A Bunch of B.S.

Izzy Turns 8

2011-08-08T14:45:00.000-06:00

I can't believe Izzy is 8 already! She had such a fun relaxing birthday! We went to McD's for lunch and then had Pizza and cake for her birthday dinner! She got lots of fun stuff and had a great time!

This is her Baptism dress she will wear next month when she gets baptised! It is beautiful!

MaKayla showed off her new outfit for us also!

Sam didnt want to miss any of the dressing up action, I love this picture!

Kroff Family Reunion 2011

2011-08-08T14:28:00.000-06:00

The whole Group!

Every year around the 24th of July we have our Family Reunion. We all look forward to it because its the only time we ALL get together and for some the 1 time of the year we see each other!

Me and my siblings! 8 of the 9! So silly!

Lori, Suzie, Rob, Mike, Darin, Diane, Jason, and Me!

4th of July 2011

2011-08-08T14:11:00.000-06:00

This year we spent the 4th up in Springville with Brad's Brother Scott and his family. We went to Provo and watched the BIG fireworks show, spent the day fishing in Payson Canyon, lit fireworks off at their house, and then took our kids to the Provo 4th of July Parade. It's the first BIG parade and fireworks show my kids have ever seen! We had so much fun! I am so grateful to have married into such a wonderful family! I love spending time with all of them!

This picture is so we can compare Izzys feet !

Andy helped uncle Scott and Daddy put together the new wagon!

No 4th of July is complete without a feast! YUMMY!

The big crowd for the fireworks :)

When we got home, I took the girls to the Dixie Sun Bowl for the concert and firework show! The girls had fun dancing, eating snow cones and listening to the band!

Ashleigh, MaKayla, Izzy, and Emily after the events! Good Times!

My first Mud Run - July 02, 2011

2011-08-08T14:01:00.000-06:00

Me and my girlfriends signed up for this mud run, and luckily I was all healed up by the time it came around! It was an all girl Mud Run in SLC. It was one of the funnest things we have done together!

Me, Danyelle, and Lori

We dressed up like French Maids to go along with our name "the do-me dirties"

Next year we want to do it again with a new name and a lot more girls :)

We didn't think we would, but we did get DIRTY! I cannot explain how much fun it it was! There was no timing of the event so we jsut took our time and enjoyed the moment! Thanks girls!

Panguich Lake June 2011

2011-08-08T13:56:00.000-06:00

We took the kids camping up by Panguich lake, it was the first time we have gone with just us and the kids, no other family or friends! It was nice and relaxing, I love having people around, but it was a good change to be alone with our little family..although MaKayla wasn't there, we sure did miss her!

Best camping dog! Who says Yorkies aren't wilderness dogs?

These girls get along so good some times!

Andy fishing, what a stud!!

Brad and Emily enjoy fishing more than anyone! Emily will actually sit there and wait for a fish, hopefully one of these days she will actually catch one :)

Andy at camp!

This was Izzy's way of handling fishing in the wind!

June 2011 Bryce Canyon

2011-08-08T13:41:00.000-06:00

We took a day and drove up to Bryce Canyon, it was so fun and relazing just hiking around and hanging out with the kids!

I love this picture, it shows how much they look alike!

The girls had a good time too!

We drove through Zion on our way home and all these ran across the rad!

HUGE!

Summer Sleepovers! June 2011

2011-08-08T13:36:00.000-06:00

The funnest part of Summer is having sleepovers! This summer Izzy's cousin Alize came and stayed with us for about a week. We had so much fun!

We popped popcorn and watched movies!

All the girls ready for bed, and Andy didn't want to be left out!

The "spinny park"

Best Friends!

I had promised Ali that I would help her learn to sew, so I taught Izzy and Ali how to make Pillow cases! They got to pick out their fabric and did all the sewing with hardly any help

Ali is a natural!

Izzy got pretty good at the straight lines!

The finished product! You can see how proud they were!

The Big Tree - Memorial Day 2011

2011-08-08T13:26:00.000-06:00

This is my FAVORITE tree ever! It's HUGE and in the middle of Nowhere! Brad's brother and family came down for Memorial Day and we invited them to go explore out to this tree with us! Luann of course had her camera and once again took some amazing photos of us! If it weren't for her, I don't know that I would have any family photos! Here are some of my favorites of the day

We had a little picnic out of our cars while we were there ;)

Luann the photographer and some of her kids!

Me, Luann, and Andy hung out and relaxed while the rest of the group went hiking around.

8 & 16 year old Portraits

2011-08-08T13:15:00.000-06:00

I am so lucky to have a wonderful Sister in Law - Luann, she is a professional photographer and she is AMAZING! She spent the day taking photos of my girls for their 8 and 16 year old portraits. They turned out beautiful, I couldn't be more happy! They show each of their personalities and I will cherish the photos forever! Thanks Luann! If you are in need of photos look her up : www.wholegrainphotography.net

There were so many that I loved, these are some of my favorites

Again Thank You so much Luann!

Izzy Super Steppers Review 2011

2011-08-08T13:05:00.002-06:00

Izzy took dance for the first time this year also, they do a Big Review at the end of the year and show all their dances they learned. They start by getting escorted in by their Dads, and then later in the show they do a daddy daughter dance. It turned out so cute. Brad even danced with Izzy, to Grease Lightning! He did amazing and Izzy was beaming with excitement! She also is on a competitive team and moved up a level so she will be in the Junior Elite Team next year!

This is her formal dress she wore to the review Gorgeous!

Emily's 2011 Dance Review

2011-08-08T12:59:00.000-06:00

Emily started dance this year for the first time, and she absolutely LOVES IT!!

The end of the year they do a big review and do all their dances, she was the best one in her group!

Just before leaving, all ready to go!

Me and Emily after her review! She did AWESOME!

Me, Emily, and Misty

Misty is her teacher and studio owner at Premier Dance Center where Emily dances. Emily absolutely adores Misty and loves being with her! I also have come to be good friends with Misty and I also adore her as well she is an amazing friend and teacher!!

Thanks Misty!!

MaKayla's First Date!

2011-08-08T12:50:00.000-06:00

MaKayla got asked to her first Formal Dance The Dixied Centenial Ball!

This is her opening the package from the mystery boy!

This is the note and letters in the play-doh

The Boy who asked her out! BTW she replied YES by putting a lttle fish bowl with a gold fish in it, and a note that said "of all the fish in the sea, I am sure glad you chose me" So cute!

Her cousint Trish doing her hair for the Big Night!! Thanks Trish, it turned out beautiful!

MaKayla and her Dad! I can't believe how grown up she looks, and of course check out Brad and how handsome he is!!

Pinning on the flower, it was so cute cause it was both of their first time doing all this so they were nervous together!

Just before leaving! They look so cute!! And I have to admit I did cry just a little at all this! It is hard letting your children grow up!

My first Half Marathon! April 30th

2011-08-08T12:38:00.000-06:00

So I trained all winter long getting ready for my first half marathon. I drove to SLC and woke up to SNOW! It was freezing! But it was the funnest thing I have ever done! I can't wait to do another one!

My brother Mike drove down to SLC from Montana and ran with me! He is awesome, and way faster than me, but it was so fun to do together!

My high school friend Tori and her friend ran with me also, we ran together most of the way, it was such a fun time chatting and catching up on life while we ran!

This is me coming into the finish line, You can't tell, but I am in a LOT of pain! My father in law ran with me for a little bit and that helped out!

We had quite the group run that day, this is all the finishers (excluding my friend Tori) Melissa-a family friend, Luann - my sister in law, Me, Mike - my brother, Cynthia-my mother in law, Alex- my nephew, and #465 is Cynthia's friend I can't remember her name! Me and Mike ran the half and everyone else ran the 5K, my Mother in law, her friend, and Alex all won medals that day! WOOT!

This is my foot after the race! I tore 3 ligaments and 3 tendons :( OUCH! It took me 6 weeks to get back out running, and I am slowly building up again my distance, but I wouldn't trade it for anything, I had so much fun!

Easter 2011

2011-08-08T12:22:00.000-06:00

One of my BIG family traditions is to have a BIG EASTER EGG HUNT at my sister Suzie's house. There are usually over 60 people there and 400+ eggs hidden on the mountain across from her house. We invite all our friends and family and have a big pot luck lunch, and then the kids go find the eggs! It is one of my favorite times of the year!

After the egg hunt later in the eve we dye the eggs. This year Emily spilt not One but Two cups of Egg Dye on her lap! (notice the 2 cups in from of her)

My niece Kaity modeling her Bling she got from her eggs!

The teenager club! It is so fun to have a bunch of counsins the same age! This is MaKayla, Tyler, Topher, Derek, Kaity, Jen, and Zack all hanging out after the egg hunt!

Andy figured out the best way to get the good candy! This is my favorite photo!

Ron and Suzie, my sister and her husband exhausted from hosting the big event! They are so awesome to provide the "Party" house for all our family events!

Emily and her Aunt Diane checking out the goods!

Izzy and her stash

MaKayla and her finds!

Me and Andy finding eggs, this was the first year he got into finding the eggs! It is so fun!

At home on Easter finding eggs, Holly only got 1 this year before we got up!

MaKayla and Izzy helping each other find eggs!

MaKayla's basket, the bunny hides them all over the house and eveyone has to find them!

MaKayla's Luau Party April 15th

2011-08-08T11:49:00.002-06:00

There are 2 times I get to go "ALL OUT" for my daughters

1-their wedding and 2-their 16th bithday party!

MaKayla's theme was a Luau and it was a blast! She had a bunch of friends come over

(her first boy/girl party) we had lots of food, chocolate fountain, smores bar, and music! When the sun went down you could see all the white lights we hung all aroung the yard, it was AWESOME!

This is her Grandma Hawkers back yard where she had the party!

We had chairs with leis, beach balls, and hula hoops all around for them to mess around with, and the big circle spot was the dance floor, we had a strobe light and music going!

This was the eating area, you can see the fire pit in the background too.

MaKayla's Aunt Jess did her hair up with flowers!! She looked absoloutely beautiful!

MaKayla's 16th Birthday April 14th!

2011-08-08T11:37:00.002-06:00

MaKayla turned 16 this year, and it couldn't come soon enough! We took her and got her license on her Birthday and she started driving! Her pic is perfect on her license too!

She even got her hair highlighted for the first time,

I won't let the girls color their hair til they are 16 :)

She wanted a lime green dinosaur cake, so this is what I came up with :) She has grown into such a wonderful girl. We are so proud of her and can't wait to see what her future brings!

MaKayla with Grandma and Grandpa Bankhead. Its tradition that Gma B makes all the grandkids a levi quilt at some point, MaKayla gives all her worn out jeans to help make so many of them, grandma thought this would be a good year for hers!

The Birthday Doll. Every year Grandma Hawker gives each grandaughter a doll there are 17 of them. This is the 16th one and it plays music. The last doll will be her graduation. The girls look forward to getting their doll each year!

She got a ton of clothes from her Mom Jennifer!

She got a pair of cute shorts and sandals from Izzy!

The whole gang! MaKayla's Mom Jennifer and Grandma Steele and all of our other family members came to celebrate the big day!!

We got her a gas gift card, key chain, and a new cell phone, all requirements for a 16 year old!

MaKayla loves jewelry and this is what her aunt Jess made her this year!

Her aunt Tonya sent her this beautiful flower arrangment! It was perfect!

March Madness

2011-04-04T17:03:00.000-06:00

Izzy performing at the Jettet Review

Ali and Izzy at the NASCAR race

MaKayla, Doug, & Brad 3 Generations of NASCAR fans!

Brad and his "ghetto" #33 cake

Steph finishing 10K

Well March went by so fast! I completely got behind on my Blogs!! We had a bunch of performances for Izzy and her Super Steppers group. They performed at the DHS Jettet Review, DSC Rebelette Review, and she also competed in her first Dance Competition! She is becoming a beautiful dancer, and is loving it!
We were able to score some sweet NASCAR tickets to the race in Vegas!! We were so excited and finally had enough to take Izzy to her first race EVER! Ali, her cousin, was also able to come for her first time. They both had a blast!
Brad turned 33 this year, and I didn't have 33 candles, or 2 #3 candles, so I had to improvise and cut a #8 into a #3! It looked a little funny, but hey it's the thought that counts right?
I raced in my first 10K!! 6.2 Miles! It was awesome, I am running 3-4 times a week and am at 9 miles so far! I race my first Half Marathon at the end of April. I have some wonderful girls to run with and I absolutely LOVE it! My Mother In Law got shin splints, so she hasn't been able to go with me, but she is almost ready to start running again!!
I love the Spring time and we get SO busy, but I Love watching my kids and all their activities!!

February Fun and Photoshop

2011-03-02T10:24:00.000-07:00

It snowed in Feb and the kids all had so much fun playing in the snow. It was the first time Andy was actually big enough to PLAY in the snow. He had so much fun running around. The girls got too cold to stay out but he continued on! I also have had time to play around with photos in my Photoshop program. I absolutely love editing photos and changing them. I am going to have to start taking more pictures so I have more to play with! These are some that I have done. Enjoy

Celebrating 11 years!

2011-02-18T14:28:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our 11th Anniversary this year! We decided to go back to where it all began..VEGAS!
We drove down and ate at Joe's Crab Shak, and stayed at the Golden Nugget! It was so much fun!! We walked around Fremont Street and watched all the crazy people. It was so nice to get away and relax for an evening!
We decided to celebrate Valentines Day also this year. It is probably only the 2nd time we have ever gone out on V-Day cause our anniversary is the day before. However this year our friends Glenn and Danyelle made us reservations at the Anasazi Grill. It was delicious!

Emily Turns 3!!

2011-02-18T13:53:00.000-07:00

Emily Kissing her #3 Doll

Emily's "Park" as she calls it!

Finally, Emily celebrated her 3rd birthday! She is so dang cute and funny. She definately has a mind of her own and a VERY strong will power. My brother was nice enough to give us this play set so we decided it would be for Emily's birthday. We used to have a garden there, so we leveled it out, dug trenches, put in the rail ties, added 3 yards of sand and viola! The next morning, Emily looked out the window and yelled "MOM, my PARK is STILL HERE!!" It was so cute, she Andy, and Izzy have had an absolute blast palying on it everyday! We are so excited to see her grow up and become a little girl!
Her favorite color is Purple, so she had purple cupcakes with purple frosting, and got a new purple outfit!

Mom's Birthday/Sisters Weekend

2011-01-25T15:41:00.000-07:00

Suzie, Diane, Mom, Lori, Me

This past weekend I had the opportunity to spend time with my Mom and Sisters!! It was my Mom's 73rd Birthday! Me and my Mom drove up to Tooele Friday and stayed at my sister Diane's house. Saturday we went to my niece Kaity's Cheerleeder Competition (she won 1st). We spent the day shopping at the mall, eating lunch at Olive Garden, laughing through a movie and hanging out together! It was so much fun!

I love being with my sisters, and it was a MUCH NEEDED break for me. I think it was worth months of therapy to just be with them! We drove home Sunday and I was so ready to be with my wonderful husband and kids. Time away always makes me realize how much I love my family. I am blessed with great parents, siblings, and in-laws! Thanks to my Dad and MIL for watching my kids so I could go!

My little Cheerleader

2011-01-15T14:25:00.000-07:00

This little gadget is my new cheerleader! It plays my music while I run, udates me on how far I have gone/have to go, and engourages me on my way! Today I ran 4 miles with it, and I really enjoyed it! I love knowing the distance/pace at a push of the button! Thanks NIKE for this little piece of joy!

Getting Organized #8 and B (all day one)

2011-01-14T10:14:00.000-07:00

After

Yesterday was a BIG day for my organizing list! I lined up my Mom to babysit Andy and Emily in the afternoon so I could spend that time doing their room. I did the above while they were home and Andy was asleep. But, needing to do their room, I knew they would bothe need to be gone! I had so much fun redoing their room. Andy is now in a much Bigger crib than before and I turned Emil's bed to seperate it a little more. It seems much more inviting to me now. I had 3 buckets of clothes to sort through and hang up. I also moved their shoes from the closet to the thing hanging on their door. Now everything has a place and it nice and clean. Their closet is pretty empty right now. I am considering moving a lot of the toys out of the playroom and storing them their in containers. Up of course where they can't reach them.

This is so much fun, and the kids LOVE their room. Izzy even said she wants to move back into it cause it's so pretty now. I really think that clutter bothers the kids as much as it does to me! Here are some before and after pictures of their room. i didnt get a good after of the pink wall, I will have to add that later cause I am out of time! Oh, and I want to do a little craft thing with their names but that's going to have to wait!

Getting Organized #7

2011-01-11T14:46:00.000-07:00

Before

After

Today I decided to tackle my computer/couponing/work space. It is right in my kitchen, so I can do stuff while being around my family. Oh, and because there is no where else safe in the house ;)
It started as a great idea, until I couldn't find the file hanging folders I needed for my coupon bin (the big pink box). I have switched to the UnCLipping method of couponing! I will do a different post on that later this week when I go shopping.
Also, Andy decided he was not going to take a good nap today. He usually sleeps a good 2-3 hours each morning. I take advantage of that time to clean, cook, do my Organizing Challenge, and all the little things that are difficult to do while he is awake. Needless to say he was shut in the playroom, buckled in his high chair or layed down in his crib while I did my job today! I don't think I will win any awards for my Mom kindness today, but hey it is the only way I can do anything and keep my sanity!
So, just before Brad went back to work after lunch he pulled down the attic ladder and got down what I needed (the hanging file holders) and I was able to get started!!
It is so nice to have a clean work space! My mind can focus on what I am doing and not constantly be worried about the clutter around me!!! You may not be able to see a big difference by glancing at the pictures, but there actually is a HUGE difference in the mess. As I do other challenges I will be able to move more of the stuff out of there and probably re-do this area again! I know I am obsessed!

Getting Organized #6

2011-01-10T13:24:00.000-07:00

Before

After

So, today I wanted to do some Organizing, so far I have had an idea of what I want to do each day, but today I couldn't do what I wanted. So, I got out my list and saw Under my Kitchen Sink on the list. I was hoping to find a dish washer tablet under there so I wouldn't have to go to the store! Well I did find one and another 100! I forgot that I had purchased 2 big Costco containers full of them!

So not only do I feel great about getting something done, I saved money by not buying something I already have! AND I don't have to go the store!! Yippee!! This is so fun, I really am enjoying doing this little project of mine! And even though I am exosing my dirty, messy hidden clutter and crap, I am loving getting it all done!!

Getting Organized #4 #5 and A (all day one)

2011-01-08T16:18:00.000-07:00

I did my First BIG JOB. I have my small 15-30 min jobs listed and then I made another column with my bigger jobs that will take about 4 hours to a full day. And, I didn't even get a before picture :*

( But, I really didn't know I would get so much done today!

Today me and MaKayla did : #4- take down Christmas lights outside down and put into boxes. #5-clean/sweep front porch! And then we did a little bonus of A-Putting all the Christmas decoration boxes away up into the attic. This was a HUGE job, and quite the workout. There are about 20 boxes plus misc. bags of decorations and such. For the first time in MONTHS I am able to pull my van and park in the garage

I am so excited! Wow, what a weight off my shoulders. And it feels good to know that Brad will be surprised when he comes home! LOVE IT!!

Getting Organized #2 & #3

2011-01-06T16:37:00.000-07:00

Before

After

So to continue on with my organizing I have done two more projects. The 2nd on my list was our sock basket. I put the mismatches from the loads of laundry in it, lately all the socks have gone in it, and none folded. Yesterday I took care of this and matched and folded all of them LOVE IT!

Today I tackled my closet. The medicine shelf has actually kept me awake at night thinking about how messy it is. Probably because the last thing before bed is going in there and changing, and I see it! I feel so good after this one today. I could feel tension and anxiety released as each shelf got cleaned!

I am so excited that things are going well with my little project, and I am surprised how much it is helping my anxiety. I am usually so obsessive about things, I can't do a part of it until I do ALL of it, so this is nice to take it one step at a time!!

Getting Organized #1

2011-01-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

Before

So, I am trying to get going on my Organizing my house goal. I made a list (and will add to it) of the things that I want to get done and reorganized, then each day I will choose 1 thing from my list to do. This way I am not comletely overwhelmed and I can manage it without being too obsessed!
Today is the FRIDGE! It has been almost a year since I cleaned it out, and it was pretty scary! I took everything out of the cold side and cleaned it and put it back neatly!

After!

The down side to this is that I had to throw a whole bunch of stuff away that had gone bad. I HATE throwing food away! It is like money just going into the garbage. So, I am going to have to make due with what I have and use it up! I looked online and found a yummy recipe for Kabocha Squash that I am gonna cook for dinner. I have never made it before, and I refuse to waste it!

However, I am thankful to have a nice organized fridge now, and I actually know what we have to eat!

Photo Editing

2011-01-04T12:20:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite photos I have ever taken. I have wanted a Photo Editing program for a long time now, and I have been waiting to get it, just for this photo! My MIL gave me Photoshop Elements 9 for Christmas this year and I am so excited! So, of course the first photo I played around with is this one. I know it is not amazing, but I love it and I am having fun.

I got these outfits for my girls months ago, just so I could take pictures of them in them! I used the black and white with color using elements. And I love hoe they turned out. Emily's I should have cleared up her runny nose, but oh well, I can later.

This is a cool one, I like it. The girls have decided that MaKayla and Emily are BUDS and Izzy and Andy are BUDS! I was playing around with a few different things trying out Layers, I know there is a lot of stuff I could have touched up on this, but I like the overall look of it! Plus with gorgeous models, can't be too bad!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-04T12:04:00.000-07:00

Each year my family gets together and spends New Years Eve at my Sister Suzie's house. This year with the storms and money situations, only the LOCALS were able to get together! We start out the evening going to dinner at the Panda Garden Restaraunt. There the adults (18 and over) enjoy a great meal without the young ones. We each order a different entree and then share with everyone. I love it! I am a big fan of Chinese food, and I love to have some of everything!
After dinner we all go to my sisters and the teenagers all go to First Night in St. George. Although this year they changed the name, I stick to the old one :) We hang out, play games and enjoy the night together. This year was no exception! I got some party favors at the store pretty cheap and the picture above it the pile of it! The little kids (10 and under) had a great time popping them. We were all pretty excited they didn't turn out to be fireworks because it was SO COLD outside!
I was very sad that Brad didn't stay with me on New Years, he was too tired from working so early and so he took the 2 little ones home. It was nice to not have to worry about the little ones, but I missed having him there by my side a midnight!
I usually don't do a formal New Year Resolution, but this year I really want to make some changes. Last year I wanted to loose weight and I am so glad that I did. I work well with goals and so I am setting a few that I hope to accomplish:
1. Get my house organized!
2. Pay off Credit Cards
3. Read 1 book a month
4. Read the Book of Mormon
5. Keep up on my Blog weekely at least :)
6. Run a half marathon
I am sure nobody cares what I am doing, but having it written down (typed) gives me something to own up too! There are a lot more things I need to work on, but I am gonna start with this!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-01T10:57:00.000-07:00

I love Christmas! I love giving and watching everyone open their presents. I seriously LOVE IT!! I have so much fun shopping and then watching as they get excited over things they ask for! This year was so great. We have been blessed to give our family a nice Christmas this year!

Emily got her BLUE Baby and her Blue Bike

MaKayla got her ipod touch!!

Izzy got her Video Barbie and new bike

Andy got Big GIJoes and a bouncy ball!

Brad got me my favorite perfume (PURE) and I got him a Citizen Pilot watch. We had so much fun and feel to greatful and blessed!

A Christ Centered Christmas

2011-01-01T10:47:00.000-07:00

The idea came from my Sister Suzie, and I am so thankful for this little book. It is filled with 7 traditions to fill our home with the Spirit. Each tradition is based on one of the pieces of the Nativity.

We started this tradition this year doing 1 a night through Christmas Eve. Each night we learned about a different piece and then did an activity from what we learned. Then we would place the Nativity piece in out special nativity.

Some of the things we did were:

Take a family in need a special present, watched the Nativity, told stories of our Faith, and wrote down a goal we would like to accomplish this year to bring us closer to Christ.

I am so thankful that we did this tradition. Next year we are going to do it as a weekly activity so we have more time to ponder and not rush anything. I highly recommend doing this. It really brought the Christmas Spirit into our home and reminded us what it is about.

Our Elf TricKole

2011-01-01T10:41:00.000-07:00

This year Santa sent us a special visitor. We named him TricKole and he stays with us until Christmas Eve when Santa comes and then he returns home with Santa. He watched all day to see how we behave, then when we go to sleep, he majically goes to the North Pole and reports to Santa how we did. Each night he moves to a new spot so we have to find him each day!

MaKayla's First Quilt

2011-01-01T10:38:00.000-07:00

This year MaKayla wanted to make her Grandma Cindy a quilt for her bed. She picked the pattern out, the fabric and we got started. I don't think she had any idea what it takes to make a Cal. King size quilt. But she learned pretty quickly. She did a great job with it too. Betweent the two of us working non-stop for a week it got finished Christmas Eve just in time.

It turned out beautiful! Her grandma loved it, and I am so proud of the hard work MaKayla put into it. She is going to make one for her sister Hailey, but definatley not as big!

Mrs. Carlton 12-13-2010

2011-01-01T10:27:00.000-07:00

12-10-13

Izzy's 2nd grade teacher passed away suddenly on a Mon. night before the Christmas break. She was also MaKayla's second grade teacher. Izzy loved her, and is very broken hearted about her death. She will be greatly missed. She was a n excellent teacher at Santa Clara Elementary. The students will surely miss her.

This is Izzy's 2nd graders at their Christmas breakfast the Sat. before their teacher died. It has been pretty trematic for some of the students. The Tues after her death, Izzy wrote her Mrs. Carlton a letter, and drew her a picture. She put it in a balloon and sent it up to her in heaven. I love my little girl and it is so hard to see her go through something like this.

O Christmas Tree

2011-01-01T10:21:00.000-07:00

Every year we get a permit and drive up the mountain to cut down our Christmas tree. We now get 2 every year cause we can't see the big one in the other room! This is the BIG one we got this year. It was so BIG!!

It had rained a lot before we went this year, and was a nice warm day. The mud was so nasty and sticky this year. There were a few scary moments driving around the cliffs, but the worst was when we kept sliding into the ditch, it was so deep it covered the steps on the side of truck! The truck was at a 75 degree angle, and Izzy kept screaming cause she thought we were going to tip over. But, Brad is an amazing driver and got us out of there safe and sound!

The Nursery

2011-01-01T10:15:00.000-07:00

Me and Brad are lucky enough to be called to the Nursery this year ;)

Although Andy isn't old enough yet, he gets to come in with us each week. I can't believe how quickly he is growing up. He can now sit at the table for snack time and plays so much better. It really helps having him be around the older kids to learn how to do things!

Emily is also in there with us. She loves to color with markers (check her arm) and she loves to play and pretend. She is so fun to be around, and is our little helper. Cause her birthday isnt until Feb. she gets to be with us another year.

It has been a big adjustment for us to be in the Nursery. Some days we have 13 kids and some only 6. We are adjusting well, and really enjoying it. Brad spends most of the time following one of the little boys around, who is constantly trying to escape.

Thanksgiving

2011-01-01T10:09:00.000-07:00

This year on Facebook I did a challenge of posting something I was greatful for every day unil Thanksgiving. It was really fun to take the time each day to ponder about what I am thankful for.
We spent Thanksgiving at my sister Suzie's house this year. Lots of my siblings were there and both sets of my parents. There were a total of I think 38 people that ate int he same room! I love my family and I feel so lucky to be a part of it. We don't have big quarrals and arguments, and we all love getting together. I hope that I can raise my children to appreciate the same as I do.
Black Friday is always part of my tradition, this year my brother and I went to the midnight WalMart sale. It was one of the craziest shopping events I have seen, and I am a seasoned Black Friday shopper. We ended up getting what we went for and it didn't take too long! It was so fun to spend time with my big brother!

The first Dance Recital

2011-01-01T10:04:00.000-07:00

Izzy and Emily both started taking dance this year. They did their first performance at the Jubilee of Trees in Nov. It is the beginning of many more performances!! And, I absolutely love it!

Izzy is part of the Super Steppers, she is on the Mini Show team, and also in a competitive group. They will compete starting this coming May. She is a good little dancer! She loves dancing and I love watching, it brings back lots of fun memories.

Emily is part of the Premier Dance Co. She is on the tiny team. I was really worried how she would be when she got on stage, because she is very shy around people. When she stepped on that stage and the music started, she did her little dance like a pro. She is definately a natural!

Las Vegas Air Show

2011-01-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

In Nov we went to the Las Vegas Air Show at Nellis Airforce Base. It was so much fun!

I cant believe how well trained the pilots are and how huge the aircraft is! We had a great time together!

Emily showing how patriotic she is!

This picture is a MUST! You can't be a teenager and go to the air show without getting a picture with the guys in uniform! MaKayla and her friend Ashley had a great time checking out all the boys!

My first 5K

2011-01-01T09:42:00.000-07:00

From left: Ellie, Luann, Alex, Izzy, Me, Emily, Cynthia

I did my first 5K this past Nov. I ran it with my MIL Cynthia, SIL Luann, Nephew Alex, and Niece Ellie. My sister Diane ran the Half Marathon, and Izzy ran the Kids 1 Mile Run. It was so much fun, and I completed it in just over 30 min. My MIL took 2nd place and my nephew 3rd in their divisions! I am so thankful for my MIL for getting up everyday to run with me, without her, there is no way I would have ever been able to do it!!

After we all finished: Ellie, Luann, Diane, Steph, Izzy, Cynthia, Alex

We did it!!

Halloween

2010-12-31T18:11:00.000-07:00

Halloween is one of my favorite times of the year, I love to dress up and have a good time.

MaKayla as "Sandy" from Grease, I had taken a lot of photos and she was getting sick of it!

Andy was a tough Broncos Football player! Such a stud

Izzy is in the parade, she was my favorite, she dressed up as an old lady!

My mom came to watch the school parade. This is one of my favorite pictures I have of her!

Emily was a Broncos Cheerleader. Definately the cutest cheerleader I have ever seen!

Andy's 1st Birthday!

2010-12-31T18:03:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it, he turned 1!! Andy is so big now, he is walking and playing and having a good time. And I finally got to make a BOY cake!! So, of course the theme was ARMY Camo!

He loved the chocolate, and look at those blue eyes! Look out ladies!

He even knows I love chocolate, so he shared with me! Ahh my little prince!

He shares his birhtday with his cousin Topher. So we celebrated together this year! Look how much they look alike! They are both so cute!

Back To School

2010-12-31T17:51:00.000-07:00

The summer flies by each year so fast. And before we know it, we are all running around getting ready to go back to school!

MaKayla with her longer new look! I can't believe she is in 10th grade, Sophmore in High School! WOW, does time go by quickly. She has grown into such a beautiful sweet girl. I couldn't have asked for a better teenager! She is wonderful! Oh and to brag: She minds well, and gets good grades too!

Izzy is in 2nd grade this year Mrs. Carltons class at Santa Clara Elem. She loves her teacher and is a great reader! I am so proud of her! Her favorite class is Art.

Emiy isn't in school yet, but is NOT going to be left out of getting ready for it. There are many morning that she cries when the girls leave and she is stuck at home with me!

Couponing

2010-12-31T17:40:00.002-07:00

So, I used my OCD, addicted personality and put it to some good use! I started couponing this Fall. I save a ton of money when I do it right. Like everything, it comes and goes how well I focus on it, but I am well prepared to save some serious cash! I love getting Free stuff and there are few things like the rush of a great deal!

THE BIG HIKE!

2010-12-29T12:28:00.001-07:00

I did it! Finally at age 32 I was able to complete the Pine Valley hike. Aug. of 2010. 27 miles total! My friend and her husband completed the first day and night with us and then me and Brad did the rest alone, just the 2 of us! It really was one of the funnest things we have done together, and I even want to get my own pack and do some more hikes. We hiked to the highest peak in Washington County and now want to challenge ourselves to do the rest of the highest peaks. It was so much fun, and I am so proud I was able to accomplish it! Thanks to my husband for all the encouragment and support!
It was one of the most beautiful places and views I have ever seen, I took a ton of video with my little FLIP camera, and my favorite spot is down towards the bottom of the canyon. I hope to go take our kids there next spring and see what they think

Mexico Trip

2010-12-29T12:23:00.000-07:00

Every year we try to make it to our Cabana in San Felipe, Mexico. We used to go there 3 or 4 times a year. But, now days we are lucky to get there 1 time. This year we went down with my brother and his family. We had so much fun. This is the way we bath our kids, using a trusted plastic storage bin. They think it is so much fun!

We set up a sweet spot down on the beach to relax, read a book, hang out, and just enjoy the moment.

Brad and MaKayla takin a break from all the fun

My brother Jason and his wife Darian relaxin enjoying a book!

Ahh the life, it is the funnest vacation we take with our kids. There is no TV no electricity, No music, No movies, No Phone, and it is the happiest our faimly is together. If is funny how without all the neccesities we find peace and joy in our lives! Sometimes the things we feel we can't live without, make us unhappy the most.

July 24th Family Reunion

2010-12-29T12:13:00.000-07:00

Every year on the 24th of July my family gets together for our reunion. This year we went to the blue mountain lodge. It was a great time. We played A Minute to Win It, and everyone had a blast! One of us 9 kids take a turn each year planning it out. We all look forward to it every year. It was a great time this year playing games, shooting guns, hanging out, doing crafts, and being silly.

With 9 kids, all married, and over 40 gradkids & greatgrandkids, there are a lot of us. I feel so fortunate to belong to this huge family. It is very special to me when we are able to all get together!

Updating My Blog

2010-12-29T12:02:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I am a slacker this year. I have done a terrible job udating my blog. What can I say, it has been a crazy crazy year!! So, before this year is over, I am going to try to update things that have happened and hopefully keep up on it through next year. Mostly so that I can print a book like a journal of my life each year. Not because I want to brag or show off what we do!
So, we'll see how it goes, and hopefully I am bettter in 2011!!

Whipple Valley Hike

2010-07-14T15:26:00.004-06:00

Brad has been asking me for years to go on this hike with him. The REAL one is 30 miles and we are doing it the end of Aug. The one we went on last week was half and a tester to see how I would do. He has gone on and on about how great it is, and beautiful and he did not exagerate one bit!! It was the prettiest place I have ever been too that I can think of. It was not as hard as I thought it was, and I did better than I thought I would . We hiked from Whipple trail start 6 miles up to Whipple Valley, then 1 more mile over to North Valley where we camped and another mile walking around checking it out, then back down. A total of about 15 miles in 28 hours!! My pack was 26 lbs. The same weight that I have lost. It was really emotional for me to do this hike carrying the pack. This is what I was working for. I wanted to be able to hike with my husband and be healthy.
It was so nice to be with Brad alone. Usually we are with other people, or our children. We were able to talk, laugh and play together with no interruptions. I love him so much and am so grateful to be his wife!
Anyways, I took so many pictures and here are my favorites:

Me about half way up, beautiful view, we have this same pic with Brad in it from his first time.

That is Pine Valley at the bottom

Brad hiking, it had rained off and on all day so we covered up our packs.

Me on the trail going home, it wasn't cold, but the mosquitoes were INSANE!!!

Our camp at North Valley. So peaceful and hidden!

I could not get over how pretty the trail was. It reminded me of a movie!

This is Whipple Valley. This is the view you get when you first walk out of the trees.

Brad filling up our water. This was the best water I have ever drank!

The trail through the valley Gorgeous

Brad enjoying our Cup O Noodles Lunch

Me with my pack, So proud!! I did it!

4th Of July

2010-07-14T14:55:00.005-06:00

This year we decided to go to Lake Powell for the 4th of July. Our family hasn't ever gone there and Brad hadn't been back since he was a teenager. We traded my nephew Topher for Andy which made it a lot easier and relaing for me! We had so much fun skiing, wakeboarding, exploring and hanging out. We stayed "in the rich part of town" it was this little area full of House Boats, we were like the trailor trash in the rich neighborhood! It was so cool though cause they had the huge fireworks like the city puts on, so we got to enjoy them on the 4th.

Anyway, I couldn't pick a one or two photos so here are a bunch: Our Boat (which we realized we haven't named)

The first time any of us has seen a Semi going down the lake

MaKayla wakeboarding, she is getting so good!

Steph (me) wakeboarding, it had been 3 years since I last did anything, this was the first summer I was in shape, not pregnant, and not just had a baby!

All the kids hung out relaxing at our beach

Our camp. It was awesome, we stayed in our tent

My favorite Pictures of the kids:

Emily driving, she LOVED it! She asked and asked to drive, it was fun!

Izzy was so happy driving around, I loved the sun around her in this.

MaKayla, our beautiful teenager, look out boys her dad's got a BIG gun! She is so grown up!

Holly, in her cute life jacket. She loved to swim and try to catch the spraying water

This was our diving rock right by our camp, we all enjoyed swimming to it and jumping off of it

Emily was a big helper holding the flag this year

Topher made a stencil and wore it on his chest, it gave him this cool Superman look!

My girls, My Sweet Sweet Sweet Girls!

Emily Shaving

2010-07-14T14:51:00.002-06:00

Emily decided to try shaving! OUCH! She usually plays with my new razors that have the covers on them while I am sitting there, but she found Brad's that did not. Needless to say she cut her top lip pretty bad, after bleeding for a while it stopped, but this picture cracked us up too much to not post! BTW: I don't know how to rotate it so it is sideways!

Izzy's First Shiner

2010-07-14T14:45:00.003-06:00

This June Izzy was out playing catch with her best friend Chase, and she missed. She got her first real Black EYE! She was so cute about it. And it has healed nicely!

Father's Day

2010-07-14T14:25:00.009-06:00

We celebrated Father's Day at my Step-Dad's house this year. We got him a ride with Brad in a helicopter for 1/2 hr. But the real present was for all our spouses!!! Someone happened to come across some sweet clothes that were just too funny to pass up. We decided to show all the fabulous clothes off in a fashion show for our hubbies!!

Don't we look AMAZING???

HAHA...anyways, it made for a very fun evening, everyone was cracking up laughing!

And I did drive 2000 miles!

2010-07-14T10:38:00.003-06:00

Me, Andy, Diane, Zach, and Suzie

Coming from a large family, there is no way we are able to make it to every important event that happens. However, me and my sisters have made a pack that we will do what we can to go to as many events as possible. We usually can't take our whole families with us, but we take who we can (who there is room for) and make our way around the country!!

In the past we have driven to CA for a Mission Farewell, and even Oregon for my brothers wedding, talk about a road trip!! It always takes a lot of work and we almost always cancel, but when we are able to make it, it is ALWAYS worth it. We love our family very much and wish we could be there more for all of them!

This end of school year was a busy time for us. We had f2 nephews and 1 niece graduating from High School, and 1 nephew leaving on a mission. 2 of the graduations were on the same day in different states, so we werent able to make both.

We started out driving up to Tooele, UT for my nephew Derek's graduation. (Jenna my niece was on the same day in CA) Then we drove home that night. Then we turned around 2 days later and drove to Bozeman, MT for my nephew Zack's graduation. We staye 2 nights and drove all the way home again. Then 4 days later we drove back to Highland, UT for my nephew Sam's Mission farewell. OVER 2000 miles total!

Needless to say, we had a lot of time to talk and solve all the worlds problems while traveling. We had so much fun, some highlights were: The Beach Balls at Dereks grad, the sweet garage sale we hit the morning headed to MT, the baby moose and wild mother and baby coyote, getting lost about 5 times, and taking wrong turns (I have a hard time following the GPS Lady), and of course stopping 13 times on the way home from MT (all women and no men, what do you expect?) I am so lucky to have such wonderful sisters and mom too!

Camping and Fishing Season

2010-07-13T16:29:00.004-06:00

We decided to kick off the summer with a overnight camping/fishing trip. We tried out a new resevoir by our house Sand Cove. It's a 20 min drive and we camped right on the lake. Everyone caught lots of fish. Brad's parents came and stayed with us in our camper. We had so much fun and feel so lucky to have such neat places so close to home!

Brad's parents fishing

Brad fishing

Izzy trying to catch her first fish!

Emily prepared to fall in the lake!

Our sweet setup!

Let's Play Ball!

2010-07-13T16:25:00.002-06:00

Izzy loves Baseball! This was her last year playing in the boys/girls Coach Pitched league. Next year it is machine pitched softball.

She loved playing and her favorite positions were Pitcher and Catcher.

MaKayla turns 15!

2010-07-13T16:13:00.003-06:00

In April, MaKayla turned 15! She has grown into a beautiful young woman! She is kind, loving, and thoughtful. She loves soccer, money, shopping, friends, and doing all kinds of activities. She will be a Sophmore this year and she got her drivers permit. She is an excellent driver! She loves going to Stake Dances and meeting BOYS! (Brad doesn't love that too much)..

We are so proud of her and so grateful to be her parents!!

MaKayla and her sweet Birthday cake Izzy decorated!

Her new Soccer Ball

Every year since they were born , the girls get a birthday doll from their grandma Hawker,

I can't believe she only has 2 more!!

Her new purse from Izzy

MONEY MONEY MONEY! Everyone gave her $$ to go shopping with

she was in HEAVEN!!

Easter 2010

2010-07-13T16:04:00.003-06:00

This year for Easter we went camping with Brad's family in Zion Park. It was different from our usual Easter weekend traditions, and it was so FUN! We had an easter egg hunt in the field, and the Easter Bunny came to our camper and hid the baskets and eggs!

Even Holly got a basket this year!

Andy's First Easter

Emily was so excited

Izzy was so happy!

MaKayla was really thrilled, she just wasn't quite awake yet!

Spring Mexico Trip

2010-07-13T15:49:00.003-06:00

We got the chance to go to Meico for a quick trip to the Cabana. We went with our friend Jaylin and her 4 kids. We all had so much fun relaing and playing!

The kids playing by the water, MaKayla riding the 4 wheeler

Andy's first trip to Mexico, and he loved it as much as all the others!

Izzy posing, she is getting so big!

Everyone, we all sit around playing games and hanging out!

Emily in her little "tub"

Home Sweet Home!

2010-04-12T17:22:00.003-06:00

The people renting our house moved out, so we got to MOVE BACK HOME!! We are all so excited to be home. It seems so much bigger and nicer after living in a basement and small rental for a year! There is definately no better feeling than being home!

Brad 32nd Birthday

2010-04-12T17:16:00.003-06:00

Brad turned 32 this year! We had a little party at his mom's and had his favorite taco dinner. I am so proud to be his wife and happy that we still have fun together!

Happy 10th Anniversary!

2010-04-09T09:13:00.003-06:00

For our 10th anniversary this year I got Brad a new wedding ring (not even from a pawn store) and he got me a trip across the US in a helicopter. It was my first time in a helicopter EVER and it took us 20 hours of flying time, over a 4 day period. It was so fun and amazing. We went through 10 states: Florida, Mississippi, Georgia, Louisiana, Alabama, Oaklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and UT. It was so great to experience what Brad does for work and see the country at 500 ft above the ground.
Some things I learned:
-When people say that there are swamps in Fl they mean for hundres of miles there are swamps. The entire first day we flew over swamp land!
-Texas is HUGE! But also it is very FLAT! I never knew how flat it is.
-People are sincerely nice the further South East you go. People are still nice in the West, but not as genuine, more like they HAVE to be nice to you.
-Sulfer Springs, TX has nothing! Not a Taxi, shuttle bus, or anything! Don't Go there!
-Ruston, LA has the biggest rocking chair I have ever seen in my life! At least 50+ feet high!
-I love to TRAVEL
-AND THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE HOM!!!

Emily's First Haircut!

2010-04-08T14:35:00.003-06:00

It has been a long time coming, but finally Emily got her first hair cut. It was very long and stringy and in desperate need of help. I took her into my wonderful stylist Jana and she fixed her up so cute! And since it had been a while, Izzy and MaKayla got their hair done too! It was like Exctreme makeover for my kids! Emily was so excited watching MaKayla get her haircut she couldn't wait for her turn!

She did so good and held so still (for about 5 seconds at a time) Jana did a great job with her!

The end result was PERFECT! A cute little A-line bob!

Izzy couldn't wait for her turn either, she hates her hair long cause it hurts so bad to brush it, so she wanted it all cut off short.

So she got a cute little bob too! SO Adorable!

MaKayla is still growing her hair long, she got her hair all trimmed up and looking so cute! She looks so grown up I can't believe it!

Emily's 2nd Birthday

2010-04-06T16:02:00.003-06:00

Emily turned 2 in Feb. We let her relax and open presents as she wanted all day and play with them. I can't believe how big she is getting, she is so funny and sweet (most of the time) we are so proud of her!

Izzy's first quilt

2010-04-06T15:57:00.005-06:00

Izzy got a sewing machine for Christamas and some fabric. She knew imediately she wanted to use it to make Emily a quilt for her birthday. I directed her and helped with the binding a little and she did ALL the rest. She even tied all but the center alone, she is a natural and it turned out so cute!

New Years Eve

2010-01-07T15:11:00.003-07:00

This year for New Years per tradition me and Brad went to dinner with my siblings and parents and some of my nieces and nephews: 17 and older! We go to Panda Garden and have yummy chinese! Then we went to my sister Suzie's house and play games til midnight! MaKayla and all her teenage cousins go to first night downtown in St. George. This year Izzy went up to Zion with GMA AND GPA Hawker and stayed in a COOL Hotel and played with all her Hawker Cousins. Andy and Emily hung out with me and Brad. We all had a lot of fun, it is interesting the changes in our family and what everyone does each year!
I got a Flip camera and made a little movie of us ringing in the New Year:

Christmas 09'

2010-01-07T14:29:00.005-07:00

For Christmas each year we have certain traditions: Me and Brad ring the bell at WalMart for the Salvation Army. We cut down our Christmas Tree and make a ginger bread house to begin with, on Christmas Eve we go to my mom's house and have a beautiful Turkey dinner with all the family here including my dad! She gives each of the grandkids a present and they open it. We visit with everyone and sing carols. Then we go to Brad's parents house and vistit and she always gives the kids pajamas to wear that night. Then we go drive around with our kids alone, we can't go home until our kids cout 100 Santa's! This year MaKayla added 50 Snowmen to the list, cause the santas are getting too easy! When we get home the kids are tired and ready for bed. We read a Christmas book together & go to bed.

On Christmas morning, the kids take a picture in front of the tree. Brad hands out presents and we eat cinnamon rolls (homemade this year by MaKayla) and hot chocolate for breakfast! This year for a service project (thanks to my sister) we were able to participate in taking dinner to the Dove center here. It wasn't much and didn't take a lot of time, but it was nice to do something for someone else on Christmas Day! Our Gingerbread house

The kids (minus Andy) in front of the tree

Andy in his new coat and hat!

Izzy's new sewing machine!

MaKayla's new Camera

Brad's Parents and Andy

The Mess afterwards

My favorit gifts we gave this year were: A handmade quilt for Brad's sister, Savannah Smiles to my girls ( my fav movie of all time), Christmas Plaque to Brad's Mom, Stereo to MaKayla, Medal Detector to Izzy! This year was awesome we feel ery blessed! The highlights we recieved were: Brad: The Iron Gym

Steph: Awesome Umbrella to watch sports under thanks Scott & Luann!

MaKaya: New Camera, Pink Converse, Drivers Ed Handbook!

Isabelle: Sewing machine, Bell Dress

Emily: Laptop Toy, Art Easel (her and Izzy)

Andy: Jungle Gym Toy, Helicopter Toy (of course)

Holly: New Toys!

Andrew 3 Months Old

2010-01-07T10:59:00.003-07:00

Andy and Grandpa Kroff

Andy is growing up faster than I can keep up with. He turned 3 months old on Christmas Eve. He is learning to use his hands more and more. He can reach and grab things in front of him. He is so happy, he smiles all the time! He sleeps through the night from about 9:30pm to 7am (usually). He loves his big sisters, he gets so excited when any of them talk to him or pick him up. He tries to sit up a lot more, he is getting stronger everyday. He goos a lot when you talk to him. He also tries to roll over, if on a little slant he can go from belly to back. He has almost figured out how to get on his belly from his back. He goes about 3 hours inbetween feedings which is great! He is also a little chubby, not much but enough to know he is growing. He is still wearing 0-3 month clothes, but has grown out of all the Newborn clothes. He is so cute and we all love him! Oh, and he loves to sleep with his binki in his mouth
and his blanket covering his face, he gets that from his daddy!

O Christmas Tree!

2009-12-23T20:27:00.002-07:00

Ever year we pack up all the kids (and Hailey) and go chop down our tree. We had been exploring a few weeks earlier and had spotted a few good ones & marked it on the GPS. So, it didn't take long to find this one. It is the smallest tree I think we have had in 9 years, but it is BEAUTIFUL! Me and MaKayla wanted it flocked, so we bought this stuff at the hardware store and sprayed it all up! We left it out to dry overnight outside, but it fell over, and when we brought it in, PEEEUWWW! It stunk so bad!! UGH! But after a few days, we really didn't notice the smell anymore and it looks really pretty! We made a new ornament for Andy this year and hung it on the tree. All the kids and tree decorated

So Handsome! He smiles so much now!

The Famous Silly Face Pose

My Manly Man!

Andrew Baby Blessing

2009-12-23T20:16:00.003-07:00

Andy got blessed on Dec. 1st By his Grandpa Hawker. Here are some AWESOME pictures my SIL took of him. She does EXCELLENT work, if you would like to contact her or see more of her work go to her website on the pictures: All dressed up and SO Handsome!
Beautiful Big Blue Eyes (just like his mommy!)

My favorite, because this is the view I see while feeding him

His only Great-Grandparent: Grandma Boberg

4 Generations of Hawkers: Brad, Doug (Brad's Dad), Doug (Brad's Grandpa),

and Andy (Brad's Son)

My favorite of the day!

San Francisco

2009-12-10T12:47:00.002-07:00

We had the opportunity in Oct. to go to SF, Izzy had never been there and was so exctied to go to the "Full House" house. There was a park across the street that we took the kids to and played at.
We stayed at my brother Robbie's and SIL Ria's house. They were so much fun! After the park and some touristy driving around we went to Joe's Crab Shack... YUMMY! Emily was sick that day so she fell asleep on Brad's lap during dinner!

October 17, 09

2009-12-10T12:39:00.003-07:00

Brad killed his first deer this year, he went hunting with Keith and Mike. Keith came over and helped us with the skinning, cutting and butchering! We have since enjoyed several Delicious meals (that I cooked :)) !

Oct. 2nd Andy's first Bath

2009-12-10T12:35:00.003-07:00

Back in Oct. ( I know I am a little behind in blogging) Andy had his first bath, MaKayla and Izzy both got to help!

Brad's Projects

2009-12-10T12:30:00.002-07:00

These are a few of the projects that Brad is working on at the aviation shop! If you can imagine these will look brand new when they are done with them, the bottom one will be done first, and he probably will get to fly it! He is amazing, I don't think there is anything he can't do!

3 Weeks Old!

2009-10-19T17:07:00.003-06:00

Andrew is 3 weeks old, I took him to get pictures done, i can't wait until they come in. I can't believe how much he has allready changed! He looks more like brad than ever! He did his first "GOO" yesterday, he got so excited that he made a noise, then after a few moments he figured it out and did it again! He is awake for about an hour at a time about 3 times a day..he usually looks very bored like he is waiting for something to happen. He has a pleasant personality and is still very calm.. He is slowly sleeping more at night about 1.5-3 hours at a time! I am so grateful to be his mom, and could not have asked for a more perfect son!

1 Week Old!

2009-10-01T22:26:00.003-06:00

I can't believe the difference 1 week makes! Andrew looks so different all ready so I had to take some pictures cause I know his newborn look won't last long! Here he is today on his 1 week birthday! BTW this is his 3rd outfit for the day, I am still getting used to changing a boy diaper :) I will have to get some pics without the binki but it has been a long day for both of us!

Andrew James Hawker

2009-09-26T22:24:00.005-06:00

I am so proud to introduce my Son: Andrew James Hawker!

His 3 older sisters... this boy will never be neglected!

MaKayla protecting him from Emily and her curious hands.

Izzy so proud!

Getting to know each other! Emily looks so proud!

On the 23rd at 9:30pm I went into the Hospital having contractions 4 min apart for 60 sec. They sent me home at 10:35pm because I was not dialating any more even though I was having contractions. I came home very upset and depressed I was certain it would be another week of contractions and no baby! So, I took a nice hot bath, relaxed and went to bed at 12am expecting the contractions to go away. I woke up an hour later at 12:50am in a LOT of pain! After a few intese contractions, I was sure this time things had changed, so we went back to the hospital.... I was right! At 1:50am we were checked in and getting an epidural. I was progressing 1 cm per 45 min. At 6am I stalled out and they gave me a little pitocin. 7:15am the Dr. Came in I was at an 8 and he decided to see what would happen if I pushed, well 1 and a half pushes later we had our little boy Andrew.

Andy looks just like his dad! So far his hair is black and eyes a chocolaty brown just like Brad's.

Born at 7:22am, 19 in long, 6 lbs 150z. Everything went fine, me and baby did great!! We stayed 2 nights at the hospital and came home today.

Thanks to everyone who called, prayed, and came by for us. I feel very blessed to have such a wonderful family and friends!

Also, the staff at DRMC were so great to us, they always provide exceptional care and took care of everything for us!

Labor Day Vacation 09

2009-09-22T16:21:00.008-06:00

For Labor Day this year we decided to go somewhere new. Neither me or Brad had ever been to Yellowstone and decided to it would be fun to go this year. My brother Mike lives in Montana just 1.5 hours away from there and his youngest happened to be getting baptized the same weekend. I also needed to get my maternity photos done so we bundled it all together and had a little road trip.

Thurs. night we rove to Springville and stayed at Brad's brother Scott's house. Friday morning we got up and his wife Luann took my maternity photos (they will be on seperate post).

After the pictures Friday, my mom and step-dad met us and piled in the car with us for the remaining journey.

Friday night we arrived in Montana at my brother Mike's house.

Saturday we went to my nephew's baptism then, Brad and Keith went fishing, and me and the girls went exploring. My SIL's Step-mom was there and taught MaKayla to make Mile High Mississippi Pie:

It was also my nephews birthday, so we had a little party for him that night!

Sunday we got up early, said our goodbye's and took off to Yellowstone. We saw lots of different animals: Buffalo, Elk, Deer, etc. everything but a bear! It was so much fun, but we only got about 1/4 of the way through what we wanted, if you are going there, 3 days is needed to see everything for sure!!

We made sure to see Old Faithful. Brad has always worried that it would stop unexpectedly before he got the chance to go see it, but luckily it is still working!! :) It was so cool and a lot bigger than I thought it would be.

Another cool thing was crossing the continental divide. It was funny cause right there was a pond and all the water held still as if it didn't know wich way to go down the mountain!

Then when we left we passed the Teton's. They are so beautiful, my pictures do not do them justice at all!

Sunday night we stayed in a cute little cabin in Jackson. We then drove down and saw some cool rapids.

We had so much fun I am we are so lucky to be able to do fun things with our kids. And my parents even survived and still speak to us!

Hunger Games

2009-09-01T09:24:00.002-06:00

For my birthday my SIL gave me this book. When I sat down to read it, I finished it in 2 days, I could not put it down. I loved it. It is a fiction book about the future where 20 kids are put together and have to kill or be killed. One winner will be set for life. There is no choice to play or not, if they are choosen to go, they go unless there is someone who will take their place. All kids are between 12 and 18. Sounds odd, but it is so so good! I highly recomend this book! It is actually written for a young audience, so it is a fast easy read.

Lake Mead Weekend

2009-08-17T16:53:00.006-06:00

We took the family to the lake this weekend. We left Sat. to Lake Mead and boated all day, we had tinfoil dinners, and played games in our trailer. Sunday we woke up had breakfast, packed up the camper and then boated ALL DAY, for 7 hours. The water was amazing, it was like glass most of Sunday and barely any waves on Sat. For those of you who know Lake Mead this never happens, it is usually so windy especially in the afternoon! We called this our Mexico vacation, cause we couldn't go down to the Cabana this year. It was so much fun to spend time with our kids, they are all growing up and it is so much fun! On the way home we had some trailer hitch problems, but thanks to Brad's parents driving down and rescuing us, everything was fine...it just took 5 hours to get home instead of 2!

Brad normally doesn't go on the Hot Dog, but I can't take Emily so he was a sport and went with her and Izzy. (I think he secretly enjoys it!)

Holly had a good time. We were worried how she would do, but she loved the water and kept a close eye on everyone and loved to bark at the fish and ducks!

My friend Jaylin came down and spent Sat with us. She had a good time learning to WakeBoard and ride the Hot Dog!

MaKayla learned to Wake Board this year, she is doing so great! She can get up really easily and is learning to control it and steer. Next year she says she will try to learn to skii!

Emily just couldn't get enough of the water, anytime we would stop she would climb to the back and sit down and put her feet in. She was so funny, anytime someone would fall off the skii's she would say "where 'd go"

Izzy loved the Hot Dog more than anyone! She must have spent at least 3 hours riding on it! She even got hurt pretty bad once when she fell off and the rope got her, but she climbed back on and was ready to go!

Here is a video of MaKayla wake boarding. I got a longer one, but can't get it to work for some reason, she is doing so great!

The First Day of School 09'

2009-08-17T16:29:00.002-06:00

Izzy started 1st grade this year, she was so EXCITED! She picked out this outfit to wear on the first day! She looks so big!

MaKayla started 9th grade this year a FRESHMAN!! She choose to wear her sweet new leopard print heals and matching outfit! I can't believe she looks so grown up!

Holly Groomed!

2009-08-17T16:25:00.002-06:00

So you may have noticed in the picture of Izzy's birthday Holly was looking pretty shabby! So after I took her to the groomer we took a picture to show how cute she is normally! She is doing so good, and is a sweet dog. She is almost 1 year old! We are deciding weather or not to breed her this time.

Izzy 6th Birthday!

2009-08-17T15:54:00.006-06:00

For Izzy's 6th Birthday we had a busy day of fun activities, we went to the hair salon and she and MaKayla got their school hair cuts done, then we went to Sears and got their pictures taken, and then we went to the movie G-Force in 3D. We came home and had pizza, cake and presents. I can't believe she is 6 already, time sure does fly by!

Pizza Yum!

The 3D group

She decorated her very own cake!

A Day at the Beach

2009-08-17T14:01:00.003-06:00

We woke up Saturday morning a couple of weeks ago and had the urge to go somewhere, we packed our bags for an overnighter and headed out. We ended up in Long Beach, CA. We stayed only one night and played at the beach all day Sunday. It was so much fun. The girls played and played. The trip home was VERY LONG cause Izzy got sick and then we had to keep stopping, but other than that it was Awesome!

July 24th 2009 Family Reunion

2009-08-17T11:54:00.006-06:00

We went to Otter Creek again this year for my family reunion. We camped, fished, boated and did crafts. We also spent a lot of time hanging out! It was so much fun and I cherish the time that so many of my brothers and sisters can get together. 8 out of the 9 of us were there with our families.

I got this little pool for Emily. I was worried about her trying to run down to the hill or away to other camps, and this worked like a charm. She spent almost the entire time in this little pool even though the water was FREEZING!

My mom always brings her kayaks and they are always in use, I couldn't take Izzy out, so my brother Jason took her. She had a blast!

We always have a craft and this year my nieces had us do these fun flip flops mine and MaKayla's are tied with fabric and Izzy's are water balloons, they are so cute!
MaKayla was out on the boat pretty much the whole time, I got a picture of her finally making her shoes!

On the way home Izzy lost her second tooth in the truck!

Here is a video at the reunion, my brother Mike was in charge of the nights activities, here they are playing a game where one has to feed another chocolate pudding, and both of them are blindfolded. Brad participated in the being fed part, he did awesome especially cause he hates chocolate pudding!

Izzy's first ride on motorcycle

2009-08-17T10:07:00.004-06:00

Izzy has been waiting and waiting to be Big enough to go on her dad's mtorcycle. Finally her feet touch the pedals and so she got to go. She is wearing the sweet motorcycle jacket her grandma Hawker gave her even though iit was over 100 degrees outside! She had so much fun!

Fathers Day

2009-08-17T10:01:00.002-06:00

For fathers day this year we went to Duck Creek with my Mom and Keith, and Brad's parents. It rained the whole time on and off. Brad spent a lot of time fishing and me and the girls hung out. We went on our usual hike up a trail about .5 mile. the girls all have their names carved in a tree, so we like to get a picture of them standing by it each time we go.

My Sister's Keeper By: Jodi Picoult

2009-06-22T22:09:00.002-06:00

Wow, here is a tear jerker for you. This was a very quick easy, but emotional book to read. It is about a family that has one boy, one girl. The girl is diagnosed with cancer at age 2-3. They decide to have another baby girl to be a donor for her. This younger sister at age 13 files a lawsuit to sue her parents for the right to make her own medical choices. This meaning she could choose NOT to donate the kidney of hers to her sister, and thus her older sister would die. This book follows in each persons perspective the two week long journey. I absolutely recomend this to anyone! The movie is coming out soon, and I cannot wait to see it TOO! Enjoy!

Atlas Shrugged By Ayn Rand

2009-06-19T15:47:00.005-06:00

So this was one of the longest, and hardest books I have ever read. I learned a lot of new words, that I have already forgotten! Anyway, I really loved this book! It is not very easy to describe what it is about, but it is set in the early 30's to 40's I think. During the railroad and industrial boom. If you have time, I definitely recommend this book. My brother Mike has talked about it every time I see him, so now I am glad to have someone to talk about it with. If any of you take on this book, let me know, I would love to see your insight and hear your thoughts on it!

9 new posts!

2009-06-12T16:32:00.002-06:00

It has been a busy time for us! School is out and with us having insurance right now we are doing lots of Dr and Dentist appointments, this past week alone, Emily went to ER for toothpaste overdose, and Dr. for a virus that gave her high fever, and sores in her throat, Izzy had surgery on her tonsils and adenoids, MaKayla has been to dentist 2 times for 3 quad fillings (still has one more to go), I got my teeth cleaned and went to OB for check up, Brad had teeth filled, and a wisdom tooth pulled! But today I had time to update our Blog, it has been a while so there are 9 new posts going back to MaKayla's brithday! Enjoy!

Izzy's Surgery

2009-06-12T16:23:00.003-06:00

On Monday Izzy had her tonsils and Adenoids removed. The Dr. said they were enlarged and causing her snoring and not being able to sleep soundly at night, and why she has had a runny nose her whole life. So anyway she did so great, she is feeling a little better today after a rough few days. We love her so much and are so glad everything went OK. We almost had to take her to ER yesterday cause she was throwing up a lot and not eating or drinking, but some anti-nausea medicine worked and she is doing great now! We had to be there at 6am, Izzy was all ready to go with her Bunny FLUFFY!
Anxiously waiting!

Just before going in, I had to leave her, but they let her take Fluffy and her Blanky!

When she was all done, she was still out of it, she kept looking at her arm and asking "what's that?" and I would say "it's an IV" she would ask "what's it for?" and I would tell her "it's giving your body a drink" then a few min later she would look at her arm and ask "what's that?" and we would do it all over again! She was so brave and cute!

Exploring

2009-06-12T16:08:00.004-06:00

This last weekend we filled the truck up with gas and went exploring for 8 hours! It was pretty cool! This is built into the mountain, Brad wanted to go in, but I wouldn't let him, way too creepy!

This little CREEPY house was in the middle of NO WHERE! Only one way in and no other way out! It was like a scary movie, and I saw the whole thing in my head!

This is Gold Strike. An old gold mine that is not used anymore!

Some deer, I told Brad they should come back in deer season, cause they got horns!

This is the old landing strip. It is said that the Mofia back in the day owned this and they would fly people who were in trouble with them here and bury them. "this is where the holes in the desert are" says Brad.

This is Brad climbing the old wind sock at the landing strip!

My new Favorite tree. It is so pretty, I want to come camp here sometime, it is so huge, and has a spring next to it. WOW!

Emily in the ER

2009-06-12T15:54:00.002-06:00

So Emily took her first trip to the ER, can't believe she made it 16 months! When I shower I give her a toothbrush with a little toothpaste and turn on the water for her. She brushes her teeth usually the whole time. Well somehow, I must have left the cap off of the toothpaste because when I got out she was very very fussy. I couldn't figure out what was wrong, all the sudden she was very lethargic and clingy to me, then she threw up. It smelled awefully minty, and that is when it clicked. I ran to the bathroom and sure enough she had sucked it down. I wasn't sure how much she ate, but there was more than half the tube missing. I called poison control and they said for her weight that the amount she had can be very toxic, and because she had allready thrown up once, it is cause for more concern. They said we needed to take her to ER. So we took her to the ER and shew threw up 2 more times, they took her blood and gave her an IV. The first test results came back that her calcium and potassium were just a little high. We had to wait there for 3 more hours so they could test her blood again to make sure the levels were going down, not up. They did go down and after 6 hours of being there, we got to go home. She was so good and cute there. She even took 2 naps! WOW! Thanks to Dr. Dallin and the staff at our ER they were so nice and attentive to her the whole time! Emily and her little bandages from IV and blood work!

Girls Trip up North!

2009-06-12T15:25:00.009-06:00

My nephew Sam graduated high school this year, and my nephew Jared (his brother) had his homecoming, they were both 4 days apart so I took Emily and Izzy up North to SLC and Tooele for the week. We had so much fun! Me my sister Diane, my mom, and Izzy went to the nail salon to get pedicures, and nails done. It was Izzy's first time, she was so excited! She got her nails and toes painted up! My sisters Suzie, Lori, and Diane and my mom all took our kids to the zoo on Saturday. It was Izzy's first time to the zoo! She was in heaven! We had such a great time and the graduation and homecoming were so wonderful! I am so lucky to have such a great family! Here are a ton of pictures from the weekend: Izzy was most excited to go on the train!

Emily wouldn't hold still, so aunt Diane helped!

Izzy is SO BIG!

Izzy and cousin Tina looking good on the carousel!

My mom and all the grandkids that went!

Me, Diane, Mom, Suzie, and Lori

Izzy got to touch the giraffe scull

I put sunblock on Emily's face and hands, but she rubbed them too soon, so sunblock got all in her eyes, she was so red and swollen for most of the day, it was so sad!

They sat and watched these monkeys for about 20+ min. It was awesome!

A huge cockroach!

Izzy's beautiful nails!

Trying to hold still so her nails could dry

Getting toes done!

She doesn't look one bit excited does she?

Sam's graduation, there were i think 500+ students!

Aunt Diane keeping Emily occupied!

My brother in law Robert, nephew Jared, Sam, Clayton, and my sister Lori

Nephew Sam, so distinguished!

Memorial Weekend in Zion

2009-06-12T15:08:00.005-06:00

For Memorial Weekend this year we went camping at Zion with Brad's Parents and Brother Scott and his whole family. Brad and MaKayla spent 2 full days hiking, the first day to Observation Point, and the second Angel's Landing. Me and the little girls hung around camp and relaxed. We celebrated Scott, Andrea, and Ellie's birthdays. We had so much fun! Here are a bunch of pictures from the weekend:

Izzy Graduated Kindergarten!

2009-06-12T14:59:00.003-06:00

Izzy gradutated Kindergarten in May! She is so excited to be a 1st grader next year. They had quite the official ceremony at school with each of their names being called and the principal handing them thier diploma and shaking their hands! It was so cute, afterwards we went to her room and watched the class year video and ate ice cream. Izzy with her diploma
Izzy and her grandpa Kroff

Izzy and her grandma Bankhead

Izzy and her K- teacher Mrs. Rindlisbacher

Izzy waiting her turn to go up!

Her class singing!

Indian Springs

2009-06-12T14:26:00.004-06:00

Our newphew Damian spent the day with us so we went geocaching and exploring! We went to Indaian Springs and all over to nowhere, it was a great day! Izzy with the geochace
Damian with his first geocache

this is on the way to Mesquite on the old highway

The spring that fills the tank at Indian Springs

Indian Springs

Some cows that were hanging out in the shade

Emily's first pony tails!

2009-06-12T14:22:00.001-06:00

Emily finally has enough hair to make little ponytails, this was the first time I made them in her hair, but they don't last too long, she pulls them out, but aren't they adorable!

MaKayla 14th Birthday

2009-06-12T13:46:00.005-06:00

MaKayla turned 14 this year! I can't belive how fast she is growing up! She is so smart and beautiful, she is caring and loving. She is an awesome help to me and her whole family! We love her so much! We celebrated her birthday this year at Olive Garden, lots of her grandparents and family came.

Blowing out candles!

The staff singing!

This is her Mom Jennifer, and her sisters

Hailey, and Morgan, and her little brother Riley.

She got cool clothes from her mom

More clothes from her friends in Beryl

A Sweet lifejacket she has been begging for from her grandma Hawker

This is the quilt I made for her, she picked out the fabric and didn't see it after that until her birthday.

Pretty Jewelry from her aunt Jessica

More clothes and shoes from her sisters Emily and Izzy

Her table at dinner

She also got a lot of money and cool stuff from other family and friends, thanks to everyone who came, called, and sent cards she really had a great birthday!