Tanner, Kristin, Maci & Leila

Pippy Lou Turns Two!!

2011-10-09T22:18:00.007-06:00

Leila Helen Bell, you are a joy.

You are so full of life and love. You are at such a fun age right now and Mommy, Daddy and 'seesh-ho" are enjoying every minute of it....okay, most minutes of it. You definitely have your moments but for the most part you are ridiculously cute, super smiley, easy going and always chuckling or talking. At age Two:

- You are cuddly and give the best kisses ever....not quite a fishy kiss but not quite gaping open mouth kiss either.

-You ADORE shoes. Anyone's, but mostly yours. It is the first thing you do in the morning and the last thing I have to pry off of your feet at night. I get blamed for it but you are a whole different species of shoe lover! You pick out which ones you want to wear each day and then wear at least 5 different pairs throughout the day. you play the most ridiculous game that drives people crazy.....it consists of you making someone put on your shoes (you are totally capable of doing it yourself), walking around in them for 3-5 minutes, showing everyone, then taking them off and making someone put the same pair on again.....over and over and over.

-You are a super picky eater. Maybe worse that Maci was. Your favorites change randomly from day to day and I never know what you will actually eat. Right now some of them include yogurt, noodles, granola bars, chicken nuggets, and 'Bobbi' (yep you are still drinking 2 bottles of carnation Instant breakfast a day).....and of course you can pound anything and everything with sugar in it.

-You LOVE doing whatever Maci is doing and cry whenever we have to drop her off at preschool. But you always know when we are on our way to pick her up and you laugh and clap and say "seesh-ho" repeatedly.

-You are a total busy body. you refuse to sit still. ever. Unless you are really sick.

-You have just started to get really attached to your baby dolls. you carry all 3 of them everywhere around the house all the time and one in the car. it's pretty cute to see your arms stuffed with baby d0lls that are almost as big as you ;)

-You are pretty short like your Mama....sorry kiddo.

-You are starting to talk a lot more and although most of it doesn't make a lot of sense you are getting pretty good. Your most used words are Mommy, seesh-ho, ginky (binky), jube (juice), Yet (yes), Han (hannah), Bobbi, no way and mine.

-You love to tease Daddy by calling him "tan" to get his attention....you'll say it repeatedly and when he won't respond you get a big grin on your face and finally say "Daddy!".....then resume calling him "tan". You guys play it all the time :)

-You adore your Aunt Hannah and Pampa......you always run straight to them and give them the first hug.

-You think you are indestructible. You hit your head at least 3-4 times a day and react with only an "ow". You have very little sense of fear and definitely like to test your boundaries.

-You have the best bed head ever. you get a gnarly rat's nest on the back of your head in remarkably minuscule periods of time. from home to the end of the street you will have rubbed your head back and forth so many times that your ponytail is gone and just tangles remain.

-You add a random "ho" onto words.....I can't wait to figure out what you mean by it or if it is just your signature :) For example, ginky-ho, bobbi-ho, baby-ho........Funny.

You are such a blessing to our family and we love you so much!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEILA BOO!!

Fantastic AND Four!

2011-09-05T21:00:00.005-06:00

Maci Kae Bell

how we adore you! I can't believe you are already four years old!! You are so smart and loving and excited about life!

At age Four you:

-Just discovered that you can ride your big girl bike with training wheels....and you've shown anyone and everyone who comes within a hundred yards of our house.

-You are amazingly talented when it comes to art...especially coloring. You spend at least an hour a day coloring, you stay in the lines perfectly. It is very impressive ;)

-You love preschool. You get so excited to tell Miss Maffews (Mathews) all about your accomplishments.

-You just mastered the art of writing your name and you write it on EVERYTHING. I've found it on your shoes, my shoes, my checks, the walls, Leila's clothes, any scrap of paper you find.... you name it, it has been claimed.

-You no longer take naps but you are very good at watching a show during rest time sot that Mommy and Leila can nap....most of the time.

-You have a great memory.

-You love to sing and listen to 'kid songs'

-You are constantly on the phone with , talking to or writing notes to Cambria although in person you two fight like cats and dogs.

-You always tell Daddy that he is your Superhero and he tells you that you are his princess.

-You are testing your boundaries as far as stretching the truth....we are learning what lies are and catching you in little white ones fairly frequently. Leila is quite the trouble maker according to you ;)

-You are a princess through and through.

-You are a very loving and protective older sister even though you spend a good amount of time

teasing Leila yourself.

-You are constantly telling me how much you love me and I NEVER get sick of it. You are very genuine.

-You love to work....wether it's cleaning up your room, washing the floor, picking up toys or helping Mommy....you are always asking what you can do for work.

-You are silly. You love to laugh and make others laugh too.

-You love meat. I can't hardly get you to touch fruits or vegetables but I can always count on the fact that you eat as much meat as a grown man.

-You still LOVE to snuggle and will often ask randomly throughout the day if you can do so :) It never gets old.

We love you so much Schwimpy! Happy 4th Birthday!

These is Some yummy Cookies!!!

2011-08-28T23:45:00.004-06:00

What's better than spending the day in the kitchen with Gramma making cookies?

Watching these two together!

They make quite the team....I am pretty sure equal parts dough and cookies were eaten during the process. Maci was in heaven and from the looks of it Gramma was too :)

Storytime with Cambs

2011-08-28T22:53:00.001-06:00

Sometimes I feel like I should be paying for the entertainment that this kid provides. She is through and through a lover of life and all things fun and crazy. She gathered us around the stairs and came down in her "Virginia is for Lovers" t-shirt and Maci's pink cowboy boots to read us all a bedtime story.....pure comedy. Always. Love this exuberant little girl!

Lunch Date with Daddy at Tin Angel Cafe

2011-08-25T10:50:00.001-06:00

Sometimes white tablecloths were meant to be marred with cheesy Alfredo sauce.....

Today was one of those days.

Leila and I got to grab a quick lunch with Tanner downtown before he had to leave town for a few days.....Leila was the center of attention, as you can see she was feeling super shy ;)

Welcome to the World Emma Lorraine Thatcher!!

2011-08-23T14:29:00.001-06:00

Welcome EMMA LORRAINE!!!

We are so happy to have you safely here,

your cousins Maci and Leila are so excited to meet you!

Congrats Mommy and Daddy!

Goodbye for now Triple K

2011-08-18T22:47:00.003-06:00

TRIPLE K
Lovers of fun, desserts, gossip and good food.

Nights out, cute shoes, chick flicks and sometimes even

tears.....

Hiatus for now....till Brandon brings Kayla back.

Thanks for all the good times and laughs ladies!!

Monkey See.....Monkey Do

2011-08-13T10:44:00.001-06:00

Who doesn't love a day at the Zoo?!

These guys were super excited.....we were in and out in about 2 hours. They run through the monkey houses, look at the elephants and ride the train. Then it's usually time for a nap and a treat ;)

Mop-ectomy....for a good cause

2011-08-03T15:18:00.001-06:00

I've been looking forward to this all summer ;) My hair is heavy, it is hot and it is time consuming..... I know, rough life!

I have been growing it out though, in order to donate it to 'Locks of Love' again. I did it when I turned 17. My hair grows fairly fast and if I can tolerate it past a certain point, it isn't too bad ;)

Before pictures.......

Tanner's incredibly beautiful and talented Aunt Jen volunteered to cut it when i was ready....little did I know it takes a good two months to get in to see her ;) She was awesome and took these shots for me....

First cut!!

Finished product....about 5 lbs lighter and A LOT easier to care for ;)

Not my best angle....but you get the idea. All in all we chopped off about 23 inches and I donated 19 to Locks of Love, which is a charity organization that processes donated human hair and produces wigs for children with leukemia and alopecia. Sick kids happen to hold a special place in my heart. Been there, done that. I know what it's like to be a kid and want nothing more than to fit in and to feel like you have no control over your appearance or life. I love that this is a way for me to give back. So simple for me but I know it makes a HUGE difference in the lives of those kids.......even if they get stuck with my black 'witch' hair :)

Indigo Girls Under the Stars

2011-07-18T22:37:00.002-06:00

I'm trying to tell you something about my life

Maybe give me some insight between black and white

The Best thing you've ever done for me

Is to help me take my Life less seriously,

It's only life after all.

Well darkness has a hunger that's insatiable

and lightness has a call that's hard to hear

I wrap my fear around me like a blanket

I sail my ship of safety til I sank it, I'm crawling on your shores.

I went to the doctor, I went to the mountains

I looked to the Children , I drank from the fountains

There's more than one answer in these questions

pointing me in a crooked line

The less I seek my source for some definitive

The closer I am to fine

We go to the Bible, we go through the workout

we read up on Revival and we stand up on the lookout

There's more than one answer to these questions

Pointing me in a crooked line

The less I seek my source for some definitive

The closer I am to fine.

When the Moon hits the sky......

2011-07-07T22:24:00.001-06:00

All growing up I've heard my Mom tell stories about a dear friend from Hong Kong.

A friend she'd met while serving her Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints when she was in her early twenties.

When I'd graduated from high school and was dating Tanner I had the opportunity to meet his daughter while she was visiting BYU from Hong Kong....

A few years back one of my Mother's dreams came true when she was able to return to her Mission and reunite with many friends and companions.

I finally got to meet this amazing friend this summer when he was traveling in the states on vacation with his family.

The Moon Family is everything I'd expected them to be :)

Warm, loving, funny, beyond generous, smart and faithful members.

I was amazing to see my Mom reunited with the friend she'd been telling me all about for so long.

Definitely a meal I won't forget....I doubt she will either....she ate a bunch of Octopus without knowing it :)

Thank you Daniel Moon!!

Happy Independenth Day!

2011-07-04T22:08:00.001-06:00

We had a fantastic fourth of July...

Parades, Fireworks, boating, parties, food and family.

I am so Proud to be an American.

So grateful for my freedom and the courage of those who have and continue to make it possible.

God Bless America!!!

30 Years never looked better.....

2011-06-26T22:15:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday

to My gorgeous, dedicated, incredibly patient and ridiculously energetic OLDER sister.

(specified only because I am usually mistaken for the older one)

She is a lot of fun to spoil and loves to party. So, I invited the Oborns over (cause they love to party too) and made Chicken and Steak fajitas, Spanish rice, black beans, salad and homemade coconut Pound cake with strawberries, and of course Diet Dr Pepper.

The kids had a "jump-off"....super entertaining

Baby 'Wyssa' crawled around a bit.....

Cody amazed the kids with numerous aerial tricks....

Tan and I sat

Leila lounged on Cody....

Little ones "breaked the egg".....also very entertaining

Maci and Easton held hands....they always do

I sat around some more, squishing Quincy :)

Quincy danced

...and sat.

My beautiful sisters....and the bums in the background

Maci is a cheeseball

I love my Sar :)

It was such a blast! I am so grateful to have all of these special ladies in my life....we may be getting older but we still have lots of good times!

Our Superhero....After Saving the World (Wasatch Back 2011 Catastrophe Averted)

2011-06-19T00:01:00.001-06:00

Tired?........yeah, exhausted!

Less than enthusiastic?......yeah, he's not much fun today.

Dazed and confused?.....Kinda.

Superhero?.......to us, ALWAYS!!

Father's Day always gets kind of a bum deal around here, as it usually always falls on the Sunday after Ragnar.......you know, when neither Tanner or I have slept in the last 48 hours.

...but I'm not really into celebrating later....so I tried to make it a special day ;)

I made a "Superhero Survival Kit" from the girls and I.....
nothing too exciting but I thought is was a cute idea and the girls loved picking out
all the "supplies".

We were pretty excited about it.....Tanner was a little confused. Maybe we'll give it to him again tomorrow ;)

We are so lucky to have Tanner in our lives. He is truly an inspiration to me and an incredible example to our kids. We think he's pretty awesome. He pulls off feats others could only dream about.....

Happy Father's Day!

Speed walk.Trash talk. Goof Off!! Repeat.

2011-06-18T22:37:00.002-06:00

After all of the drama that went down in preparation for this years WBR....it turned out miraculously well. The Ragnar team was amazing as usual and all of their hard work and dedication paid off big time.

The finish line ended up being at Park City High School this year
(due to the afore mentioned drama)
And it has been by far my favorite finish line..... it just felt right. The right amount of space, the right layout, the right location. Maybe it's just because it actually worked out?!

Dawn breaking over the finish line and set-up crew....Relief.

So, as for my actual RAGNAR experience this year; it was the BEST!!
Team S.W.A.T. rocked. I was so excited to have a team that was willing to have fun
and be crazy.....it was a blast :)
We tie-dyed these shirts and bandannas ourselves and then had Tash order sweat bands and socks. We had our shirts screen printed by Scoreboard Sports and Kevin just happened to have an extra pair of these rockin' shorts. Lucky me!

I didn't try them on before race day and so when actually on I was a little embarrassed....I haven't worn shorts this short since I was 5! Needless to say, I was trying to cover up my white legs most of the morning.

My super hot trash talkin' van-mates.....

The Speed walkin' stars on our team....

Tash 'teen spirit' Bell

Debbie 'Sugar Mama' Sorensen

Marci 'You're the best' Rigby

Cara 'chicken legs' Rigby

Jacee 'what now?' McGuire

Sara 'Paparazzi in yo face' Oborn

Kevin 'lemme do it' Bell

Team S.W.A.T.

"Speed Walkers and Trashtalkers"

Which way to the start!?!?

Van 2-- Getting Psyched

Mikey 'The Man Boob' Larson

Sibs, Sara and Mike

Oh I'm sorry did you want to see more quad?

yeah?!?! That's what she said.

DOUGY!!!

Work out much?

finishing my first leg in PR time....must be the sweat bands

The crew.....all fresh still

Huh.....who'd have thought climb ling this dino would be such a difficult task for a short legged Doug?

Almost......

Wahoo!.....wait, where you going Sar?

At least Jace was camera ready!

Top of Guardsmen Pass.....yeah that is snow. Crazy!

Glaciers in June

We came, we saw, we dominated.

Me and my Rock....My big sister.

She fought RAGNAR and won :)

My favorite part of the event.....running with Cara. She's the best. I have a feeling she pretends to love this race for me ;)

Marci and I waiting for Cara to finish RAGNAR

Team SWAT survives and lives to trash talk some more

We'll be back!!!

Thanks Babe for pouring your heart and soul into this event....this year was the roughest yet. You are a miracle worker!

Long Live Ragnar!!

Ballerina Girl.....2.0 Edition

2011-06-08T15:50:00.001-06:00

Looking at this picture takes me back to when I was this same age and posing in my ballerina outfit.....I didn't work the camera quite as well as this little diva though.

Maci's preschool is offering a Princess Ballerina camp this week and she is so excited.
We bought a couple of used tutus and leotards from Kid to Kid and she is in heaven.

Maybe a little too intense about it?

Funny girl :)

She's growing up way too fast!

Our "Surveying the Damage on Avon" Adventure

2011-06-03T00:48:00.000-06:00

Due to intense rain and crazy weather this "Spring" the Ragnar Wasatch Back course has taken a serious beating. Tanner had to go up to Avon Pass (between Cache and Weber valley) to survey the damage and come up with a contingency plan. We decided to make a family outing of it ;)

We found a place that was willing to rent us a "Rhino" at the last minute and actually waited for us to arrive after hours (we were delayed due to a major puke incident en route....thanks Leila for that).

The girls were really excited to sit in the vehicle.....at least before we turned it on :) The rest of our adventure included a lot of screaming, looks of terror and death grips until I slipped into the backseat with the girls while Tanner chauffeured us up and over the pass. Although the road is a royal mess and it will be a miracle if we are able to use it for the race this year, it was gorgeous! Utah really is a spectacular place....as much as I hate to admit it.

I love when we go on these random adventures :)

First and Last Bell Family Pet

2011-05-29T22:23:00.001-06:00

While draining out our trampoline pit Tanner found us a new friend. A creepy little gardener snake that Maci named "Hiss". I happened to be napping when Tanner thought it would be a good idea to carry the snake inside the house while looking for a jar to put it in. In my kitchen. Inside.

The girls looked at it from a distance and I promptly placed it in the garage.

After church the next day I talked Maci into giving it a "kiss" (through the glass) goodbye and then we walked across the street to the park to let it go.

'Cause Hiss would be a happier snake out in the open......right?

We made it to the park and actually ended up giving it to a neighborhood girl who thought it was cool. Yuck. Maci asked about Hiss for about a week afterwards.

That is and will be the extent of our pet experience.

Happy Three to the One!!

2011-05-27T22:11:00.002-06:00

We had an awesome weekend of celebration in Honor of Tan's 31st Birthday......

The girlies and I woke up early to make a special breakfast of waffles, eggs and fruit parfait with fresh OJ....they were the cutest helpers I could find.

Unfortunately we didn't get to keep him all day because he has one of those annoying "jobs" where he actually has to go......Lame. So we spent the day playing for him ;)

I planned a little getaway for the weekend....it didn't quite go as planned....it never does when it's my turn to plan. I don't have the special touch like he does.....or the connections ;) It was fun though.

I took him to Tiburan for dinner, it was A-Maz-Ing! So yummy and fun to be fancy for a meal. We checked into our medieval suite and then went to a movie....we ended up seeing 'THOR'.

We planned a bike ride up Millcreek canyon for the next morning, it was going to be epic. After sleeping in, eating a big old breakfast at the Inn and going back to bed until noon......it didn't quite work out. By the time we got there and realized we were missing some gear, it started raining and we went furniture shopping instead.

No luck there :(

We decided to do lunch at Lonestar Tacqueria......I'd never been there and I am a die hard fan now. If you haven't been you need to. It is simple, fresh, deliciously homemade Mexican. Yummo. I've been begging to go back ever since.

We spent Saturday evening with the girls and they got to give Daddy their gifts....who doesn't love new shirts ;) They were excited anyway.

We got to celebrate with Tanner's family on Sunday ...there was a slight mix up in his age....51 is still a ways off. Improvisation at it's finest :)

All in all it was a fantastic weekend. Hard not to be when I get to spend it celebrating the most important man in my life and my very best friend. He is truly my greatest blessing and I love him so dang much it scares me.

He has kept his promise to make me laugh EVERY day, he is brilliant, hard-working, ridiculously good looking and pretty funny sometimes ;)

We kinda like him.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR SUPERHERO!!!

Bible Study with Pops and Uncle Brad

2011-05-12T09:42:00.002-06:00

One of the best parts of the trip to D.C. (and the whole purpose of going) was to see Taylor's mission and meet some of the people we'd heard all about over the last 2 years.

Eyes lit up the moment 'Elder Bell' walked in the room.....they were so elated to see him again.

We got to attend one of the weekly "Bible Study" meetings with Pops and Uncle Brad. I was so touched by these two men.......

Every week since becoming members of the church they hold this group at the church. They provide a meal which Uncle Brad personally prepares....purchases, preps and serves...to all the members who attend. It wasn't a spectacular meal, but the thing that touched me was that it was a huge sacrifice on their part. The amount of love and time and preparation that goes into it on a weekly basis was so evident. Although I don't know how much bible studying actually gets done, the spirit was so strong as we were able to experience the bond between the members. they were family to each other. they sacrificed for each other. They genuinely cared about the spiritual, physical, mental and emotional well being of each other. The missionaries attend and usually provide a message and invite any investigators to come as well. It was so great to be there and I won't forget the feelings of acceptance and love that I felt there. Such an amazing group of people.

Pops and I were separated at birth :)

Such a neat experience, thanks for letting me be apart of it Tay! Not that I didn't know before what an incredible missionary you were/are....but see the way those people looked to you and loved you....there is no doubt in my mind the amount of good you have done in their lives. They will never forget their 'Elder Bell'

Return to D.C with the Best!

2011-05-11T08:44:00.004-06:00

We've been planning on this trip back to Taylor's mission in Washington D.C. since January. A chance to get away....

Due to unforeseen Ragnar issues I ended up going Tanner-less :(

Lucky for me I have the best in-laws anyone could ask for so I ventured on my own, sans kids, sans hubby.

(Sorry, the pics aren't in chronological order...I'm too lazy to redo this post)

It was a fabulous trip! Good times were had by all (okay, by me anyway), memories made, and adventures had...

Tasha, Liz and I flew out a few days after the rest of the crew. The first day we were there we went on the most incredible tour of Gettysburg. Who would've thought?! It was amazing to be there on sacred grounds and understand what actually took place hundreds of years
ago. Definitely one of the highlights of the trip.

We rented some cruisers and made our way around to all of the monuments....it was so much fun to feel like a little kid riding bikes all around.....pretty funny to watch too :)Tiff was such a trooper, 6 1/2 months pregnant and game for everything. I wanted to take a nap just thinking about being that pregnant. She was made to be a Mommy ;)

Too sexy for the helmet Lizard...

Ha, one of these things is not like the others.......guess who?!

getting cozy with the Linc-ster

Did I mention Gettysburg was pretty incredible?

Our Gettysburg guide was amazing....wish i could remember his name to tell his boss....seriously, he answered EVERY question we asked....and I had some dumb questions ;)

It was such a fantastic trip, only thing that would have made it better woiuld be having had Tanner there with us. I am a pretty lucky girl to have in-laws that would put up with me all over the nation. THank you!

Mi Familia from the East

2011-05-10T06:52:00.000-06:00

I love visiting back east~ Mostly because I get to see these guys :)
Even though I was only there for a really short time, Lauren, Jordy and My sweet Aunt Sue all went out of their way to see me. It was so good to see these lovely ladies!

I got to have lunch with Jordan and Aunt Sue, and Lauren picked me up from the airport, drove me to where we were staying and then we sat in her car and chatted into the wee hours of the morning.

I am so grateful for them....and so lucky to be loved by them!

Thanks for going out of your way to see me, it meant the world!!!

Love you guys!

The Front with The Caldwell's

2011-05-07T22:30:00.001-06:00

Tonight was awesome....we were spoiled with 3 of our favorite things!

1- The Caldwell's

2- Adventure--Rock climbing at the Front

3-Good food :)

Layne and Jami took us rookies climbing at ther gym...it was a blast. We aren't very good at it but we sure had fun trying and you couldn't ask for better company!

Afterwards we went for dinner at Rooster's in Ogden....one of our favorites. We always have so much fun with these guys! Thanks again for an escape for the night!

Best Friends from the Start

2011-05-07T00:18:00.001-06:00

These two are the sweetest little Friends. They have always had a special bond and have gotten along so well. It is pretty much expected that if they are together they will be holding hands, Maci will be on Easton's lap or he will have his arm around her.

I have never heard them fight or argue. ANYTHING Easton says or does is absolutely hilarious to Maci. Whenever they get together, they pick up right where they left off without skipping a beat.

It is so fun to see and I am so grateful for the example of true loving friendship that they have :)

Hope it lasts forever!

Maci's First Dentist Appointment

2011-05-05T00:33:00.001-06:00

Thanks Dr. Jones for decorating your office with aquariums and fish, it made for a good impression on our first visit.

We weren't quite sure what to expect, especially since Maci won't let me near her teeth with anything but cupcakes or Popsicles (only a slight exaggeration).

It was genius to just happen to be playing "Little Mermaid" when we arrived.....

how did you know the way to Maci's heart was through Ariel?! She barely noticed when you brushed, flossed and polished her teeth!

All grown up!

I'm not sure why she is itching her belly in your exam chair... no harm no foul, right?

All in all, we'd call it a success. We promise to brush twice a day with our new pink toothbrush! Thank you for making me giggle and letting Leila Boo run all around your office :)

Easter "Eggs"travaganza

2011-04-26T22:49:00.002-06:00

Note to self....when dyeing Easter Eggs with small children, make sure you have a 1:1 ratio of children and adults.....otherwise hands, faces and clothes will be colorfully dyed and all of the eggs with either be cracked , half eaten or thrown :) Such an adventure!

The Oborns were kind enough to host such an adventure in their home....

Maci, Easton and Jax where all over the eggs....

Wyssa and Weila were content to peer out the window....

The aftermath....

Egg carton Flower painting

Intense concentration :)

Easter Lips....Maci style

My Easter Parfait.

YUMMO

Something big and furry stopped by the house while we were at Church.....

and left behind some special treats for all the loves in my life.

I thought that was pretty sweet.

For Maci Kae

For Daddy
(The Easter Bunny must know me well....he was pretty stingy with the treats....He/it/I left mostly almonds, dollar toys, books and fruit snacks)

(okay! In all honesty the sing-a-ma-jigs and lunch boxes are for Mommy...I just couldn't justify getting them for me.....I mean the Easter bunny couldn't justify it)

For Booly Bear...

All lined up and waiting for a surprise.....

(As a side note, the other Easter Bunny--there are two in our neck of the woods--left some pretty amazing boots for Mamma)

We had a fantastic Easter! It was so fun to spend time together and participate in all of the Holiday fun together.

Most of all I am so grateful for the Reason we have to celebrate.

Our First REAL Adventure

2011-04-16T00:26:00.001-06:00

This is our FIRST venture out of the house in big girl underwears!!!

Maci and Mommy have been working so hard for the past 3 days to conquer the art of potty training.....

Tan and I decided that for the good of our (my) sanity we should get out of the house ;)

Just happens that we had a pass to the REAL game.....when we left our house the skies were clear. When we got to Sandy it was frigid, rainy and windy. We'd made the trip so we figured we'd see how long we would last......

The answer is 23 minutes :) It ended up being a pretty incredible game for those who stuck it out.....we went for hot chocolate and home to bed. Well worth it!

Spring....Not Spring....Spring?

2011-04-06T17:07:00.003-06:00

This past month has been crazy weather!

60 degrees and sunny skies to snow to rain to sun.....

some days back down in the low 30's.

Quit playing games with us spring!! We are ready!

Springtime Ballerinas

2011-03-28T16:17:00.001-06:00

Thanks Mom for these adorable outfits! The girls LOVE them....we have washed and worn them 4 times in the last 2 weeks ;)

Don't ask me what this pose is.....she kept doing it over and over and over though!

As soon as we put them on this is what Leila did. No joke. She put her arms up and started turning around and around like a little ballerina. Well, it was more like walking in circles ;)

Sorry, this is the best I could get of them together...Leila refused to stand up....and I'm no sure what Maci's face is doing....but you get the idea, They're cute!

Lei-Boo wanted me to dance with her...I did.

There is that pose again. She seems pretty worried. We'll have to start working on those dancing skills ;)

Thank you Gwamma!!!

Oh the Places You'll go.....Marmy

2011-03-27T22:04:00.004-06:00

Congratulations!

Today is your day. You're off to Great Places! You're off and away! You have brains in your head. You have feet in you shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the Gal who'll decide where to go.

You'll look up and down streets. Look'em over with cares. About some you will say, "I don't choose to go there." With your head full of brains and your shoes full of feet, You're too smart to go down any Not-so-good street. And you may not find any you'll want to go down. In that case, of course, You'll head straight out of town.

It's opener there in the wide open air. Out there things can happen and frequently do to people as brainy and footsy as you. And when things start to happen, don't worry, don't stew. Just go right along. You'll start happening too.

Oh the places you'll go!

You'll be on your way up! You'll be seeing great sights! You'll join the high fliers who soar to high heights! You won't lag behind, because you'll have the speed. You'll pass the whole gang and you'll soon take the lead. Wherever you fly, you'll be the best of the best. Wherever you go, you will top all the rest.

Except when you don't.

Because, sometimes, you won't.

I'm sorry to say so but, sadly, it's true that Bang-ups and Hang-ups Can happen to you. you can get all hung up in a prickle-ly perch. And your gang will fly on. You'll be left in a lurch. You'll come down from the Lurch with an unpleasant bump.

And then chances are, then, that you'll be in a slump. And when you're in a slump, you're not in for much fun. Un-slumping yourself is not easily done. You'll come to a place where the streets are not marked. Some windows are lighted. But mostly they're darked. A place you could sprain both your elbow and chin! Do you dare to stay out? So you dare to go in? How much can you lose? How much can you win?

And IF you go in, should you turn left or right.... or right-and-three-quarters? Or, maybe, not quite? Or go around bad and sneak in from behind? Simple it's not, I'm afraid you will find, for a mind-maker-upper to make up his mind. You can get so confused that you'll start in to race down long wiggled roads at a break-necking pace and grind on for miles across weirdish wild space, headed, I fear, toward a most useless place.

The waiting place.......for people just waiting. waiting for a train to go or a bus to come, or a plane to go or the mail to come, or the rain to go or the phone to rind, or the snow to snow or waiting around for a Yes or No or waiting for their hair to grow. Everyone is just waiting. Waiting for the fish to bite or waiting for wind to flay a kite or waiting around for Friday night or waiting, perhaps, for their Uncle Jake or a pot to boil, or a Better Break or a strong of pearls, or a pair of pants or a wig with curls, or Another Chance.

Everyone is just waiting.

NO!

That's not for you!

Somehow you'll escape all that waiting and staying. You'll find the bright places where Boom Bands are playing. With banner flip-flapping once more you'll ride high!

Ready for anything under the sky.

Ready because you're that kind of girl!

Oh, the places you'll go!

There is fun to be done! There are points to be scored. There are games to be won. And the magical things you can do with that ball will make you the winning-est winner of all. FAME! You be famous as famous can be, with the whole wide world watching you win on TV.

Except when the don't.

Because, sometimes, they won't.

I'm afraid that Some times you'll play lonely games too. Games you can't win 'cause you'll play against you. ALL ALONE! Whether you like it or not, Alone will be something you'll be quite a lot. And when you're alone, there's a very good chance you'll meet things that scare you right out of your pants. There are some, down the road between hither and yon, that can scare you so much you won't want to go on,

But on you will go though the weather be foul. On you will go though your enemies prowl. On you will go though the loneliness howl. Onward up many a frightening creek. On and on you will hike. And I know you'll hike far and face up to your problems whatever they are.

You'll get mixed up, of course, as you already know. You'll get mixed up with many strange birds as you go. So be sure when you step. Step with care and great tact and remember that Life's a Great Balancing Act. Just never forget to be dexterous and deft. And NEVER mix up your right foot with your left.

And will you succeed?

Yes! You will indeed!

(98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.) -Dr. Suess-

MOM, YOU WILL MOVE MOUNTAINS!!!

I was reading this to Maci at bed time the other night and I couldn't stop thinking about my Mom as she is embarking on a new path. It brought me to tears....Dr. Suess has a way of doing that to me ;) She's got the funk though, she'll make it ;)

You can do it! We love you, miss you and think of you always!!!

Newest residents of Kaysville Utah...

2011-03-19T02:42:00.024-06:00

The New (to us) Tanner Bell Residence

132 Morning Mist Lane

Kaysville, Utah

84037

We finally made it! after jumping through numerous hoops, saying many many prayers and crossing our fingers for the entire months of February and March....we moved in to the new digs.

It is really great to have so much extra space....and by extra space I mean and entire empty house full since we don't have enough furniture for anything but our bedrooms ;)

We are still a mess, a huge mess....but a happy mess!

The great and spacious front room

Living/TV room

with midgets (above) and without (below)

This is Leila meeting her new home for the first time.....hard to tell if she's impressed or not.

Maci's first visit :)

The view of the back, that porch is probably one of my very favorite parts of the house......can't wait for BBQ's, parties and summer nights on that baby!

The ghetto trampoline is Maci's favorite feature....

Our first night home eating arrangements..... sitting cross legged on the floor at the table with no legs, eating Bajios or course

The girls "helping" to get the kitchen put away....

It is a work in progress and we have a LOT of work to do! We are so happy to be here and so grateful for a peaceful welcoming feeling.

Already feels like home!

Closing the Aberdeen Chapter....

2011-03-19T02:42:00.022-06:00

Our First Home4 1/2 years of our lives together...
Where we started our family.

Our first yard... (literally...we leveled it and planted the sod)

Our first "remodeling" project.... 2 years to lay tile in the Master bathroom. ;)

Our bright "beach bedroom"... many a fanastic nap was had inside these walls!

Where our daughters took their first real bathes... In the ducky bathroom.

Where Maci first slept in her 'Big girl bed'...

The room in which both of our beautiful babies slept....The Nursery that I painted and decorated. The warm, quiet place where I spent endless hours singing lullabies, finding lost binkies and staring at my precious girls.

The stair way that Tan had painted for my 27th Birthday...in a color I LOVE and he tolerated ;) Stairs that we ran up and down, up and down searching for toys or clothes or wallets.....or phones.

The steps that Maci sprawled on and Leila sat contently kicking her feet.

My rich chocolaty front room that was once bright apple red. Where my antique piano sits. The first room that heard Maci sing "I am a Child of God"....the room in which my babies peered through the front window for hours on end. It served as Ragnar Headquarters....and Ragnar storage.

The view from my "Post" in the kitchen....where I stood preparing dinners, canning my first peaches, making cookies for the first time with Maci, carving pumpkins on her first Halloween and crafting away.

My first real-life, fully functioning Kitchen. The site of many a get-together, holiday meals, dance-offs, chases around the island, failed cooking attempts, welcome home kisses and laughter.

So hard to say good-bye! We loved living in Aberdeen Circle. Incredible friends, neighbors and experiences. We hope that this home will continue to be full of love, laughter, adventure and comfort.

Making it through the winter months.....

2011-02-23T09:57:00.005-07:00

It's no news that I'm not a fan of winter.

We gotta make it through somehow.

Just a taste of how we've been keepin' on til spring makes her debut....

Sunnier and warmer...we'll take what we can get!

2011-02-16T22:58:00.004-07:00

Tanner was gone over Valentine's Day so i took the girls for a quick trip down to George in search of some rays...... We found a few.....

Fed some ducks...

And made Gramma push the kids up and down the halls of the hotel :) Cheap entertainment. I love that we always mysteriously have a room on the vacant floor at the very end of the hall. They're on to us ;)

Good times had by all. Not a whole lot warmer but at least we were able to hit up a park or two!

Hurry up spring!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-13T22:12:00.001-07:00

I decided it was finally time for some cookie making craziness around these parts....

What better time than

Valentine's Day!?!?
We lazed around in our P.J.'s, ate LOTS of cookie dough, made flour cakes, licked frosting, and decorated these beauties in honor of the upcoming holiday.

I'm pretty sure it was a hit :)

I hope the Ragnar employees didn't mind an extra treat....

We hand delivered them before I thought to get a picture of the finished product...... Let's just say my girls were born to "decorate/eat" cookies ;)

Just What Every Mother hopes to Find in the Canister of Baby Formula......

2011-02-11T22:17:00.002-07:00

I scooped you out of Leila's Formula by accident.

I saw you more than once but for some reason didn't pay much attention.

Until you made it into the actual scoop and I had to pick you out.

It was then that I realized in horror your true identity.

I am still shocked and nauseated by your discovery.

Grossed out beyond belief.

I'm an ER nurse. I don't ever really get "grossed out."

In reference to entering my innocent 16 month old's mouth, it is official.

I am disgusted. Appalled even. Ticked off and feeling guilty that I didn't examine you closer.......sooner.

They say they don't know how it was possible....

"Entirely sterile mechanical process" ..... does not explain your presence.

I'm not interested in more product thank you. Not interested in legal action. Just called to let "them" know what I found.....

And yes, I will send you back for "further evaluation".

But for now Band-aid. Used, covered in chocolate powder, revolting Band-aid.....

You have simply ruined my day.

And our second head Injury of the week.....

2011-02-09T22:57:00.001-07:00

One little Monkey jumping on the bed......she fell off and whacked her head on my side table. I was even shocked to see how fast this bump appeared. No blood this time. I'm pretty sure people are starting to wonder what really goes on around here! Just the sneaky charades of a certain little Schwimp. We promise!

Our first Legit Head Injury.

2011-02-03T14:12:00.005-07:00

Lunch at McDonalds with friends = exciting

Fall off the chair to the ground on her head = unpleasant

Blood soaked curls due to head lac = surprising

Afternoon spent at Instacare = costly

Wound closure via 4 staples = necessary

Hearing Maci say "Mommy can you read me a story" bravely through tears as they cleaned, injected and stapled her head=Priceless.

I sure love this little angel. She was such a trooper! After the initial bleeding stopped she wanted to stay and finish her chicken nuggets and play with her friends. So we did. On our way to Instacare she asked if we could go to gramma's instead. She was so brave....I could hardly believe it. she laid on her tummy for over 45 minutes while they numbed, cleaned, poked at and put staples into her head. She cried a little but didn't move. As soon as we walked out it was "all better" and she focused only on her promised Ice cream cone :)

Return of Bing

2011-01-03T14:12:00.005-07:00

Proud Family..

Beaming parents.....bewildered Elder ;)

This picture kills me...she looks like a super slueth

Leila was....well...just being Leila

Tay and Alex meeting for the first time....weird huh!?

Two of Elder Bells biggest fans :)

Big brother Tanner anxiuosly awaiting Tays arrival....

I for one will be SO GLAD to be rid of this uber creepy cardboard cutout of "Taymit"....

it has been freakin' me out for 6 months now!

(It's Tay's face on Mitt Romney's body, made especially for Tiff and Alex's wedding and has been perching in the Bell living room ever since)

Can you feel the excitement?

Welcome Home Uncle Elder Taytay!!!
Yippeeeeee, hip hip Hooray (as Maci says)

This long awaited day of celebration has finally arrived!! Congratulation on an incredible two years of faith, courage, hard work, selflessness and humility!! You have been an incredible example to us and we are so happy to have you home safe.....and home :) We love you and are so Proud of you!

Resolutions are for Fanatics.....

2011-01-01T22:51:00.000-07:00

I'm not feeling very fanatical this year. In fact I still can't believe 2010 is over. I felt fanatical then. It didn't really work out for me. So, this year I'm keeping it fairly simple. Rather than making a list of goals and aspirations for the coming 12 months..... I want to just live. I want to "roll with it" and be okay with that, not only be okay with it but find optimism and joy in it. Something along the lines of "....Come what may and love it..."

SO.... Rather than a list of resolutions, I made a list of my own positive affirmations....
Reminders of what I want to feel about myself and eventually become....

Successful Energetic Impressive Enthusiastic Celebrated Talented Hopeful Alive Happy Unwavering Alert Extraordinary Strong Beautiful Friendly Amazing Healthy Driven Inspired Exceptional Sensational Confident Dynamic Spectacular Vivacious
Blissful Efficient Magnificent Outstanding Triumphant Pure
Spirited Fortunate Undefeated Thoughtful Positive

Bring it on 2011....gently please :)

Crammin' it into 2010...

2010-12-30T20:13:00.003-07:00

Aside from celebrating another Holiday Season and trying to enjoy all that comes with it. We crammed A LOT into the month of December.......

-Mimi's Birthday Party

-Cambria's first dance recital at the Festival of Trees

-Discovery Gateway

-Eating a months worth of chocolate in 2 days (Maci didn't get the concept of the advent calender)

-Running rampant through Target with Noah ;)

-Our FIRST trip to Disneyland and Leila's FIRST and likely LAST airplane ride.

-Turned boxes into train cars and rode around the kitchen for hours

-Made really cute faces for the camera

-Leila learned how to "work" her shoulder

-and LOVED on our Quincy Q!!

I'm dreaming of a Doug Christmas....

2010-12-28T21:14:00.002-07:00

Although we were missing crucial members, it was a blast to be out with the girls. It is always a breath of fresh air to be with these gorgeous ladies. We waited forever, got seated in a corner and forgotten and somehow managed to have a fantastic Dougie Christmas Celebration. Where else but at our old stomping grounds of the 'Old Spaghetti Factory'....I am confident that we have literally been seated at least once at EVERY table in that restaurant, and they still let us come back. Delish. Thanks for the memories Girls :) We missed you Mort!

Christmas came, just the same.

2010-12-26T14:00:00.001-07:00

Actually, Christmas a little different this year ;) We normally spend the night either at my Mom's or with Tanner's family. With two kids, we are a bit of a pain and didn't want to displace anyone. So, we slept at our house. With our undecorated Christmas tree. See I had a bit of a hard time getting into the Holiday spirit this year. I really wasn't feeling it. I didn't get any decorations out until a week ago....and even then it was very few and out of guilt. I'm not sure why. I felt pretty grinchy. We arrived at the Bells in time to talk to Elder TayTay.....yeah...the one that will be home in ONE week. The girls were troopers and hung in there pretty well considering they didn't get to eat or open their present on Christmas morning until around 11:00!!

Pretend like this is a happy face , it's all I could get ;)

Leila wasn't quite sure what to make of it all....she loved the wrapping paper. And her bottle.

And Maci's castle! The best Daddy in the world found this monstrous box at work about a week ago and immediately thought of his Girls. He had big plans to turn it in to a castle for his princesses....and stayed up doing so until about 3:00 this morning ;) Which worked out okay since Mrs. Claus was up wrapping gifts anyways....it made for great conversation.

They were SO excited when they saw it....I'd dare say it was the favorite of the day!

Complete with shiny silver paint, heart decor, a WORKING drawbridge and windows. Way to go Daddy :) You win.

Maci got a Big Girl bike.....which was cool for about 2 minutes until she saw her castle.

Tryin' out the new trampoline

Leila was more interested in Maci's bike than Maci was :)

Back home later that night....with our undecorated Christmas tree....Mom and Han came over and brought lots of Holiday cheer. Maci and Leila were ecstatic to see them. It was the perfect end to a great day.

Merry Christmas!

Twas the Night Before Christmas......

2010-12-24T23:51:00.001-07:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS 2010

Family Pictures 2010

2010-12-16T01:44:00.014-07:00

Thanks Paige, for making us look good and capturing most of our smiles ;)
paigedavisphotography.com

Memory Lane to Seal Beach

2010-12-14T01:45:00.003-07:00

California isn't the same without having grandma Helen there in person to welcome you with a huge grin, surprisingly crushing hug and a wet kiss on the cheek. Although I couldn't bear to drive by her old house, full of fantastic and adventurous childhood memories, we made it a point to go to Anaheim Memorial gardens. It is a beautiful and quiet place burrowed in the neighborhoods of Anaheim.We took the girls to her gravestone and told them stories about their great-grandmother. Maci sang songs and told grandma all about the princesses and our adventure at Disneyland. You could feel that beautiful smile and cheerful laugh.......I can't wait to hear it again. I am so grateful to know that although this place is beautiful, it isn't her final resting place.

We ate at the Original Pancake house in her honor. Ah, the memories ;)

Next stop along memory lane.......Seal Beach. This is one of the beaches of my childhood. My Aunt used to live just a few blocks from here and we spent days here swimming, playing, shopping and running up and down the Pier.

It was pretty chilly mid-December, but that didn't stop Maci and Tan from paying tag in the tide. It was a surreal sight to see my own baby playing and giggling on he beach with her Daddy, just like I used to :)

What would the beach....or California for that matter, be without street performers? I'll have to admit this is was a pretty funny scene to behold....

These two guys had this old baby grand loaded in the back of a beat up pick-up, resting on plastic crates, surrounded by old speakers and sound equipment, a scruffy dog....and lots of booze.

It wasn't much to look at, but they were pretty amazing. In fact, they will be featured in the So Cal Ragnar Relay this year!

Some man saw me standing on the Pier taking pictures of Tanner and Maci and asked if I wanted my picture taken.....Um.....NO! But he took my camera out of my hands before I could get that out, so here is my "please-take-my-picture-for black-mail-purposes" face. Lovely.

(I love the look on Leila's face like "did he really just do that?!?!)

Posing with the Seals......yeah we are total tourists. At least we are now. Once upon a time this was my territory :) good to be back!

The Happiest Place on Earth!

2010-12-13T01:44:00.004-07:00

This event has been a LONG time coming! At the beginning of the year Disney did a promotion to "Give a Day, Get a Day".....in other words we could choose from a list of approved service projects, sign up, complete and receive a free Disney Park Pass. Considering all we had to do for our service project was drop off supplies at a local food bank, we thought it was a pretty good deal ;) Our intent was to take Maci before she turned 3 because she would still be free. Well, with our crazy summer schedule, Tanner's 90-day challenge then breaking his collarbone we weren't able to make it over the summer. The deal expired on the 15th of December so we found ourselves finally there on the 13th of December. Yeah, that's how we roll.

I flew in with the girls the night before....I have already tried to erase that experience from my memory....and we stayed in a hotel about 10 miles from Disneyland. It was a night of many adventures, beginning with Maci calling out at dinner "Dad, her has big bunnies!", to Leila having to sleep in the Hotel bathtub because there was no room to put the pack n' play, to waking up with Maci's feet in our faces. Despite it's difficulties, we survived. A sweet friend offered to watch Leila while we went to Disneyland which ended up being a HUGE relief....I can't imagine having tried to take her all day and late into the night!

Tanner, Maci and I set off on our Disneyland adventure. We somehow managed to wait in the longest line to get into the park. I thought Tanner was going to blow a gasket! I'd never seen him so impatient. But it paid off when we were able to talk the incredibly nice woman into letting Maci in for free even though she is over 3.....that saved us $68!! Tan was so caught up in sweet talking her that he kept talking after he'd asked if there was anyway we could get Maci in for less and she said "It is $68 sir. But you can always just walk away from the window."....I ended up having to just pull him away. Thanks Lady! You made our day!

The 'Happiest Place on Earth' is always A LOT happier when it is free ;) It was worth the trip, the wait in line and all the frustration in getting there to see the look of wonder and awe on her little face.

We started the day off in Fairytale land and went on Dumbo very first. Huge hit, she LOVED it! Second was Mr. Toad's Wild Ride. Huge bomb, she HATED it! She refused to go on ANY rides after that.

She was loving the castle!

Bribed onto the teacups with a granola bar......

Didn't go over real big.

She tolerated it and promptly got off the moment she could.

We figured it was time to meet the Princesses since riding rides was out of the question....and since that is the main reason we came. She could hardly wait her turn before walking up to Ariel with her mouth gaping open in a huge grin.

She. Was. In. Heaven.

And that's what we did. Over and over again.

Mimi had sent Maci with special Disneyland money that she could spend on one special treat. She chose to have her face painted. She climbed up in the chair, knew exactly what she wanted and sat absolutely still for about 15 minutes while it was being done.

She got out of the chair and walked straight over to the full length mirror and said. "Wow, I beauful!".....I caught a glimpse of her looking at herself in that mirror.

After that she was calm enough to ride It's a small world after all.....she warmed up to it about the time we were getting off.

She sat on Daddy's shoulders while watching the Christmas Parade go by.... I couldn't see anything So I just got a picture of her up there.....

We spent the next 2 hours waiting in line to see Minnie's house. Surprisingly it was worth EVERY minute. Maci was in heaven. She soaked up and examined each detail thoroughly.
Despite however comfortable Minnie's bed may look, I assure it is not ;) But how cute is my "mermaid princess" Maci bug?!?

I found a couple of concerning things in Minnie's house.... call me crazy, but are these really Disneyland appropriate? A picture hanging on the wall of half-naked horse people feeding each other grapes....really? They couldn't just hang a picture of a bunny or flowers?

And then there was the issue of Jessica's Secret magazine resting on Minnie's armchair...... Sure, I get it. Cute, clever, hahaha. But is the picture appropriate? Not that it's that big a deal and maybe I am the only one who notice's things like that. Just sayin.

We sat in ToonTown for the literally an hour while Maci ate her popcorn. It was so nice to be relaxed! No pressure of rushing around. Maci refused to ride everything anyway, it was free to get in, I've been there a million times.....it was pretty much perfect.

After hiding in Tanner's lap during the Buzz Lightyear ride, Maci stared at these princess pins/necklaces for literally 30 min in the gift shop.

We tried talking Maci into riding a few more rides but she wasn't interested. So we went to the Princesses yet again....just to say goodnight.

Rode the teacups while waiting for the fireworks to start.....I think she actually smiled this time around.

We watched the fireworks, which never fail to amaze me. Every night after bath time at Grandma Helen's we used to run up to her bedroom and all peer out her back window to watch the Disneyland fireworks before going to bed. She had the perfect view and you could even hear them from her upstairs window ;)

We said our final good-byes to the enchanted castle and made our way to the car with the sleepiest Schwimp I ever did see. We'll be back when our Leila Boo turns 3!

My "COOKIE" Heads :)

2010-12-09T00:01:00.002-07:00

I love these Kooky girls.....Maci pronounces it "cookie".....we argue all day long over who is the "cookiest".....I usually win :) They always keep me smiling, running, laughing or crying....I am so grateful to be the Mommy of these two amazing girls!

Demasculinating? No way!

2010-12-08T23:39:00.002-07:00

It takes a true man to wear a princess band aid. On his pinky no less.

3 to 1. We win :)

We love you!

Quincy Temperance Rigby Arrives!!!

2010-11-29T00:25:00.005-07:00

Meet the most Beautiful child

ever born on

November 28, 2010

Quincy Temperance Rigby

made her long awaited appearance today!!!

Weighing in at

7lbs. 8 oz.

and

21 inches long

I got to witness her very first bath...and I am sure she will thank me for these pictures at a later date :)

She didn't seem real happy about the whole "clean" thing....

Wahoo! She has the cutest footies :) And yes, in case you were wondering about the looks I was getting from the nursing staff, I was questioned about my 'credentials'....and even accused of trying to take Quincy.. What can I say I am a SUPER proud Auntie :)

She is absolutely perfect. The Rigbys make CUTE babies! She has a perfect little nose, the most delicate little mouth and she has a heart melting signature little lip quiver.

Yeah, I'm in love too :) Words caonnot express the excitment, anticipation, gratitude and love we have for this little bug!

Congratulations Adam, Cara and Big Sissy Cambria!!!

Angels Among Us......

2010-11-26T16:17:00.001-07:00

Giving Thanks Again

2010-11-25T00:29:00.003-07:00

On Thanksgiving Day we got to join the Sorensen Clan for another incredible meal. We spent the day playing, laughing, putting together hygiene kits, eating, catching up with each other, eating more, chatting, debating and polishing off probably 25 pies :)

Maci wasn't too sad about the playing and pie eating part. Aside from that she consumed only rolls...5 to be exact. What'ya gonna do?

Leila commandeered a fluid motion bike and enjoyed herself excessively...

We are pretty lucky that we got to spend Thanksgiving with both of our families!

Thanksgiving Numero Uno

2010-11-24T00:27:00.003-07:00

We were super spoiled to have the Cali Cahoons up for Thanksgiving...
I can't remember a more perfect Thanksgiving :) It was fantastic to all be together again.

We miss these guys so much...Maci and Leila adore their 'Unca Chis' and Aunt Karly and would probably eat Emmy alive if left unattended.

Hanbug was up from the C.C. and Cara was a super trooper with only days left in her Pregnancy..we were all hoping to celebrate Quincy's Birthday on Thanksgiving, but she had other plans.

Our gorgeous Thanksgiving tablescape at Mom's.....

We actually had our 'Cahoon Gratitude Feast' on Tuesday since Adam was crazy busy at Chuck's on Turkey and Chris and Kar had to be home that night....

Walking off the goods.....

Please child! When will you walk!!?!?!

Sweet Chris was almost always found with one of these in his arms....

I am so THANKFUL for my family. I am even more THANKFUL that we got to be together this year.....

We Finally meet Emmy Christine!

2010-11-22T00:29:00.003-07:00

Can you believe I haven't met this adorable angel before today!?!? I am smitten!
We are pretty much best friends ever since we both have an unquenchable desire for cute shoes :)

She has the cutest Daddy whom she likes a little bit I guess....

My girlies like him a little too.....I think he pays them in gummi bears though.

Yeah, we're cute..

Welcome to Utah Emmy Christine.....We promise to keep you warm with a constant flow of kisses, hugs, "nuggy, nuggies" and head pats!

Happy Birthday Wrinkles--- The weekend of Kristin

2010-11-21T21:26:00.007-07:00

I am old. I am wrinkly. At least I have the best friends and family ever! They still love me :)
I started off celebrating a few days early with my Mom and sisters by getting a MUCH needed pedicure and then a delish lunch at Kneader's. I got to go to the gym on my Birthday, which for me in the best way to start the day. I came home to find and assorted arrangement of balloons and streamers decorating my front porch.....a pleasant surprise :)

Sara and her boys surprised me with my favorite birthday cake ever.....a huge pancake....so good.

I took myself to lunch at The Pizza Factory and talked Cara and Sara into joining me..... It was quite the experience as always..

As a side note, this is the first day I was able to pull Leila's hair "up" into a mini-tail, very exciting!

Yep 28. Can't believe it.

I got to celebrate with almost all my family and at my request we enjoyed homemade pizzas, lots of laughs, and one of my all time favorite desserts, Pavlova. I was introduced to this delicacy from heaven when my cousins visited us from Australia as kids. I've been hooked ever since. BEST. TREAT. EVER!! My Mom has mastered the art of making it and even let's me finish it off every year. Thanks Marmy!

Hannah even came home for the festivities!

Feeling the love :)

Mine is the half with no cheese :) I love me some veggie sauce bread!

Maci is not a fan of the paparazzi....at least not while she;s eating.

I was even graced by the presence of the Atomic Bomb....he is rarely not working on such occasions. He's the best Bro-in-law ever.....he even acted as though he was enjoying himself :)

Mom and Han prepping their pizza.

Thank you, Thank you for all the love. I scheduled myself to work the night of my Birthday and for the first time in a long time I really regretted it. I am truly blessed with a Husband, friends and family that love me. It was a painfully happy day of recognizing my oldness.

In Good Hands......

2010-11-08T21:59:00.000-07:00

Max and Jamie agreed to watch our Maci Bug while we ventured to Tennessee.....From the looks of it they had a great time!

Yeah, they're pretty dang cute! Thanks Jamers!

First Annual Ragnar Tennessee

2010-11-07T05:15:00.003-07:00

Tennessee

Lord I've really been real stressed

Down and out, losing ground

Although I am black and proud

Problems got me pessimistic

Brothers and sisters keep messing up

Why does it have to be so tuff?

I don't know where I can go

To let these ghosts out of my skull

My grandmas past, my Brother's gone

I never at once felt so alone

I know you're supposed to be my steering wheel

Not just my spare tire

But Lord I ask you

To be my guiding force and truth

For some strange reason it had to be

He guided me to Tennessee

Take me to another place

Take me to another land

Make me forget all that hurts me

Let me understand your plan

Lord it's obvious we got a relationship

Talking to each other every night and day

Although you're superior over me

We talk to each other in a friendship way

Then outta nowhere you tell me to break

Outta the country and into more country

Past Dyesburg and Ripley

Where the ghosts of childhood haunt me

Walk the roads my forefathers walked

Climbed the trees my forefathers hung from

Ask those trees for all their wisdom

They tell me my ears are so young

Go back to from whence you came

My family tree my family name

For some strange reason it had to be

He guided me to Tennessee

Now I see the importance of History

Why people be in the mess that they be

Many journeys to freedom made in vain

By brothers on the corner playing ghetto games

I ask the Lord why you enlightened me

Without the enlightenment of all my folks

He said cuz I set myself on a quest for truth

And he was there to quench my thirst

But I am still thirsty.....

The Lord allowed me to drink some more

He said what I am searchin for are

The answers to all which are in front of me

The ultimate truth started to get blurry

For some strange reason it had to be

It was all a dream about Tennessee

(lyrics by Arrested Development)

Incredible race, gorgeous scenery, top notch team mates, best BBQ ever, honky tonks, cowboy boots and the nicest people you'll ever meet.....

A+ for Ragnar Tennessee!

Halloween Hauntings

2010-10-31T20:21:00.001-06:00

This Halloween season we were busy, busy with parties and celebrations....

Cinderella shined in her leading role as Princess.

Mario and Luigi graced us with their presence....

"Ding one and Ding two" were a hit at the ward party :)

Not to be outdone.... Avatar Snow White and Mudge the Kitty stole the show.

The Dings

Ding one and Mario chumming it up....

The magical Hay Ride...

Mudge loved the hay....

Me and my girls

Who's ya daddy?!?

Tanner and I took over the Mario and Luigi costumes to celebrate Max's 3rd Birthday....

As always the Hill's throw a killer party and plenty of fun and obnoxiously cute treats were had.

Cinderella and Luigi perfecting their festive gourd ;)

Bewitching Booberry Pancake Bash

2010-10-30T06:47:00.001-06:00

It's not every day one gets to dress as a plump kitty cat.....

Or a breathtakingly beautiful princess.

We had a special event to attend....

not EVERYONE is invited!

Just the cutest, silliest, plumpest, most lovable characters

are invited to Mimi's

"Bewitching Boo-berry Breakfast"

.....we just happened to be lucky:)

Mimi and Maci took special care to get the 'spell' just right,

Then went to work preparing the fluffiest and most tasty blueberry pancakes.

Not just anyone can do it.....at least not like Mimi can do it!

This little Piggy went to the Market.......

2010-10-29T00:12:00.001-06:00

We made a trip to the Italian Market today......
But what is a trip to the market without Three little pigs?!?

Or should I say FIVE little Piggies!

Maci got a kick out of these guys, Leila wasn't so amused :)

Oink, Oink!

She even gave each one a kiss good-bye.....after 'riding' each of them several times.

Forward Facing and Loving It!

2010-10-18T06:36:00.000-06:00

Leila HATES carseats. Always has. So, I have been anxious to get her in a forward facing seat in hopes of diminishing the wrestling match that is buckling her in. Weighing in at 22lbs at her one year check-up was my green light!

Isn't she cute, all grown up and stuff :)

She was all smiles her first ride in the "big girl" seat.....

Sadly, that is as long as it lasted.

The car seat wrestle is back in full force.

Oh well, it's worth it 'cause I can see that froggy grin in my mirror now.