Johnson Family

Resolutions...

2011-12-15T20:13:00.000-08:00

So with a New Year vastly approaching, it is that time again to contemplate "New Year's Resolutions". I figure, why wait til 2012, let's start NOW!

My first resolution is to make a weekly meal plan and STICK TO IT!
So here is Week 1: 12/18-12/24
Sun: Pinto and Black Bean Nachos
Mon: Breakfast for Dinner (this is for Grandpa) Waffles and Bacon
Tue: Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Soup (Safeway brand because this is all Lucas will eat)
Wed: Brats and Baked Potatoes (Luke's specialty)
Thur: Pizza and Salad
Fri: Meatloaf with Corn on the Cob
Sat: Crock Pot Chicken and Potato Soup (I have a lot of potatoes).

Things are going so well for our little family. We have just been suuuuuper busy. Between school, work, work, and work, getting ready for Christmas, and working in time for family and working out, there is little to no time to do things for fun, i.e. blogging, reading, spending time with friends (although I am trying really hard to fit this into my schedule, my sanity depends on it!)

We have been so blessed this year. Lucas has been working really hard trying to be SuperDad. Working at both THS and EAC. He is doing such a great job and his student's (usually) love him. We look forward to the break when we get to spend more time together as a family. Andie is playing basketball and doing really well in school. Although there are times she is a little too big for her britches, what else do I expect from an almost 11-year-old girl (boo hooing, where did my baby go?) Avery loves school, is loving learning how to read and is really just such a sweet and dare I say the calmest of my girlies. Erynn, is Erynn. She has her rotten days, but for the most part she just loves being with her sisters and is talking up a storm. As for myself, I have been working a ton, lots of babies are ringing out the year. I am so grateful for my job and all the people that it has brought into my life (literally).

Pray that everyone has a safe week and remember what's so important especially this time of year: FAMILY!

BIG 3-0 (long post)

2011-11-09T06:47:00.000-08:00

So today I turn 30! I have been looking forward to this day for a long time. When I think back on all that has happened in my 1st 30 years I can say things like, fell in love, had beautiful daughters, went to college and started a career that I love, have tried to make an impact on others lives, and have shared the most precious day with many many women (again I say what could be better than helping women deliver babies...I guess having your own).

For myself, a way to remember my joys, trials, struggles, and dreams:
* Born 11/9/1981 to a woman that would turn out to be one awesome mother that has motivated me to work my hardest and never accept less than what I deserve. My father has taught me what it is to be compassionate and the joy that one feels when helping others. My older sister (Angela) has taught me many things like crocheting and what it means to dream big and work hard for something. She is always there for me and I couldn't have asked for a better sister, she helps me to try and be a better person.
* When I was 2, my world changed when my little sister was born. Alisa and I played together, laughed together, danced together, and faught like no other together. She has become one of my best friends and I couldn't imagine my world without her love and support. It makes me so happy to see how she has been blessed in her family and life.
* I have had many people come and go in my 1st 30 years. I had never lost anyone close to me before my Grandma Provencio and I'll never forget the last day that I saw my and it makes me happy to know that I had spent the night at her house just before she entered the hospital. I was really little and they wouldn't let me into the ICU to see her, looking back now, I think that sleep over was my chance to see her and spend time with her before she returned HOME.
* In school came many friends, some that made a big impact on my life would be: Jordan Keith (we shared a love of music and dance, best buds from the beginning): Camille Watson (we had some great times and it makes me so happy to know that we still keep in touch from time to time and I have been able to see her family grow): Gina Massey (she taught me what it meant to have high morals and standards, she accepted me for me and shared her beliefs and always made me feel included): Jamie Allen (we have been great friends since my Freshman year of HS when we danced together in Poms, we both have busy lives, but when we get together there is never a dull moment): and of course Lucas (little did I know dancing in PE would bring me my future husband, a wonderful father to my children, my best friend, 5 brother and sister-in-laws, a loving mother-in-law, and soooo many nieces and nephews!)
* 1999-2001 brought a lot of happy and sad, my Grandpa Provencio passed away, I got engaged, started and graduated from HS, married my HS sweetheart and became a mother.
* I had Andie when I was 19, I grew up fast that year, but along with the "growing up" came a love I never knew existed. I realized what it meant to care for someone more than yourself, I discovered that I would do anything to protect and keep that baby safe. It brought out my "maternal instincts" which helped pave the way for my future career.
* After attending EAC and working at MGRMC full-time, we moved to Flagstaff where I began Nursing School, watched my Husband graduate and become a teacher, gave birth to Avery, and said good-bye to my beloved Aunt Mary. This was a stressful time in my life, but Lucas, me and the girls grew closer as a family, and I realized that there was no where else I wanted to be than back in Thatcher.
* Coming back home to Thatcher was both a blessing and a struggle. No family is perfect and with change often comes trials. But we overcame those trials. I started working in the OB department where I met many wonderful friends, co-workers, and mentors. There to share the birth of my daughter Erynn, help me through the loss of my Grandma and Grandpa Tellez, work through very stressful work situations, and so much more. I don't know what I would do without these ladies. I have learned so much from them and would never want to do anything else.
* So here I am today! I have so much to be grateful for, I have been so very blessed. I have wonderful friends that make me feel important and loved. These friends that make me want to try harder and be a better person. Going to lunch today with a good friend, Amber. I know that this will be a good lunch, we never run out of things to talk about! Having some family over tonight for dinner, just wish that my Dad could be here too.

In my next 30 years (God willing I live that long) I will try harder to be a better me. Live each day to the fullest and try to show my gratitude to my family and Heavenly Father more.

The Thinigs We Do As Mothers...

2011-10-28T02:34:00.000-07:00

Can I just start off by saying again how blessed I am to have three wonderful daughters.

Andie was recently in her grade spelling bee. She was one of 5 in her class to make it to the next level, the grade wide bee. I know that she much have gotten this from her father, I am not a very good speller, can't live without spell check! Well, Andie did very well, I was nervous for her and I could tell that she was letting her nerves get the best of her...unfortunately that is what she inherited from me. She made it through Round 3 to get tripped up on "ingredient". She went too quickly and started I-N-G-E-R...as soon as she got that far you could see the shock on her face. She knew she was out. I am so proud of her and know that she is one smart cookie. I so look forward to her learning more and forming new friendships. She is doing very well in school and was in the lead for her class in book reports. She needs to have 25 for the entire year...at her 1st 9 week Parent Conference, she had 27!! She has been a reading maniac and is almost all the way through the Harry Potter Series. She even won the entire series of Diary of a Wimpy Kid from her teacher. This winter will also bring new things into the mix. Andie will be playing basketball for the first time ever. I remember being that age and playing 5th grade ball. She is sooooo tall, hopefully this will give her an advantage, not to mention she also has the Johnson genes. Keep up the great work Andie!!

Avery is loving school!! She is learning how to read and is doing very well. She has started reading chapter books and you can see the pride in her face when she reads through a page on her own. She just recently had a performance for school. She needed to dress up as either a cowgirl, princess, or super hero. So what does she pick...a super hero! I was a little surprised. So here I go, 11pm at night, looking for a cape and mask for Avery. Thank Heaven for Wal-Mart! Well the only colors Wal-Mart had were red and blue or green and black. I opted for the red and blue. I also found some rhinestones to iron onto the back and made an "A" for Super Avery. It came out really cute, but of course I couldn't send her off without a big bow in her hair. She did so good during her performance and was such a ham...surprise, surprise. She knew all her dance moves, most of the words, and said her part perfectly! Avery is such a little performer and I can't wait to see what she will do next.

Erynn, where do I start with Erynn. Her favorite word is "bery". She uses it alll the time. "I am bery cold!" "I am bery hurt". "This is bery fun". It has become my favorite word to say as well, just ask the girls at work, haha. I love to look outside and see my Erynn playing in the sandbox, holding the puppies, or sun bathing on the glider of the swing set. I know that she misses her sisters terribly with school being back in session and her daddy as well. I so look forward to the weekends when she has them allll day. I can't wait til she is old enough for preschool, I think that she will love it, she is so smart and I now she will love to learn. Right now her favorite movie is "The Princess and the Frog". She watches it alll the time. It was the cutest thing, I have never seen this movie, but there is a firefly that is in love with a star. (Spoiler Alert!) Well the firefly gets smashed and dies! I know, I was shocked to hear this. Well Erynn cried and cried, but then at the end, you look up in the sky and the star he loved now has a new little star right next to it. When Erynn saw this she was sooo happy. It was really very sweet. I love having Erynn home with me. I love having a job that allows me to be home so much. We usually nap together, she loves to lay down with me and I have found that she has to sleep right next to me. She has to constantly be touching me. It is really kind of cute. We always say "I love you" and she has to say "I love you more".

What can I say, I am on cloud nine right now. I love my family, I love the weather, I love the upcoming seasons. I now just need to work on spending more time with others around me...so I can share the love. My house looks so cute, the hubs put up the Halloween lights. My sister taught Andie how to make paper bats that are hanging from my front porch. I love them. When the wind gets blowing they start moving all over the place, looks like they are flying. I also found the cutest door hanger from The Gingerbread House. It was originally $45.00...No way would I pay that for a door hanger, I got it for $15 (love finding sales).

I hope that anyone that reads this is doing well. Hope that you are all as happy as we are and hope that you always remember what is important in this life.

Graham County Fair-Part 1

2011-10-12T07:54:00.001-07:00

I have to break this up into two different posts only because my camera wigged out and these are the first set of pics...

We had such a great time at the Fair. My girlies just love to run around and ride the rides. Anyone who says they don't enjoy the Fair must not have ever watched the excitement on their kiddos face. That alone is so worth it! Lucas and I were smiling so much we started to get cramps in our cheeks.

We always make a stop by the animals, not the most pleasant time, but at least the girls get to see some pigs, chickens, turkeys, rabbits, and other forms of poultry up close. We also got to see the biggest pumpkin entered, it weighed 140lbs! We have decided to encourage Andie to enter something into the Fair next year! That will be fun to look forward to.

There were so many rides this year that all my girlies could ride, and they did for about 4hrs. Off one, on another, sometimes on the same one. There were just the right amount of people there. Erynn had a blast, I don't remember there being as many rides for little kids in the past as there was this year. She loved the Super Slide and there was a mini set of swings that she would hold her arms out on and pretend she was flying. Everytime she came around to where I was she would have this huge smile on her face and wave to me. I was also shocked because I don't think Andie and Avery fought once, they were to busy running to all the different rides and playing together. Plus My mom came with us and we bought her a bracelet too so she could ride some of the rides, I think she had a good time.

We ended the Fair with a bang where Andie, Avery, Lucas and I rode the EXPERIENCE...I screamed the whole time. Lucas does not ride those types of rides, he prefers roller coasters, but an adult had to ride with each kiddo, so he took one for the team and boraded...he didn't feel so great afterwards, but it will be an "experience" we will not soon forget!

So here are some pics!

Yay October!!

2011-10-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

I have posted in the past how much I LOVE October, well it is here again!!

It is Fair Weekend!! I know there are a lot of people out there that think the Fair is gross, dirty, with crazy people, and bad food...which is true, but we love it! I love the parade Friday morning. I love the going to the exhibits and seeing my girls school work. I love watching the excitement as they wait to get on a ride. I love the smiles (and sometimes tears) on their faces as they get off a ride. I love the time I get to spend with my hubby and our girlies and my mom usually comes along too. It is just an all around time for family bonding. Unfortunately I work most of the weekend, so we have yet to make the trip, but soon!

Here are some pics from the parade...

My girlies watching the Thatcher Float in the Parade...GO EAGLES!

Also, we got to enjoy the "fruits" of Andie's labor. A few months ago Andie decided to plant her watermelon seeds in the backyard. We weren't sure if anything was going to grow, we live on a rock. Well it did! It has been fun and exciting to see this little watermelon seed grow into a plant almost the length of the backyard! We cut open one of those watermelons and it was so pink and smelled so good and was so yummy to eat! We are so proud of our Andie and have decided to clear out a section in the yard to designate as "Andie's Garden". Can't wait to get that project underway...

Andie's watermelon Avery enjoying some yummy watermelon

On Your Arm

2011-09-30T05:48:00.001-07:00

I can't lie that the last few days have been rough on me. With my ear pain, Erynn cutting her hair (yeah, will have to post pics of this up soon), and just a general feeling of being down, it has been hard to stay positive and not let my frustration take over. I've shed a few tears, I've turned to my family for support, and was so grateful last night for my family.

After a hard day for me yesterday, Lucas came home from a long day of teaching at the high school and college, once the kiddos were in bed, we went for a drive, just the two of us. He could tell that I was going through a lot that day and it was just what I needed, like he was reading my mind. I instantly felt better. He didn't even really say anything, it was just having him right there next to me that made all the difference. It made me think of this amazing man and all that he has given and done for me over the years. I am so grateful for my husband, for the support he gives me, and the comfort of just having him by my side. Don't know what I'd do without you babe!

I hear this song and think of how perfect it is for us, had to share the lyrics, I could never put it all into words what I feel better than this:

On Your Arm
You always felt like home
You knew my favorite song
And I love the way you say my name
I love just about everything

Wake up to your morning face
Love you a little bit more everyday
Love the way you walk into the room
It's just the little things

Cause on your arm I could fall asleep
And on your arm it's the best of me
And on your arm I go anywhere
Cause I know that you'll be there
Counting a million ways to stay
On your arm

I can't believe you belong to me
I guess I must have done something right
How did we get here and where did we start?
You follow my heart

And on your arm I could fall asleep
And on your arm it's the best of me
And on your arm I go anywhere
Cause I know that you'll be there
Counting a million ways to stay
On your arm

Oh my love could you take me?
Oh my love just take me on your arm
On your arm

Cause on your arm I could fall asleep
And on your arm it's the best of me
And on your arm I go anywhere
Cause I know that you'll be there
Counting a million ways to stay
On your arm
On your arm
On your arm

Stress

2011-09-22T07:09:00.000-07:00

Well to say that I have been stressed lately is an understatement. I know that I am stressed, I feel that I am stressed, and my family is always telling me I am stressed. Well now it seems so is my jaw. Yesterday I finally got into see the ENT where he diagnosed me with TMJ. I have always heard of this, but never would have guessed this was what was causing all my "ear" pain. Most people with TMJ hear a clicking or popping sound when they open their mouth, or they get something called "locked jaw" where it makes it difficult to open their mouths wide, well I don't have either of these problems. I have the pain, pain that is never ending, both dull and aching that seems to get worse as my day goes on. Working nights, that can feel never ending. So here I am, don't feel like I am much closer to solving my issues, but have decided I need to spend a little more time on me, so I am walking again with my good bud Amber! It was so nice to have not only the exercise, but that girl time, can't wait!

Hoping my lifestyle changes will ultimately help with my physical ales. Wish me luck!

Silly Little Erynn

2011-09-18T22:25:00.000-07:00

I was just sitting here thinking that my baby will be 3 in a couple of months! This is so scary to me, where did the time go? Erynn has grown so much over the past year, she is so much fun, a challenge, and the sweetest little thing!! She is so funny and is always trying to make us laugh. She loves her sisters so much, always calls Andie "my Andie" and she loves to say her name "Erynn Johnson".

Just this morning, Lucas and I are lying in bed, we hear a knock, knock, knock on our door. I asked, who is it...this sweet little voice says "Erynn Johnson". Precious.

We have had some crazy rain here in AZ lately. With all the rain has come not only a TON of weeds, but lots and lots of frogs! My girls love frogs. Lucas has made it a tradition to go "frog hunting" in the summertime. So after a good rain, he'll pack up the girls, grab a large cooler and go around Quail Ridge to find all the frogs they possibly can. What do they do with all these frogs, well they let them go in a canal near our house, this way, they don't get ran over on the roads. Well, Erynn doesn't like to call frogs "frogs". No she calls them "Birdits". Why...because they ribbit. It is so cute to hear her calling out for birdits all the time. Well, lately there has been a "birdit" that like to frequent outside our house. He is there almost every evening before the girls go to bed. Erynn likes to go out and find him, pet him and play with his belly and feet. She makes sure to hold him over the ground so he can "pee" first, then she hugs on him for a few minutes. She has kissed him a few times, hope this means someday she will find her prince charming! ;) Lucas is convinced that this frog loves Erynn, he didn't even pee on her tonight!

This is the kind of little girl Erynn is. To see her sweet little face and know that she doesn't know of any bad in the world. She accepts almost everyone. She is always the first person to thank us for her dinner every night and she prays that her and her sister "sweep" good every night. We have had our rough times with her, she has been sick a lot and we still don't know what her future will be like, but I wouldn't trade her for anything in the world. I pray that she will continue to stay healthy and outgrow her reflux, I know that she is one tough cookie. We all love Erynn so much and couldn't imagine our world without her!

Thank you Heavenly Father for teaching me what it is like to stuggle for my children, to grow from my children, and teach me that I would do anything for my daughters!

Breaking Dawn Part 1

2011-09-14T12:09:00.000-07:00

The long awaited, highly anticipated trailer for Breaking Dawn!! I remember years ago, sitting in my apartment in Flagstaff, watching the news. They had a segment on up and coming AZ authors. They discussed a little book called Twilight. I was so excited, I love love love Vampire anything! So I went to Barns and Nobles and bought one of the first copies in print. A few months later when New Moon came out, I couldn't find the book anywhere, not because they sold out, but because few places carried the young adult novel. I remember feeling silly buying the book because here I was a twenty something mother buying a book for teens. Little did I know it would become the phenomenon that it did!! I know this sounds super silly, but I seriously love this series and am so sad that it is over. I keep praying that Stephenie Meyer will decide to continue the series so we now what happens to Jacob (hint, hint)! So I am putting this close, were I can always pull up the trailer!!

9/11 Ten Years Later

2011-09-11T06:53:00.000-07:00

I remember that morning...Andie was almost 7-months-old. I was sitting in my little apartment in Thatcher feeding her, rocking her in my living room, watching the news. At that time they were showing the footage of the 1st Trade Center attack. I remember thinking how crazy it was that this was happening and what a terrible accident...then the 2nd tower was hit and my disbelief turned to fear. How could this be happening? Those poor families. What was going on? I went in and woke up Lucas and explained that the towers of the WTC had been hit by planes. They were live at this time, just reporting as news came in about the attack on the Pentagon and the 4th plane that went down in Pennsylvania. There was talk on the radio about possible attacks on air force bases around the US including Luke Air Force Base in Phoenix. We watched as the towers collapsed to the ground and our hope that the survivors had made it to safety diminished.

The last 10 years have been a long and tough journey for the US. I don't have family in NY, I don't currently have family in the military, I have never lost a family member to such a tragedy, but I pray for those that do and have. I love my country and pray for all US Citizens today. I am proud to be an American and I am proud to be raising my daughters in this country. I will hold my children a little closer to me and remind them to be grateful for all they have. I am so grateful for all of our troops that have served and those that have lost their lives for my country. I am grateful for all the service men and women that did all they could to help those injured on this day 10 years ago. I pray for all the families that have been affected by the tragedy of 9/11 and to all that do what they can to help us remember what being an American means.

*GOD BLESS THE USA*

Jane Erye 2011

2011-09-02T22:46:00.000-07:00

Just watched the new version of this movie and it is awesome!! Chemistry...check! A Mr. Rochester worth swooning over...check! Brooding stares...check! Must watch!

Johnson Family Expanding...

2011-09-02T22:39:00.000-07:00

No, I am not having another baby...still recovering after Erynn, haha! We just found out that my sister-in-law Lisa and her wonderful husband are having another baby!! I am so happy for them. Lisa and G and such awesome people and they have the most adorable little girl...they are thinking this one is a boy. Now they will have a little Lisa and a little G.

This makes me think about my girlies and how big they are getting. Time flies and I can only hope that I am teaching them all they need to know, loving them as much as is humanly possible, and letting them know that NO ONE in this world is their bigger fan than me!!

It also makes me grateful to have an awesome mother, sisters, sisters-in-law and mother-in-law that I can laugh and share the tials of motherhood with. To think that I have all these amazing women in my life that help support, inspire, and motivate me to be a better person is the best!

Here's to growing families and the blessings that babies are!

The People I Missed the Most...

2011-08-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

Well I recently went on a girls weekend to Las Vegas...there was so much to see and do in such a short amount of time. Although I did have fun...I really missed my family. I was so happy to get back to my not so normal or quiet life...it has been hard for me to get back into the swing of things, and I haven't even had my first shift back to work yet!

So upon my arrival, I found that the house was completely cleaned, Lucas said that he and the girls worked on it that weekend on top of having a baby with an ear infection, getting a flat, and working two jobs. What can I say, he is amazing!

I missed my Erynn, having my buddy with me everyday, her smile and the way she always wants to be by my side. She is getting so big and I swear she grew while I was away. I missed how my Avery always rubs on my ears when she hugs me and how she loves to come and show me her "cheer moves" that she practices non-stop. She has the best toe touch and bannana split! I was happy to have had a few calls from my Andie while I was gone, but I think this made me miss her more hearing her voice and knowing that she needed me and I wasn't here for her. She is growing so fast and it is so nice to know that she still needs her mommy from time to time.

Lastly, I missed my husband, my bestfriend. One thing I learned this past weekend, I am not a partier, I am not 20 anymore, and I love being with my husband. I missed having my "wingman". It was so nice to come home and have him with me again, to hold him, and feel him lying there next to me while I slept. I didn't sleep so good in Vegas. Also, I just know that I would have had a better time sharing this time with Lucas and the girls. So in short, I don't think I'll be doing a girls weekend anytime soon, but I am planning a family getaway with my sweet girls and loving husband. My family is my everything, I only hope I can show them this everyday!

Best Surprise

2011-08-19T09:42:00.000-07:00

So my Dad showed up and surprised us yesterday!! He has been in Australia over the past three months and we haven't seen him since Christmas Break! We sure did miss him as evidenced by our not leaving his side for 6hrs yesterday evening. It was great though! The girls love thier Papa so much and hopefull he will be back in AZ for good!

11 Years

2011-08-12T11:44:00.000-07:00

So today is my 11 Year Anniversary!! 11 years of Marriage that is! Lucas and I were married 11 years ago on August 12, 2000 after a 5 year courtship. Many already know this story, but I thought it would fun to reminisce about past memories and share some old pics to show just how much I love this man and am so grateful to have found him when I did! Enjoy!

16 years ago, January 1995, I met Lucas Robert Johnson during my 7th grade PE class. He happened to have PE the same time as me, but at that time he was a Freshman in HS, so the odds of us running into eachother at this time in our lives was not likely. We had just started the semester and we were required to learn Country Dancing. Being a 7th grader and having to dance with Freshman boys, you can imagine I was pretty nervous, embarrassed, and excited! First day of Country Dancing was "Boys Pick". I did not know any Freshman boys at this time and was worried about not getting asked to dance. Low and behold, an adorable blue eyed boy asked if I would be his partner, I said yes.

After a few more weeks of dancing, this same blue eyed boy asked me to be his girlfriend only after tricking me into disclosing to his bestfriend Andy Wright that I liked him and would say yes if he asked me out...little did I know that would lead to 16 years with my bestfriend and 11 years married to a wonderful husband and father. I am so grateful to Lucas for being there for me, for my beautiful daughters, for helping me keep this family together. I look forward to the next 16 years!

Lucas, me and Alisa on my 15th birthday, yes Lucas has make-up on, he just performed in a play, haha!

Lucas and I before Prom my Freshman year, Lucas still to this day loves this dress, I still have it hanging in my closet.
Before Girls Dance Sophmore Year (I think, it is hard to keep track)
Me and Lucas being silly.
Group Pic Lucas' Senior Prom, Andy is right next to him, Thanks again Andy!
Before my Junior Prom
At Lucas' HS Graduation '98
At my Graduation '00
Engagement '00, Lucas asked me to marry him the Summer before I started my Senior year. As you can imagine, my parents weren't thrilled, but we knew what we wanted and waited until after graduation to have the wedding!
Our Wedding Day August 12, 2000! We had a blast!!
Lucas with Andie February 14, 2001!! Andie, named after Lucas' best friend, he has been there trough the good and the bad, so glad that Lucas has a friend like him!
Lucas and Andie
At Lucas' Graduation from NAU '05, preggers with Avery, we loved our time in Flag!! It brought us closer together as a family!

Lucas and his girlies, Andie and Avery born May 27, 2005

Johnson Family in our apartment in Flagstaff, AZ '05

Visiting in Safford for 4th of July right after Avery was born

Andie and Avery my sweet girlies '06

Andie, Lucas, and Avery just before we added another girlie to the mix '09

Lucas and Erynn, born February 8, 2009

Lucas and his girlies '09

Johnson girls Christmas '10

Fall 2011

2011-08-11T11:22:00.000-07:00

I can't believe 2011 is already more than half-way over!! My girlies have all grown so much, we have been so busy with life, and I have really let myself get distracted from what is important...celebrating the joy that my family brings me.

Andie's 1st day of 5th Grade

Andie is now 10-years-old and just started 5th grade. We are so happy that she has Ms. Allred as her teacher this year. Andie is such a smart girl, we have so many hopes for her as she enters into her tween years, it is both scary and exciting. She is such a caring and loving girl, but I can see the occasional sullen teenager just waiting to escape hiding under the surface. Andie has gotten so tall over the summer, she will be taller than me before I know it.

Avery's 1st Day of 1st Grade

Avery turned 6 at the beginning of summer. She was so excited to go back to school this year. I think she mostly missed her friends, but she has been reading and I am so happy to see that she enjoys school. Her goal this summer was to learn how to swim...sure enough she did. We put her in private lessons in July and within 3 weeks she was swimming the length of the pool. Lucas and I are so proud of her. Nothing will stand in her way once she sets her mind to achieving something!
Lucas and the Girls on the 1st Day of School at Granny's House, they always go over before school to take a pic here, Lucas has done this since he was a little boy, I think it's a nice tradition he has started with the girls!

Erynn is 2 1/2-years-old now. We have tried the potty training a few times over the summer...it didn't work out so well. We were told a while back, when she was diagnosed with renal reflux that children with reflux have a harder time potty training, I guess we are seeing that now. I have a hard time being hard on her, she just gets so upset with herself and I hate that pouty look of hers. My mother says it's because she is my last...which is why Lucas is pushing for a fourth, haha
Here are some new pics of the girlies, 1st day of school and new haircuts!!

Erynn with her very 1st hair cut, she did such a good job and I think it came out so adorable, look at that face!!

Andie with her hair short again, I like it like this, but after growing it out all summer, I was surprised she wanted to cut if off. The new thing right now is wearing a feather in your hair, so her she is with a pink one, who would have thought?!?
Avery's hair had gotten so long over summer, she wanted to be Rapunzel for Halloween and was growing it out, well she soon realized with long hair comes tangles (haha), so we trimmed it and it looks so cute now...of course she had to have feathers too, her are smaller though

Christmas Break

2011-01-03T12:23:00.000-08:00

Can't believe that the break is over and my kiddos are back in school :(

We had a really great break though! Luckily, my father was here from Milwaukee and was able to attend dance recitals, open presents, and spend lots of time with the grand kids! The last time he was home in Oct, the baby wasn't real fond of him. This time around, she couldn't stay in his arms long enough!

If I learned anything this break it's that life is too short. My resolution to myself and my family this year is to live each day to the fullest and try to stay busy, rather than letting myself feel tired or depressed! I need to lead by example if I want my kiddos to be active!

Cinnamon Rolls

2010-12-30T00:51:00.001-08:00

There are two things in this world that I can't make, Cinnamon Rolls and Fudge!

Well, I found this recipe for Cinnamon Rolls and I'm going to have to give it a shot:

Cinnamon Rolls
(adapted from Paula Deen via The Feathered Nest)
(always double this recipe - you'll thank me later.)

Dough:
1/4 oz. pkg yeast
1/2 c. warm water
1/2 c. scalded milk
1/3 c. sugar
1/3 c. melted butter (atta girl)
1 t. salt
1 egg
3 1/2 to 4 c. flour (sometimes I'll use a little bit of whole wheat flour...makes a GREAT flavor!)

Filling: (I never measure this part, but if you're not into eyeballing it, here you go)
1/2 c. melted butter
3/4 c. sugar
2 T. ground cinnamon
1 c. chopped walnuts or pecans

Glaze:
4 T. melted butter (can't get enough)
2 c. powdered sugar
1 t. vanilla
pinch of salt
canned milk

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water, set aside. In a large mixing bowl, mix milk, sugar, melted butter, salt and egg. Add 2 c. flour and mix until smooth. Add yeast mixture. Mix in remaining flour until dough is easy to handle (not too much flour, though). Knead on lightly floured surface for 5-10 minutes (or in your mixer). Place in well-greased bowl; cover and let rise until doubled in size, usually 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

When dough is doubled in size, punch down dough. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Roll out on a well floured surface into a 15 x 9 inch rectangle. Spread melted butter all over dough. Mix cinnamon and sugar; sprinkle over buttered dough. Sprinkle with nuts. Roll up dough and pinch edge together to seal. Cut into slices.

Coat bottom of baking pan with butter. Place cinnamon roll slices close together in the pan and let rise until doubled - about 30-45 minutes. Bake for about 30 minutes until nicely browned.

Meanwhile, mix butter, powdered sugar, pinch of salt & vanilla. Add canned milk a little at a time until glaze is smooth, a little thick. Spread over slightly cooled rolls.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-30T00:28:00.001-08:00

So I have been so terrible with blogging this past year, and I'm going to try to catch-up...that is a really scary thought for me! But my 2011 goal is to blog more, yeah!!

This month we had dance recitals, music programs, birthdays, and Christmas!!

On December 15th and 16th Andie and Avery had their Christmas Music programs, they were so cute. Andie learned how to play the Recorder this year and she practiced a ton. She was so cute and super excited to perform, they did a really great job!

Avery sang along with the other Kindergartner's, first and second graders. She looked so cute, despite her meltdown that morning. She was so upset because she couldn't find her dress shoes and then her coat and was super mad when I made her change out of her black skirt and into jeans. We left the house to her yelling "I look so ugly". It was very stressful, but I was so happy to see her smiling once she was on stage an hour later.

On December 18th, Andie and Avery had their Christmas recitals. Andie has been doing Poms since this past summer and she seems to really enjoy it. I was so proud of her, she smiled and did her movements so sharp! Avery is doing Jazz and Ballet this year and danced to "Hannah's Rockin' Christmas". She looked like she had Mexican jumping beans in her tights. She smiled and looked like she was having such a great time! It is crazy for me to think that this time next year Erynn will be doing her first Recital...oh how time flies!

The girls were spoiled again this year...will I ever learn? Santa brought scooters and guitars. Andie and Erynn both got scooters, although Andie's is a little small, I don't think Santa knew she had grown so much this past year. Avery is our little Taylor Swift in the making and asked for a guitar, she is trying to figure out how to play jingle bells on it, too cute! They also received a very large dollhouse (that took Lucas and I 2hrs to put together), barbies, clothes, dresses, jackets, and a pillow pet!

I was super surprised by my Christmas. I had already bought myself a new watch and jacket and so told Lucas not to worry about getting me anything. I was driving into the garage a few days before Christmas and saw a box from Amazon, I instantly thought that it was this book I had been wanting "Non But You", I began to get excited! Christmas morning, Lucas hands me the present and I realize how light it is and instantly think "this can't be the book, it's not heavy enough". So I begin to open the present and see that sure enough, it's from Amazon, but it's a Kindle! I was shocked, I would never have guessed that. To top it off, Lucas had purchased the book that I wanted along with it's sequel and already had them on my Kindle!

It made me feel so bad, since all I got Lucas was his yearly Nikes and Fossil watch, so I had him open his Birthday present early, "Band Hero" for XBOX. We have already played this a few times and the it is such a fun gift for any family. Even the baby plays, she got 20% correct on the drums, haha!

It has been so great spending all this time with my family and even more special to have my father home again. We will be so sad when he leaves next week, but excited for him to go to Australia! This weekend we are all heading over to Phoenix to visit more family and eat out at the O Garden!

Happy Holidays to everyone and have a safe New Year!

The Greatest Gifts of All

2010-07-17T21:17:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take a few moments and express the joy that my children have brought into my life. On FB, I read about a The Sullenger Family and how they just lost their 18-month-old after a drowning accident. Their story is truly heartbreaking, but made me realize the sweet joys that I have in my life.

Being a mother is the most challenging, giving, and loving job I'll ever have. To be given this responsibility has shown me what life and love are truly about. It makes me so grateful for my wonderful parents, for the love they show me and my family, I would be lost without their example.

My Andie is growing so fast. At times I feel that I am so hard on her, but I know that she has so much potential, I can only push her to be the best that she can be in everything that she does. She is so loving and caring, such a good big sister, it makes me both happy and sad to see how mature she is. She is only 9 and yet I can't wait to see the woman she grows into.

My Avery is full of spirit. She is such a beautiful and lovable child. I worry about her more than the others, because she is such a free spirit. Such a little determined thing, when she sets her mind to something, she will do it. I see this drive in her and know that she is strong and can overcome any challenge that might come her way.

My Erynn is such a little firecracker. Who says she's a baby?? She thinks she is as big as her sisters. I know that she is strong, she has proven to be a fighter already. She loves her family so much and will do anything to make you laugh. We would be lost without her.

We have had our ups and downs and no one knows what the future will hold for them. All I can do is pray that they are strong, happy, safe, and loved.

Busy Summer Days!

2010-07-13T16:27:00.000-07:00

So today has been one of those busy days. This week started "Dance Camp". I can't tell you how sentimental it makes me to have my daughters dancing at the same dance studio that I danced at. It's crazy to see Avery with the same dance teacher that I had and to have Andie working with a girl that I danced with for years! Great thing about small towns. I LOVE the Safford Dance Academy and think that Jenny Rogers does a great job there!

Andie is trying a Pom Class out for the first time ever. I sort of feel bad for her now, because I can definitely see where she needs to work. This is MY area of expertise, (well at least I think so). She came into the lobby halfway through and says, "Mom, my legs hurt." Julie and I just laughed because we know she is going to be sore tomorrow, ;). Avery is doing a combo class. When I explained to here what the classes would be, she says to me, "but I don't have jazz shoe" I explained that we were just trying jazz out and she didn't have to have jazz shoes, then she realized that I said tumbling. And was like, "oh, I can tumble". It was really cute and I hope that they enjoy their classes.

Andie also started up piano lessons again today. I can't tell you how great it is to have an awesome pianist in the family. Lucas' mother, Julie, is here right now and teaching Andie how to play the piano. I never learned and it is nice to know that my kiddos will learn and from some they love very much! Thanks Grandma Julie! Your the best!

Great Hubby!

2010-07-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

My hubby proves yet again that he is the awesomest hubby every.

He got a phone call today from his HS buddy and he told Lucas that he wants him to go out to L.A. again to hang out. I was not thrilled, but this is sort of a tradition. Well Lucas researches how much it is going to cost to get over there and it turns out to be like $200.00. I was like, well whatever you want to do, but I didn't think it was fair that we, as a family are not able to go on vacation this year, so why should he get to go? (I know selfish!) I even brought up the fact that some work buddies had talked about going to Vegas and that I could tag along. I reminded him how I decided not to spend the money on myself and how it would be better to go with him anyway.

Well, the next thing I know, he is researching Vegas trips and then tries to talk me into going to Vegas for our Anniversary. He is so sweet! Here I am trying to get him not to leave me and he decides he wants to run away with me!

In the end, I reminded him that we all really want to get back to Indiana/Wisconsin to see our fathers and how great it would be to do that next summer, so why not save our money for that trip. We'll see what he decides to do, but either way, I can't be mad at him anymore. ;)

FLORENCE AND THE MACHINE - COSMIC LOVE LYRICS

2010-07-10T01:07:00.000-07:00

This song embodies what I LOVE about TWILIGHT!

A falling star fell from your heart
And landed in my eyes
I screamed aloud, as it tore through them
And now it's left me blind

The stars, the moon, they have all been blown out
You left me in the dark
No dawn, no day, I'm always in this TWILIGHT
In the shadow of your heart

And in the dark, I can hear your heartbeat
I tried to find the sound
But then it stopped and I was in the darkness
So darkness I became

The stars, the moon, they have all been blown out
You left me in the dark
No dawn, no day, I'm always in this TWILIGHT
In the shadow of your heart

I took the stars from my eyes and then I made a map
And knew that somehow I could find my way back
Then I heard your heart beating, you were in the darkness too
So I stayed in the darkness with you

The stars, the moon, they have all been blown out
You left me in the dark
No dawn, no day, I'm always in this TWILIGHT
In the shadow of your heart

The stars, the moon, they have all been blown out
You left me in the dark
No dawn, no day, I'm always in this TWILIGHT
In the shadow of your heart

-Florence a + The Machine

Where has the time gone?

2010-07-10T00:42:00.000-07:00

Have decided that it has been way to stinkin' long since I blogged and need to get back to archiving these amazing times with my kiddos! I will need to play catch-up, but for now I'll post what has happened recently.

I took the girls to go see Despicable Me today, it was great and they loved it! Super cute movie and if you get sentimental like me, take Kleenex!

Recently watched the 3rd instalment of the TWILIGHT SAGA: ECLIPSE! I don't care what anyone says, I love these books and I don't care if I have to sit through a less than perfect movie to get my cravings sated!

Currently reading the House of Night Novels. They are NO TWILIGHT, but if you are looking for a new vampire novel to "sink your teeth into", try this one out. But BEWARE, crude language and some suggestive scenes (very suggestive)!

New with the kiddos:

1. Andie now has reading glasses and had all her hair chopped, she looks super cute, but way tooo grown up!

2. Avery is anxious to start school in the Fall, but she is READY!

3. Erynn is doing great! She is healthy and so much fun!

We have had a few birthdays, a few trials, loved moving far away and loved ones passing on. Most recently my grandmother :(. Still to raw to go there...

The Kneeling Santa Prayer

2009-12-24T19:13:00.000-08:00

So that all may remember what Christmas is all about. Even Santa knows the true meaning of Christmas.

"The sleigh was was all packed, the reindeer were fed, But Santa still knelt by the side of his bed, "Dear Father, " he prayed, "Be with me tonight. There's much work to do and my schedule is tight. My sack will hold toys to grant all kids' wishes. The supply will be endless like the loaves and the fishes. I can do all these things, Lord, only through You. I just need your blessing, then it's easy to do. I do this only to honor the birth of the One, That was sent to redeem us, Your most Holy Son. So to all of my friends, lest Your glory I rob, Please, Lord, remind them who gave me this job"

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2009-12-24T18:57:00.001-08:00

Myspace Chistmas Comments

So we have had a very crazy last few months. I have a ton of pics and things to blog about. Most recent, would be Christmas week.

I have been busy making and crocheting beanies. I can't believe how well this has been going for me and a big thank you to everyone that either purchased a beanie or passed the word along. I will soon be selling my beanies at the new Consignment Store downtown, early next year.

I have also been very busy sewing and being crafty and cooking with my kiddos which has been very fun!!

Most exciting for us is that my oldest sister, Angela and here husband arrived from Hawaii to spend Christmas with us and during all THIS excitement, my little sister, Alisa decided to have high blood pressure and get induced to have here baby!! It has been a long 24hrs for her, but we all know the end result is worth it!!

Please keep Alisa, Todd, and Baby Wolfe in your prayers!!!

Erynn Kinley

2009-12-22T05:50:00.000-08:00

Erynn

10-months-old

Love her eyes in this pic, this is all Erynn

I love the "look"

She has the sweetest smile

You know she has so much too say, can't wait for her to start talking

Such a big girl

GIVEAWAY

2009-11-12T09:27:00.000-08:00

Made 2 Match Holiday Bow

It is that time again, I am hosting a new GIVEAWAY!! Stop by my blog Lil' Cutie Hair Bows.

All entries need to be in by Dec 1st. Up for grabs, custom hair bows to match you lil' cutie's Holiday Dress!

Pictured is a bow I just completed for a new friend. The winners' will be similar, but made to match!

Where's Avery?

2009-10-25T17:14:00.000-07:00

So I was taking a nap, I had to work the night shift and my sweet husband comes in. Wakes me with a kiss on the cheek and tell me that he and our neighbor can't find the girls. When I say girls I mean, the 4-year-olds.

As I get up and outside, I can hear my Andie yelling for Avery, I see my neighbor coming down the sidewalk and I look across the street and there they are. Coming out of a house that is for sale. No one live there right now and it has one of those real estate locks on it. I tell Avery's friend to close the door and head home and I yell to Avery to get in the house.

Just then I see Lucas coming down the street in our car. I explain that they just walked out of the house across the street and he head inside to deal with Avery, so glad I didn't have to do that.

I walk into the vacant house, there is nothing there, except two pairs of shoes. I walk into one of the rooms and find Avery's socks and on top of the kitchen counter is a paper. I look at it and it is a real estate page for people who view the house to leave their contact information. I look down and there are two name added to this list. It now has Avery's and her friend's name on the paper. I am only telling this story from my daughter's perspective and will leave it up to my neighbor to admit her daughter was involved or not. Sorry for the secretiveness.

Anyway, I am so glad to see that everything turned out O.K. and they are safe, but when put in that situation, all the bad things that could have happened start to enter your head. Let's just say that Avery will not be playing for awhile now.

Random Bits of Information

2009-10-17T20:59:00.000-07:00

Erynn is getting so mobile. She stands and climbs now. This is a place Andie likes to play peek-a-boo at. Don't you just love that adorable little face!

I love to do my girls hair and it is getting harder and harder to find cute new ways. I found this great blog called piggiesnponies.blogspot.com. They have some really cute ways to do hair. Especially for Andie, since I cut it and she is getting older. No more french braids or piggies.

I love reading LDS romance novels and my favorite is "Dusty Britches" by Marcia Lynn McClure. Well she came to Bookworms today and I had the chance to meet her get her to sing my copy of "Dusty Britches" and "Visions of Ransom Lake". I was super excited.

My Andie stayed in line with me and she got a pic too. She had fun talking to Ms. McClure and her husband. She was quite a hit.

We even had her husband Kevin sign his pic at the back of my books.

I did in fact have an epiphany today. You see the pic of me with Marcia and Kevin, will I was appalled. I can't believe how big I have gotten. So, I figure I spend so much time to my blogging her and my bows, I am now dedicating time to my Weight Loss Journey Blog. So please check in from time to time, I would love your support.

Almost to 10 for the Hair Bow of the Month Club!

2009-10-16T16:23:00.000-07:00

So this is in regards to my (Hopefully) soon to start Bow of the Month Club! I Have 4 lovely ladies interested and in need of 6 more to get this this rolling. If you are interested, check out my post on what to expect!

Lil' Cutie's Hair Bow of the Month Club

Bow of the Month Club!

2009-10-13T14:01:00.001-07:00

So here is how it will work.

Starting November 23rd, I will post about the December bow of the month, you will have a few options. Just in time for Christmas! You pick the bow you want. Individual bows will be $3.00 (including shipping) and sets will be $5 (including shipping).

You have until December 12th to place orders and pay through PayPal. I will mail them out as soon as payment is received, so the sooner you act, the sooner you get your bows.

And of course, I love getting pics of the bows in use, so feel free to email me your lil' cutie's pics.

If this sounds like something you would like to do, then just comment on this post, that way I can get a mailing list ready!! I have already had a few people interested, but I would like to get at least 10!

So spread the word!

Go to lilcutiehairbows.blogspot.com

8 Months

2009-10-12T05:49:00.000-07:00

8 Months!! Can you believe it!?!? From 7-8 months, so much has happened. Erynn is sleeping through the night, Finally!! She is all over the house and getting really fast. She has cut two teeth, her bottom two.

Erynn and her silly sister Andie, don't you just love her piggies. Our babysitter Mareisa put those in her hair the other day. I was in shock, or maybe denial. My baby is getting so big!

We also go "Your Baby Can Read" from my brother-in-law Isaac and have been working with the that now, so we will see.

Believe it or not, she is pulling up and standing all by herself. We had to move her bed down so she wouldn't fall out. We have been swaddling her up to sleep at night the past 7 1/2 months and are now just laying her down unswaddled and she is doing great! Funny thing is, she likes to sleep with her teddy bear on her head, Go Figure.

I know this one is a little blurry, but Avery took this picture. I thought it was so adorable, the smile on Erynn's face. This shows you how well my girlies get along. Only Avery can make her smile like this.

Frustrated

2009-10-06T16:34:00.000-07:00

So, I have to work tonight and the next two nights. I have the best kiddos ever. I layed both Avery and Erynn down around 2pm. Avery just woke up and Andie is home from school doing her homework and Erynn is still sleeping. Did I get any sleep. NO!! I layed there for an hour and a half, just layed there. I am finding it harder and harder to nap these days, yet I go to bed super late because my body is used to being up all night when I work.

I know this is not good. A friend at work told me that sleep deprivation can lead to Alzheimer's! Plus, it's not like I have a ton of energy when I am awake. It's just plane FRUSTRATING!

Night Shift

2009-09-29T05:08:00.000-07:00

I am just about to get off a stretch of three night shifts. That is 6PM to 6AM. It is hard! You would think that by now I would be used to it, but here I am, 5:04AM and so tired.

My only gripe is that I work days and nights. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy working both shifts. I have great co-workers and it is nice to change things every now and then. Take this week for instance, I worked Monday night, (which means I will sleep until about noon), I'm off Tuesday, off Wednesday and then work Thursday day shift. I really have a day and a half off.

I know I should complain. I am very grateful to have a job that I truly enjoy. Just this weekend I was able to be the nurse for a family member. It was nice to be a part of their special day. You know this is a small town and we run into a lot of people everyday. I can't tell you how many friends I have seen just after they delivered or just before.

Anywho, these are my thoughts early in the morning, with very little sleep. I can hear my bed calling to me!

Something so Beautiful!

2009-09-23T09:20:00.000-07:00

They just "topped" the Gila Valley Temple. It has been so great to watch the temple rise from the ground up. I feel so lucky to have a temple so close. It is truly a wondrous site and it's purpose is so great!! My girls love to pass by the temple, their little eyes get so big!

I didn't realize how beautiful Mt. Graham was until I moved away. Now I feel lucky to see this everyday!

The beautiful Arizona Sun!

While I am taking a moment to reflect on what I am grateful for here is a small list:

1. I am grateful for temples and what they represent. I think it is so important to have some thing that makes you want to be a better person. Besides my family, the temple makes me want to be a better person.

To think that we all have the opportunity to be a family for Eternity is amazing.

2. I am grateful for my visiting teachers. I have know Sis. Henson forever. She has always been someone that I have looked up too. She and her husband and their wonderful girls have been friends of my family for a very long time and I feel so lucky to have had her grow closer to my family these last couple of years. Then there is Sis. Romney. She is such a grate example and a caring person. (Oh and she makes the best Chicken Enchiladas.) I feel so much better after a visit from them. They share their stories and listen to mine. I never feel judged when they are around and I can only hope to touch someone else's life as they have touched mine.

3. I am grateful for the Priesthood. The gift that the Priesthood offers is so wonderful and helpful. I love my Home Teachers. They are two very great men and have been there for my family in times of need. When Erynn was in the hospital they came and gave her a blessing.

4. I am grateful for the Holy Spirit. I know that I am not alone and when I feel like things couldn't get any worse, my Spirit is there to help pull me out of my slump and remind all the good that I have in my life. I can't tell you how many times the Holy Spirit has been there to aid me in my job and has given me the knowledge to care for others. I am grateful that my oldest now carries the Holy Spirit with her and I know that when I'm diligent in my church attendance and scripture reading, my Spirit grows stronger.

I know that I am far from perfect and that I have so much to work on. But I feel lucky to have so many great examples in my life. People that show me what I would like to one day achieve. I can only hope that I turn into to someone that my daughters can look up to. I hope that my testimony can be helpful to them when they are feeling frustrated, doubtful, or lost.

Funny Things Avery Said Today

2009-09-17T23:51:00.000-07:00

1. Over dinner, trying to get her to eat her Chicken Pot Pie.
Lucas -"Avery you need to eat or no dessert."
Avery- "Dad, you are over reacting!"

2. In the car after Lucas and I were arguing over something.
Avery - "Stop! Now give each other a kiss."
Lucas and I kiss.
Avery - "Now say you love each other."
(This is what I make the girls do after they have had an argument.)

4 is such a fun age!

VCUG Results

2009-09-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

So I posted last that we were heading to Tucson for another check on Erynn's kidneys. Well her Renal Ultrasound came back showing that her kidneys were looking good and free from any infections or inflammation.

As for the VCUG, well I knew it was going to get bad the older she got. She was definitely more wiggly and cried for the last portion of the exam. Results were good though. It looks like things are as they were last time, Grade 2 on the right and Grade 3 on the left, but the radiologist said it looked like things were a little better. We are heading in the right direction. Another 6 months and we follow up with Dr. Killion. I already have my appointment with her Pediatric Nephrologist in March.

My little sister had her counseling session. It turns out that her baby will have to follow up with Erynn's Pediatric Nephrologist as well. The counselor suggested that we just schedule our appointments together. What a small coincidence. All my girls have been healthy, except for Erynn's kidney issue and here my sister is going to have a baby with kidney issues as well. I guess this is a way for us to relate to each others trials and a way for us to grow closer, even though we are very close already.

Well, that is all the time I have right now. I need to get on the ball with my blogging.

7 Months

2009-09-09T23:50:00.000-07:00

Here we are, another month gone by. I can't believe it. Erynn is getting so big so fast. She is having a rough patch, waking up more often at night. Can't decide if it's teething or growth spurts. I refuse to believe she is a "naughty" baby. We are getting ready to try juices. I am sure she will love this. Lucas said that today at the sitters, she was gumming a cracker. We have yet to try this out at home, so we were pretty surprised and nervous to see her with one in her hand. As you know, at this age, everything goes in the mouth.

She is all over the place, she has really got the crawling down. Lucas can't believe how fast she is now. It is so much fun to see her crawling and then she stops, looks at you with her beautiful blue eyes and gives you one of her fabulous smiles.

We are getting ready for another trip to Tucson. We have been so grateful that she has not had anymore kidney infections. They are going to do another VCUG. We will get to see how her reflux is doing and whether it is improving. Wouldn't that be good news!!! I am not looking forward to it. At her last visit, she was still really small and just laid there. I have a feeling it will be so much harder this time. Did I mention she is crawling all over the place. I just hope that this doesn't hurt and that later on she will have issues getting undressed or not trusting people. I guess as long as she is not sick, we can all manage. Luckily, Lucas is coming with me this time. We are meeting Alisa and Todd in Tucson, she is going to see a Genetic Counselor. I am just hoping that we all get good news.

Again, I have to just put it out there that I love my family so much, all my family. I am so grateful to have such support and love, especially when times are tough.

Anywho, here are some pics over the last month.

Not a great picture, but you can see how big she is in her walker. She is actually starting to move around in it! Just yesterday she moved from the kitchen to the living room.

Look at how big is looks. Her hair is getting so long. She has the most hair of all my girls at this age. Can you imagine when she gets older?

Just look at that sweet face. She is such a happy baby and we all think her smile and fat cheekies are contagious.

Erynn spending some time with her grandmas. Grandma Maggie is on the left and Nana is on the right. My grandma (Grandma Maggie) is always saying how much she wants to bite her. I can totally relate. It is so much fun to see my baby interact with my grandmother. I am so grateful for the time that we have with her. I can tell how much she loves my girls. I only wish that they had had the chance to get to know my father's mother. My grandma Provencio was a kind and loving woman. I know that they will get to meet her when we return to our heavenly father. I am also missing my Aunt and Grandpas. There are so many people that we have lost, but ours lives are so much better for having them around.

Final Reminder!

2009-09-07T15:15:00.000-07:00

This is your last chance to enter in my 1st Hair Bow GIVEAWAY!!

Thanks to everyone that has already entered. I can't wait to find out who wins!!!

Current Ponderings

2009-09-02T13:10:00.001-07:00

Over the last few weeks, things around here have been kind of hectic and busy. We are still trying to get into a routine with school back in session and all.

I am so grateful to be home with my baby as much as I am. I swear, I spend most days cuddling with her, watching her crawl, babble, and smile. We have been so lucky to have found out about Erynn's kidney issues so young and have been able to treat her as needed to prevent any future illnesses. She is full of like, I couldn't imagine my life without her. I am so grateful that her condition is something she could eventually outgrow and that it is not something more serious. This made me think about the time that I spend with my other girls.

Andie is getting older and wanting to do the girlfriend thing. I am so grateful that she has so many friends and one that lives so close to us. She always has something she is wanting to do, (which at times can be a bad thing). We are starting to head into that TWEEN stage with her and I feel like I am missing out on things. Even though this transitional phase is getting tougher, I am so grateful for such a smart daughter. I would rather have a daughter that can argue her point rather than succeed to everything. She is hard headed and I pray that it benefits her in the future.

Then there is my Avery. She has always been our "problem child" but only in the fact that she is more stubborn than the other two put together. Avery has a wild spirit and can drive me crazy at times, but I am so glad that I have one more year home with her. It is never a boring day with her around. Just today, we drove to Pima and got a slush at Taylor Freeze. As we were passing through Central and by the New Temple. Avery looks up and says "Wow, look at the temple, it's wonderful!" I agreed with her and then she shared with me, "We are going to go there."

If you don't know, Lucas and I have never been. Just when we think we are on the right track, life happens. It has been a tough road, but I know that I love Lucas with all my heart and I want to spend Eternity with no other. Hearing my 4-year-old share this with me made me ponder all that is at stake and make me grateful for the Temple, what it represents and for a church that teaches good values to families. This past August was 9 years of marriage for Lucas and I. I know in my heart that we will be sealed to our family, one of these days. I know that as a family we can get through and accomplish anything.

I love my family so much and pray daily that I can be the mother and wife that they deserve. I hope that anyone that reads this, remembers to be grateful for the good and the bad.

Sorry, just my thoughts at this moment.

Just a Reminder

2009-08-31T07:58:00.001-07:00

Just a quick reminder that there are only 14 more day for my Halloween Korker Bow GIVEAWAY!

Yesterday

2009-08-27T12:48:00.000-07:00

So yesterday was a huge day for us. In the morning, I am awaken to my 6 1/2 month old mumbling what sounds like "Momomom". I get her out of her crib and sure enough, her little mouth is opening and closing, but nothing coming out. And then, "Mom"! I was so excited. Well, I yelled for Lucas to come in, there we all were, girls and daddy, she says "Mom mom". It went on all day. In fact, I just heard her say it right now (she is supposed to be sleeping), be right back.

Then, I get a phone call from my sister, she found out what she was having and it's a. . . . . . . . . BOY!!!! We are all so excited for her. You don't understand, girls out number boys in this family like 3:1. I have 5 Aunts and 2 Uncles. Most of my cousins are girls and they have girls as well. Not to bring up the fact that I have 2 sisters, no brothers, and 3 daughters and no sons. Having a baby boy around will so much fun, even if it is Todd's (just kidding). They have a few names picked, one that is a favorite (I'm not a huge fan of, but won't say anything from this point forward, because they are like children and will name the kid that just to spite me and everyone else). So, CONGRATULATIONS ALISA AND TODD!!!!!

Last and probably most exciting for me, my Erynn started to crawl. She has been on hands and knees for months now and trying to crawl for weeks. I spend a lot of time on the ground trying to get her to crawl to me and moving her arms and legs in the right direction. So, Todd comes over (my brother-in-law) and leaves his sunglasses on the ground. Before I know it, there she goes. I couldn't believe it. I grabbed my camera and of course she wouldn't do it. I waited and waited and then got lucky.

So here it is, Erynn Kinley Johnson, 6 1/2 months old, crawling on Aug 26, 2009.

My First GIVEAWAY!

2009-08-24T22:22:00.000-07:00

I am doing my first GIVEAWAY as a blogger. It is to get more traffic to my Hair Bow Blog.

Up for grabs, the Halloween Korker Flower Bows pictured below.

Here's how to qualify:

Comment on my Hair Bow Blog (lilcutiehairbows.blogspot.com), each comment is good for 1 entry.

Blog about my Hair Bow Blog and leave a link so I can read it, good for 1 entry.

The top three bloggers will win a set of Halloween Korkers, but to sweeten the deal, there will also be a Surprise Gift to the 1st Place Blogger. It could be anything from a set of bows, a headband w/ coordinating bow, or a beanie w/ coordinating bow. It all depends on what that winner shows interest in. I will be reading your posts and will decide the Surprise Gift from what you comment.

Giveaway ends September 14th and will be announced September 21st. This way the winner will have their bows for the whole of October!

If you are wondering what these look like in place, here are a few pictures of ways to wear.

Late Entry: 1st Day of School

2009-08-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

So this is coming a little late, but better late than never. I have just been so busy lately. My

Lucas and the girls on the first day of school. Don't you just love Lucas' hideous Hawaiian shirt. The whole THS staff wore them on the first day of school.

My sweet girls, I can't believe how big they are getting.

Andie is starting 3rd Grade, I can't even believe it. She was so excited for school to start, missing her friends a bunch. We have been grateful for the wonderful friends that Andie had made last year. She kept in touch with many of them over the summer. Savannah had her over a few times and she played with Alyssa (Savannah's cousin a bunch as well). Brynlee and Kaitlyn had her over for birthday parties and Kylie and Andie had a chance to form a friendship that we hope will grow throughout the school year. This year Andie has Brynlee and Kaitlyn in her class again with Mrs. Scoggins being her teacher. Some old friends are in her class as well, Kayden and Michael Marie. This was the first year that Andie was kind of not wanting me to drop her off at school. I explained, too bad. I will be dropping her off at school until she graduates from H.S. Won't that be so funny her Senior year and I am dropping her off at the H.S. Hey, I carried her in my belly for nearly 10 months, I think that it is my maternal right to see her off to school on the first day.

Avery is starting Pre-school at Shiningstars Pre-School, run my Aubrey Larson and Emily Curtis. We had a meet and greet night. There are so many old friend kids in her class. It is fun to see how we have all aged and how our families have grown. It will be fun over the next couple of years to see our kids grow up together and the friendships that they will make.

Avery and Miss Aubrey

Avery posing at Granny's (this is a 1st day of school tradition that dates back to when Lucas was a little boy.)

My big girl Andie at Granny's. I just found her Kindergarten photo. I was going to post that one as well, but decided to hold off until next year when Avery starts Kindergarten. It will fun to compare the two of them.

Just for fun, (sorry so blurry), Andie found her Witches hat from Halloween a few years back and put it on Erynn. Doesn't just look so CUTE!!

Oh My Gosh

2009-08-22T06:41:00.001-07:00

I forgot to write how big Erynn was at her 6-month-check up. Well, she was

17.8 lbs

27 3/4 inches tall.

Thank you Jen for reminding me.

My Funny Kiddos

2009-08-22T06:32:00.001-07:00

Just last night, we were at my parents house. As we were getting into the car, Avery started complaining that she had to go to the bathroom. We seriously live like 5 min away from my parents house, I told her she needed to hold it. She was like "I'm going to pee my pants." My dad got after me and told me she could go there and pulled her out of the car. Well when they got back to the car, I was harassing my dad telling him that he was not that nice to us when we were little. Avery then turns to me and say "Mom, you were never little."

A few days ago, I'm not sure what I was doing, but we were in the car and I was putting my arm over my head. My Andie then tell me every so nicely, that my arm is all jiggly. I couldn't help but laugh. Out of the mouth of babes. This give me more of an incentive to lose some weight, plus we are having family pictures done in Nov. 10 weeks to go.

My Crazy Lucas

2009-08-20T10:24:00.000-07:00

I had to post this hilarious picture of Lucas. Andie was playing with the camera the other day and captured this. We laughed so hard. It doesn't look anything like him.

6 Months

2009-08-20T10:06:00.000-07:00

Erynn Kinley Johnson, 6-months-old

Such a happy girl with Daddy.

Can you believe it!!! Erynn is already 6-months-old. She is getting so big. She has the most adorable squirrel cheeks. She is such a happy baby. It has been so fun watching her learn and grow. She is sitting up all by herself now and every once in a while she is able to readjust and stop from falling. She is doing hands and knees now and wiggling her booty all around. She wants to crawl so badly, I know it will happen any day now. Her hair is getting so long. I was able to put a ponytail in the other day.

My sweet little Erynn sitting up.

Hands and Knees time.

This is Erynn trying so suck out the apples juice. She kind of looks like a Pirate here.

Sleeping in her crib, what a funny face, wonder what she was dreaming about.

Late Entry

2009-08-19T20:12:00.000-07:00

Well, before school started, my husband went off to L.A. to hang out with his HS buddies. It was just me and my girlies for an entire weekend. The last day, before Lucas came home, my sweet Andie woke me up to breakfast in bed. It was Eggos, bacon (nearly raw) and orange juice. It was so sweet. I don't have those fancy trays that you can prop up over your legs, so she served me on a cookie sheet. Too cute!!!

9 Years/1st Day of School

2009-08-12T20:27:00.000-07:00

So I have a bunch to blog about, but I am working a three day stretch of nights, so not really much time.

So Andie had her first day of 3rd grade today and Avery her first day of Pre-school. Both girls were really excited and I feel really lucky that I never had to do the whole cry-themselves-silly-because-they-didn't-want-me-to-leave thing. I am having a hard time believing that that my Andie is as old and as big as she is. She really didn't want me to walk her to her class today, but I was like, too bad. I am a mommy and that is one of my rights, right? Avery was running off when I had to call her back and take a pic with her teacher. To think that next year she will be riding the bus, that is so scary.

Today is also my Wedding Anniversary. Lucas and I have been married for 9 years. I know that this is going to sound so cheesy and some of you may be like "whatever." We are so happy. Yes we have had our ups and downs, but at this point in my life, we are closer than ever. We have been so blessed in our lives and are so grateful for our wonderful family. I am so lucky to have found Lucas when I did. I love him so much and he is so good to me and the girls.

I love you Lucas and can't wait for the next 9 years.

My Silly Little Avery

2009-08-09T21:15:00.000-07:00

So last night I was at my parents house for dinner. Well over the past couple of days, Avery is in one of those doesn't want to eat moods. She takes a few bites, but then she doesn't feel good. Well same thing happened last night. We were done eating, all of us except Avery. She was wondering into the living room moaning and groaning that she didn't feel good. Only a few moments before that she was asking me for a piece of cake. She walks up to my mother complaining of her stomach hurting. I tell my mother, "Don't believe her, she is full of crap." Well my mother turns to Avery and says, "What's the matter, you don't feel good?" Aver turns to my mother and say "Yeah, I'm full of crap." We all started laughing.

Just this afternoon. I asked Avery to clean up a mess that she had made in the bathroom. I walk in about 10 min later to find her wiping down the cabinets with something that looked white. I'm standing there trying to think of what it could be, when I realize that there is a suspicious minty smell coming from the bathroom. I realize that Avery is cleaning the cabinets with toothpaste, yes, white minty toothpaste. My initial reaction was to be mad, but after a few moments, I couldn't help but laugh. This will be just another memory of my sweet Avery. Cleaning up the bathroom with toothpaste.

5 Months

2009-07-27T22:02:00.000-07:00

I am such a bad mommy. It has taken me this long to post Erynn's 5-month pics and there are only a few. Erynn is eating so much and growing like a weed. She has the tummy time down to a T, she rolls all over the place, lately in circles. She loves to play with things that crinkle and grab anything in front of her. She is such a joy. I love her so much, I could seriously just eat her. I love her chunky cheeks and the crazy way she looks at me when I pull out the camera.

Erynn playing in her walker, these days she prefers to be upright to laying on her back.

I can't get over how much she is growing, look at that face!!!

Hanging out with Daddy and Uncle Leon.

Getting ready for dinner, see what I mean about the face.

Diamondsback's Game

2009-07-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

We kicked off our vacation by going to a Diamondback's Game. It was the D-backs vs. Marlins. The score was 7 D-backs to 4 Marlins going into the 8th inning. The girls were getting tired, so I told Lucas we should head out. Cantu hit a home run as we were leaving, it turned out that the Marlins kicked our butt. The final score, D-backs 7 the Marlins 14. I'm glad we left when we did. We sat in the "All You Can Eat Seats". It was nice to not have to worry about dinner. Not bad, Dinner and a Baseball game for $30.00. I would do it again. We had to call it an early night, we flew out to Indianan the next morning. I am happy to report the plane ride wasn't too bad, especially with three kids.

It seems I'm never in the pictures, so here was my attempt to include myself.

My scruffy husband.

The girls enjoying some popcorn.

Amish Country

2009-07-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

We had the opportunity to visit an Amish settlement. We had lunch there, it was great. They served lunch like it was Thanksgiving on platters and in bowls that you just passed around. The food was so good and it was a really nice restaurant. They had space downstairs where they sold home decor like Family wall hangings and a ton of Christian plaques. I wish that I had had room in my suitcase, there were so many things that I loved there. They had this huge mercantile that they converted into like a mall. I had three levels and a ton of different stores from scrapbooking to music shops to ceramics and candy. They also had buggy rides. It was so crazy driving into the town and seeing a ton of horse drawn buggies

One of the buggies.

Erynn trying Banana Cream Pie, the pies there were so good. Erynn couldn't get enough.

Out to lunch.

A quick family pic.

The Blue Gate Restaurant.

A silly toad that we passed at a ceramic shop. They were everywhere, this was the biggest.

American Girl

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

I was so happy to have had the chance to take my girls to the American Girl store in Chicago. I have to admit that this was something that I was looking forward to doing. When I was Andie's age, I wanted an American Girl doll so badly. I was so fun getting to see all the dolls and the way they are displayed. I honestly think that every little girl should go there once in their life. I am so grateful to Michelle, Lucas' step-sister for taking me and my girls to Chicago for the day. Michelle's little girls Madison and Kyra were so sweet and I am glad the Andie and Avery got spend time with them and also with Kayla, Lucas' step-sister Kerrie's daughter. We got to spend more time with the kids later on in the Vaca when we went swimming over at a cousins house. I was so fun to see all the kids getting along.

Avery and cousin Kyra with their dolls, Rainbow and Emily in front of the American Girl store.

The awesomeness that is American Girl.

Posing with the American Girl star.

All the girl cousins. Andie, Avery, Madison, Kayla, and Kyra.

Me with my silly girlies and their dolls.

Erynn Kinley's Blessing and Andie Janae's Baptism

2009-07-23T09:57:00.000-07:00

One of our adventures on our Vacation, was having Erynn Blessed and Andie was Baptized, both by their Grandpa Johnson. We were so grateful to Bob for agreeing to do this for Lucas and I. I was so touched by his blessing, I cried. Who would of thought, me cry. Andie was Baptized at the same time as her cousin Madison. How special is that. It was a big day for us and after church, we had a BBQ at Bob and Karen's. I couldn't believe all the people that attended the Baptism. I was so nice to see so many friendly faces. I thank Holly and Tyler Cooper for speaking at the Baptism. Later on in our Vaca, Lucas and I had the chance to hang out with Holly and her husband Steve. Holly is Lucas' cousin. I was so fun to get out and be with another couple, no kids.

Andie and Madison with the missionaries (Madison's baptism discussions were with these missionaries) and Grandpa Johnson, who conducted the Baptisms.

Andie and Madison before the Baptism, relieving some of their nerves.

Andie and Madison in their Baptism Dresses before the Baptism.

Both Madison and Andie's family at the Baptism.

Hanging out before the Baptism.

Erynn in her Blessing dress, the bow was off by this point.

Elliot and Nicole

2009-07-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

We also had the chance to see and eat lunch with my brother-in-law Elliot and his expectant wife Nicole. Nicole was having her baby shower later on that evening, but it was such a long drive for us and the shower started later in the evening, so we gave them their presents from us early. It was fun just hanging out with Elliot again, we don't get to see them very often. The girls ran around blowing bubbles and throwing the ball at Elliot and Nicole's dog Baxter. Andie even got a throwing lesson from a professional baseball player, Thanks Elliot. Nicole is about half-way through this pregnancy, and so far so good. We can't wait to meet little Blake Cole in November.

Erynn and her Uncle Elliot.

A little something that I got for Blake, do think it will fit? Well probably not for a year or so.

Avery playing around with the bubbles.

Avery, Aunt Nicole, Erynn, Uncle Elliot, and Andie.

The happy couple, I wonder who the baby will look like.

Indiana Johnson Family

2009-07-23T09:33:00.000-07:00

One part of our Vacation was seeing Lucas' family in Indiana, well I guess I should say that was a big part of our Vacation. We haven't seen Great Grandma and Great Grandpa Johnson since Lucas and I were married almost 9 years ago. Lucas' Grandpa has had a lot of heart issues and it was really important for Lucas to make this trip so that he could see his grandpa again and for his girls to meet their Greatgrandparents. I am so bummed, we also saw Lucas' Aunt Karen and her great kids, but I didn't have my camera. She was so nice to us and her kids were so fun to talk too. The girls really enjoyed meeting and hanging out with Karen and John's family.

Andie and Avery with their cousin Taylor, this is Lucas' Uncle Dale's daughter. Unfortunately Dale passed away last year, but we are so grateful that we had a chance to meet this sweet little girl.

Erynn and Grandma Johnson, I tried really hard to get her to look up.

Three generations of Johnson men. Lucas, Great Grandpa Robert Johnson, and Grandpa Robert Johnson Jr.

Erynn and her Great Grandparents. I was really glad that we had the opportunity to spend time with them. We all had a good time just talking and hearing of what a naughty little boy Lucas was growing up, j/k.

I love this picture of Erynn and her Great Grandma Johnson.

4th of July

2009-07-07T21:53:00.000-07:00

We had a pretty low key July 4th. I had to work that night, so we just had some Brats at home, Lucas makes the best ever. I was lucky to stay home until midnight and was able to take the girls to watch the fireworks. We have our little spot on the duck pond by the gazebo. This is the third year in our little spot. Andie and Avery spent their time before the display feeding the ducks and playing around with the other kids there. Erynn, believe it or not, slept through the entire display. It was afterward that I wish I could forget. I guess there was a car accident and so the police were directing all traffic in one direction. I was ridiculous trying to get out of there all at once. Lucas and I took two separate cars, in case I got called in, and the Mazda's clutch overheated. Lucas was stranded at Jobee's for a little while. Erynn was so tired at this point, it was like 10:00pm, she cried the whole way home. One we were all home and in our PJs, I could look back and enjoy the fun time we all had together. I am so grateful for all of the men and women that serve in the armed forces, that help to keep our country and my family safe. I got really emotional one point. Lucas and I were trying to teach Andie the Star Spangled Banner, and I started to cry. To think about what all those men and women go through serving in the wars and praying that they are safe and that they will see their families again. It was just really hard to think of being without my husband and girls. God Bless America!!!

My silly Andie, she didn't know that I had the camera out. She didn't get a chance to pose.

Avery patiently waiting for the Fireworks

My sweet little Erynn, her 1st, 4th of July.

I thought that this had a pretty cool reflection off the water.

Summer Adventures

2009-07-05T00:51:00.000-07:00

The other day, I was in need of some alone time, well really just time to clean without little ones messing up rooms I had already cleaned. I asked Lucas if he could take the girls out of the house for a little bit. He decided to take them up to the Mt. Graham.

Of course, as soon as he left, Erynn woke up from her nap. Once she was fed and back to sleep, I think that I had about 45min before Lucas and the girls showed up. Lucas was in one of those moods. He pretty much let the girls call all the shots. They went hiking up at Treasure Park. Both girls fell in the water at least once. My sweet little Avery found a wildflower that she insisted she was going to give me. Lucas said that she dropped it a few times, but found it and countinued to carry it down the mountain. When she walked in the door she said "Look what I got you Mommy." It was the prettiest wildflower I have ever seen. Lucas is always looking for a reason to go to DQ. A quick trip was the perfect way to end an outing out with dad.

July 3rd, we took Andie and Avery to Phoenix and to Sunsplash for the first time. Avery kept calling it Summersplash. We initially were headed to Wet n Wild, but my mother convinced me that it was too out of the way. We left early in the morning, leaving Erynn with our great babysitter Mariesa. Once in Phoenix, we ate at Olive Garden, yummy!!

Sunsplash was so packed that day. I swear all of Mesa was there. We knew that Avery and Andie could ride the big slides, so we headed there first. Avery did really well, but once was enough for her. Andie rode all of the slides and we could hardly keep her out of the lazy river. It was so fun to have my parents with us. My dad rode the slides and my mother actually got in the water, (gasp). If you knew my mother, you would know that she hates the water and doesn't know how to swim. (Her brother drowned at the age of 12, my mother never knew him and never learned how to swim.) We had so much fun in the wave pool. Those waves can be so strong. It was quite a workout trying to stand once they really got going. At one point, we got my mother to stay out in the water on an inner tube. The waves were rocking her back and forth so hard. My dad and I were trying to keep her from tipping, so I was standing on one side and my dad on the other. Not sure how, but I lost my footing and before I knew it, my mother was pretty much on top of me. With each wave we were pushed back to the shallow end. It was so funny. I tried so hard to get back on my feet, but failed miserably. I was laughing so hard, my stomach was cramping up.

It was a great time, the girls had a blast. We have decided next time, we will do the Wet n Wild park!

Dankworth Pond

2009-06-28T11:48:00.000-07:00

Lucas had it in his head that he wanted to take the family to Dankworth Pond. When we have our little adventures, Lucas is usually the mastermind behind the planning. He planned out Grand Canyon trip a few years back, every time we go up to Mt. Graham and wants to also visit Kartchner Caverns and the Cliff Dwelling on the way to Lake Roosevelt. A few weeks ago, we visited Dankworth Pond and hiked about 1.5 miles, in flip flops. Will I ever learn? In my defense, I didn't realize there would be so much walking. I was a nice cloudy day and they have this replica of old Native American homes, like teepee's and rock houses.

Andie and Avery looking over the pond.

The view from the upper portion near the pond.

There was this little area where the trees covered us, the girls thought it was creepy.

Erynn playing around with daddy. Look at the clouds. I love cloudy days.

Erynn and her toothless grin in on of the rock houses. Lucas is so silly.

Avery doing like the Natives and grinding corn

A makeshift teapea.

What is a day of hiking without a posing session.

Oh, what happened to Erynn's head? This is what you get when daddy takes the picture. Me and the girls posing in front of the pond.

Lucas and the girls in front of the Dankworth Pond.

T-Ball

2009-06-28T11:39:00.001-07:00

So my Avery played T-ball for the first time this summer. Her season is now over, but she had a really good time. At the beginning she would just kind of play around, not really pay attention. Half-way through the season she began to get very competitive and would run and fight for the ball. At some point she lost her glove and therefore was more interested in hitting. Guess what, she is a switch hitter, preferring to bat left handed, I guess it must be those Johnson genes. I had a really good time going to her games and talking with friends. I have to admit though, I am glad it is over. It is just as much fun when you don't keep track of the score.

Avery striking a pose.

Avery hitting the ball.

Throwing skills in action.

Her last game she played against a pretty competitive team. There were two fights break out over the ball. I mean really rolling on the ground and angry faces. It was pretty funny. Avery's first time up to bat she was out at first, but refused to leave the field, so they let her run the bases. Good job Avery, you are a sweet little Baseball Player.

Taylor Nicole

2009-06-28T11:34:00.000-07:00

Another late post. We went and visited my sister-in-law Lisa at the beginning of the summer and saw our new little niece, Taylor. She was so cute. A good mix of G and Lisa.

The Bury Family, G, Lisa, and baby Taylor.

Lisa and Taylor

Little Taylor. It was so crazy to have her around Erynn. Taylor is a little petite baby, Erynn is so big now. I am so glad that they will be able to grow up and be friends and cousins.

4 Months

2009-06-28T11:09:00.000-07:00

I had to add this pic. Erynn wearing one of the hats that my sister Angela made for the girls. Doesn't she just look adorable. Almost like a little Russian baby.

I am such a bad mommy, I am posting this so late, but I have been kind of distracted, with softball games, dance class and bow making. Better late than never. This past month Erynn has grown so much. She weighed in at 15# 14oz and 24in long. She is doing so well, no infections this past month and she is rolling around like crazy. She has so much personality and is 95% smiles. We have tried cereal for the first time with mixed feelings.

First taste of cereal. Not so sure she wants more.

Yeah, definitely have second thoughts.

Erynn with cousin Taylor Nicole.

Making new friends at Softball games. This little cutie is Bryson, I think he was a little smitten with Erynn, that is him trying to give her a kiss.

Who wouldn't be in love with that face.

Avery and Slim Jims

2009-06-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

Last night after Avery's T-ball game, I bought both her and Andie Slim Jims, I know gross, but they love them. Andie convinced Avery that the yellow greasy stuff is cheese. So, we are sitting at Andie's softball game last night and Avery goes over to my friend Amy Bell and her husband Brian. Avery tells them "look what I have", they were like ooh! She then tells them that she loves Slim Jims because they are so good and they have cheese in them. She goes on to tell them that when she was a baby she would eat them all the time and that they would give her diarrhea. They laughed so hard as did Lucas and I when Amy came over to tell us what Avery had said. In all honesty, this never happened, but I guess in Avery's world, anything is possible.

Family Pictures

2009-06-10T15:11:00.000-07:00

We had family pictures done at the very end of May. I wasn't planning on having anymore done until Erynn was about a year old, but something came over me the last Monday in May. I just felt like I shouldn't wait that I needed to capture this moment in time. I searched the Internet with local photographers and came across a few that friends at work had used, when I found awesome baby pics by Amber Halversen. I have known Amber forever it seems. I was really good friends with her sister Gina in Middle School. I think that she is truly a very talented photographer and was excited when she said she could do them at the end of that week. If you know me, then you know I am not a very patient person. She along with her great husband Josh were so professional and made the whole experience fun!! I couldn't wait to get the pics and here they are.

I am so grateful for my wonderful family and am so in love with my husband. I am "Seriously So Blessed" (and I don't even have to make that up).

We have three beautiful girls and wouldn't trade them for anything.

Who would have thought that this all started with country dancing in PE?

My girlies love their daddy so much!! Thank You Again Amber, you did an awesome job!!

Andie

2009-06-10T15:03:00.001-07:00

Andie is now 8-years-old and has made a huge decision in her young life. She has chosen to be baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We will be traveling to Indiana this summer so that her grandfather will be able to perform the baptism and all her Indiana family will be able to participate in her special day. We are so proud of our Andie, she is turning into such a delightful, spirited, and loving girl. (I'm going to make myself cry.)

I cannot express how much I love this picture, it is truly amazing.

I love Andie's smile in this picture.

I always want to remember her like this, especially when she is 16-years-old and thinks that I am the most unfair mother in the world.

My sweet Andie.

Avery

2009-06-10T14:39:00.001-07:00

Avery turned 4-years-old on 5/27. I wanted to get her pics done because this is my last year with her home, she starts school next year. It was so hard to pick, how do you choose when every picture is amazing, plus she is so photogenic.

The look on her face in this pic, is so Avery.

She had so much fun being silly.

I think this picture looks almost sad, her all alone, but I love it!!

This was Avery running around while she was trying to catch a butterfly.

This is when she caught that butterfly, we couldn't believe it.

Erynn

2009-06-10T14:29:00.001-07:00

Erynn turned 4 months on 6/8, I just had to get some pictures of her. She is so adorable right now and so much fun!! I knew that I wanted to have Amber Halversen do our pictures when I saw some that she did for a friend of mine, Amanda Larsen. I loved the finishes and the way she can capture their personality in a picture. Here are only a handful of my favorites, I thought about posting them all, but that would be overkill.

I think that Erynn literally looks like an Angel here, all that is missing are her wings and halo.

This is Erynn, hands in the mouth.

I think she so stinking adorable in this picture.

I love how it looks like she is thinking, "Hey, where did everybody go?)

Happy Birthday Angela!!!

2009-06-08T02:32:00.000-07:00

So today is my older sister Angela's birthday. She currently lives in Hawaii (brat) and so I miss her very much. She is so smart and caring. The best big sister in the world. We haven't always gotten along, but I know that I am a better person for having had her as a sister and the trials that we have overcome. I know that whenever I need a kind word, Angela is there for me. She interprets my dreams for me (wink, wink) and helps me feel better when I am stressed out or just having a bad day. She took care of Alisa and I when we were little, like a second mom. I will always remember her making us "Romen noodles", playing "Restaurant", and putting on "shows" for my family. I think that she secretly wanted to be a Broadway Producer. She is so talented. She is an amazing writer, I am holding out for her first novel, because I know that it will happen someday. She is an awesome poet. She sees the world as no other. I am so happy that she has found a husband as great as Garret Norton. He is wonderful to her and our family. I know that he would do anything to take care of her and keep her safe. We miss them both so much and can't wait until they visit again. I know that my girls love their wonderful Aunt Angela and Erynn can't wait to meet her for the first time. She has been making them the cutest beanies.

Happy Birthday Sweetie, we love you so much!!!!! I hope that you have a great day with mom and Garret.

Raspberries and Laughs

2009-06-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

Erynn is growing like a weed these days. She is getting so chunky. She has recently learned how to blow raspberries, so she is drooly most of the time now. She has also learned how to laugh, although it sounds more like a high pitched yell/squeak. It is so much fun to see her interact with the girls. She definitely knows her sister and she is usually all smiles for them. It is so nice to have a routine with Erynn. I can tell when she is hungry, sleepy, bored. She is sleeping so well, hardly ever fusses when she is laid down for naps or at night. She still wakes up around 4am. I don't mind the 4am feeding, she just eats and goes right back to sleep. We are starting cereal on Monday, wow!! I can't believe we are already there.

Things to look forward to, sitting up by herself, crawling, hearing her say mama and dada!! We just had a friend from HS take our family pics (I couldn't wait until next year, sorry Leah). I am really excited to see how they turned out. She had these great skirts that she uses for props and a great trunk and vintage stroller. I can't wait to see them and share them.

Avery's Birthday Party

2009-06-01T21:08:00.000-07:00

We had Avery's b-day on June 1st. It was the only time we could everyone together, and my dad still couldn't come. We missed him. We invited a few of Avery's friends and most of them came. I had it in my head that I wanted Minnie Mouse as the theme. I think that it all went well and the kids had fun, well at least I know Avery did. She was such a good girl at her party and then after when Andie had her softball game.

Luke making the food, yummy burgers and hot dogs.

Avery with her new play kitchen for the playhouse.

Avery taking her hit at the pinata.

blowing out the candles.

Opening the presents. Look at that smile.

Thank you to everyone that came to the party. We were so glad that you could all come. Especially Heidi, my sister Alisa, and Todd, thank you for all the help!

The Family is Growing

2009-05-29T12:24:00.000-07:00

I am so happy! I will be an aunt again in November and then again in January. My little sister Alisa is Due in January 12th with her first little bambino. I am so happy for her and Todd and can't wait to find out what she is having. She is going to be such a great mommy because she is such a kid at heart. I love you guys so much.

Baby Wren

My sister-in-law and brother-in-law Nicole and Elliot are preggers as well. They are Due November 28th. We don't know what they are having yet, but can't wait to find out. Congrats to you guys as well.

Baby Johnson

HAPPY 4TH BIRTHDAY AVERY!!!

2009-05-27T00:28:00.000-07:00

My Avery turns 4-years-old today. She has grown up so fast. She is such a little sweetheart and yet such a challenge. I wouldn't change her for the world. She is so smart and beautiful. She is so loving to her family. She can always make me smile. She loves to sing and dance. She loves being the center of attention, yet she gets shy and embarrassed when people pay to close attention. I have so many hopes and dreams for her and look so forward to seeing her continue to grow. Happy birthday my little angel, we love you so much.

5-days-old.

3-months-old, she looks so much like Erynn in this picture.

8-months-old.

1-year-old.

Andie and Avery Christmas '06

2-years-old

Avery Dance '08

Easter '09

Jon & Kate?

2009-05-25T22:21:00.000-07:00

I am so sad. I have seen all the tabloids and the news about Jon & Kate Gosselin, the parents of twins and sextuplets, but I was in denial. I love this show. I watch it all the time. I thought it was so nice to see a family that cared about one another, but was able to have arguments and a house that was dirty from time to time. I admit, Kate can appear to be a little overbearing and bossy, but she is the woman in this household. She has 5 girls to be a good role model for. She has eight kids to provide for keep safe.

All I really have to say is that if it is true about the hole infidelity and open marriage crap, I think that is so wrong. How hard is it to keep marriage vows? I think that the minute you start to think that way, one should immediately try to not put oneself in that position. I have told Lucas time and time again, if he for any reason feels there might be someone better for him out there, or he has found someone else, I would rather he tell me and leave, rather than sneak around and have me catch him.

I can't imagine how much it would hurt to have rumors spread around about my husband being unfaithful. It is just another reminder to me that fame isn't everything. I am quite happy and content with my situation. I have a lovely house, three beautiful healthy daughters and a husband that I consider not just my love, but my friend.

I pray for all couples that they can keep in mind and in their sights, all the good things that originally brought them together. Marriage isn't easy, but it is worth it. I hope that anyone that reads this has that special someone, or is able to find them in this lifetime.

I Have Started a New blog

2009-05-24T13:21:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I am a bow freak. I love making hair bows for my girls and have started making bows for other people. I have started a new blog to display some of my work, more like a gallery. I also figure this can be a way for people to see what I am working on and the kind of bows I make. Then, if they would like me to make a few for them, they can pick the kind they like and place an order.

I can't believe how expensive bows can get in this town. I saw some the other day, a set of two for $13.99. I couldn't believe it.

Anyway, check it out sometime, and feel free to share your thoughts and ideas. Amber I am going to look into your suggestion about the Velcro.

The Start of Our Summer

2009-05-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

Schools out for Summer!!!!!!! We are so happy, well I know that I am. I can't wait to spend some time with my girls and my husband. We have already painted our nails, planned a trip to Phoenix, and made our "Things to do this Summer" lists.

It was so cute. I have grown out my nails and believe it or not, they are all the same length. So I did a french manicure on them. Well of course if I did my nails, my girls want their nails done. I started with their toes and then did their fingers. My sister bought me this pretty, sparkly, pink nail polish. Both Andie and Avery wanted that for their toes. Then Avery picked this really light pink (I tried to talk her out of it). I went ahead and put that on her right hand. She looked at it all disappointed and said how you can bearly see it. Then she looked at me and said, "I shouldn't have picked that one." She was just so cute. She then said she wanted her's like mine so I did a french manicure on her nails. It looked so pretty. She looked down at her nails and said, "They are beautiful!!!"

We have still not seen Taylor (our new niece). Can you believe it! We are planning a trip to Phoenix next weekend. You know, stay in a hotel, go swimming, do a little shopping, just relaxing. I know that the girls are going to have such a great time and it will be the first swim of the summer.

This week we have some fun things happening. Both Andie and Avery start their ball games this week. It should be fun. Avery's b-day is this Wednesday, she will be 4-years-old. I want to cry. I can remember when she was born like it was just yesterday. We are having her party on Friday. I am actuallly really excited about the party. We went with a Minnie Mouse theme. I found adorable tableware and the cutest Pinata. I have even thought about playing Pin the Tail on the Donkey, with a twist. I call it "Pin the Bow on Minnie". I hope that it comes out the way I am imagining it. I have also found these cute Minnie head bows, that I am making for all the little girls that come to the party.

It looks like I will be busy this week!! I love Summer!!

Avery's Spring Recital

2009-05-19T20:40:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, Avery had her Spring Dance Recital. The theme for the recital was "When I Grow Up". Avery loves to dance and it is so much fun to watch her perform. She actually told me that she loves to be on stage. She did such a good job at the actual performance. I taped her at the rehearsal and here are her dances. Please excuse my friend Jamie. She takes all the pics for the dance studio at the shows and always tries to get great pics of the girls for me. She is the one that took Andie's awesome ballet pic last year. Avery's ballet dance was "Happy Birthday Princess" saying that they wanted to be princesses when they grew up. Her tap dance was to "Under the Sea" from The Little Mermaid, which so happens to be her favorite princess. Any who, I hope you enjoy!

Erynn on the Move!!

2009-05-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

We are so excited. Erynn has been working on rolling over for quite some time now. She has moved from back to belly and belly to back. Lately, she is rolling all over the place. I finally got it on video. I came home from work and Luke said how she has been rolling like crazy. Sure enough as soon as I put her on the ground, she started to rock onto her side and onto her belly. Here is our video!!

Oh My Poop!!

2009-05-14T09:34:00.001-07:00

Do you see that little angel face, well looks can be deceiving. Erynn was being such a good girl, playing in her bouncer being all quiet. I should have known.

The calm before the storm. "I'm innocent, I swear!"

"Oh my gosh!", at least that is what I said when I saw this mess.

All over her little toesies.

What a mess. Luckily, Lucas was home with me and was able to help in the cleaning process. He suggested "hosing her down". Well that is pretty much what we did, in the shower. She was not very happy by the end of that bath.

Gymnastics Open House

2009-05-14T09:28:00.000-07:00

Last night, Andie had her Gymnastics Open House for the year. This is like her recital for us to show us how she has been doing this year. Andie loves gymnastics and we were so happy to go and watch her do her stuff.

Here is Andie after they gave her her medal at the end of class.

Andie mid-cartwheel. Luke did a pretty good job with my crappy camera.

Andie doing a great handstand, look how well she pointed her toes.

We thought that her bridges have improved since the beginning of classes.

Well she is no Shawn Johnson, but she is our Andie Johnson and we were so proud of her. Way to go Andie!!

A Day in the ER

2009-05-13T08:42:00.001-07:00

Well, I guess there has been a stomach thing going around our little town, big deal right. Well, yesterday morning I was at work, about 4am, I started to feel really nauseated. I figured that I was just really tired and needed to eat. I got home about 6:30, had a bowl of cereal and layed down with Erynn for a nap. Well, about 9am, I woke up to feed Erynn and had the worst stomach ache. I called my dad and he told me to go over to his house so I could rest and he would help me with Erynn. So, I went on over and layed down. 10am the diarrhea started (sorry). I layed down for a nap and at 12:30pm was having horrible pain that radiated to by back. I felt like I was having labor pains all over again.

At this point, my father was asking me about what I had eaten and said it looked like I had Salmonella. My pain would come and go, start in my abdomen, but then end up in my back. I was extremely nauseated, by this point. I called the clinic only to find out that they had no appointments and if I wanted to be seen, I would have "walk in" between 2-3:30pm. I went ahead and walk into the clinic at 2pm. I waited about 45min, saw Dr. Kartchner. He was assessing me. Asking about my appendix, abdominal tenderness. He then check up under my ribs for "Murphey's Sign". I about lost it. I couldn't help but start crying. It hurt so much in my back when he pressed in. At this point, he thought that I might have something going on with my gallbladder. He then said I needed to head on over to the ER.

I went to the ER, the whole way having pain when I breathed in my back. I was given an IV and thankfully, pain medication and nausea medication. I was so dang tired from not sleeping. They ran blood, I had an x-ray, and everything came back normal. At 7pm I was released. The Dr. said he thought that it was just a viral thing. So frustrating. I was so concerned about my kids and my poor husband was with me the whole time in the hospital. I am so glad that it wasn't anything serious, just hated all the hoop la. I went to bed super early last night only to find this morning that I still have the back pain and no kids. My sister took Andie and Avery for the night. I was so grateful. They had them sleep over, got Andie ready for school and Todd (my brother-in-law) took Avery with him to Benson for the day. Thank you guys so much. Unfortunately, Lucas now feels under the weather. He woke up this am with n/v/d. I hope that his isn't as bad as mine was.

Kind of crazy huh.

Just For Fun

2009-05-11T04:36:00.000-07:00

I found this on my friend Annie's page and thought that I would do it. It has been awhile since I have completed one of these surveys.

ONE WORD
1. Where is your cell phone? Pocket
2.Your significant other? Sweet
3. Your hair? Brown
4. Your mother? Driven
5. Your father? Compassionate
6. Your favorite thing? Family
7. Your dream last night? Worked
8. Your favorite drink? Dr. P
9. Your dream/goal? Happiness
10. What room are you in? Hospital
11. Your hobby? Reading
12. Your fear? Zombies
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Here
14. Where were you last night? Work
15. Something that you aren't? Perfect
16. Muffins? Blueberry
17. Wish list item? Quest
18. Last thing you did? Drink (Dr. P)
19. TV? HGTV
20. Your pets? Chiweiners
21. Friends? Family
22.Your life? Wonderful
23. Your mood? Chipper
24. Missing someone? Heaven
25. Drinking? Dr. P
26. Dancing? Hip Hop
27. Your car? Elle
28. Something you're not wearing? Earings
29. Your favorite store? Kohls
30. Your favorite color? Pink
31. When is the last time you cried? Yesterday
32. Who will resend this? ?
33. Where do you go to over and over? Wal-Mart
34. Five people who email me regularly? email?
35. My favorite place to eat? Mexican
36. Favorite place I'd like to be at right now? Bed

It is hard to think of only one word answers.

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T20:00:00.000-07:00

I had a great Mother's Day!! I got off of work this am and was greeted by my wonderful family. My sweet husband gave me a gift certificate for a pedicure and a sweet letter, that made me cry. My little Andie gave me a homemade card off of her Arts and Craft Station, so sweet!! Avery colored me a piece of paper purple. I even got a present from my wonderful little sister. My older sister texted me and put up a sweet slide show. Lucas and I even got my parents to watch all three girlies and he took me out to dinner. It was so wonderful. I wouldn't have wanted to spend the day with anyone else or doing anything else.

Thank you to my fabulous family, Muah!!

Playing with Daddy

2009-05-08T18:49:00.000-07:00

I love this picture. This was the one I wanted to put in the last post, but it is such a pain after you have already started writing. She loves her daddy so much!!

3 Months

2009-05-08T18:38:00.001-07:00

Three months old already! Erynn is such a sweetheart! So far, she is still healthy, no new infections. She is all smiles and loves to play with her family. Her sisters can always make her smile and I know that she will be talking early. She coos and gurgles all the time. Her newest game is kicking off her blanket when she is in her bouncer. She sits there all calm and as soon as I place the blanket on her legs, she kicks as hard and fast as she can. It is adorable!! A couple of times, I swear I have heard her laugh. She has rolled over a few times already, when she is in just the right spot and when she cries, I swear I can hear "Mama" in there somewhere. Here are a few pics of her adventures in the last month.

NO, Erynn cannot walk yet, but that doesn't stop her daddy from trying. Kind of freaked me out when I turned around and saw her there, LOL!!

Lucas can't wait to throw her around. I have a really cute pic with her smiling.

Erynn loves her little friend on her bouncer. She likes to sit up more these days and is always grabbing at the bears, trying to put them in her mouth.

Avery playing with Erynn on her mat, too cute!

This is how I have found Erynn a time or two. Who needs Binkies?

Fever, Cough, etc. etc...

2009-05-06T08:52:00.000-07:00

We received a phone call on Friday that Andie wasn't feeling well at school and that she had a fever of 100.7. Lucas picked her up and then the rest of the day, she acted totally normal. Saturday came and we were supposed to drive to Phoenix to see the new baby, but halfway there, Andie began to vomit. We ended up turning around and coming home. Sunday came and went with Andie looking better. Sunday night, Andie woke up in the middle of the night with a fever. She stayed home on Monday as well. I called the office and decided I would give her one more day. So Tuesday I took her temp and it was 101.7. She was staying home another day. I took her into the clinic yesterday morning. Luckily we didn't have to wait too long, not having an appointment and having all three girls with me. It turns out that Andie has the Flu, Type B. The swine flu is a Type A flu. We ended up getting a prescription for Tamiflu to help with her symptoms and here's the real kicker, no school for the rest of the week.

I hate it when my kiddos are sick, but I have been home with all three for almost five days now, with at leas two more days coming up. I work all weekend and let me tell you, it will be a nice change in pace. Andie pretty much just lays around the house all day. I have to do my best to keep her away from Avery and Erynn. Really don't want a sick baby on top of all this. Avery is so bored that once the afternoon comes, she wants to play outside with the neighbor until dinner. My biggest gripe, is the whining. Avery and Andie bicker so much, like all sisters do, but it is really getting on my nerves. I am just so grateful that Lucas has been able to be home the last few afternoons to help out.

Wish me luck!!! We have this saying at work "You never shake a baby." I am now singing, "You never shake an 8 or 4 year old!"

Taylor Nicole

2009-04-29T14:14:00.000-07:00

Well, my sister-in-law Lisa did in fact deliver early this morning. She had a healthy baby girl weighing in at 7# 7oz and 19in long. We can't wait to see her. My mother-in-law says she looks a lot like Lisa. I hear that mom and baby are doing good, but all three are pretty beat today.

Congrats and welcome Taylor!!

New Baby?

2009-04-28T21:38:00.000-07:00

We just got a text that my sister-in-law was at the hospital. More than likely we will have a neice tomorrow sometime. I have my fingers and toes crossed that she has an easy labor and can't wait to see what she looks like.

Good luck Lisa and G! We are thinking of you guys!

Trip to Tucson

2009-04-28T21:21:00.000-07:00

So today we took Erynn to Tucson to meet with the a Pediatric Nephrologist, Dr. Apostle. He was very nice and explained Erynn's Kidney Reflux to us. He also said that there is a 80-90% chance that her right kidney will grow out of it on it's own and a 50-75% that the left will by the age of 5. It looks like we have a few years of watching Erynn closely for any sign of infection. We are just so happy to hear that there is a chance.

We already made our 1 yr follow-up appointment with Dr. Apostle (he is already scheduling 4 months out) and have to follow-up with the nephrologist here in Safford. He suggested Dr. Killion or Dr. McDonald. He said that if for any reason Erynn has to have surgery, it would be a good idea to already be working with these Dr.s because they would be the one performing the procedure. It will be nice to follow-up with Specialists here in town and not having to drag Erynn to Tucson every six months.

She was such a trooper. She did such a good job letting him examine her. She was kicking and smiling at everyone. She couldn't have been happier. I am praying that she just learns that this will be a part of her life for awhile and get used to the prodding. The Dr. also informed us that when we have other children, that there is a chance they may have similar problems. We think that it is so crazy to think that Andie and Avery are totally healthy, yet here is little Erynn with kidney issues.

We were told that because of her first infection, she may already have some kidney damage, but that it is too early to know that for sure. He suggested a kidney scan at 1 yr, after everything has healed and she was a little older to see if there was any damage. That makes me really sad. He also told us about the signs to watch for in case of an infection. He said that as she grows older she might have issues voiding or that it might be painful. He said to watch for signs of fussiness when she voided or that she might not void because of the pain. I had this really sad vision of my little Erynn not wanting to pee because it hurt or having accidents because she was afraid to pee. I think that potty training will be interesting. I can only hope and pray Lucas and I do all that we can to keep her healthy and infection free.

For now we are just amazed at how sweet she is and how fast she is growing. Last week I posted that she was 23 3/4 in tall, well this week she grew another in and is now 24 1/4 in tall. I tell Lucas all the time that I wish I could freeze time and enjoy each day a little more.

I've been jogging in the mornings and find myself just so grateful for my wonderful family. It is amazing what a little time alone and fresh air can do for the mind and body.

Trivia: Hit Songs

2009-04-23T03:22:00.000-07:00

So my good friend Janel was looking up songs that were popular when you were born. I found out all the songs for my little family and thought that it would be fun to blog about so that I could remember such vital information down the road, ha ha.

Lucas: 12/28/79 - "Escape (the Pina Colada Song)" Ruper Holmes
Erica: 11/09/81 - "Private Eyes" Hall and Oates
Andie: 2/14/01 - "Ms. Jackson" Outkast
Avery: 5/27/05 - "Holla Back Girl" Gwen Stefani
Erynn: 2/08/09 - "My Life Would Suck Without You" Kelly Clarkson

4th of July

2009-04-21T23:00:00.000-07:00

In case you didn't know, I have an addiction, an addiction to bow making. I have found that it is a great way to unwind. I do it at night while the girls are sleeping. I have so much ribbon, I could probably make bows for my girls until they are out of school, that includes the baby as well, LOL!!

Lucas is always telling me that I should try to sell them. I know that there are a ton of moms out there that already make their little ones bows, but there are a few as well that don't. So, I have made some for the 4th of July. I found some adorable ribbon and decided to make some for my girls and while I was at it, I made a few extra. If it looks like people ARE interested, then I will probably do the same for all major holidays and for local school, you know to show off your schools spirit. Even if you don't want to purchase a bow, I would love to hear what you think about them. I am still learning new techniques.

3" Stacker bow, with 3 different ribbons. $2.00

3" Stacker bow, with 3 different ribbon including satin, $2.00

2" Stacker flower with star, on covered alligator clip, $3.00 for set

3" Stacker bow, with 3 different ribbon including satin, $2.00

4" Stacker bow, with 3 different ribbon, $3.00

Any of these bows can be worn individually or with a headband. I can do any combination, like I said, I have a ton of ribbon. If you would like to buy one of these bows for your little darling, email me at emj11812000@yahoo.com.

Erynn's 2-Month Check-up

2009-04-20T17:21:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it, Erynn has already had her 2-month check-up. I took her to the Dr. today. She weighed 12.6 lbs

was 23 1/4 in tall.

She had to get her immunizations of course and was not a happy camper after that. I had to get some pics up to remember the day.

Here she is after a long nap and some Tylenol.

It never fails, her sister can always get her to smile.

We are all very impressed with her cheekies, they are getting so round.

Getting Older

2009-04-20T08:16:00.000-07:00

I have recently had to deal with the loss of one grandparent and the deteriorating health of another. My grandmother fell shortly after Erynn was born and has since been living with my parents. She really doesn't want to be staying with them and to be honest, hasn't really made it very easy for them.

This past weekend, she stayed at her trailer by herself. I went over yesterday to help her get cleaned up and to get some stuff done around the house. I think that it is starting to sink in that she can no longer be alone. Not only is it even more of a possibility she could hurt herself, but she is much weaker than before and her vision is really bad. She had to ask me to put some of her groceries and dishes away, because she couldn't lift them up, they were too heavy. We are talking about a box of crackers and a casserole dish. I asked her how she was going to get them down and she said she wouldn't be using them anymore.

At one point in the day, she said that she doesn't mind getting old, she just wishes that it was with my grandfather. My grandpa passed away early January after a fall. It makes me so sad to see how depressed my grandmother gets and how she just gets through the day. I try to get my girls over to see her as much as possible, but lately I wonder if that is even helping.

We all miss grandpa very much and couldn't imagine life without my grandma. I know that growing old is part of life, I just wish that I could make this transition a little easier. My grandmother lost her life partner and is now more fragile and stubborn than before. I am just so grateful to have had both in my life and cherish every day that I have with my grandma. It feels good to me now to be able to help where I can. My grandmother took care of me and my sisters growing up while my mother worked. I am glad that I can give back or at least help where I can.

Easter

2009-04-13T22:41:00.000-07:00

We had a good Easter, unfortunately my wonderful husband didn't take any pictures of the girls before they went off to church with my mother-in-law. I had to work both Sat and Sun night and was not able to go. When I woke up from my nap I found out some disturbing news. It turns out that Avery was quite a little hit at Primary. My mother-in-law had taken the girls to her ward and so Avery was making all new friends. Well, Lucas tells me that my three year old got her first kiss that day, her first kiss on the lips. I couldn't believe it. Apparently, there was a little boy in her Primary class that came up to her and kissed her. He also told her he wanted her to be his girlfriend.

I knew that Avery was going to be my headache, boy crazy child, but she is not even four. I am so scared to see how she is going to be when she gets older. Lucas and I are already preparing ourselves. We love her dearly, but she is a challenge. She did tell Lucas that she was not going to marry that boy and that it was not O.K. for him to kiss her, because she was allergic to boys. She is a handful, but a cutie pie too.

Andie on the other hand, the little sneak, was trying to catch the Easter Bunny in the act of leaving her her basket. I hurried home on Sunday morning and set the baskets on the dinning room table, then went to feed Erynn. Well, Andie walks into the living room with this pouty face and says to me, "The Easter Bunny didn't come." I was like what do you mean. She then explained how she heard the garage door open and decided to check and see if there was anything for her. She then looked at me accusingly. I explained that I found the baskets on the front porch, but then she said that she looked and didn't find anything, drats. I guess she is a smart cookie. Well, Avery was so excited with the "Bunny's basket". A little later that day I made cookies and cut then into egg shapes. Andie was like, why did you only cut eggs, there are other things like Easter Bunnies. She then said, "Oh yeah, there is no Easter Bunny, Easter Bunny." The way she said it was funny. She was accusing me of being the Easter Bunny. Oh well.

My parents came over that evening and we hung out before I had to go to work. Erynn was so sweet cuddling up with my dad. I actually do have a pic of that and will post it later.

Anywho, I hope that everyone had a good Easter. I can't believe how fast the year is flying by. Before you know it, I will be blogging about Christmas!

Two Months

2009-04-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

Our precious little Erynn is two months old now. She is getting so big! She is so much fun! She is definitely getting more "social". She smiles and talks to anyone that will listen, including the ladies at the scrapbook store and her sisters. I couldn't be happier with the way that Andie and Avery have taken to Erynn. Andie loves to hold her and can get a little crazy with the kisses. Avery is always saying how much she loves her and how cute she is. I love my three little girlies. Lucas loves to "try" to get her to say Dada. I am sure that "will" be her first word.

What you looking at? Erynn just before bed.

Like the shampoo job. This lets you see how much hair she actually has.

Sleeping Beauty, with a mohawk.

A little grin during playtime.

She loves this mat.

Evening of Bows

2009-04-06T21:27:00.000-07:00

Well, I have to admit that I haven't been in a very good mood today. I think that it is just that I know I have to go back to work tomorrow. I have really enjoyed being home with my kiddos and hubby. I know that the next few weeks, until May at least, will be very busy for us. So this evening I decided to make bows with Andie. She really had a fun time picking out her outfits for the rest of the week and picking out the ribbon to make bows. I will let her use the glue gun for some things, but did most of the put together work myself. I think that they came out pretty cute.

Wednesday's outfit

Tomorrow's outfit
Thursday's Easter picnic outfit

Here is my Andie modeling one of her outfits. She really liked all the pink in this one. I am really starting to see just how much older she is. I am just so happy that she is still O.K. with mom putting big bows in her hair.
Avery had to get in on the action as well. She was walking around with this disposable camera snapping "pictures" of everyone.

And then there is Erynn. I am sure going to miss her. Luckily, I only work three days a week.

Can you believe that she is already able to hold her head up so well. It makes me happy to see her growing stronger and healthy, but at the same time she is growing so fast, it makes me sad.

Paying It Forward

2009-04-06T08:54:00.000-07:00

I got this off of a friend from HS's blog and thought it was a really cute idea.

Paying it Forward...The Rules:1. Be one of the first THREE bloggers to leave a comment on this post, which then entitles you to a handmade item from me - something crafty or yummy, who knows?! 2. Winners must post this challenge on their blog, meaning that they will Pay It Forward, creating a handmade gift -anything!- for the first THREE bloggers who leave a comment on their post about this giveaway!3. The gift that you send to your friends can be from any price range and you have 365 days to make/ship your item. This means you should be willing to maintain your blog at least until you receive your gift and have shipped your gifts. And, remember: It’s the Spirit and the Thought That Counts!4. When you receive your gift, please feel free to blog about it, sharing appropriate pictures and comments! If you are not one of the Top Three Commenter's on this post, you can still play along. Go ahead and start your own Pay It Forward chain, and encourage your blogging friends to do the same!!So who will the lucky three be?? And hopefully you won't be to worried for whatever I decide to make for you or someone in your family!

For me, it will probably be a bow, ha ha!

Another Video

2009-04-04T21:43:00.000-07:00

Since my last video actually worked, I decided to add Avery's ballet dance as well. I think this is a really good idea. She watches herself and does the dance along with the video. I think this is the best way to get her to practice at home.