go back to bed. I decided I wasn't going to get frustrated that we weren't going to church as a family, instead I was going to make sure that we still made yesterday a special Sunday. So we went to church {and got there BEFORE they said the opening prayer!!!} and I am so glad we did. Yesterday was Ward Conference. Our Bishop spoke on asking questions. He told how it was a good thing to ask questions, but to make sure we are asking the right ones. He posed the question, "What if Joseph Smith never would have asked which church he should belong to". He then spoke about the atonement and asking questions while using the atonement. He spoke about how important it is to ask questions like "though I've made mistakes what good things are going on in my life?" "What has happened in my day that the Lord has shown me His tender mercies?" "Though things were rough, are they starting to get better and am I not recognizing that?".
Our Stake President spoke on the importance of recording your impressions. He said how he carries a little journal type book with him in his truck for when he gets out of the Temple, as soon as he is done with his session he writes down the impressions he gets. The book never leaves his truck. He also has one that he carries with him to church. I loved that idea. I've often heard something I liked and thought about writing it down and when I get around to it I've blanked on what it was about. He also talked about how every member was born to proclaim the Gospel.
Sunday School was about missionary work. The thing I most loved from Sunday School was the quote "Let your life be the lesson and the Spirit be the Teacher". When we came in they had TWILAMC written on the board, I couldn't figure it out. They said "When you are talking to someone you can share the gospel by simply ending something with and that's what I love about my church!" LOVE it!!
Relief Society didn't give me a chance to have a dry eye. Our sweet Stake Relief Society President probably couldn't concentrate with my sobs. She spoke to us about charity. Her challenge to all of us was to "just be nice"... This is something I have not been to some people, and I'm so ashamed of myself for that. She also told us the importance of giving the benefit of the doubt or remaining quiet, and how charity is expecting the very best of each other. All that she was saying was hitting so close to home for me. It was just what I needed to hear. She also said that if these things were not something we were currently doing, or just started to do, that's ok. Move forward and learn to bide your tongue because words are one thing you can never take back. In closing she said, "Anger and resentment is like swallowing poison and waiting for the other person to die".
I feel so refreshed and rejuvenated by church yesterday. I feel so excited for next week. I went to bed last night feeling spiritually full. It was a great feeling. Our Relief Society has been challenged to read the Book of Mormon in full in 100 days. That's about 9 pages a day. I'm excited for this challenge. It is something I need in my life. I am so thankful that Heavenly Father inspired these amazing Brothers and Sisters to speak on what they spoke of. I am thankful for the atonement and for the opportunity I have to make my wrongs right. I am thankful for the strong Spirit I've felt in my home and in my life. I am thankful for the miracle of forgiveness and for answers to prayers.

Saturday Is a Special Day

2011-02-12T17:44:00.001-08:00

We have a new routine around here... Saturday night is our "prep time". 8 o'clock church comes early {how is it that I can be out of the house with the kids on school days by 8 but can't be to church by 8?! Really gotta work on that!} so we've learned little tricks that help us to make Sunday mornings more peaceful. Shockingly, when I'm stressed I can be a yeller, and yelling for sure is not inviting to the spirit.

We get our hair cut and leave our attitude behind {but not our sarcasm!}

We try on our outfits and get our jewelry ready {don't worry I said no to the skull necklace!}

We practice our best smiles for Primary

We make sure our favorite boots are by Daddy's door to get shined

Then we take showers, read scriptures, say prayers, and head to bed. Saturday nights have become my favorite night around here. I love getting prepared for the Sabbath. I love that our family is working together to get ready to go to church. We have felt such a difference in our family over the past few weeks. I am so thankful for the changes we have made. I'm thankful for the atonement and the opportunity I have to go to church and feel the Spirit. I'm thankful for second, third, fourth, and fifth chances. I'm thankful for the power of prayer and for a loving Heavenly Father who knows me and my weaknesses. I'm thankful for change. I'm thankful for my amazing husband who is by my side every step of the way being my biggest fan. We have become so much closer as a couple, it's amazing the way things change when you have an eternal perspective. Tomorrow is our 3rd week back at church. 3 weeks in a row makes you officially "active" again. I love that we are active. It feels good to say that we are active. It's funny how my attitude has made such a difference. I spent so much time being bitter party of 1 that I didn't give the amazing women of my ward a chance. I'm so thankful they are still giving me and our family a chance.
A few weeks back I was taking Andy to Scouts and I got to the church and it was empty. I looked in my email and found his Scout leaders phone number and gave him a call. His wife answered and I told her who I was and that I was calling to make sure Scouts wasn't canceled. When I said my name the sweet sister she explained that she was my visiting teacher and she had been thinking of me. She told me that if I needed anything to please let her know. This was the key thing she said to me, "anything at all. Even just a friend to talk to, I'm here". This sister who I had ignored for months was offering me exactly what I needed at that time. A friend. Just another reminder of the Lord letting me know that I was doing the right thing and that He was mindful of His daughter who needed a little reassurance.

Wasn't Expecting this...

2011-02-08T15:01:00.000-08:00

Today I had a dr appointment with a new obgyn. It's going on 4 years that Bry and I have been trying to have a baby. It's a discouraging, heartbreaking, frustrating path. Just when we thought we were going to have what we've been wanting I miscarried. So frustrating. Last year before I got pregnant a rep came into my office and we started talking somehow the topic got on pregnancy and I found out that she had a hard time trying to conceive as well. She mentioned the dr she went to and how he was a "miracle worker" and I should go to him. I thought about it but then got pregnant and didn't think I needed him. A few weeks ago a patient came into my office and we started talking and she tells me she was trying to get pregnant before and she went to this amazing dr, who happened to be the same dr the rep told me about. I went home that night and talked to Bry about it. I told him I wanted to see this guy and just see what he had to say. Maybe he could help, and maybe not, but I wanted to try before moving forward. Sunday Bry and I were talking to our Bishop and I told him about how frustrated/angry/sad I'd been about not being able to have a baby. He gave me some amazing advice that the Lord knows my desires and knows my heart and will put me in touch with the right people who will be able to help me. He reminded me nothing happens by accident.
Today was my appointment. I was nervous and excited. Usually when you go see a new doc it's mostly, "we'll do blood work and see what happens". I went in and right away had an ultrasound. During this the doc was showing me things he was talking about and explaining things I didn't know about my body. He found a huge cyst that he is concerned with but gave me medication to help it shrink, if that doesn't work I will have to have surgery. After asking me a ton of questions he tells me, "Well, we know what is wrong, now let's fix it". I've known that I have PCOS but I found out today that I also have endometriosis. Talking to the dr I found out that he is a former Bishop who specializes in women with PCOS and/or endometriosis. I was in the right place. I was given some scripts and a shot in the bum, and sent on my way for a few weeks unless the cyst ruptures {comforting, right?}.
Though it is not what I was expecting, I am so thankful to know what it is that is "wrong" with me. I am so thankful that I was in the right place at the right time. I'm so thankful that this sweet Dr took over an hour explaining things to me and telling me that everything will be alright. I'm not saying I'm not scared, I am. I'm not saying that I won't go through moments of discouragement, I'm sure I will. But I know that I am seeing the right doc for me. I am thankful for the Lord's tender mercies in reassuring us that He really does know my heart and my desires. I'm thankful He put me in contact with the right people, though I didn't realize it at the time. I feel great comfort and peace, and for that I am extra thankful.

Sunday Fun day!

2011-02-08T08:05:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was a super great day! We had a super good day at church, a super good meeting with our super sweet Bishop, came home and took a super good and much needed nap (the one perk I have found to having 8 am church!), then made and ate some super yummy food while the boys watched the super football game and the girls had a super sunday craft day!

I will say the cheering was a little distracting and I burnt myself on the glue gun (my battle wound), but I am so proud of myself and Jess for the awesome job we did! I couldn't have gotten all of my "pretties" done had it not been for my Mom, too! Even Natali joined in on the crafting fun! We loved chatting, laughing, eating, and seeing the progress of our crafts!

Holy deal!!

2011-01-27T08:18:00.000-08:00

So after my third contact in a row tore in my eye this week I found myself without any contacts left! I have an astigmatism in both eyes so my contacts are a bit pricey, being a {at times} bargain shopper I went on the hunt for the best deal for my contacts! My sweet co-worker and good friend told me about coastalcontacts.com so I checked it out and let me tell you... if you need contacts, glasses, or even sunglasses you will thank me for telling you about them! Everywhere I tried wanted around $67 a box for my contacts, so a years supply would have been $268... I ordered a years supply from coastalcontacts.com for $108!!! You get free shipping on orders over $99 and they are way quick to get to you!

A great deal I just couldn't keep to myself! :)

Don't Judge...the most honest post I've written

2011-01-24T15:16:00.000-08:00

My life has been crazy the past few months. I have done things that I'm not proud of that have ruined friendships, which makes it that much harder. I am my own worst enemy when it comes to mistakes I've made. I will be the first to tell you that I'm a bad Mom, I'm late to everything, I'm not perfect. I have lost sight of so many things in my life. So many things. I have been in a horrible depression since I had my miscarriage in July. Depression is an ugly thing. I knew what I was feeling, but instead of taking the bull by the horns and doing something about it I decided to go in a downward spiral and make matters worse. It kills me to know that my due date is in 2 days. I try to think positively about the whole situation, but the thoughts that haunt my mind are what I did wrong to cause this... though I know these things happen and nothing could have prevented this. I hate that I took my depression and pushed people away, and did hurtful things. I hate the person I have been. I can't tell you the last time I've been to church. I justified this because I don't feel very welcome in my "new" {we are going on 8 months in this house} ward. What a horrible example I've been to my children. So many times I've found myself wanting to say a prayer, feel comforted, but didn't feel worthy of that. I'm so ashamed at myself for my actions over the past 6 months. Then it hit me...
I CAN change. The Lord has a plan, and the atonement is for EVERYONE, not just for everyone BUT me. I know my road will be a long one. I know that I will go through times where I feel sad and lonely, but it's do or die time.
I hope those I've offended read this. I hope they realize that I am trying... it's hard to change when your past is a constant reminder. I truly am sorry that the friendships that have been ruined are over. I'm sorry that I wasn't stronger, that I didn't have more faith, that I wasn't a better person. Hopefully forgiveness will happen and the hurt and pain will leave.
I'm not going to sit here and pretend that I'm not scared, because I am, but I'm more scared of what I will become if I don't follow through with my changes. Already I see such a difference in my family and in my relationship with Bry. I'm thankful for that.
I'm thankful that I have the opportunity to repent of the things I have done and put the past behind me. I'm hopeful that my future will be bright and full of friends that love me for me and stand by me through everything. I know that what I have to do is going to take a lot of work on my part, but I know that it will be worth it in the end...

Duck Soap

2010-11-29T17:38:00.001-08:00

I realized lately that my kids are pretty funny and I need to be documenting this for later in life when I need good blackmail stories to tell! :)

A few weeks ago we were at the store and I remembered I needed dish soap so we go down the aisle and I grab the soap. When we got home I unloaded our groceries and Giovanni decided to help me. He gets the soap out and in the happiest voice EVER he says, "Ohhhh good Mom, you bought the duck scented soap again!" Yep, I sure did, Giovanni... nothing cleans as well as duck scented soap!

It's little things like this that remind me just how precious my babies are. I'm so lucky to have such funny kids!

Free Christmas Cards

2010-11-11T20:24:00.000-08:00

We all love Christmas, we all love cards, we all love Shutterfly, and we all love FREE!!

Follow this link for 50 free shutterfly holiday cards-- it's super simple, click on the link, fill out your info, blog about it, and then they'll send you an email with a coupon for 50 free cards! Pretty sweet deal, huh?! Just make sure to send me a card! ;)

Girls Weekend!

2010-10-31T12:05:00.000-07:00

Got all cute to go to dinner at PF Chang's! Yummy!!!
Britty and Autty!
Jenny and I-- what is that face I'm doing?
Hiedi going to the dark side!
Hiedi and I-- LOVE her hair dark-- HATE my bangs look all funky!
My ALL TIME favorite pic of Jess and I!

Cute toes!!!!

October 22-24 Brittany, Jenny, Jess, Hiedi, and I piled in Jenny's suburban for a weekend of girl time!!! Originally we were going to go to Palm Springs but decided that was far so we went and stayed in random Goodyear! I had so much fun with these crazy girls! I must admit, I can be the craziest one at times, but I haven't laughed as hard as I did that weekend in too long!
We had fun getting pedicures, some of us got our eye brows waxed, going out to eat, and most of all shopping our little socks off! We stayed up late laughing like little school girls and calling our hubbies giggling like teenagers in love. It was so fun! I guess that's what happens when you get 5 girls who have 12 kids between them alone for a weekend!
I've been blessed to have these amazing ladies as my friends for a few years now.. . Britt and I met the Summer before 8th grade and have been besties for what feels like forever, I thought I knew everything there was to know about this girl but I learned this weekend I was way wrong!! I saw a silly side of Britt that I haven't seen since we were in high school, and I LOVED it! So fun to see my friend crazy again! ;) Jenny and I met when we lived in the Parkwood ward but have become closer friends since we've moved out-- why is that? lol. Jenny reminds me of myself, super outgoing, funny, and loves to have a good time. Totally loved that Jenny let me play beauty parlor with her and do her make up super glam! I loved seeing Jenny laugh and be crazy and learn things about her that I didn't know before! :) Jess and I met when she started dating her hubby, Adam, who was my friend but soon Adam's friendship was replaced by Jess! Jess is the quiet type who sits and observes and then strikes. Jess has had a rough past year and a half with the passing of her Mom and becoming a new mom herself. This weekend brought the Jess out that I remember before everything happened and I must say I missed her! :) Hiedi married Britt's brothers best friend, I've known Hiedi for about a year and every time we hang out I love her more. Hiedi isn't shy telling you you don't look cute, or that your butt looks too big in those pants and I LOVE her honesty. She does it in a way that doesn't make you realize she just called you fat! lol. Hiedi is sweet and sassy and so much fun! I am so blessed to have these 4 ladies in my life. I couldn't have hand picked a better group of friends, who after our weekend I have to remain friends with forever or the humiliation of all shared will be out for the world to know about!
I love you girls, seriously can't thank you enough for getting my mind off of work, kids, and a chores! I also am so thankful to my amazing hubby who took care of the kids while I went away and had fun. I don't know how I got so lucky with him!
Girls... can't wait for VEGAS!!!!!! ;)

Disneyland!!

2010-10-31T11:19:00.000-07:00

September 23-September 30th we went to Disneyland! Bry had a business trip in Santa Barbara September 19-22 so the kids and I drove to pick him up the 22 and enjoy the what should have been cool weather! Little did we know while we were there it was record heat at 111 degrees!! We still had so much fun enjoying all the rides and fun time with cousins, Grammy and Papa, Auntie Summer, Uncle Jared, Uncle Mark, and Aunt Connie celebrating Papa's 70th Birthday!!
I grew up in Southern California, so I was an old timer to Disneyland but let me tell you, taking my kids to Disneyland and seeing their reaction was so cool! It was like experiencing the magic for the first time all over again! The first night we went on Splash Mountain at least 7 times! For sure we picked the best dates to go, the longest line was 45 min and that was the first night for Space Mountain {which Giovanni sat next to me crying the entire time!} after that most lines while we were there were 15 minutes.
The 28th Bry had to fly back to Arizona from Santa Barbara so we took the day and went shopping in LA! Sooo much fun! We were sad Bry had to leave, we were having so much fun! And I wasn't too excited to take 3 kids back to Disneyland the next day by myself! But I survived!!
We really had a great family trip. We LOVED spending time as a family. I really loved that we had so many days there to really enjoy and take our time. We didn't set alarms, we didn't rush. We got there when we got there and that was good for us!
We all had a blast, our feet were tired, we were tired but I must say-- even I can't wait to go back!!

8 is Great!

2010-10-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

On August 14 Natali was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She was so excited to be baptized and couldn't wait for her special day!
In our new ward (and maybe this is how they do it now, it's been 3 years since Andy got baptized) they do Stake baptisms and have a ward "host" the baptisms. It was not our wards turn, but it was nice to be able to enjoy the speakers and music.
One speaker told all of the kids getting baptized to imagine they were at the carnival and that the rides were all there but they needed work. Some needed oil, some needed paint, the games needed attendants. He said that being a member of the Church was very similar to a carnival. That while you are young you get to enjoy the rides and the games, but as you are older, you still get to enjoy but you also get to enjoy "working" at the carnival as well. I really liked that analogy. It helped me to remember how important callings are in the church.
We were so excited to have so many friends and family members with us to share Natali's special day! We loved having everyone come over after for lunch, too! Thank you for everyone who shared in our sweet girls special day!
I am so proud of Natali and the testimony she is developing. She loves to write in her journal and read her scriptures. She loves going to Activity Days also! I love seeing my little sweet heart developing her testimony and seeing her share her light with others!
Congrats, Nati-do on getting baptized and becoming a member of the Church! I love you!

Alive... I think...

2010-10-10T16:02:00.000-07:00

It has been so long since I blogged last, I just thought I'd let you all know we are still alive and I have sooo much to blog about!!

Like...

Natali's baptism
Our trip to Disneyland

BUT those are going to have to wait because my little bugs are watching The Princess and the Frog on my computer with all of my pics on it... rats!

In the mean time, you'll just have to know we had a super good August and September and you'll be updated shortly! :)

The "P" Present

2010-08-07T02:02:00.000-07:00

For the past month the kids have been trying to get out of us what their "big" present is for their birthday's... Well, since Natali is first up in the busy birthday month we decided to be nice parents and unveil the gift on baby girl's birthday.

These were the hints they were given

1. It starts with a P
2. It lasts a year
3. It wasn't cheap
4. It could sometimes be dangerous
5. Parts of it were electronic
6. If you didn't stop asking questions you weren't getting it! :)

What would YOU have guessed?

They guessed pony (apparently it was a sickly pony that would only last a year?), pool, plane, parachute, pigs, phones, 'puters, poop, pizza (like cici's for a year lol) , Paris (temporary relocation?), pawns, peasants, and the list goes on... it was seriously so funny hearing all of the things they all came up with. BUT they NEVER guessed they were getting

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THIS

PASSPORTS to Disneyland for a whole freakin year!!!!!! {before you ask, kids, no, we can not go every day and no, we are not going today}

Happy Birthday little loves! We hope you enjoy your super fun present as much as we have enjoyed not telling you what it is! We love you more than life itself and are so glad we are a forever family! {Btw, Natali, don't feel cheated, I'll blog about you later I just thought it was cruel to make you all read 2 blog posts before finding out your "P" present! Happy Birthday, baby girl!!}

A few of my favorite things

2010-08-01T21:53:00.000-07:00

This afternoon we decided to go to the Temple and take some pics for Natali's baptism announcements. We got some pretty great shots, but I was sad when my battery died almost right after we got there!

Am I the only one who can't believe my baby girl is turning 8 Saturday?!

What? I don't have attitude!

The boys' faces in this pic are classic!!

Giovanni was so worried Andy would fall in!

And now Natali with the crazy face!

My three little lover buggers!

My baby girl, she is so grown up and so excited to be getting baptised! Tomorrow on the agenda is getting all of the supplies for the invites she must have! I'm so lucky to be the mom to these three precious kids. I couldn't imagine a day without them {or my handsome hubby} in my life!

A post I never wanted to write

2010-07-12T12:32:00.000-07:00

Many of you already know, but in case you didn't... I had a miscarriage on Friday July 2nd. I will just say my heart is broken. After 3 plus years of trying to have a baby the thought of actually being blessed with one was so exciting. Our kids talked about the baby on a daily basis. Giovanni kissed my belly several times every day. The thing that was so strange about everything, the whole time I was nervous. I never fully could wrap my mind around the fact that we would be having a baby. I was so excited, but very, very nervous. Not that it made miscarring any easier. My heart still hurts. I laid in bed and cried with my kids and hubby most of the day Saturday. I'm trying to be strong, and have faith that one day when the time is right we will have a baby, but it's hard. I want one now. I'm angry, sad, frustrated, and a thousand other emotions right now. I know that the Lord knows what is best, and He schedules while I plan, but, nothing is making me take comfort in that right now. Especially when we were leaving to go swimming Friday night and Giovanni said,"I wish the baby were here still" my heart broke.
I am thankful for the Priesthood blessings both Bryant and I received from my Dad. I take comfort in the words that were spoken. I am thankful for a loving family who realize that at a drop of a hat I cry. I feel so blessed to have friends who are willing to listen to me say over and over how bad this sucks. I am thankful for the many prayers that were said for my family. I'm trying to make goals for myself so I don't slide deeper into the dark, this week my goal is not to cry. Well, at least not in public or at work. Good things will happen for my family, and we have seen blessings this past week that we weren't expecting. One being Bry got {and accepted} an amazing job offer. I guess the thing is, it's so easy to just be sad. It's so easy to want to lay in bed and cry and think about how bad this sucks. It's so easy to let myself go to that dark place. But we all know just because it's easy doesn't make it right. Sorry, I'll stop my huge run on of a sentence now. Again, thank you for the calls, the stop in's, and all the prayers.

A Picture Worth a Thousand Words

2010-06-16T11:17:00.001-07:00

NYC, baby!

2010-06-14T21:42:00.001-07:00

As most of you know I got a promotion at work and am now the new office manager! I'll save you the boring details and just let you know I'm so excited and love it! It's a lot of work, but I love helping people and I love seeing people's lives change.

As part of my new job I get to be spoiled by our vendors who take me to lunch and bring me goodies. Last week I was at lunch with our Lap Band rep when she asks me if I'd be interested in attending a seminar to learn how to give lap band fills. I say, sure why not. Then she says, ok it's in New York. All expenses paid. WHAT?! OK!!! So then I say the smart thing, do I have to go alone or can I bring someone in the office. I'm given permission to take Kristen, who is with me! We are trying to hold off on screaming and act cool. I think three seconds after the car door shut Kristen and I were doing the happy dance about our NY trip!

SO... here's where YOU come in, loyal blog reader... neither Kristen or I have EVER been to New York! We are extending our trip for 2 extra days so we will be in New York from Wednesday through Sunday... we don't have a ton of time, so we need help making sure we don't miss any good places... so what are the "must see" of New York? {besides like everything!}

I Love to See The Temple

2010-05-23T16:13:00.000-07:00

Today the Gila Valley Arizona Temple was dedicated, because we live in Arizona it was broad casted through out the state for members 8 and above. I have never been to a Temple dedication, so I was really excited! I was a little sad for Natali and Giovanni they couldn't go, but I also was thankful for the opportunity we had to share this experience with Andy.

It never ceases to amaze me when you are trying to do everything right how the adversary attempts to prevent it. Last night plans changed for our sitter. This morning my alarm didn't go off {note to self, when setting the alarm make sure it's set for the proper day}. I forgot our white hankies. But, when we finally got there the Spirit was so strong I had a hard time keeping my emotions under control. We went to our old stake center to see the broadcast, and I loved seeing some familiar faces, even if I didn't get to say hi, just seeing the faces was nice!

I am thankful for our sweet Prophet. I loved seeing him interact with the children. I'm so thankful for the atonement that allowed me to attend this sacred ordinance. I am so thankful for a husband who is a worthy Priesthood holder who held my hand and got emotional with me as well. I am so thankful for a son who is growing into an amazing young man. I am so thankful for the Temple and for being sealed to my awesome hubs. I can't wait to make the trip to Gila Valley to see the Temple in person!

The Phone Call That Started it All

2010-03-28T13:49:00.001-07:00

16 months ago I was laying in bed and the thought popped in my head about having weight loss surgery-- would my insurance cover it? Would I ever do it? The next day I picked up the phone called the insurance got the ok, then went online and called the office with the prettiest website (yes, that really is how I picked my surgeon, sad but true!). Fast forward 9 months and I'm talking to Jen (the office manager at said surgeon's office) and she asks me about coming to work with the office. Fast forward another 6 months (yes, it really has been almost 6 months) to Friday... I will set the scene for you... I'm at work and get a phone call from Bry saying he had picked up the certified letter from the post office and it was from our landlord, he was raising the rent. Grr.

Now, first things first, Bry and I really have been trying to live within our means and stick to somewhat of a budget, this leaves no room for "rent increase". The increase wasn't much, but like I said we have a budget and needed to stick to it. The straw that broke this camels back was that the landlord mailed us the paperwork and then said we had 4 days to let him know, by March 31 if we weren't staying it would be our 30 day notice. What?! 4 days?! That just seemed rude to me! So I get off the phone and casually mention to Jen what was going on who then tells me that Melissa over in scheduling at the hospital had a house to rent. I email Melissa, she sends pics and I fall in love with the house. No cost is mentioned so I figured it was out of my budget. I asked Melissa how much and that this was the amount we needed to stay in, so if it was more then please let me down easy... I get an email back and actually, rent is $10 cheaper than what I pay now! For a bigger, newer home! I get excited and set up a time to see the house the next day. That night Bry and I prayed fervently that if this was what we were to do for our family that we would know. That we would be presented with an opportunity we couldn't turn down.
Yesterday we went through the house and fell in love. It's really everything I've ever wanted in a house. The back yard is beautiful. The great room is great. Bry loves the surround sound... it's a win, win, people! We continue to talk all the while I'm scared to ask deposits and hoops to be jumped through. Melissa then asks if we like the house and when we want to move in. That's it?! Wow! It was seriously too easy. The Lord knew we needed to know and we needed to know quick.
I'm so torn. I LOVE this new house. LOVE it. We attended our new ward today and people were really friendly. It was odd not to see familiar faces. I actually got to go to Sunday school and Relief Society. I cried during sacrament thinking of saying good bye to my sweet ward. But then I remembered, I'm moving 5 miles away. People who love me will still invite me to their parties, or to go out. They will drive the 5 miles to come see me. And I will most defiantly drive it to see them.
I really am excited for this opportunity to get a new start. I've needed change. I didn't know what kind though. I'm excited for my kids to meet new friends and to have a backyard to play in with grass! I'm excited Bry won't harass me for surround sound anymore. More than anything, I'm thankful that the Lord showed His tender mercy to a child who has had wavering faith lately, took her in His arms and showed her the path that needed to be taken. And it all started with one phone call.

Gotta Get Away

2010-03-12T03:44:00.000-08:00

It's 4:45 am and I've been up since 3. I went to bed at 10:30... what is wrong with me?! Apparently I've become all to accustom to not having sufficient sleep! I've been working more hours than I've been sleeping, then trying to juggle the family, school, and a social life I've been on over load. Not to mention last Saturday our car broke down and left us stranded in Glendale... thank heaven's my parents live in Glendale and rescued us! So this week has been spent selling both of our cars and getting new (to us) cars. I feel like I don't have room to breath right now. I'm sure any of you who read this and are in my ward are wondering how you are reading this from me because you've probably assumed I died... never fear, I haven't. But there is a light at the end of my tunnel (I think). This afternoon when I get off work we are driving to Kingman to meet up and have them go to Utah for the week while Bry and I go away to Newport for our early anniversary trip. Everyone has been asking me what we have planed for our trip... I'm so excited to report we don't have one single thing planned. Except sleeping in, lounging by the pool, going to the beach, and not thinking about homework, or housework, or work work. No stressing about money, or aging, or why Giovanni refuses to help do chores. 5 full days of nothing to rush to, nothing to hurry up and finish. I. Can't. Wait. My biggest hope for my vacation is to come back relaxed and rejuvenated where I can feel like I can breath and maybe even with a slight tan! ;)

Fun With Family

2010-02-21T19:36:00.001-08:00

So this post is a lot of pics and they are out of order, sorry!!!

We were super lucky to have both of my sisters visit this month! Auntie Summer came first with Uncle Jared, Emma, Carson, and baby Harrison from Cedar Hills, UT! It was so fun to meet Harrison, and I think it may have been the first time the kids met Carson. We had fun going to Cabella's and the Glendale Chocolate Festival. We also had fun having Sunday dinner at our house!

The kids thought this elephant was soooo cool! And Giovanni thought it was soooo cool to have a kid smaller than him to boss around (please note this same "tug" he's giving Carson in the other group shot lol)

Emma and I

Summer, Papa, and Harrison at the Chocolate Festival

Our fam at the chocolate festival... I think I ate pretty much everything that was seen in this pic!

Natali and Emma at Grammy and Papa's

My kiddos and Summer's kiddos!

For not liking cheesecake I could have eaten a dozen of these little suckers!!

Me and my love... and Bry hehe! This apple was sooo good though! ;)

Carson loved being on Uncle Bryant's shoulders!

Next Auntie Amy came with Caitlyn, Colby, Calleya, and baby Cwynn from Oceanside, CA. It was so fun meeting another new baby!! We had fun with them going shopping, playing at the mall play area, and having family dinner at our house Valentine's day!

Me and Caitlyn...can't believe how big she is already!

Papa, Giovanni, and Colby

Calleya and Natali

Calleya is so freakin' cute!!

I don't think Cwynn thought it was funny, Uncle Bry!

My all time favorite pic of Andy!!

It was a busy two weekends but we sure loved seeing our family! We wish they lived closer so we could see them more! Maybe we'll have to make a trip to see them next!!

Surg-iversary

2010-01-16T22:27:00.000-08:00

Bry and I Feb 2009-- 1 month post op

Bry and I today 1 year post op

Me today-- 1 year post op (100+lbs gone!)

Me November 2008 2 months pre op

Today marks a huge day in my chapter of lap banding... it's my 1 year anniversary! I can't believe how quick that went! Looking back at this journey, it just amazes me!
I was happy to spend the day with my family then the hubs and I went to a support group meeting that my work holds the 3rd Sat of the month, and topped the night off spent with fab friends!
Though I'm not at my "goal" I am pretty darn proud of my success and am excited to get to my goal... in time! At our support group today we talked about self image so that's my goal to work on while headed toward my weight loss goal... to have a more positive self image.
Anyways, thanks for all of your support! I really couldn't do this without such amazing friends and an incredible hubby!!

Sooo... Happy Surg-iversary to me!!!

Head Start

2010-01-12T19:31:00.000-08:00

Every year Bry and I take turns planning our anniversary. So far we've taken a trip on our first anni and then our second we stayed local and low key. This year {our third anniversary!} is my year to plan and I need some serious help! I want to make this anniversary super special... not that every year isn't super special but I want to make this year relaxing, romantic, enjoyable... especially because the last few months have been crazy. So, friends, I need your help! We obviously don't have the time or money to take a lavish vacation to Hawaii or Paris but I am welcoming ANY ideas! We can stay around here or take a road trip.... So, now you tell me... what is your idea of a romantic anniversary trip/staycation?

Bry and I at the SD Temple 1 year anniversary

Us here in town on our second year anni

Ugh, btw, these pictures just made me so thankful for our lap band surgery! Dang we were fat!!

Alive... I think

2009-12-29T19:13:00.000-08:00

December has proven itself to be super busy!! In fact, I'm laying in bed not doing my math test so I can catch up with my blog readers! ;)

Christmas came and went too fast! The kids were in Utah so Bry and I were able to "date" a bit while they were gone. It was fun playing newlyweds but I missed my babies too much! Christmas Eve I think was the hardest on us. We didn't have any where to go so we went to dinner but there was like NOTHING open! It was horrible! We ended up going to Monte's on Mill in Tempe, it was super yum!

Last night we enjoyed "Christmas" with the kids when they got home. It was fun seeing their reactions! It just stinks that all that time and energy goes into less than an hour of unwrapping! Andy loved getting a cell phone and hasn't stopped texting yet! Natali loved getting an electric keyboard and has played non-stop for us! Giovanni loved getting a portable DVD player {he's a movie junkie} and hasn't stopped asking for more movies! We loved getting our kids back and spending time together.

We hope you had a Merry Christmas and were able to spend it with the ones you loved.

November

2009-11-30T20:37:00.000-08:00

What in the world happened to November?! Oh, that's right... I was working! Which, btw, I love my new job! I have been working long hours Monday through Thursday so I can leave early on Fridays, it works out nice but I miss my lover buggers and wish there were more hours in the day to spend with them.

So, here is a quick run down of November's main happenings-- first up-- my 28Th birthday! The week before I went to a super fun girls night dinner with my favorite girls! {I have a pic but it's on my camera and I can't find that at the moment} We enjoyed yummy food and great conversation! Thanks, ladies! The next day I celebrated with my parents and then Friday I celebrated with my family. The kids spent the night at my cousin's house on Thanksgiving night and so Bry and I got up super early to do some black Friday shopping and then he surprised me by taking me to Avante to get my hair done! I was in desperate need of change, and let me tell you change was had!! I'm in LOVE with my short "Mormon" hair as my family and I lovingly call it! Friday night we went out with our good friends the Bradshaws to dinner and play pool... way too much fun!! As sad as I thought I'd be to turn another year older I actually am enjoying it! Thank you to all for my birthday wishes and the sweet gifts! I was so touched by everyone being so thoughtful!

My new haircut!! I totally am loving it sooo much!!

My love and I on my birthday!

Thanksgiving is up next! Thanksgiving morning I went and did the Cheshire 5k! I hope next year to be with all of you I saw who ran the whole way! I had fun and was loving the nice brisk air! I had Thanksgiving at my house again this year, but we did it a little different than in the past-- we skipped turkey and decided to do a Mexican theme! Enchiladas, floutas, taco bake... yum!! We had traditional desserts of pumpkin pie and cobbler, but besides that it was all a fiesta! We even had a pinata! It was a total blast! I am so blessed to be surrounded with amazing friends and an amazing family. I don't know what I did to get so lucky!
Hope you all had an awesome holiday and were able to spend it with those you love.

Last- I finished my first semester of college!! I managed to pass my English class with a B and my Art History class with a C-- 79% you'd think I could have gotten that pity 1% for a B lol. I'm still taking my Math class until the middle of January but so far I have an A in there! I'm pretty dang amazed at myself!

And that was November in a nut shell!! We're doing great, the kids are growing like weeds, and getting funnier by the minute! We're just busy and trying to enjoy the time we do get together.

Now can you believe 24 days until Christmas?! Let's see if I can blog again before then! :)

Spooky!!!

2009-10-31T22:55:00.000-07:00

The crew Andy, Giovanni, Ma, Nate, and Nati

Wonder Woman Natali

Giovanni the Vampire

Andy the 1920's gangsta

These guys have so much fun together, I love it!

This Halloween was a fun one for us! We were lucky to spend it with great friends and family... It's become tradition that we go trick or treating with the cousins so we had fun with 5 little ones tonight and 7 adults walking the neighborhood while Bamba {Bry's Mom} passed out candy at our house.

We also started a new tradition this year of having the "great pumpkin" come to our house and if the kids choose they take 10 pieces of candy and the rest is given to the great pumpkin who then leaves them money but takes their candy. Natali and Giovanni were all over it, but Andy was overly conflicted and opted out at the last minute.... we'll see how it goes in the morning when the other kids have money and he doesn't. lol.

So here are my cutie pies! Happy Halloween, guys! I can't believe it's already November!! Yikes!!

Oh... and did you notice we died our kids hair? lol. Yep, it's permanent, but we're sure it will wash out eventually... and for now they think we are the coolest parents EVER! lol

Sneak Peak

2009-10-25T17:10:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we got family pictures taken with Bry's family. Chalice Leaman {click on her name for her site} did the pics and I'm in love with what I've seen so far!
Here's a few for your viewing pleasure! ;)

Bittersweet Faith Leaps

2009-10-15T08:22:00.000-07:00

About a month ago I posted on my facebook status "Autumn is taking a leap of faith" and today that leap is officially happening. After long hours of prayer, what our family needed to do was made extra clear to both of us, so that day Bry put in his notice at work. His company asked him to stay an extra 2 weeks to help train his replacements, and being my sweet hubs he said yes. Well, today is his last day of work. Starting Monday Bry will be going back to school full time and being Mr. Mom while I go back to work full time. {don't worry- I'm still going to be going to school, too!}

This is obviously a huge change for our family, but also one that we have sought guidance from the Lord with and we know what we are doing {while be it scary at times} is the right one. When Bry put in his notice we didn't really know how exactly the whole money thing would pan out but we had a feeling it would work out, and it did. The next day at my fat dr {I need to stop calling it that, I know} I was talking to my friend who is the office manager and she was telling me they needed someone and asked if I would be interested in working there. Up until that point the thought of me going back to work hadn't even crossed my mind. I will be starting the job next week. It's truly amazing how the Lord paves the way when you finally decide to listen.

I know this isn't going to be the easiest of changes for any of us. I enjoy my time during the day to do what I want, and am still trying to figure out how in the world I'll ever catch up with my TV shows {wink, wink}. The kids are trying to get used to the thought that they might not do another craft project after school for a while {though I have book marked a bunch of craft blogs in the event Bry decides to get crafty on us!}, and Bry is trying to remember what it's like to be a full time student and cook, clean, do laundry, and get the kids on time.

We are excited for this new unexpected chapter in our life. We are both sad to be saying good bye to some amazing co-workers Bry has had over the past year. That being said, we are also excited to say good bye to long hours and never having our daddy and hubby around.

So... ready or not... leap of faith starts NOW! :)

Lucky Ducky!

2009-10-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

I must start by saying I NEVER win ANYTHING! I can remember being in a pumpkin carving contest at our bank in our small town when we were growing up and my sister won and my parents hid $5 under my pumpkin because they felt bad.... sad, sad.

Anyways, I think my luck is changing! I'm an avid reader of Seriously So Blessed {one of the funniest blogs around!} and I entered one of her giveaways, well yesterday I noticed she posted the winners- I couldn't click fast enough and I see MY name next to this super cute hoodie!

Isn't that so fun?!

My Journey...

2009-10-06T17:01:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in a while about my weight loss... Perhaps I feel you all are getting tired of it. My motivation needs a tune up, school is kicking my booty, but I realized today that I should be good and proud of my progress.

I've been contemplating telling everyone just how fat I used to be-- but I've decided against that. lol. Maybe once I reach my goal I will post it... that's to be determined though. lol

About my goal... a lot of people have asked me what my goal is. To answer that, my goal has never been a number. My goal is to feel good about myself when I look in the mirror. To be able to shop in a store and not have to buy plus size clothing {which I no longer have to do! YAAY!}. My goal is to be happy with my appearance, which is loaded right there. I know that I will never be a size 2- I'm 5'9" for cryin' out loud, that won't happen. lol. So... my goal, my dear friends, is to be the best me I can be. If that means I stop losing weight next week, perfect, if that means I stop in 20lbs- great! But this whole journey is so emotional that I just need to love me for me.

I was telling my friend the other day I still look in the mirror and see the "old" me. I still think my stomach is huge, my butt is giant, and my thighs are disgusting. It's all so mental. I know I've lost weight, I see the scale. But as a woman that's been overweight for so long I think there's a little voice inside me saying "it's just not good enough". Day by day I'm trying to get better, to love myself, to appreciate my body the way it is. Today I noticed I walked 4 flights of stairs and then about 8 city blocks downtown Phoenix and never once lost my breath. It was amazing. Small victories like those remind me of how far I really have come. This past weekend my hubs text me a quote from Preisthood session. Elder Uchdorf, "The Lord doesn't, nor should we, compare our efforts to others" I'm sure he was meaning this pertaining to the Gospel, but I am guilty of doing this in all aspects. So that's another thing I'm trying to do is not compare myself to others.

So, to date I've lost 110lbs in my 8 months since having my band. I've gone down about 12 dress sizes and 3 bra sizes {sorry if that is tmi- but I think it's so funny how small they are now! lol}. My wrists have shrunk so much that I had 3 links taken out of my watch and I no longer need chain extenders for my necklaces. I also cross my legs ALL the time now! I can paint my own toenails, too!

This picture was me at my sis-in-laws bachelorette party late last November. This is for sure a "before" picture.
This pic is me Saturday night... It's amazing to look at the difference... Crazy!

Thank you, my sweet friends, for all your support, encouragement, and love throughout this wild and crazy journey!

Super Saturday Turned Fabulous Friday

2009-09-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

This year I'm doing our wards "Super Saturday" but all of the Saturdays were a no go for our building so my friend suggested doing it on a Friday night... hence the "Fabulous Friday!"
I'm way excited! I have a new found friend who has a vinyl business who did my super Saturday when I lived in Verrado, Sage. She is AMAZING! As is my bff Britty who has been my right hand craft woman in helping me do this! She has been such an awesome sport with this!

So here are the crafts we are doing! Tell me what you think... I"m so excited, but the hubs isn't so excited for how much I'm going to spend! ;)
We are also doing picture blocks and flower hair clips but I don't have pics of those! {Thanks Tera for doing the bows!}

The Stockings Were Hung Board is going to have a few little jewels on it and is only $21 {it comes in red, white, or green}

This cute little believe block also comes in red, white, or green and has cute sparkles for $5
k, I'm most excited for the Give Thanks... it will be out in my house year round and is only $17!

The Fun Money bank also comes in "Mission Fund", "Savings" and is only $7 and come is a variety of different dot colors

This Believe tile is $5 and can also say "Noel", "Joy", or "Peace"

This "Have yourself a merry little Christmas" also comes in white and the "C" comes in a variety of different colors, too and is $17

I'm loving these "Harvest" blocks... $12!!

So I put the prices for because I'm putting my blog address on the order form so the Sisters in my ward can come look before they put their orders in and then they won't have to wait to see the table on Sunday! :)

Melting

2009-09-05T21:37:00.000-07:00

Last night was Bry's night to pick for our date, and let me tell you, he didn't disappoint! I knew the night would be good when he came home with roses... I {heart} roses! Though I made the mistake of telling Bry early on that I didn't like flowers because they just die, he still surprises me every now and again with them! He's the best!

Anyways, we got all dolled up and headed over to Ahwatukee to the Melting Pot... can we say oh my YUM?! We'd never been, so it was a super fun experience. We were there nearly 2 hours and enjoyed every minute of the romance, the food, and the company. This salad was the Caprese salad and OH MY GOODNESS! I wanted more, and more, and more... and I'm still craving it tonight! Everything was so perfect! Well, until this super drunk guy in a table near by started to speak loudly about "Mormons" and the kind of people we are, but I'm trying to forget about that. Thankfully, this guy being annoying was somewhat entertaining seeing as even the servers were getting annoyed with him! But, back to the awesome date... lol

I love spending time with the hubs, and there's just something about sitting shoulder to shoulder sharing yummy chocolate and feeding each other that just screams romance!

I'm so blessed to have such an amazing hubby! But now I need some ideas on how to one up him next weekend! ;) Thanks babe for being so amazing and putting so much thought into our date, and thanks even more for stopping at Filiberto's on the way home and getting me a horchata-- now THAT's love!

Spoiled

2009-09-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

My parents have been staying with us and we are all getting a little spoiled. My kids especially. They love Papa getting up and cooking them breakfast every morning, and love even more that Papa listens to their requests! I love that my Dad likes to keep a clean kitchen so I can be lazy and the kitchen still gets done! ;)

Tonight at 10:04pm Papa was setting up for breakfast in the morning. I told him the kids were getting too spoiled and he needed to make them cereal for breakfast so that when they leave my kids don't go into total shock when they realize Mommy doesn't cook breakfast on school days. :)
Papa did say cereal wasn't an acceptable breakfast {he wanted to make chorizo and eggs or french toast} so he is making toast and sausage to accompany their cereal.

I'm glad my kids are getting time to be spoiled by Grammy and Papa. Natali gets her hair and jewelery done by Grammy every morning. I am loving getting to shower and get dressed while my kids are getting the finishing touches done to them! It's nice to have my parents around and spend time with them also! Thanks, Mom and Dad!

Birthday Boys!!!!

2009-08-28T17:55:00.001-07:00

Today is such a special day! Two of my favorite boys in the universe have their birthdays today!
I'm sure it's not easy to share a birthday with your brother, but Andy and Giovanni do a good job at it!

We woke up at 6:30 to open birthday gifts, eat birthday breakfast {an all meat omelet for Andy and homemade pancakes drenched in syrup for Giovanni! Yum!!}, and get ready for school! The boys brought cupcakes to school with them {60 cupcakes!! YIKES!} then we brought them lunch to school... Giovanni wanted a McDonald's happy meal and Andy wanted Asian beef with rice and sushi {yumm-o!!}.

Tonight we are making Hawaiian haystacks for dinner and then having a family over for cake. Then I'll be staying up all night baking-- Giovanni's party is at 10 tomorrow morning and Andy's is at 2 tomorrow afternoon {I don't know what I was thinking lol}

I'm so happy to celebrate these boys today... they are my little lover buggers! I couldn't imagine my life without them!
{we went to Fry's today-- the boys climbed into the freezer-- I had to take a pic!!}

10 Reasons I Love My 10 Year Old {"Andy Pandy Pants"}
1. He can ALWAYS make me laugh {unless he's making me cry-kidding!}
2. He keeps me on my toes
3. He asks every day {without fail} if he can drive
4. He is one of the best helpers when he knows I'm stressed
5. He loves to read and when he's really into a book you can't even talk to him
6. He is a mans man, loves meat, guns, and pretty girls {I'm in trouble! lol}
7. He is developing a testimony of the Gospel and will make a great missionary
8. He is truly smart
9. When he puts his mind to something there's no stopping him
10. He is constantly seeking after knowledge

5 Reasons I Love My 5 Year Old {"Barky Von Shnowzer"}
1. He is my boy {just ask him, he loves me the most}
2. As much as he struggled with speaking, he tried so hard and his hard work payed off
3. He has developed the cutest little personality
4. He gives the best foot rubs EVER {and loves giving them!!}
5. He takes after his Daddy- could sit and watch movie after movie and popcorn for every meal!

Boys, I love you so much! I'm so blessed to be your Mommy! You two are my favorite boys EVER! I love you both the most-- I WIND!!! ;)

Advancing

2009-08-27T17:31:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night Andy was advanced from a Bear to a Weblo in Cub Scouts. He also received his Religious Knot, one of the only 3 awards you can take with you in scouting. I am so proud of Andy, of all our hard work {it was as much me climbing on him as it was him lol} and of the confidence this has given him!

Part of the advancement they have a parent go up with the scout and have a contest, like eat three crackers and then try to howl like a wolf... well, Bry and Andy got a tin of whipped cream each and had to find the candy kisses hidden inside... only my hubby would end up putting the tin in our son's face when they were done and the whipped cream would fly all over one of my besties in the ward... Good thing Tera loves me and is a good sport! ;)I'm so proud of Andy. He has grown so much in the past few years. I love seeing his little testimony develop and I love seeing the example he is setting for the other kids. This does make me sad because this means it's Andy's last year in Cub Scouts , next year {when he turns 11} he will be in Boy Scouts... it's crazy to think of! But I am happy we won't have to buy a new book each year! ;)

Way to go, Andy! You're my favorite {almost} 10 year old!!

Surprise!!

2009-08-21T10:33:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite family pic we've EVER taken-- I seriously want to use it for our Christmas cards!
Luis, Bry, Me, and GI Jen {his co-workers and buds}
Lu-E and Bry {everyone has a nickname}
So, I said I didn't want to take a pic w Jen cause I'd look too fat w her so she puffed out her cheeks-- LOVE it! lol
Alicia, Jen, Me, Jess, and Britt-- THE best friends a girl can ask for!
Me and Britty! So fun having my best friend so close!! yay!

Last Saturday I had a surprise party for Bry for his birthday! I wanted to make his 30th birthday extra special for him. It was so hard for me to keep this from him because I tell him EVERYTHING! But, I did it! I didn't even brake when we were laying in bed one night after Natali's party and he was telling me he was so happy he and I were going to spend a quiet date night together for his birthday! {Let me tell ya, I was tempted to tell him at that moment, but I didn't!}

Saturday morning I got into my "cleaning mode" now, everyone thought this would send red flags, but if you really know me I have a tendency to get in these moods where I want the house scrubbed, so I'm sure Bry thought I was just having one of "those" days. lol. We then went to Wal Mart to pick up some things and Bry diddle dawdled the whole time. He isn't a shopper, but that day he was lol. I was rather annoyed when he stopped by the booth they had set up in the front of the store and let the kids get bracelets for a donation for breast cancer and took like 10 min. lol. But finally we got home and my friend Alicia came over. I told Bry that Alicia needed some girl time so asked if he could take the kids out for a while. It worked!! :)

We were supposed to have fondue and a chocolate fountain... it turned out more like fondon't... but, I tried. So veggies, dip, and a chocolate fountain. YUM! :)

Thank you so much to our friends who helped keep this a surprise and helped me keep my sanity!

And once again, Happy Birthday to my love-- I'm so blessed to have such an amazing hubby, even though you are old... good thing I think older men are sexy ;)

Just 2 more birthday's to go this month and we're done! Let me tell you-- NO MORE KIDS BORN IN AUGUST!! {as long as that's what His plan is, too, of course lol}

30

2009-08-13T10:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Bry celebrated his 30th birthday! It was a fun day, but kinda sucked because he had to work. We woke up and he got his presents-- a few weeks back he got the new Palm Pre so that was his big gift, but the kids made him a shirt, a key chain that says "We {heart} u daddy", and a plaque that says "Fathers who are kids at heart make the best daddies". Bry then left for work and I rushed to get the kids to school.

I then did something I've never done before in attempt to make the hub's bday special... I made him homemade Carmel corn! Bry is a total pop corn connoisseur, and he's always talked about his mom making Carmel corn so I got the recipe and gave it a try! It was sooo easy! After I was done {and tested the finished product} I drove and met Bry and some of his co-workers for lunch. It was fun!

We made carne asada tacos for dinner {Bry's request} and I made Bry some brownies {he had cake at work so I thought I'd mix it up a bit!}. The best thing was when we were getting the candles Andy told me how when he was little Bry put those trick candles on his cake so he wanted to get him back! So we totally did! It was awesome!!

Babe, I love you so much! I'm so glad we were able to spend some time together for your birthday. You are the best thing that's ever happened to me and I love that we have become so close. You are my best friend, my world, my lover, my everything. Happy Birthday babe!

It Sure Is Quiet Around Here

2009-08-12T09:41:00.000-07:00

I never thought this day would come so quick, but all 3 of my "babies" are in school! Andy is going into 5th grade, Natali ("Lauren" is what they call her at school) is going into 2nd, and my baby Giovanni is going into kindergarten!! Wow!!

Last night they were all so excited we had to calm them down quite a bit before they received their Father's blessings for the start of the year. It was a nice, spiritual time to spend with our family. And I cried through all of them. After we were done they went to go get in bed and Andy said he was so excited he needed a sleeping pill- where does this kid come from?! I cracked up!! When I checked on them at 10 they were all fast asleep!!

This morning was fun, it's Bryant's 30th Birthday so we woke up, got the kids ready and then they opened gifts with Daddy while I was cooking breakfast. Then we {rushed} to get them to school on time.

I walked Giovanni into his classroom and when we got there it was crowded, so Giovanni turns to me and says, "there's no room in here, there's too many kids, we should just go home". That's my boy! lol. Too cute! Two seconds later the principal came in and said it was time for us parents to leave. There was a boy in HYSTERICS, it made me thankful Giovanni wasn't that kid. {who am I kidding? He was that kid 2 years ago on his first day of speech school}

So, the kids are all nestled safely in their desks while I'm home. All. Alone. Dishes are done, floors are swept, laundry is being washed, I'm updating my blog, meeting the hubby for a {surprise} birthday lunch. And it's not even 10am! A lot gets done with no kids around!

Though, I know this will all change in 12 short days when I start school, too!

Oh, and I think it should be noted, I didn't shed one single tear! I was pretty proud!

The Difference Between Boys and Girls

2009-08-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

This morning I decided I would make my life a little easier and have the kids choose their outfits for school for the first 5 days of school.

One by one I took the kids in to pick their outfits. Andy was first, I laid out his new clothes and said what do you want to wear the first day? He asked me what matched what so I put the clothes together and he said "ya, that's fine" and chose his 5 outfits.
Next, Giovanni came in and said "Mommy you pick for me" I've been trying to get him to make his own choices so I told him to choose the shorts he wanted to wear first and then guided him from there.
Finally, I go into Natali's room and tell her what we're doing. We lay out her new clothes and she proceeds to try on EVERY outfit, with accessories, and shoes. She then looks in the mirror, twirls, and tries on the next outfit, changing the day she's going to wear the outfit with each change of clothes. She then tells me how beautiful she looks in her new clothes and finally (an hour later) decides on her outfits (with much coaxing from me!).

And now I see the difference between boys and girls!

In Seven Heaven!

2009-08-06T22:37:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, August 7th, my baby girl turns 7!!! I can't believe it! It seems like yesterday I was putting her in pre-k and next week she'll be in 2nd grade! Where has the time gone?!

This is one of my favorite pics of Natali... she was 5 and surprised me with doing her own hair for church... she put every hair accessory she owns in her hair! Silly girl!!

Natali a few weeks ago when I cut her hair. I love that she likes to change it up with her hair every so often, she's such a girl!

Me and my baby girl about 2 months ago... she LOVES taking pics of us together! My cutie!!

A few months ago again, I think we were out to dinner and we were bored so we decided to take pics of us on my phone! She's too dang cute!

On Sunday me and my girly posing for the paparazzi!

7 Reasons I love my {almost} 7 year old!

1. She has her own sense of style-- totally funky to say the least!
2. She loves everybody unconditionally {everyone is her "best friend"}
3. She loves to read {and has been known to finish whole chapter books in a day!}
4. She is one of the most compassionate little girls you'll meet
5. She loves to mother {sometimes I have to remind her who the mommy is!}
6. She loves to sing and tells us she's going to be famous when she grows up
7. As smart as this little girl is she is soo ditsy sometimes- I love it!

Natali badadali, I couldn't imagine my life without you. I'm so lucky to be your Mommy and get to watch you grow and learn. You are a special little girl and we are so blessed to have you in our family!!

I love you the most, I win!!

Finding Joy

2009-08-03T18:08:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for your words of kindness on my post about being in a rut. I am truly blessed to have such amazing friends in my life. You all said what I needed to hear in your own way, either on my blog, or by grabbing me in the hall at church, or a sweet phone call. I appreciate you more than words could express.

A lot has been happening in my life and I've been feeling the constant reminder of a phrase in my Patriarchal Blessing lately. I'll paraphrase, but it basically tells me that I will be called into the halls of higher learning and my decision to do this will bless my family and children's lives. I can say that I've officially registered for classes and will be starting school on August 24th . I'm so excited about this decision and know the Lord will bless me and my family through what may be a crazy time in our lives. I've never been good at school, I'm not the brightest crayon in the box, but I feel confident and have been studying this past week trying to refresh my old brain, which causes my excitement to grow even more. This is a huge step for me, and I'm nervous, but thankfully my excitement is out weighing my nerves {for now}.

To get ready for us all to go back to school today I've been making "schedules" for everything, laundry, scouts, dinner (more like menus), cleaning, homework, etc. I love that I'm getting more organized and I love that I'm motivated to do these things! I love that I'm finally finding the joy in my journey!

I'm especially thankful to my hubby who realizes how important this is to me and has been nothing but supportive since I've made my decision. I truly found the BEST hubby {EVER}!

So... Here's to a GREAT start of the new school year!!

Better Late Than Never...

2009-08-02T21:37:00.001-07:00

Seeing as it's now August and we went on our trip to Newport about a month ago, I figure it's about time I post about it! We had sooo much fun! We stayed at the Hilton on the border of Irvine and Newport, it would have made for a nice romantic weekend {like it was planned for until our plans were changed last minutes and the kids weren't leaving for Utah for 2 more weeks! lol} but we made it a great family weekend.
We loved playing outside and feeling the fresh ocean air... it was a nice change from the 100+ Arizona heat we're used to! We all decided we want to move there once we become rich! lol.
One of the days we were there we went down to the Del Mar Fair and had a blast walking around. I was amazed... I was sooo good at staying away from the fair food!! It probably helps that I'm way cheap! lol. The kids had gotten money to spend so they loved walking through and buying just about anything that jumped out at them. We also all played a game together (I won, aren't I a bad Mom for not letting one of my kids win?! lol) It was so fun!
Giovanni bought a hermit crab, Crabby Bob Garvin and a sword with his money. He loves Crabby and takes such good care of him! Every night in his prayers he says thank you for Crabby. Too cute!
Andy caught Daddy on a good day... I am total anti gun, but clearly Daddy is cool with it, Andy got 3 bb guns and a cap gun. Needless to say, Andy is one happy kiddo!
Natali bought some markers (I can't remember what they were called) and a hat. And maybe a stuffed animal.
Cute kids with all their loot! They were so excited!

Our last day there we spent at the beach... the water was sooo cool and felt sooo good! We weren't there too long but I came home looking like a lobster! All in all, it was a great trip! I can't wait to go again-- I just hope it's sooner rather than later, this Saturday is supposed to be 114 degrees, I wouldn't mind going then! :)

2 Babies!!

2009-07-27T19:48:00.001-07:00

This past week I became an auntie again-- TWICE! My sisters both were preventing getting pregnant and ended up pregnant and 2 days apart! Wowza!

Monday, July 20th Summer had a baby boy (whom is still nameless so we call him "Little Gene" {his middle name will be Eugene after my Dad} he was 8lbs 3oz and is sooo dang adorable! I'm told they are leaning toward Harrison for the name but for now...Summer and Little Gene are doing great!
(Carson, 20mo, Emma 3, and Little Gene-- Summer's 3 kiddos!)

Wednesday, July 22 Amy had another baby boy, Cwynn {pronounce Quinn} Edward Hartung weighed in at 9lbs 2oz {3oz smaller than her biggest baby-thank heavens for c-sections!} and is adorable and doing well!
(Caitlyn 12, Cwynn new, Calleya 3, Colby 5-- Amy's 4 kiddos!!)

Isn't it amazing how much the babies look alike? They could be little twinners!

I'm so blessed to be an Auntie to soooo many cutie pies! And totally can't wait to love and cuddle these little ones and teach them who their favorite is, like I have all the rest of the kids! :)

Stuck

2009-07-20T11:01:00.000-07:00

Ever since we've gotten back from our Newport trip {I know I still need to blog about that, sorry!} I have been feeling so blah. I am seriously feeling stuck in a massive rut. I can't seem to pop out of it, either.
Maybe it was coming back to reality that did me in-- sleeping in until 10 every morning was amazing but we all know that my kids don't do that at home. I can't put my finger on what's happening.
Maybe I shouldn't be blogging this... but who can I trust if I can't trust you, my blog readers? ;) Yesterday I couldn't even muster the strength to get out of bed and go to church. Facing people just didn't seem like something I wanted to do. I know that is when I need to be at church the most, but I just couldn't.
There are so many areas that I could improve spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically on and I know that all of those would help my rut... it's just lack of motivation maybe? I'm not really sure. I know that I am so blessed, I have an amazing hubby who shows me and tells me how much he loves me on a constant basis, I have wonderful, beautiful children, in a time where nothing is stable my hubs has a pretty stable and reliable job, I have great friends and family... and so much more.

But...the rut is still there...

Blind

2009-07-15T23:17:00.000-07:00

How cute do they look in their new frames?! I love them! They fit their personalities so well, I think!

I took my kiddos to the eye doc today for check ups. We have new insurance and I hate, hate, hate Natali and Andy's frames (we've replaced each one at least 3 times!!) so I figured why not just go in and see what's up! Good thing I did! Both Andy and Natali's prescription has changed quite a bit and Giovanni needs glasses as well! The kids picked out super cute frames and are excited to get them back in a few weeks!Close up of Andy's new frames! He has -2.0 in one eye and -3.0 in the other with a pretty severe astigmatism
Natali has the worst vision, poor girl -2.5 and -3.5 with an astigmatism as well but these new frames are too cute, that's my girl, making vision problems fashionable! ;)Giovanni also has an astigmatism and has -2 in both eyes! He was the pickiest one about his frames, he tried on at least a dozen before settling on these because they looked like his big brother's! He did really well for his first trip to the eye Dr though, good job little buddy!After we celebrated our sight problems with McDonald's ice cream (my kids (mostly Giovanni) calls hot fudge sundae's hot DAY sundaes how cute is that?!)... nothing like ice cream to wash away your troubles, right? Actually, the kids all love wearing glasses, I just used it as a treat for how well they were (ok, and I wanted some, too!!).

I'm off to...

2009-07-02T20:01:00.000-07:00

To go here

and enjoy
Family fun in the cool California Sun!!

In LOVE... or is it Lust?

2009-06-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

I recently became a Pampered Chef consultant and have fallen madly in love with their products and recipes. I love their Garden Veggie Pizza and my kids all eat at least 3 slices of it-- and it's laced with zucchini, tomatoes, mushrooms, and onions! Yesterday my new love arrived... my deep covered baker and my rice cooker... I've made bread, amazing chicken, and amazing pork tenderloin in the baker (in the microwave under 30 min for all but the bread!) and made amazing veggie rice pilaf, garlic parm mashed potatoes, and chocolate lava cake in the rice cooker (in the microwave under 10 min!!)... so needless to say I'm in LOVE!!!

What Do You Say To THIS?!

2009-06-17T19:35:00.000-07:00

An IM conversation between Bry and I today...

B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:07:12 AM): holy crap honey.... I see no way we could even change to another company.... last month
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:07:26 AM): we used over 7000 minutes the month before it was almost 8400 minutes
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:08:26 AM): last month you alone sent 14237 text messages honey
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:08:40 AM): jenny sent 1659 and I sent 1900
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:09:17 AM): the month before you sent 9903 I was 1482 and Jen was 1625
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:10:36 AM): talk minutes you had 4014 last month and 4400 the month before Hooker had 2400 and 3000
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:18:35 AM): you there?
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:18:45 AM): so she is getting it fixed?
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:20:08 AM): I sent 14000 texts?
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:20:10 AM): ROFL
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:20:12 AM): that's awesome!!
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:20:18 AM): honey that is not funny....
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:20:21 AM): sorry
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:20:28 AM): that averages out to 467 texts a day....
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:20:52 AM): you also spent 4014 minutes ON the phone that is the equivalent of 2.78 FULL 24 hour days honey in a month
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:21:16 AM): wow. it's like a full time job
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:22:03 AM): yeah... something like that... just think how much more you could actually feel like you got done honey....
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:22:04 AM): lol
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:23:05 AM): lol
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:23:08 AM): naah
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:23:12 AM): thats so boring
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:24:47 AM): if you paired back a little... ohh but you know your worse month for phone time was in february and then april.... february was 5689 minutes or 3.95 FULL 24 hour days in one month honey
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:26:46 AM): don't you have work to be doing? lol
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:26:50 AM): honey if you figure just the average text took you 30 seconds you spent another 4.94 full 24 hour days last month texting honey.....
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:27:25 AM): which means out of 30 days you spent 7.7 days on the phone texting or talking honey
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:32:32 AM): honey all joking aside... doesn't that bug you a little that you spent that much time just talking or texting on your phone last month?
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:32:50 AM): ummm yes?
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:33:24 AM): honey I am being serious... like you spent almost 8 full 24 hour days on your phone...
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:34:10 AM): that is a lot
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:34:17 AM): I'm a little shocked it was that much, actually
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:34:26 AM): but that also was me on hold trying to change utilities over too
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:34:27 AM): lol
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:34:31 AM): ok sorry... didn't mean to say anything I was just trying to see if we could switch anywhere and there is no way....
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:34:47 AM): I wasn't getting upset
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:34:56 AM): I just said I'm surprised it was that much
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:35:39 AM): are you there?
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:36:01 AM): I'm was a little shocked it was that much I knew yours was high.... but
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:36:06 AM): it makes sense though too...
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:36:29 AM): just in the last month how many more times have I said something about you texting or being on your phone all the time...
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:36:41 AM): ya, I really do need to cut back
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:36:43 AM): that's crazy
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:37:29 AM): Thank you..... don' take this the wrong way honey but that is really kind of scary.... like addict scary baby....
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:37:39 AM): ya that is huh?
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:38:20 AM): BUT think of it this way... I'm sticking it to the man with the "all you can eat plan"
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:38:21 AM): lol
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:38:35 AM): think about it this way it figures out to be 185 hours last month of total time on your phone texting or talking and that is only using an average of 30 seconds per text message....
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:39:32 AM): honey that is only 15 hours short of a ten hour work day 5 days a week for a full month...
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:39:44 AM): ya that is crazy
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:39:51 AM): but you didn't even laugh at my comment
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:42:01 AM): ok, well I'm going to go finish the house
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:42:02 AM): I love you
auggies1181 (6/17/2009 10:42:11 AM): sorry if I upset you I will be better about texting/chatting
B Garvin (6/17/2009 10:42:19 AM): ok... I love you....

I mean, I love texting, what more can I say? lol. What would YOU say?

ps we have Sprint's Unlimited plan so this is not hurting us financially...

Being Brave Paid Off!

2009-05-31T17:42:00.000-07:00

Cute kiddos with their "summer time hair cuts" also!
The new do!

So I've almost lost 80lbs now and decided it was time for a new look! While money is tight I decided to go a different (and less expensive) route. I was swimming at my friends house yesterday and all of a sudden got the idea to have her cut my hair (side note, she is a PT NOT a cosmetologist). After a few rounds of "are you sure? are you sure?" she got her scissors and gave me one of my favorite hair cuts so far! It's an A-line cut, so it's shorter in the back. That with a box of hair color that was on sale and I feel like a new girl! :) Thanks Jess!! What do you think? Did my bravery pay off??

Girls Just Want To Have FUN!!

2009-05-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

For Mother's Day I was given the gift of relaxation time with 3 of my besties! That actually ended up being 5 of my besties most of the weekend though! We went to the Legacy Golf Resort and had some much needed fun!
We mainly stayed around town, went to the Chihuley Exhibit at the Desert Botanical Gardens (below) and went to the pool (above) where we totally saw Kid Rock and Pat Sajak (and I didn't get any color!)
We enjoyed some yummy dinners at Streets of New York and Claim Jumper
(This is me and Alicia, one of my newest besties)
(This is Jess and Britty)
We went up to Prescott for my sis-woo's baby shower (Me, Sis-Woo Amy, and my Mom)
(My niece Caitlyn and I at the shower)
(Britt, Kelli-Wu, and I at the shower)
(Kelli-Wu and I)

I'm so glad I have such great friends who helped make this weekend so much fun! I'm so greatful to my awesome hubby who let me get away with the girls and took care of the kiddos for me! You're the best babe!

Holy Cow!!

2009-05-12T16:04:00.000-07:00

That's how many pounds I have lost total!! I've lost an entire Natali in less time it takes for a baby to grow in a Mommies tummy! This is insanity folks!

Angels Among Us

2009-05-05T16:12:00.000-07:00

Last month our enrichment was entitled "Angles Among Us" it was such a spiritually uplifting meeting and I left feeling great. I've had many angels in my life. This past week I was surrounded by angels. They came in the form of my sweet Relief Society President, sweet sisters from my ward, the Elders Quorum, my Bishop's sweet wife, amazing friends who are closer than family, my cousin, and my mil. These angels saw someone in need and did something about it. These angels helped me pack, helped us move, helped us clean, helped me paint, watched my kids (and my friends kid), gave me moral support, told me that I can do this and will get through it. These angels were selfless, they were upbeat, they were friendly, they were the true angels.
Never once did these angels complain, never once did they take no for an answer. Never once did they say they'd rather be doing something else.
I am so blessed to know that there are angels among me. Thank you, my angels who came out and showed me your love and support. You are blessings in my life, I wouldn't be able to have gotten through it without you!

What I DIDN'T do this weekend...

2009-04-27T13:59:00.000-07:00

I didn't do the dishes or the laundry. I didn't vacuum or dust. I didn't pack a single box or clean the garage. I didn't go to church (I know, I'm a sinner), I didn't tend to my kids after 5:45 on Saturday. I didn't grocery shop, I didn't clean the bathroom.

What did I do then?

I took a stay-cation with my hubby. We stayed home without kids. We watched what we wanted to, we ate cereal at hours you wouldn't think were cereal eating hours. We nuggled and talked. We stayed in bed until 11 yesterday. Of all the vacations we've ever gone on, our stay-cation was right up there for me. I forgot how much I miss Bry. He works so much and we have so much going on it was so nice just to get back to us.

Bry I hope you know how amazing I think you are. This weekend was exactly what I needed and you knew that. Thank you for being my best friend, my lover, and the most amazing father to our beautiful children.

Rocks

2009-04-23T07:12:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have one of those days where you think if you don't go out sans the kids you may go crazy? Your head might explode and fire might start coming out of your neck? Now you know what I was like last night. It had been one of those days and I just needed some mommy time. I knew my 3 bff's needed the same so it was for sure a perfect night for GNO. Britt and I had been talking about doing such a night because she'd been super mom since moving here so I called Bry and the plans started coming together.

Until recently I didn't realize how much I rely on my amazing bff's. Last night was total proof of how much I love these girls. We went and had dinner and hung out at Neilson's. (Btw, I'm amazed at how I can't eat most starchy foods (thank you lovely lap band of mine!) but last night my body knew I was in need and I was able to eat french fries dipped in fry sauce... thank you lapband God's!!) I felt like a school girl as we talked and laughed until they closed. I love that I can talk about anything with these girls.. and let me tell you nothing was off limits last night! It was so fun!

Thanks girls for being my besties! You make my life so much easier just being in it. I'm so glad we live so close so these girls nights can happen more often!

Get Real Mom's....

2009-04-19T18:39:00.000-07:00

So I'm totally doing a shout out for this super awesome website that I know of. I actually helped them with the making of the website (giving my opinions and such-- my husband would call it QA'ing) and I think that it will be a pretty cool website once more people join. Currently there are 2 contests going on one to win $1000 CASH and the other to win $500 CASH! I, sadly, can not enter the contest because of my hubby's employer so if you win, we'll just split the proceeds! :) They have contests each month and I've seen the prizes, they are pretty cool!
It's called Real Moms Guide and it's free to join. Join, request me as a friend. Make my husband happy. Make me happy by having my husband stop harassing me.

I know I sound like I don't like the site, but I actually do. There are some pretty cool links and cool groups to join ( Mom's of Mesa --that's mine). There is also one for dinner ideas and one for LDS Mom's.

So, ya. Go, check out the fun. Find out about earning Karma, watch funny kid home videos , there also is a little TV show they have on there. Like I said, it's a pretty neat site! Check it out! Tell me what you think or if you have any suggestions, let me know, my opinion to them is what's important! ;)

Catching Up

2009-04-16T19:04:00.000-07:00

My Mom, Summer, and I at the luncheon following
the funeral. Is Summer not the cutest pregnant girl you've
ever seen?!

I've been crazy busy these past few weeks! I flew to Redding, CA for my Grandma's funeral and was able to stay for 4 days. It was an amazingly beautiful funeral. I'm so grateful for the ward members there who brought dinners to my Grandpa and my Uncle's house to feel all 20 million of us and also to the sweet Relief Society who put together a beautiful luncheon after the services.
I'm also so thankful for all the amazing friends and family I have who helped me with my kids so I could go to alone.

I love my family. I miss my Grandma. I'm still grieving and know that she is in such a better place though I miss her dearly.

Summer's cutie son Carson (she stole my name)

Jared and Emma (who had the flu! poor baby!)

Bad pic, but this is my Uncle driving the hearse
to the cemetery... my Grandma's only son
giving her her last ride. Pretty cool, huh?

After a looong flight home (bad weather in No. Cal causing me to nearly miss my connecting flight and having to run through San Francisco International Airport and having my PANTS FALL DOWN!! lol) I was ready to sleep a lot. Sadly, kids don't alow that. It was back to the hustle and bustle.

Friday the kids had off school and we went to see Disney On Ice which my awesome sister gave us tickets to! We had super awesome seats (6 rows from the ice) and were entertained the whole time! Natali has now decided she wants to be an ice skater and Giovanni wants to be an ice cleaner- man that kid has high hopes! lol.

Friday night we went to see the Easter Pageant at the Mesa Temple. It was my first time ever going, and next year I will be sure to go without kids! It was still neat but the intire time trying to explain to Giovanni that it wasn't the real Jesus and that they were just actors wasn't really helping me to pay attention. But still, I'm glad I went.

Saturday was a hard day. We had to put our sweet new puppy to sleep. We don't know what happened. The vet thinks she was poisened. It was so a hard day for all of us. The kids tell us all the time how much they miss Taylor and even Sophie keeps looking around for her.

Sunday we had Easter at our house. There were 9 adults and 6 kids! It was fun!! My BFF Britt and her hubby moved to Gilbert that weekend so they came with Kase and enjoyed the festivities with my family, Bry's mom and sis and her kids, and my parents and my cous Jen! We had a fun Easter Egg hunt (well, more like we put the eggs on the grass and they picked them up) and ate yummy food!

I guess that sums up our last week! OH! Except... Guys, I've lost almost 60lbs!!! I can't believe it!!!

A Taco Stand In Heaven

2009-04-01T14:37:00.001-07:00

At my wedding 3/23/07

When we were little kids my Grandma used to tell us we would have a Taco Stand in Heaven so that we wouldn't be afraid to die. We've often talked about this said taco stand and joked about how it will be when we all get up there and start cooking.
Yesterday I got a call that rocked my world. My Grandma suffered a massive stroke that left her with no brain waves. The Dr said it wasn't a matter of IF she would pass, it was a matter of WHEN. My dear Grandpa sat in the hospital holding his sweethearts hand and talking to her the whole time. He told the nurse "we've been married 66 years and I'd do it all again".
They put her on morphine so she wouldn't be in pain. At 1:15 this morning they stopped the morphine and at 1:25 my Grandma went to live with our Father in Heaven. My Grandpa said as he was talking to her those last 10 minutes he noticed out of one of her eyes tears were rolling down her face, he felt her Spirit so strong and knew her love for all of us.
My heart hurts. I cried myself to sleep last night. Twice. I found myself thinking about my Grandma and I could hear her sweet voice. I could hear her telling me that she was so proud of me and that I was "always smiling, always happy". I was in the shower this morning and I started wondering if my Grandma was helping to take care of my babies until they come here to me, thinking about that made me cry.
I am thankful for the knowledge of the Gospel. I feel comforted in knowing I will see my Grandma again and get the giggles when we're talking like I did in 99% of the conversations I had with her.
I'm sure she's having an amazing reunion with her brothers and sister and her parents. All of whom have been gone quite a while now. As for us? We're having tacos for dinner tonight, I can smell the beef cookin' from Heaven, can't you?

Romance

2009-03-24T08:25:00.000-07:00

Last night was so amazing. Bry did an awesome job at surprising me with the entire night! First we dropped dinner off to my friend who just had her second set of twins and got to hold her adorable boys! Man, that totally didn't help the baby cravings for sure! :)

After we went and grabbed dinner at My Big Fat Greek Restaurant. This is where having lap band is AWESOME! We shared a plate and came home with like 2 more meals of left overs! At dinner it was so nice having a conversation with Bry about what ever I wanted with out getting interrupted.

After dinner Bry headed on the 60 going East until it ended. He got off the road and starting driving toward the mountain. He finally stopped and pulled over to tell me we were going to watch a movie under the stars! How romantic is that? First we decided to go get drinks then we went back and watched a movie and nuggled under the stars.

I am so amazed by my sweet hubby. I was so proud of him putting all that effort in to make sure we had a romantic night. Thank you so much love for being amazing! I love you!!

Simply Amazing

2009-03-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

When I close my eyes and dream
I see you, my everything!
Each day I wake amazed
Seeing you lying there beside me
I never want to leave

Each day I have my ups and downs
Some days I'm happy, some days I'm not
But everyday you are always there
Telling me you love me
No matter what may be

You are the rock of our family
The mom our kids always needed
We are eternal, bound as one
Each day we live amazed, by you

I was tossed around lost in the storms
My life a whirlwind thrown aside
I didn't know who to trust, to believe
You came, loved, and rescued me

You are my best friend
You are my everything
I love you eternally
You are......
......
......
......
......
......

Simply Amazing!

Love you baby doll! I would be lost with out you, and you are what makes our family a family, life worth living, and each day a little better. I love you!

Happy Anniversary!

B

Happy 2nd Anniversary!!

2009-03-23T10:50:00.000-07:00

I think every little girl dreams of her wedding day. The beautiful white dress, the pretty flowers, the handsome hubby waiting there to say "I do"... rarely do we grow up and get the fairytale. 2 years ago today I got my fairytale. Our wedding was small, less than 50 people, but it was everything I wanted and so much more. I felt so beautiful and so loved that day. It was literally perfect.

I'm so glad that I met Bry and that I was in the right place in my life to realize what a good thing. He is my best friend, my love, my companion, my everything. I thank my Heavenly Father every day that I was blessed with such an amazing eternal companion!

Bry, I know this year is a lot different for us because we didn't get to go on a sweet vacation. As much as I miss that time we usually get to spend together it truly doesn't matter where we are or what we're doing as long as you're by my side. I love you! I know the first year was hard and I know that we've had our moments but I also feel closer to you now than ever. Thank you for having faith in me and for loving me unconditionally. I love you the most, I wind! :)

2 Month Pics!

2009-03-17T10:47:00.000-07:00

Sunday before Church

Saturday before game night

A day after my 2 month mark and I'm sooo pleased to announce that I am just a few pounds away from my 50 lbs loss! As of this morning I've lost 47lbs! I am really pleased with my progress! Here are some pics from over the weekend. I'm still not seeing the weight loss, but maybe soon!

2 Months Down!

2009-03-13T11:27:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I went in for my second fill. Last month I got a 3cc fill and this month I got 1 1/2ccs in my 10cc band. We're just a few days shy of my 2 month mark and I was so nervous to go in and see what my results were! I've lost 42lbs so far! Not too bad, huh? I think the thing that was hard was that I've been working my butt of exercising and watching what I eat and the Dr kind of got on me about it. You see, I've been a little obsessed and was eating about 800-900 calories a day and then with my exercising I was burning roughly 200 cal/day. Apparently my Dr believes that I've put my body into starvation mode and that's why I hadn't lost more this past month. I do want to say my Dr is more than pleased with my results, but I was not so that is why we had this conversation. So he's told me for this month to try and eat 1200 cal/day and then exercise and see how it goes.
I know this is a process and I'm at the beginning of my journey. I'm a woman though, I want immediate results! lol. I'm starting to see a little that I'm losing weight but it's more like I can tell in my clothes that they are too big or I'm fitting in clothes that I haven't worn in years. It's a nice feeling, let me tell you!
**I'm still in my clothes from walking this morning and look like junk or else I'd take a pic for you, but I promise I'll post a pic after I shower and look like a normal girl again! :)

Taylor

2009-03-04T09:14:00.001-08:00

Taylor snagged a bone but she was so cute I let
her keep it!

Giovanni and Natali teaching Taylor to ride
a bike. Just what every dog needs! :)

Look how huge Sophie looks compared to
Taylor. I never thought Sophie was big before!

Look at that tounge! Too cute! When she drinks
her ears get in her bowl. She is sooo adorable!

The kids and Taylor

For the last few weeks we've all been in great anticipation for Taylor. She is an 8 week old purebred Basset Hound and she is dang adorable!
We got her last night and are loving her soo much!! Even Sophie is enjoying having a new friend to mother! Sophie enjoys trying to pick her up by the scruff of her neck, she also enjoys shoving Taylor away with her booty, and she also likes to take her two front paws and move Taylor. It's cute. And Taylor is a good sport! They play well together and the kids are so happy to have another puppy around! Even Bryant admitted last night that she was really cute and then came down and played with her a bit before leaving for work this morning!
We're so excited to have Taylor in our family!!

What's For Dinner?

2009-03-03T17:03:00.000-08:00

This is a question that I hear from my kids almost every night. My bff also asks me this pretty regularly, too! ;) But it's a question that's getting harder and harder for me to answer. My friend started a cooking blog but it seems no one is blogging anymore. I've looked at other cooking blogs and tried some recipes but I'm running out of creative juices! So, my blogging buddies, tell me... what are YOU cooking for dinner? Or where do you go to find different dinner ideas? (I like to make the hubby think I'm super creative and don't just make chicken and rice with green beans every night!)
Don't be shy... tell me what you're cookin'!!

For Time and All Eternity

2009-02-22T14:35:00.000-08:00

Bry and I outside the Temple

Brittany, Becky, and I have been best friends since high school. We haven't seen Becky in FOREVER! It was such a fun reunion!

Our forever family! Giovanni informed us that he doesn't know how to smile, hence the dirty look he's giving! lol

I don't even know how to describe yesterday. It was... perfect. And I'm not only talking about being able to wear a temple dress that was 2 sizes smaller than I usually get! ;) Yesterday was the moment I've waited my entire life for, regardless if I knew it then or not. I am so amazed at how strong the Spirit was during our sealing.
When the sealer came to talk to Bryant and I before we went into the sealing room we found out that the sealer was Bryant's old steak patriarch, it was pretty neat!
I'm not sure if I'm allowed to talk about it so I'm not going to go into details, but the things Brother Ashcroft (the sealer) spoke to us about were amazing. It was like he knew what we needed to hear and then elaborated on them so much more. I wish I could remember every single word that was spoken.
We feel so blessed to be able to take our marriage to the next step and be sealed. We feel blessed we were able to do that in front of so many of our amazing family, friends, and ward friends.
We loved that you were able to be there with us and be witnesses to the start of our Eternity. Those who weren't there we felt your spirits with us and know if you could have made it there you would have.
I especially feel so blessed to have amazing friends that drove from California, Utah, Vegas, and even Tucson on the freeway for the first time EVER to be here with us. It was an awesome reunion for some of us who we hadn't seen in too long.
We love you all and are so thankful for the plan of salvation and for Temples so we can be sealed as eternal families.

Remembering Grandpa

2009-02-20T10:11:00.000-08:00

Though I didn't get the chance to know him all that well I knew him well enough to know that Bry's Dad was a wonderful man. One memory I have of Ed is when we were all over for dinner to celebrate his birthday and asked for his "new daughter to say the prayer". One of the first times I met Ed was to tell him that Bry and I were engaged he looked at my ring and asked "how much did that set you back". He had a good sense of humor even after being in the hospital for nearly 2 years. The kids talk about Grandpa all the time and miss him so much. They know that he is watching out for us.
Today is Grandpa's birthday so after getting Ma and Nate the four of us headed over to the cemetery. First we stopped to get him balloons and carnations. We "sent" 4 balloons up to him and left the flowers and the other balloons on his grave. We sang him "Happy Birthday" and "A Child's Prayer" which I'm told was one of his favorite songs.
We are so blessed to know that if we strive to do what is right we'll be able to live with Grandpa again... in the mean time we know that he's having a great Birthday party up there!

Fuel for My Body

2009-02-18T13:00:00.001-08:00

About a year ago I started tracking my weight and calorie intake via an online tracker called whatdidyoueattoday.com it's a nifty, free tracker that Bryant's old co-worker designed.
Well, it had been a while since I'd been on and today I wanted to see how many calories I had been taking in and how it compared to my "old" self. So, I logged in and put in my weight and it informed me my BMI was down 5 and my weight was down a good amount, too! (I knew that part but I didn't know about the BMI) So then I put in everything that I ate today and it tells me how many calories everything is and I go back to look and the difference in my calorie intake from 1 year ago made me SICK!! I had only tracked breakfast and a snack before and my calories were 500 more than my breakfast, lunch, and snack today!! Wow!! It was a very proud moment to see how I'd become just a tad more cautious of what I was putting in my body.

Another thing I've noticed lately is how much energy I've had! I've been walking the kids to school in the morning and walking to get them in the afternoons. Sophie has been liking the walking, too! Yesterday Giovanni and I jogged the long way back home! I can't tell you the last time I jogged!! This morning I woke up and cleaned the bottom of my house in less than an hour! Like SCRUBBED! Then I went to work on the upstairs! Maybe "they" were always right when "they" said food is fuel for your body!

Happy Heart Day!

2009-02-16T14:10:00.000-08:00

What a fun Valentine's Day we had! We decided to keep it pretty low key, and I'm so glad that we did! The night before Valentine's Bry brought me home orange-ish roses and 1 single red rose. They were beautiful! At like midnight we were still up and I had finished getting all the kids stuff together so I gave him his gift... I made us the shirts that we are wearing in the pics. He loved them and we had fun wearing them!

The next morning I woke up and made the kids red heart pancakes for breakfast! They kind of enjoyed them but were a little weirded out that I made them with crystal lite for the color (we didn't have food coloring! oops!)

That night the kids went to Bamba's house for pizza and movies and fun while Bry and I went to see He's Really Not that Into You. It was ok. Long, funny, had a lot of language that wasn't needed. But overall it was ok. After the movie it was 10:00 and we hadn't eaten (the nice part of the band, it tides you over for a good 4 hours or more! lol) every restaurant we went to was closed by the time we got there so we settled for Denny's. lol. It didn't matter what we ate we were able to spend time together.

I know that Valentine's Day isn't important because you should show the ones you love that you love them every day but I'm still glad we were able to spend time together.
I'm so glad that in 4 days we'll get to do the ultimate celebrating when we are sealed! :)

Questions for a Four Year old

2009-02-12T14:46:00.000-08:00

I saw this on a few of my friends blogs and thought it would be fun to do with Giovanni-- the other kids would give the right answers and what fun is that? lol

What's your name? Giovanni- you want me to spell it?
What is your favorite color? Purple
What is your favorite ride at Disneyland? The carousel (amazing that he's never been to disneyland and still has a favorite ride)
What is your favorite breakfast? 10 Hard boiled eggs
What is your favorite lunch? pizza
What is your favorite dinner? spaghetti
What is your favorite kind of juice? apple juice
What is your favorite snack? fruit snacks (something I never buy super!)
What is your favorite movie? (scratching his chin) the Hulk
What is your favorite book? Twinkle Twinkle Little Star (it's a bed time book)
What is your favorite song? The Devil Came Down to Georgia (ROFL)
What food do you NOT like? Ugh, peppers
How many people love you? Da Lot
What is your favorite toy? transformers
What is your favorite holiday? Valentines Day
What is your favorite #? 1000
What do you like to take to bed with you? Teddy bears and puss (puss and boots from Shrek)
What do you want to do tomorrow? Buy movies
How old is daddy? 10... him 10
How old is mommy? 21
What do you want to do when you grow up? Work with Daddy
What's your favorite game with daddy? ugh, the shooting game
When you can drive, where will you drive first? ugh, to the gas station to get a hot dog and corn chips
Are you going to get married? ya
To who? Natali
What is your favorite animal? giraffes
Who do you think is SO cute? Ugh, baby Nate
What are your favorite clothes? Ummm the blue pants and blue shirt (it's a track outfit)
Who do you like to play with? Brytany (our 15 year old neighbor)
What are you thankful for? the food
Why? because it can nourish and strengthen our bodies
What is your favorite TV Show? Elmo (can't tell you the last time he watched that)
What is your favorite color jelly bean? white
What is your favorite ice cream? black with vanilla on it
Who is daddy's wife? Autumn
How much does mommy love you? Da lot
What do we do on Sundays? Go to church, come home, change, eat lunch, take a nap.
Who do you want to go see? Mita Mida
Who does mommy love? Ugh, Daddy
Where do your cousin's live? Ah, by our house.

Sealing Invite

2009-02-05T16:15:00.000-08:00

I wanted to send out something to our friends and family inviting them to our sealing so my super awesome, super creative bff helped me make these (and by helped I mean she did them herself and I just told her what I wanted them to say lol)! I think they look so cute!! Thank you sooo much, Britty! I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful friend for all these years! You'd think with all that you know about me you wouldn't want to be my friend but you've totally stuck with me and I'm so thankful!!
What do you think of the invites? Also, if you didn't get one and would like to come, we'd love for you to be there! :)

What's Better Than....

2009-01-26T17:21:00.000-08:00

Getting Lap Band with your amazing hubby
so you can become healthy together...

Having your BFF come and take care of you
and your kids while you recover...(all while she's
prego and drove all the way from Cali!)

and having her son and yours totally become
little buddies?

Perhaps the only thing better is getting a letter in the mail from the First Presidency granting you to get sealed for time and all eternity to the love of your life after waiting nearly 2 years!!

Recovery

2009-01-20T17:36:00.000-08:00

After having a serious case of cabin fever we decided
to venture out to AZ Mills! Shopping is a great way to
recover!! :)
Btw, I think Giovanni looks like such a big boy in this
pic!!

Brittany's cutie patooty son, Kasen at AZ Mills

Well, I wanted to write quick and say that surgery went super well! Apparently I woke up during the surgery and scared the Dr to death, but besides that no mishaps! I was waaay out of it for most of the day Friday. Good thing my sweet hubby came to the surgery center or my poor friend would have never found our way home! lol.
I feel sore. I have 5 incisions- one of them is huge compared to the rest. I'm assuming that's where my port is. And I found they sew the port into your muscle so it's nice and painful too! Yaay! lol. But every day I'm feeling a little better, and it's totally awesome to see results so fast too! Good bye 7lbs since Friday! In total since my pre-op appointment that's a grand total of 17lbs in about 2 weeks, no complaints here!
I've been on a liquid diet since Friday and actually have no hunger what so ever, it's weird. I used to find myself thinking about food a lot, and I totally haven't been. Even today at AZ Mills I sat and watched everyone eat and I was totally fine. Just sipped on my Poweraid Zero!
I am so blessed to be surrounded with loving people. My bff, Brittany, has been amazing. She won't let me lift a finger and runs for my every need. In the 16 years we've been friends I've never been more amazed by her. Words are truly not enough to thank her for being so amazing. My awesome visiting teachers brought over an amazing dinner (according to my family- I'm on liquids until Friday) last night and visited for a few min. They are such sweet ladies, I'm so blessed to have them as friends. Everyone is calling to check on me and do anything for me that needs to be done, it's so nice to know how much people care. My sweet neighbor who took Giovanni for me last minute even though she has an at home daycare and refused my money, seriously saved the day, too!
I am also thankful for my loving husband who is so supportive and helpful, too. I'm so excited for him to have surgery so we can become healthier together! :)

Banded

2009-01-13T16:10:00.000-08:00

This is the band that will be around my stomach. The long cord goes up to like my belly button area and then the port is where I will get my fills. The plastic on the inside of the band is what gets filled or lessened as needed.

I wasn't sure if I was going to blog about this or not because I haven't really told a lot of people about it AT ALL. But I decided I'm not ashamed, so I'm going to let you all in on what's going on in my life.

It's not a secret that I'm overweight. It's not a secret that I have been for most of my life. Sure, there are times that I've lost weight but only to gain it all back plus some. I've tried everything you can possibly think of; weight watchers, south beach, jenny craig, alli, I've tried counting calories, counting fat grams, I've tried the Biggest Loser diet, and the list goes on and on and on. I'm tired of it. I hate being like this but it's HARD to change, right? Well, about a month ago Bry and I are laying in bed and I'm thinking about life, love, and the pursuit of happiness and all of a sudden I start thinking about if our insurance would cover weight loss surgery. Then I start thinking about how I would probably have to convince Bry into doing it with me (he's not had such good luck with surgery), but I couldn't stop thinking about it. I woke him up and talked to him and he says to call in the morning and see what insurance says.
The next morning I wake up and call. They tell me that it's covered 100% but needs to be pre-approved (I heart blue shield of CA!). So I look online find a Dr in the area and that is where our journey started. We thought for a while we wouldn't be able to do it, but we have been working with the BEST Dr and staff around and have worked with us to get everything we need to get approved.
We both decided to get lap band because it's less evasive and the recovery is a whole lot shorter. In fact, mine is an out patient surgery at a surgery center. Bry has to be in the hospital for his because of his sleep apnea they make him do it in the hospital. So he'll be staying overnight, but that's it!
Last Thursday I had my pre-op appointment and started my pre-op diet of only lean protein and protein shakes. It's not so much fun, but that's ok. I've not even had one slip up- so that's good for me! I've lost a total of 7lbs in the 6 days that I've been on the diet. I was originally scheduled for my surgery on the 22 but was called yesterday and asked if I could bump my surgery up to this Friday, the 16th! I was nervous to say yes, but I did! So I'm having surgery Friday and Bry will have his on the 27th.
I am so excited about this change in my life. What an amazing tool to help me lose weight. The thing that is so good about lap band is it's a much slower process so it's a lot easier on your body. We'll go in every 6 weeks to get fills or to take some saline out to ensure we're doing well with our weight loss. When I have the surgery they have the band and then there is a port that will be by my belly button and that's how they will do the fills.
I'm being super blessed to have my bff , Brittany, be totally self-less and come help me with my kiddos while I'm recovering. I'm so thankful for her support and love in this process. It's friends like that believe in me that I know will help me to reach my goals. You're the best, Britty!!
I'm not going to go into detail about how fat I am- just know the insurance company felt that I was in need of the surgery, so that says enough. When I weighed in at my pre-op appointment, Jen (the lady who works at my Dr office who had surgery herself and went from 285 to 127- WOW! Total inspiration!!) told me look at that number- now erase it from your mind because you'll never see it again!
I am so excited and I know that you, my good friends, will be there to help cheer me along. I am excited to embark on this new journey at the start of the new year. I'll keep you all posted with my progress, but you've got to help me with your support, sound like a deal?!

New Years!!

2009-01-06T09:16:00.000-08:00

Where in the world did 2008 go to?! I can't believe that a new year has started! Wow! We rang in the New Year quietly at home watching Goonies, eating french dip sandwiches, playing with new Christmas toys, Natali painting my nails and doing my make up, and having some of the kids friends over! It was fun for all! Especially the Sonic run to get a chocolate cream pie shake... YUM-O!

I usually suck at resolutions but this year I want to try really hard at the ones I've made. This year I've decided that my resolutions are going to be... (drum roll, please!)

1. Do my food storage- I don't have food storage at all. Sad, huh? I guess I'm a tad bit overwhelmed but I know this resolution is so important. We've been told by our leaders for how long? Also, I know that it's a goal I'm supposed to be doing because Thursday night for Enrichment we're having a Food Storage night... I think it's a sign! ;)

2. Become organized- this one is so hard for me. I don't know where to start on this either, but it needs to be done. I started on the kids rooms already. Went through and got like 3 trash bags FULL of clothes that don't fit anymore. I know this is going to take a lot of work but I want to get it done so we can have a simple life. Not a cluttered one! :)

Also. as a family we have made the resolution to read the Book of Mormon this year. Already I have felt the Spirit so much stronger in our home by doing this every night before bed.

The one thing I can't believe about 2009--- it marks my 10 year high school reunion! Wow! Where did that come from?! Am I really this old? Yikes!!

Happy New Year! :)

Light Rail!

2009-01-06T09:03:00.000-08:00

It was so crowded on our way out that Giovanni
sat on the steps!

On the way back we got seats right in front of
kids the same age as ours! It was a talkative
ride home!!

Eating lunch at Baja Fresh! What's up with
Natali's new smile? lol

Jen and I... I would have gone crazy attempting
this alone! :)

Cute kiddos!

December 27th the Valley Metro Light Rail opened up here in Phoenix. We had planned on taking it on the 27th with Jess and Adam and our kids downtown to go to dinner but when we were headed over they told us they stopped running at 8 and we'd be stuck downtown (no thanks!). So we jumped on and took it down a few blocks and came back! The kids loved it but wanted more! So, like the good mom I am I took them the next week to ride it all the way down and back! We got on where it stops here in Mesa and rode it all the way into down town. We got off and ate lunch then got back on and rode it all the way home. One way it's almost 2 hours, it was long but we had fun! The kids met some other kids and talked to strangers, it was a fun time had by all! ;)

Christmas!

2009-01-06T07:48:00.000-08:00

All of us at the Train Park the day after Christmas!

New bikes! Awesome!!

The view coming down the stairs!

In front of the HUGE tree in Scottsdale

My little Christmas presents!! :)

Our Christmas was an amazing one this year. It was so fun shopping for the kids, teaching them about the 12 days of Christmas and Secret Santa, and most importantly hearing my kids on a daily basis add in their prayers how they were grateful for this time of year to celebrate our Savior's birth. My babies knew the true meaning of Christmas this year, and it wasn't the big, fancy gifts under the tree, it wasn't what we were going to get it was the Spirit of Christmas and it was felt so strongly in our home.
This year we were the recipients of a Secret Santa. My kids were absolutely thrilled. When I opened the door and saw the box on our porch tears came to my eyes. Secret Santa, if you are reading this, thank you! You helped to bring the magic of Christmas into our home. I was overwhelmed that someone would think of US to give Secret Santa to. Our kids were so thrilled and wanted to find out who it was so they could thank them. It was too cute. And such a gesture that (unknowingly before hand) our family needed so much! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
Bry and I were talking about Christmas traditions this year and both of us realized that growing up our families both did the 12 days of Christmas for another family. We thought this was a great tradition and this year started it with our own family. It was so fun seeing our kids get all excited when they would run back to the car yelling "I rang it, I rang it. GO FAST!!!". I'm pretty sure our identity was compromised but it was still sooo fun! The best part was when we were telling our kids about it they decided they wanted to use the Christmas money they saved for each others gifts to use on the 12 days of Christmas. Wow! Maybe my kids do get it after all?
Christmas Eve was spent with Adam and Jess exchanging Christmas gifts, baking cookies for Santa and tidy-ing up the house so that Santa could come (Santa doesn't come unless the house is clean!). We also did the traditional opening of our first gifts, I made SnapFish picture books for the kids and Bry, they loved 'em! We also all had fun watching where Santa was at! At one point Natali was taking out the trash and came in crying saying she heard Santa's bell and was worried he wouldn't come because she wasn't asleep. I told her not to worry, I text Santa and asked him to go to some different houses first. She was all good with that! :)
This year all of our Christmas stayed in the garage until Christmas Eve so the kids never saw it. How did I manage that, you might ask. I told them that Santa sent us cameras to install in the garage and that if they opened the door and peeked it would send a text message to us and to Santa. I explained the door had a sensor on it that would sense who's hand it was opening it... that Santa sure is technical! The best part is, they totally 100% believed it! Go me!! :)
Christmas morning was awesome! I was the worst one, totally couldn't sleep at all Christmas eve, even thought about waking the kids up at 2, then at 3:30, then at 4, and then finally I HAD to wake them at 7:30... I just couldn't take it any more! They were so excited with all of their gifts! It was a successful Christmas! We didn't have much time before we had to go over to Bamba's (Bry's Mom) so the kids took a quick ride on their new bikes and we hustled to get over for breakfast! Before breakfast we opened gifts with Bamba, Tia Onan, Makenzy, and Baby Nate it was so fun! The kids got spoiled rotten, and Bry and I made out pretty well too! PJ (Bamba) gave Bry and I the most incredible pictures of our kids. A lady she works with sketched them. They are sooo cool! I LOVE them!
After presents we ate breakfast and then we had to run (it was like noon almost lol) to my parents house! This Christmas was super special for my parents because for the first time in a long time they had all 3 of us girls home for Christmas with our families. There was 16 of us total. My kids got spoiled once again and had so much fun playing with cousins they hardly see! By the time we left our van was PACKED from both Grandma's, Papa, the aunties and the uncles! I'm still trying to sort through it and put it away in an organized fashion! I will tell you, from my parents I got all the stuff I need to start canning! I'm sooo excited! :)
This Christmas was our best yet. I feel so blessed we got to share it with our family and friends who are like our family!
OH! One last note, I totally didn't send out my Christmas cards, but they are coming, I promise! lol! I'm a total slacker and made more Christmas presents than I should have this year and am in recovery! But they will be sent out by Friday! :)

L-A-Z-Y!!

2008-12-10T15:06:00.000-08:00

All of my children have great qualities. Andy is so smart, funny, and a great big brother. Natali is so sweet, loving, and a people pleaser. Giovanni is so unintentionally funny, sweet, and loves loves loves his brother and sister (most of the time). Along with good qualities each of them have their "need to work on" qualities. Andy has an attitude lately that will send me to my grave if it doesn't change. Natali is super ditzy at times. Giovanni... well, I think pictures say it better than anything.

Andy doing the dishes, he's such a good helper!

We bought these little vacuums the day after Thanksgiving for $9. Our kids LOVE them and usually fight over who gets to use them! Good thing we bought 2!!

Giovanni is eating a Popsicle... is that a chore?!

Natali is such a good helper, she even empties the vacuum bag!

Andy scrubbing away!

Giovanni is done with his Popsicle and what's he doing? Ya, running in the hall! Can we say LAZY?!?! lol

Playin is hard!!

2008-12-05T16:46:00.000-08:00

Andy and Natali were downstairs talking to me and Natali tells me that Giovanni fell asleep in the playroom. How does this happen? I went upstairs and THIS is what I found! I would be tired after making this HUGE mess, too!!

And he tries to tell me he DOESN'T need a nap! lol

It's begining to Look A lot Like Christmas!

2008-12-05T16:01:00.000-08:00

Our Tree! The kids decorated it, they didn't do that bad a job, huh?! (this was after the bottom strand of the lights went out and I tore them down in frustration. maybe that's why it doesn't look so bad because I re-put everything up?! lol)

This is the little half wall thingy that divides my kitchen and my living room. It's a perfect spot for my little snow men!

We don't have a fire place but I love this screen that was given to us as a wedding gift. We decided the front entry way of our house would be our makeshift fireplace! I really like it there and the kids LOVE seeing their stockings when they come downstairs in the morning!

These are our office doors. I didn't decorate the office but I like the touch of the garland. The garland with lights on it is also going up our banister but I neglected to get that pic for ya!

K, so this is my front door and I LOVE the way it turned out! The wreath is my Mom's and I wasn't really thrilled with it, but I like it and I added the little "Let it Snow" in the middle because it totally makes me laugh when I walk in the door sweating from the heat!

The day after Thanksgiving I noticed my neighbors were all doing something I totally wanted to do... decorate their yards for Christmas. Now, I knew this wouldn't fly with Bry after what happened last year (we hot glue gunned our lights to the stucco on our house and it didn't exactly "pop off" like we thought) so I decided that I would decorate our house instead!
Monday for FHE I wanted to go get a Christmas tree but by the time Bry got home and we ate dinner it was just too late. So Tuesday I said I was getting Andy from Scouts and went and got a tree with him after. It was fun taking him with to try and find "the perfect tree" he would smell all of them and let me know which one he wanted from there. It was funny. We came home and surprised Natali and Giovanni with the tree. Wednesday my parents came over and brought me a bunch of decorations for the tree from when I was a little girl. It was so fun hanging them up with the kids and telling stories about the different ornaments. Then I got my stuff out and we decked the house out! I think it looks pretty good! And for sure it puts me in the mood for Christmas!

Happy 27th Birthday to ME!!

2008-12-02T15:12:00.000-08:00

Oh, and Happy Thanksgiving, too!

This year was one of my best birthdays ever! Seriously, EVER! My birthday was on Thanksgiving and my family did such a great job of making me feel so special! Tuesday I got my hair done (hence the picture!) and can I tell you I feel so refreshed? I LOVE IT! But the spoiling didn't stop there. Thursday we went out to breakfast (to Burger King NOTHING was open but it was still nice not having to cook), I opened presents from the kids and Bry. Then we went into hurry mode and got everything done for Thanksgiving dinner.

About 2 Bry's Mom and Sis came over and I opened gifts from them and then my parents came over and I opened gifts from them (I liked the gift opening part of my day the best! lol) then we ate! Everything was soo yummy! The thing that was the worst is that you spend all that time making dinner and it's over in like 2 min! Urgh, but it's totally worth it. My favorite part of dinner is when we all go around and say what we're thankful for.

That night Bryant's sister took the kids back home with her and they spent the night at their Bambas house (that's what they call Bry's mom) while Bry and I went to see TWILIGHT!! I LOVED IT! Yes, it was slow, yes it wasn't as amazing as my imagination but it was still REALLY good and left me wanting more! :) After the movie we drove around to the stores to see if people really did camp out the night before Black Friday and I'm amazed to say that people really do! In front of Best Buy people had tents and everything, it was crazy! The next morning Bry and I enjoyed Christmas shopping without kids and I'm happy to report that as of today I'm DONE with Christmas shopping! YAAY!!

I'm so thankful for my family. I'm thankful especially for my amazing husband who tries so hard to make sure that I'm as happy as I can be. I'm thankful that he stands beside me even when I do things that I'm sure he wonders about, he may laugh but he still supports my whims! I'm also thankful for my awesome kids who try so hard to do what's right. They are the best kids EVER! I love that they come and give me "the hug" or "the kiss" just because! I am truly blessed!

I hope everyone had an awesome and safe Holiday!

I really am Grateful! :)

2008-11-25T15:03:00.000-08:00

Honest, I am a grateful person, but I am also a VERY busy one, too! :) This last week was crazy busy. My sis-in-law got married, my cousin went through the Temple, and we had to plan our Sharing Time for this coming week!

The wedding was beautiful, sorry I don't have pictures, my camera broke, remember?! But it was good times. A long day, but good times! I will just say one thing- I LOVE that Bry and I didn't do the luncheon and then reception later that night thing, I wouldn't have lasted a minute longer than the few hours we did at our reception! :) I am so happy for Britni (my sis-in-law) she married a guy who is PERFECT for HER. I'm happy they are starting their lives together and wish them all the happiness in the world!

Saturday I was glad to share in Jen going through the Temple. What a packed session! No joke, we were there 45 min early and I didn't think we'd make the session, it was that busy! I am so proud of the accomplishments she's made in the last few months to get her to the place she is now. I loved being in the Temple with my cousins and my Aunt and Uncle. It was so neat. I also noticed that I'm learning more every time I go to the Temple. Could this be that my nerves are finally calming down enough that I can remember what happens next? I'm not sure, but it's a neat thing, too!

This week is equally busy, we're having Thanksgiving/my birthday at my house so I'm trying to get all that ready. Bry gave me an early birthday gift and I went and got my hair done today. I LOVE IT! When Jen gets home I'll take a pic and post it! :)

Today I am Grateful For Gas

2008-11-20T16:17:00.001-08:00

Funny thing to be grateful for, huh? But I guess I'm not really grateful for gas as much as I'm grateful for gas prices being low! Yesterday it was $2.05 a gal and today at my lovely QT it was only $1.99!!! Actually, it was $1.99 last night there!! So thank you to whoever is causing it to only cost me $30 to fill up my van!! :)

I am Grateful for Nieces and Nephews

2008-11-19T11:46:00.000-08:00

I am grateful for all 14 1/2 of my nieces and nephews, but today I am grateful for 2 in particular. Today is Michael's (my big brother, Jason's oldest son) 15th Birthday and he shares it with Emma (Summer's oldest daughter) who is turning 3!!

Michael lives in Spokane, WA and sadly, I haven't seen him since he was probably 9. He is such a fun, loving kid, and a good big brother to his 2 brothers and his sister. He is over 6' tall, wears a size 15 shoe so I think it's obvious that he loves to play football (he's number 99 in the pic), is the President for his church class, and even COOKS for his parents who are super busy! Good kid, huh? He was my first nephew and has such a special place in my heart. I wish I were with him to spend his birthday with him! Hopefully one day we'll have a huge reunion!

Emma lives in Cedar Hills, UT and I haven't seen her in a year and a half (are we all thinking the same thing I am? I really need to travel more! lol). I was there on the night that Emma was born and I remember waiting, and waiting, and waiting for her. When she finally decided we'd waited long enough she came and was such a beautiful baby girl with a huge head of DARK hair. She has the cutest little laugh and is super smart and a good big sister to her baby brother!

Happy Birthday Michael and Emma! I love you! :-)

Yesterday I was gratetful

2008-11-19T11:37:00.000-08:00

I was totally busy yesterday with all the excitement of this week (my sis-in-law is getting married on Friday so tonight is her batchelorette party, tomorrow is setting up and getting primped and Friday is the big day. Then Saturday my cous is going through the Temple so my other cousin and my aunt and uncle are coming to town! Busy week!) so I didn't blog! But, I want everyone to know that I am still grateful! :)

Yesterday I was (and still am today) grateful for my Mom. My Dad flew to Utah and back yesterday (long story) so I met my Mom at the airport at 6am and we hung out all day. It was so fun going out Christmas shopping and my Mom also taught me how to make quilts for my kids as part of their Christmas. I am grateful that my Mom (and Dad) live so close to me and that we have such a good relationship. Not to mention, I love that my Mom taught my kids the pose she did in the picture above! lol :)

An Attitude of Gratitude

2008-11-17T19:59:00.000-08:00

Lately I haven't been as grateful as I should be. Maybe it's all the stress, or just the rush of getting everything done on time, I'm not sure. But I saw this cute idea on a friends blog and decided to steal it (hope that's ok Nichole!).

Today I am grateful for my hubby. He was gone last week for training in LA and then came home sick and tonight is still not home (it's 9pm) and he left for work at 6:45 this morning. I am grateful that he is not only a provider for our family, but an example to our family. He is my best friend, my love, and my everything. I know it's not even been 2 years, but I can't imagine my life any different than it is right now. I can't wait until we get sealed and can spend eternity together. I love you, Mr.EBG!

Sheknows.com

2008-11-06T07:35:00.000-08:00

I am sooo excited to announce that Bryant has signed a job offer and will be starting his new job on Monday! YAAAY! Bryant will be an AdOps something for the website sheknows.com which is like an ivillage.com type of place (but much cooler, of course! lol) that is located in Scottsdale. There is a lot of room for growth and Bry seems excited! Yaay! I am so proud of Bry that he got a job so fast. There were so many companies that told him if we lived in New York/LA/San Fran/Chicago he'd be hired, and while we entertained the idea of moving we both felt the best place for us to be was right where we are and we knew the Lord would help us make it work!
I'm excited because this job won't be as much stress for Bry, there are no sales involved!! Super yaay!! :)

Top 5 Reasons I'm Happy For the new job
1. We'll have health insurance again!! (always helpful when you have a child on meds)
2. We'll have a pay check again! (always helpful when you have bills lol)
3. Bryant hasn't seemed so passionate about something in a long time (work wise that is lol)
4. Bryant will be gone during the day so I can get out of the house again (he doesn't like to go out and about like me lol)
5. Bry has to do training in LA and I'm trying to finagle my way to going with! lol

Top 5 Reasons I'm Sad
1. Though he doesn't like to gallivant all day, it's been nice having him home during the day
2. He doesn't get vacation time right away (like no anniversary trip this next year, sigh)
3. He has to commute to North Scottsdale (yuck!)
4. No Christmas party in San Fran this year
5. He works from 6-3:30 (good hours just REALLY early!!)

Bry, I hope you know how proud I am of you. I know these past 3 weeks have not been easy on you, but I also know that we've become closer because of this. I am proud that you worked your butt off to get a job so quick in an economy like it is right now. I know your main concern is providing for our family, and I am so thankful for that. This job may not be the pay we're used to, but I also know you are smart and things will work out with all those "side gigs" you have.
I love you, I'm proud of you, and proud to be your wifey. MUAH!

Halloween Fun!

2008-11-06T07:25:00.000-08:00

We had such a fun Halloween this year! The night before we went to our wards trunk or treat, it was so different than any I'd been to, it was soo fun! A lot of the trunks were decorated and then a lot of them had little games for the kids to play, there was a cake walk, a cotton candy machine (yummy!), and a TON of candy! The kids had a blast!

The next morning Natali woke me up to let me know that she had her first loose tooth! I was happy for her but it was so early I just told her to go back to bed (I know, I'm a bad mommy) well all day long she wasn't feeling well and when she got home from school (which when I suggested she stay home from school she cried and said she wanted to learn, what a cutie pants!) I felt her tooth and it was SUPER loose! So we went out trick or treating and then we went to Jack In The Box where all of us started realizing that Natali would be toothless shortly. We worked on it there for a while then went to our house and Jess and I got the tooth out! It was soo cool! The one next to it is loose and will probably be out by this weekend, so that will be her bottom two and her top two are loose now too! lol.

Overall, we had a great Halloween! The kids looked super cute and had a lot of fun going around our neighborhood with their friends across the street. Andy was a storm trooper, Natali was a butterfly, and Giovanni was "the skeleton" (everything is "the" right now, I don't know it's cute though!).

Hope everyone had as much fun as we did!!

New Glasses

2008-10-30T15:36:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back I got a call from the nurses office at the kids school. I hate these calls. They freak me out! Thankfully the nurse just wanted to let me know that Natali failed her vision screening and she was sending me a note home with Natali with further instruction. I've been having my suspicions for a while about Natali's vision because she holds the book up to her face when she reads, so I just called and made an appointment for the eye Dr. Natali was stoked. lol. The best part was when they had to blow the air in her eye, she cried.

Her vision was pretty bad. -1.75 in one eye and -2.25 in the other. But thankfully it isn't the power that's the problem, it's because she has an astigmatism in both eyes. She loved picking out new glasses and ended up getting ones that were actually made for adults because the kid ones looked super small on her face. But they are cute and we gave them some bling for $2 instead of the extra $95 the office wanted! We think she could totally pass for a younger Sarah Palin, of course a much, much, much cuter one! :)

This pic is of her in the tutu I made her for part of her halloween costume!

Blog Stalking

2008-10-30T15:27:00.000-07:00

One of the coolest features of my Palm is the ability to go online. I know a lot of phones let you, and I think it's fab! I've gotten into a habit of going online at night while I'm in bed and looking at other peoples blogs. Not just my friends, like random people that are on my friends friends list or I'll even look at those peoples friends blogs. It's strange I know. But I find people interesting. And I'm totally nosey. lol. Bry has come to call this "blog stalking". I think it's funny. I think he thinks it's irritating. lol.
So, now you all know, I have no life, and instead of counting sheep to go to bed, I blog stalk! Am I the only one who does this?

NKOTB

2008-10-24T15:29:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back Jess and I went to see New Kids On The Block! It was possibly the best concert I've EVER been to! It was soo much fun! The best part is they sang a lot of their old stuff along with their new stuff! Ok, so that wasn't the best part. The best part was the girl in front of us, we seriously don't know how she even knew who NKOTB was because she couldn't have been over 18 and they've been apart for like 15 years, but... during the ENTIRE concert girlfriend was in hysterics, crying and saying the funniest things to her boyfriend (what a sweet guy taking his crazy girlfriend to a concert that she cried through) like, "this is all happening so fast" lol. There were so many times that I found myself laughing because of the crazy in front of me. I totally wish I would have taken a pic of her!

And, before ANYONE says that these guys are 40 what are they doing? I will just say... they were hot! That's all!

The worst part of the concert? Right before it started (literally we were sitting in our seats) the flash on my camera went out. I was so sad! But I was able to take a few pics and a video! So enjoy!

Britt, so many of these songs brought me back to us driving along the strand BLASTING this music in high school. It would have been sooo awesome had you been there! Next time, ya? ;)

Jess, I'm so glad that we went together! It was so much fun! I love you and am so glad we live so close and hope we always do!

Family Pics!!

2008-10-24T12:37:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited that our family pictures FINALLY came back (it's been a week and a half, but I'm super impatient!). I LOVE LOVE LOVE them! The one where we are kissing we were asked to sign a model release form, fun huh? I am so pleased with the way they turned out! Yaay!!

Answers to Prayers

2008-10-18T10:57:00.001-07:00

The past few weeks Bryant has been having a really hard time at work. He's been so stressed when he comes home because his company was having a hard time with its products so then Bryant's clients were unhappy and not spending, it was just a mess. Especially because Bryant's clients spending is what makes us our bonuses. We had been praying to know what it is that we should do to make Bryant less stressed and for guidance and direction.
Thursday we got our answer. First thing Thursday morning Bryant was on a job interview call (he'd been looking but not hard and it was on the DL) and got an IM from his buddy in the office (Bryant's office is in San Fran but he worked remotely from an office in Gilbert) saying that they just got out of a meeting where 40% of the company was laid off. His buddy and 2 VP's were of that 40%. Bryant freaked. I freaked. 2 hours later Bry received a phone call from his boss saying that the company wasn't profitable and that because of that 40% of the employees were being laid off so that as of right then they would be profitable. Bryant was one of the 40%. My stomach dropped when I saw Bryant and knew what had happened. I cried. I was angry, Bryant had done so much for that company, and they were like family. I felt betrayed. A few hours after the shock wore off we both felt total and complete peace. We knew this was an answer to our prayers. We both know everything is going to be just fine. Thursday alone Bryant had 3 phone interviews (most of these type of businesses are based out of San Fran) and Friday he had a few more, and one of the companies from Thursday called him back asking for references and talked waaay more in depth about the job.

We know we will be fine. We feel comforted by the Spirit and know that the Lord is mindful of us. I don't think I've seen Bryant so happy, which I know sounds funny, but he was ready for a new challenge and just needed the push to take it. We know that the most important thing right now is our family and staying close to the Lord.

I appreciate my friends who comforted me on Thursday and told me they knew we'd be fine. I know we will too, and I am so blessed to have friends who are there to listen to me and comfort me. Regardless of where we live. I love you! :) I'll keep you all posted as soon as anything happens.

1st Round of Pictures

2008-10-02T14:39:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back my sis-in-law and I took our kids to get "old fashion" pics taken. They were sooo cute!! I really like how they turned out. These are just the ones of my kids there was also a pic of my kids and my niece and nephew that turned out way cute, too, but I don't have a my copy of it yet. So, here's a sneak peak of the pics... I like them a lot!

Window Treatments!

2008-09-30T11:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had to return something to Target and the kids were asking to look at the costumes so after making the return we went and walked around Target. And I am sooo glad I did! See, I've been wanting to make my house look a little more homey but I have like no time or talent to do so and while I'm walking by the end caps by the table cloths I see the cutest little window treatments and they were on sale 75% off! Sweet! I found 3 and ran home to put them up! I think it's totally what my kitchen needed! I now just need to find a table cloth and I think I'm going to look for a red one to pull everything together and we'll be good to go! I didn't put the valence up on the window over the sink, it looked weird because that window is soo small. I might use it as a table runner. We'll see.
What do you think?