The Gentry Family

Happy Birthday, Little Man!!!

2011-06-23T22:20:00.001-06:00

How is it possible that my baby is SEVEN!?!? I love my little buddy so much! We had a fun day of pizza at the mall, Bonsai for dinner, Ice cream cake,and presents. Can you tell he loves sports??

OUr NeW BaBy!!

2011-03-12T20:58:00.006-07:00

This is Jones. He is the newest member of the Gentry family. He was born on February 10th, and he will be coming home to live with us in a few weeks! We can't wait! :)

Happy Halloween

2010-11-05T21:30:00.003-06:00

Birthday Boy!!

2010-06-23T21:51:00.006-06:00

We had a blast celebrating with Aden today. We started off the day by going to Build-A-Bear. He got a cute bear and a Jazz outfit. He named him Korver. Then we went bowling. After that we met up with my sisters and mom and spent some time at Gardner Village (Not Aden's idea, but he still had fun). Then we went swimming with my sister and her cute kids. And finally, we went to Bonsai for dinner (Aden's favorite!) and came home and ate cake and ice cream. It was a good day. Aden told me his birthday wish was that every day could be like today. That makes it all worth it!

Today was fun, and it has been an awesome 6 years!! Happy birthday to my BIG BOY!! I love you to the moon and back!! :)

Nail School

2010-06-17T11:02:00.002-06:00

Most of you already know, but I started Nail School this month. I LOVE it! It is so much fun, and I really enjoy going to class. It takes about 4.5 months to get through school. I am going to Color My Nails, so if any of you want to come in and get a service done by ME let me know. :)

Slacker Blogger of the Year

2010-06-13T14:09:00.016-06:00

Goes to ME! I have been sooo busy lately, and my blog is proof of that. I finally have a minute to sit down and download some pics of our year so far.
Here is our 2010 in review.

We rang in the new year with a killer party. Just the 5 of us. It was wild and crazy! :)

Jayne turned the big 1-3 on January 17th...

Her dad made her cake...ALL BY HIMSELF!

Aden and I were missing my parents while they were in Myrtle Beach, so we went out to visit them. Of course, we went the the aquarium. We had fun.

I turned the big 2-7 in February and the fam took me to PF Changs...my FAVORITE!

Aden and Jared graduated from Kindergarten and 5th grade, and Jayne is a big 8th grader now. Time flies!!

Happy Anniversary, Love

2010-02-23T12:37:00.003-07:00

A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. ~Mignon McLaughlin

It has been 3 amazing, sometimes difficult, fun, exhausting, happy, wonderful years. I am one lucky girl!

Happy Anniversary, Love...I love you to ETERNITY!

Our Promise

2010-02-02T10:36:00.002-07:00

Last night was one of those "melt your heart" moments for me.

After I tucked Aden into bed, gave him a kiss, and said I love you, I heard "Wait Mom". I turned around, expecting him to ask me for a snack or a drink, like he usually does.

But, instead, I heard this...
"Mom, promise you will always be my best friend?"

Of course, Buddy. I promise with all my heart! <3<3

Happy New Year! (A little late...)

2010-01-11T17:40:00.004-07:00

New Year, New Me...
When I rang in the new year all I could think about was how much I wanted to be done with 2009 and start fresh with a new year! 2009 wasn't bad, but it wasn't great either. I spent a lot of the year hoping and longing for things that felt so out of reach, and that is not a fun place to be at all. I'm the type of person that wants things done a certain way and in a certain time frame, and if that isn't happening I am not a happy camper. But I have decided to stop moping around hoping for things. I am going to make things happen! This is my year!!
So, first things first. I made an appointment with a fertility specialist. I mean, I work with the greatest doctors in the state of Utah every single day...why did it take me so long to buckle down and schedule that first appointment?? Well, I don't know, but this is my year to have OUR baby that we have been waiting (me,not so patiently) for. I am going to stop crying and complaining, and actually do something about it (well, if I can)! So, some positive vibes, thoughts, and prayers could possibly help. ;)
Second, we are going to get into a house this year! I know we are. I have an awesome brother who is going to help us find that perfect house, and we are aiming for this summer when the kids are done with school. Who wants to move in the middle of the school year anyway?? So, my fingers are permanently crossed that it will happen...and that the house I have my eye on will still be for sale this summer...wishful thinking?? Probably.
Third, this is our year to become an eternal family. It's happening. Nothing more to say about that one...except for the fact that I can't wait!! :)
And finally, this is my year to be more grateful, be happy, spend less time cleaning and more time playing, and overall better myself so I can better those around me.
Sounds doable, right?? Wish me luck!
Love you all, and happy 2010!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-28T19:42:00.003-07:00

From our family to yours...

I'm Speechless...

2009-12-03T12:39:00.002-07:00

Click on 99 Balloons to see why...

Many Thanks...

2009-11-24T09:30:00.002-07:00

Since it is Thanksgiving this week, I thought I would write a little post about the MANY things I am thankful for.
I am thankful for Ken. He is my best friend, my partner, my better half, my soul mate. I often just sit and think about how lucky I was to find him, and how happy I am that he married me. I love that I get to come home to him every night.
I am thankful for Jayne. She is not only a daughter, but one of my best friends. She is only 12, but she is so mature that sometimes I forget she is only 12. She is such a big help around the house and with her little brothers. She is always there for me when I need someone to talk to or make me laugh.
I am thankful for Jared. He has such a mellow, carefree personality. I couldn't be more opposite, but it's so nice to have Jared around to make me laugh. He is the sweetest kid, and he tells all of us he loves us about 50 times a day. <3<3<3
I am thankful for Aden. He has been my little buddy from day one. He is my mini me. He makes me laugh all the time, and he knows how to make me feel loved. He still lets me snuggle him, and he promises to let me do that forever!
I am thankful for my parents. They are true examples of unconditional love. They have always been so good to me, and they have been a huge help in raising Aden. I don't know what I would have done without them.
I am thankful for my siblings. They are my best friends. I look forward to every time I get to hang out with one or all of them. They are all so different, but we all get along so well.
I am thankful for my in-laws. Dave and Minnie are the best in-laws anyone could ask for. They are always there when you need them, and they truly know how to love. My brother and sister in laws are also the best I could ask for.
I am thankful for my friends. Really close friends, or not as close, I am surrounded by good friends that I can always count on.
I am thankful for the gospel. I was blessed to be raised in the gospel, but recently it has become more important in my life, and I am so blessed to have that wonderful gift.
I am thankful for my job (well, sorta), my house, my health, the health of my family, and the blessing of living in the USA.
This is just scratching the surface of the many things I have to be thankful for. I truly am so blessed...

Family Pics 2009

2009-11-20T19:28:00.007-07:00

Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme

2009-11-19T08:43:00.005-07:00

HOLY EXCITEMENT!!!

Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme
TodaysMama and Provo Craft are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.

1. What 5 items are on your holiday wish list this year?
1. EVERYTHING in this awesome give-away, but that's not fair, so I would
choose the Cricut as my top choice. Oh, I could do amazing things if I had a
Cricut! ;)
2. I want my kids to have a "magical" Christmas like I did as a child.
3. A bike or some new running shoes (something has got to happen here!)
4. Health and happiness for the whole year. (Santa can handle that, right??)
5. Tools. I really am a crafty person, I just need the right tools so the real
me can truly emerge! :)
2. What is your favorite handmade gift you have received?
My baby blanket that my mom made me. I still have/LOVE it.
3. What handmade gift have you always wanted to tackle?
Stamped jewelry, and it's going to happen this year! I ordered the tools. YAY!
4. What was the best Christmas gift you received as a child?
My Samantha (American Girl) doll when I was 9.
5. What items are on your kid’s wish list this year?
Legos, Wii games, board games, clothes.
6. What is your favorite holiday food?
Peppermint Ice cream...that counts as food, right??
7. What will you be hand-crafting for the holidays?
ALL of my gifts this year will be hand made. Jewelry, pictures, hats, home decor.
8. What is your favorite holiday movie?
Christmas Vacation!
9. Favorite holiday song?
The Christmas Shoes, Oh Holy Night, Gingerbread House
10. Favorite holiday pastime?
Wrapping presents. LOVE it! And of course, the gift giving.

Seriously, you guys! I want this SOOOOOO BADLY, I am like shaking with excitement! Ken would be so excited too, because I don't think I would ever want for anything else. EVER! :) Well, I am sure I still would...but not for a LONG time! (I never win anything, but it's always fun to hope.)

Jay-Rod's Quote of the Day...

2009-11-03T11:31:00.003-07:00

We were in the car on Sunday night and Jared said: "Ooh, we watched Ghost Busters at school on Thursday, and we get to finish it on Monday!"
Me: "Wait, hold on, you watched WHAT movie at school?? And how is that even okay??"
Jared: "Yeah, well, we did, but we only got through about a penny of it."
Me: "Huh?! What does that even mean?"
Jared: "You know, like instead of a QUARTER of it, we only got through a PENNY of it!" (DUH!)
We laughed...Funny kid! :)

But, I'm still annoyed that his teacher is letting them watch movies instead of TEACHING them! (????)

Pumpkin Pics

2009-10-27T18:45:00.003-06:00

Aden's Adoption Anniversary

2009-10-06T11:00:00.004-06:00

One year ago today, we all headed down to the courthouse to make Aden an official (legal) Gentry. That was such a happy day for all of us, especially me. We were both very lucky to find Ken and his kids. In fact, just the other day as Ken was walking out the door Aden said to me, "I have a good daddy. I'm so glad he is my daddy." It made my heart smile, because I am so glad too. every.single.day.

Big Boy!!

2009-09-20T19:54:00.002-06:00

Aden lost his first tooth today at church. He said he was singing, and it just fell out! He started crying when we got home because he was sad that his tooth was gone, and he didn't know another one was going to grow in! He thought it was just going to be missing forever! :) He is very excited about it now...and he is looking forward to the Tooth Fairy coming tonight.

How We Met...

2009-09-16T14:33:00.002-06:00

Here's the scoop on how Ken and I met, for any of you who don't know, or who even care. :) Mostly, I just wanted another post on the blog so that every time I look at it I don't have to see those naked bums! Sorry guys! Oh, and I stole this from Melissa...thanks! ;)

1.Where did you meet? At eBay. Ken was my supervisor, and I had an instant crush!!

2.What was the first thought that went through your head when you met? UM, how am I supposed to work when my boss is so hot?!? :)

3.Do you remember what he was wearing? Yes, a blue Lacoste shirt and jeans. And cute shoes!

4.Where was the first time you kissed this person? In his car, after our first date! (I know, I know!)

5.Where did you go for your first date? We went to Tepanyaki and then to a movie, but it was lame (the movie), and I think we walked out.

6.How long did you know this person before you became a couple? I'm pretty sure it was like the second or third date when we decided we didn't want to date other people. We knew pretty quick! :)

7.How did he ask you out? Well, we had been talking on IM at work, and he said he had something to ask me. I assumed it was work related, and we went on talking about other things...but I guess he had found my phone number, and he sent me a text later that night that said: 'Are you ready for me to ask?' I didn't have his number, but I was hoping it was him! I immediately called him, and he very nervously asked me out! So cute!!!

8.Has this person ever proposed to you? Yes! Cutest thing ever! We were downtown walking around the skating rink and he sat me down on a bench and popped the question!

9.Do you and this person have kids together? Well, not "together", but together we have 3.

10.Have you ever broken the law with this person? Hmmm...don't think so.

11.When was the first time you realized you liked this person? Um, the second I saw him! But I really started liking him when I heard him on the phone with Jayne, and he was so stinkin cute when he talked to her! It melted my heart right away...

12.Do you trust this person? Completely.

13.Do you see him as your partner in the future? For all eternity!

14.What is the best gift he gave you? His love and commitment...and I'm still waiting on the baby! ;)

15.What is the one thing he does that gets on your nerves? Hmmm...if you ask him he is always on my nerves! But he really isn't.

16.Where do you see each other 15 years from now? Wow, 15 years from now Aden will be 20, which means we wouldn't have kids at home anymore (fingers crossed)! Weird! Hopefully we will be doing a lot of traveling and playing.

17.What causes the most arguments? The kids. I always say if we didn't have kids we would probably never fight!

18.How long have you been together? We have been dating for 3 1/2 years, and married for 2 years and 7 months.

19.Are you married? Yes, obviously.

20.Who do you tag? Anyone who feels the urge.

LOTOJA

2009-09-10T20:55:00.005-06:00

I just wanted to give a little shout out to my 2 brothers and my dad who are participating in Lotoja this weekend. For those of you who don't know what Lotoja is, it is a bicycle race from Logan, UT to Jackson Hole, WY. All done in ONE DAY! Crazy! I think it is so awesome that my 62 year old dad is going to do something so challenging! I love and respect all my crazy biker family members so much! Good luck guys! Maybe next year I'll join you! ;)

School Days

2009-08-31T15:14:00.004-06:00

Well, the kids have all officially survived the first day of school, and I must say, they all handled it better than me. Especially Aden. Ken and I dropped him off at school today, and we hadn't even stopped the car before he was unbuckled and saying goodbye. He wasn't nervous at all! And he didn't even expect us to walk him to his line...we did anyway though...for mom's sake...
I can't believe how fast they all grow up!

And this is how Aden relaxed after a hard first day of school...

35 Truisms...couldn't be truer!

2009-08-27T11:05:00.003-06:00

I just found this little gem on the internet, and I had to share! Frickin hilarious! I hope my family doesn't get offended by number 31...sorry guys! I didn't write it! :)

1. There is a great need for sarcasm font.

2. I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of tired.

3. Bad decisions make good stories.

4. How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

5. I would rather try to carry 10 plastic grocery bags in each hand than take 2 trips to bring my groceries in.

6. The only time I look forward to a red light is when I'm trying to finish a text.

7. The letters T and G are very close to each other on a keyboard. This recently became all too apparent to me and consequently I will never be ending a work email with the phrase "Regards" again

8. A recent study has shown that playing beer pong contributes to the spread of mono and the flu. Yeah, if you suck at it.

9. Was learning cursive really necessary?

10. I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.

11. Answering the same letter three times or more in a row on a Scantron test is absolutely petrifying.

12. Whenever someone says "I'm not book smart, but I'm street smart", all I hear is "I'm not real smart, but I'm imaginary smart".

13. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars teams up to prevent a dick from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers!

14. Every time I have to spell a word over the phone using 'as in' examples, I will undoubtedly draw a blank and sound like a complete idiot. Today I had to spell my boss's last name to an attorney and said "Yes that's G as in...(10 second lapse)..ummm...Goonies"

15. What would happen if I hired two private investigators to follow each other?

16. While driving yesterday I saw a banana peel in the road and instinctively swerved to avoid it...thanks Mario Kart.

17. MapQuest really needs to start their directions on #5. Pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.

18. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.

19. I find it hard to believe there are actually people who get in the shower first and THEN turn on the water.

20. Whenever I'm Facebook stalking someone and I find out that their profile is public I feel like a kid on Christmas morning who just got the Red Ryder BB gun that I always wanted. 546 pictures? Don't mind if I do!

21. If Carmen San Diego and Waldo ever got together, their offspring would probably just be completely invisible.

22. Why is it that during an ice-breaker, when the whole room has to go around and say their name and where they are from, I get so incredibly nervous? I know my name, I know where I'm from, this shouldn't be a problem....

23. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you've made up your mind that you just aren't doing anything productive for the rest of the day.

24. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after DVDs? I don't want to have to restart my collection.

25. There's no worse feeling than that millisecond you're sure you are going to die after leaning your chair back a little too far.

26. I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten page research paper that I swear I did not make any changes to.

27. "Do not machine wash or tumble dry" means I will never wash this ever.

28. I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste.

29. I like all of the music in my iTunes, except when it's on shuffle, then I like about one in every fifteen songs in my iTunes.

30. Why is a school zone 15 mph? That seems like the optimal cruising speed for pedophiles...

31. As a driver I hate pedestrians, and as a pedestrian I hate drivers, but no matter what the mode of transportation, I always hate cyclists.

32. Sometimes I'll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.

33. It should probably be called Unplanned Parenthood.

34. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.

35. I think that if, years down the road when I'm trying to have a kid, I find out that I'm sterile, most of my disappointment will stem from the fact that I was not aware of my condition in college.

39 Reasons Why...

2009-08-12T08:34:00.003-06:00

I love my man--
1. He really is my BEST friend
2. He listens to me (most of the time)
3. He sends me random texts throughout the day reminding me that he loves me
4. He is the BEST dad any kid could ask for
5. He is a rock star husband too
6. He lets me lay on his hairy chest and he tickles my back ALMOST every night
7. He smells his own socks, and even admits when they stink
8. He makes me laugh
9. He can't sleep under the covers when they are tucked in at the bottom
10. He has a drink with him at all times
11. He has the most willpower of anyone I know
12. He wanders around IKEA with me and even "pretends" he likes it
13. He has mad poker skills
14. He loves to golf
15. He is funny
16. He has great hair
17. He poops with the bathroom door open
18. He pretty much always lets me pick the movie, even though I ALWAYS fall asleep
19. He isn't afraid to tell me when I am wrong (which is RARE)
20. He puts up with my bad attitude 3 weeks out of the month ;)
21. He lets me do all the decorating, and always says he loves it
22. He is very protective of his kids
23. He has amazing singing skills
24. He has his own way of doing his laundry-- it's quite the process
25. He is a hard worker
26. He makes the best bean dip
27. He doesn't get mad at me when I snore
28. He isn't afraid to show emotion (cry)
29. He has a strong testimony
30. He loves to talk about his scars, and tells me about them like I've never heard the story before
32. He can keep up with me in the "gas department"
33. He was a football star in High School
34. He loves his family
35. He gives the best hugs
36. He puts me first, ALWAYS
37. He is honest
38. He loves babies
39. He is MINE!

Happy birthday, love! Thanks for being born! I LOVE YOU!
And the number 39 was just a random number. It has NOTHING to do with his age! ;)

Sprinklers & Squirrels...

2009-08-04T17:54:00.006-06:00

Aden has a new nightly ritual. We go over to the church across the street from our house and he runs through the sprinklers. Sometimes Jared joins us. Aden loves it!!

We also have a new pet. It's a squirrel. The kids have named him Cutie but they call him "Chub Dub" for "short". :) Aden loves to just sit at the end of the driveway and watch him eat the pine cones.

He eats a ton for such a small animal, and then he so kindly drops them down on our driveway...

Dish Brush, Anyone???

2009-07-30T19:19:00.004-06:00

Just one of the MANY reasons I love my Kenny...
He had the day off work today, and he decided to go to the store and get us a couple of items that we have been in need of. A mop (he broke ours), some dishwasher soap, and a dish scrubber brush (whatever the proper name for it is?).
I came home and this is what I found for our "dish brush"!!

I could not stop laughing!! All I could say was, "It's huge!" His reply--"I thought it would save some time!"
Oh, how I love him! (And I will be getting us a REAL dish brush soon...)

Edit-- I just realized you can't tell how big that brush is, but it's like one of the big ones that you use for the bathtubs and stuff. :)

"Ordinary, No..."

2009-07-24T12:37:00.008-06:00

Kenny Chesney is Ken's all time fave, so I decided I would get him tickets to the concert as an early birthday present. I was so excited because I got FLOOR tickets, and I have never been to a concert and had FLOOR seats. I thought they were pretty dang good seats...until we got there...So, we were in Section A. Pretty good, right??

NO! We got there and found our seats, only to realize that we are stuck on fat people central row. Every single person on our row was huge! And the seats were TINY! We were so squished, and I had one cheek on and one cheek off the whole time! Not to mention that it was about 900 degrees, and Mister sweaty HUGE pants next to me was dripping on me...SICK! Then he stands up, so I go to stand as well, and he is frickin like 9 feet tall and I can't see a thing! I was so annoyed...I was about ready to go find me one of these...

But once Kenny started singing and we started groovin I forgot all about how uncomfy I was just minutes before. He is AWESOME! We ended up having a really good time!
Happy early birthday, Ken..."I don't see how you could ever be ANYTHING BUT MINE."
Oh, and sorry my pics suck. My good camera broke, and I was stuck with my crap one...BOO.

California...

2009-07-07T10:04:00.006-06:00

We had so much fun in Cali this year! We decided to go because we wanted to see Ken's parents, and we went right around both of the boys birthdays, so it was kind of a birthday celebration the whole time!
The first day we had a little party for Aden at Chuck-E-Cheese (his choice). The boys loved it! We also went to Dave and Busters for Jared's birthday, and they REALLY loved that. We saw a movie--the boys saw Transformers and the girls saw The Proposal. We did a lot of trampoline jumping, outlet shopping, and lounging. Ken was a good sport and he agreed to take us to the beach one day. We drove down to Huntington Beach, and it was so awesome! I loved it! On Friday, my mom arrived, and the two of us went to visit her Aunt Margy. We had a really good time! Our final day (the 4th of July!) my mom and I took the kids to Disneyland. We had a really good time! We got there at 8:30 and we didn't leave until after midnight! We were exhausted!! And my poor feet still haven't forgiven me. But, it was so fun, and the fireworks were AWESOME!! Small World was our last ride of the night, and Aden fell asleep on the ride. Thanks, mom for coming down to spend time with us. And thank you to Ken's parents for letting us stay at their place all week! :)

Here's to THE Hubs

2009-06-26T09:09:00.006-06:00

Marriage is tough. Anyone who tells you otherwise is LYING. Anyone who has been married knows this.
I am not an easy one to be married to. If Ken tells you I am, he is LYING. Anyone who knows me well knows this.
I am the most anal, OCD, have to have things done MY way, and there is no other right way to do it kind of person there is. I'm working on it. But it's not working. I think I need therapy or something (seriously!). I get SO frustrated sometimes that I just want to punch something (Okay, not really, but I have thought about it!). I'm to the point where if the glass marbles in my little candle arrangement aren't perfectly "arranged" it makes me NUTTY! Ken calls me Bree from Desperate Housewives. (I only wish that I could stay home all day and keep my house as perfect as hers! That would seriously make me happy.)
BUT, that isn't reality. I know this. I know that I have 3 kids at home, and kids don't clean up after themselves. I know that when the books aren't stacked biggest to smallest it doesn't bother most people. I know that I am not the normal one, but I forget that most of the time, and I have my little freak out moments when I want to just sit and cry about it.
Ken always has a way of bringing me back to "normal people" reality. He helps me to see that I am so lucky to have the well behaved, obedient, freakin awesome kids that I do, and that it really doesn't matter if our house isn't spotless or TRULY organized. And the best part is that he STILL loves me. Even after I have my meltdowns, and I think that life is over because our house is a "disaster" (in my eyes). He still loves me, and I am so lucky for that!! Thanks, Ken. I love you LOTS!!

5 YEARS AGO...

2009-06-23T10:40:00.009-06:00

It was June 23, 2004 at 4:45 am -- I was dead asleep, and suddenly I was awake. I felt wet. Uh, did I just pee the bed?! Um, what do I do?? Frantic thoughts are racing through my head. It's early, and I don't want to wake anyone up. Got it, I will call my doctor's office and talk to a nurse! "Hi, UM, either I just peed the bed or my water just broke." The nurse politely tells me the obvious, "Honey, I'm sure it was your water breaking. Why don't you come on down to the hospital. We'll see you soon." DUH, I knew that was going to be the response...just needed a little reassurance. Okay, time to call my mom. One ring, and she picks up. "Kristen, I will be right over." She knew it was me. Who else would be calling her at that hour? (Not to mention that she had a "feeling" and she was already awake. I love my mom!) I frantically start getting my things together. This wasn't supposed to happen for 2 more weeks! I'm not ready for this! And then the contractions started. Not too bad, I thought the pain would be worse. After only about two contractions my mom was there. Ah, the relief! Everything was okay now that mom was there. She had done this 7 times, she was a pro!
We hopped into her little white bug and we were on our way. The contractions were getting stronger and closer together. My mom was coaching me through my breathing as she drove. They were about 3 minutes apart by then. Finally, we got to the hospital. As I was walking in I felt the GUSH of water that I was expecting. (I didn't think there was that much in my bed, but I didn't know what was normal) Now, THAT was my water breaking! Perfect. We got all checked in, and my pants were soaked. Once in the room, the REAL fun started. I immediately started puking and pooping (sorry, TMI?). It wouldn't stop! I didn't know I could get that much "waste" out of me in such a short period of time. The nurses kept telling me it was "normal" and my body was just "cleaning itself out" for baby to come. I was just worried I was going to be stuck on the toilet when baby came! After I was finally all "cleaned out" I got the opportunity to use the awesome "birthing ball". Seriously, I loved that ball. IT SAVED ME FROM THE EVILS OF THE EPIDURAL!
By this time, my BFF Nicole, my dad, Steve, Marco, Karyn and Charlie were there.(Sorry if I missed anyone else who was there, I was a little preoccupied.)
Before I knew it, it was time to push! NO! I can't push yet! My doctor is still doing a C-section. I have to wait for her! But little Aden had plans of his own. He wanted to come right then! There would be no waiting for MY doctor. I had to settle for someone else (which, she was great!). After not very much pushing, and LOTS of fingernail digging (Sorry Nicole), at 9:44 am little Aden Dex was born. He was tiny and purple and not crying. The doctor was smacking him on the back. Stop hitting him! He is so tiny. Don't hurt him!! I looked around at the look of fear on everyone's faces. And finally we heard it. After what seemed like FOREVER. The cry that we were all waiting for. My little one was here, and he was okay. They put him on my chest, and it was love at first sight.
I love my little man even more now than I did at that first meeting. He has been my rock through many hard times. He is such a sweet kid, and I don't know what I would do without him.
Happy Birthday, little one. I love you!!

~Mama

Dad's Day

2009-06-20T19:15:00.003-06:00

We decided to celebrate Father's Day a day early...mostly because I couldn't wait to give Ken his present! We got him a new grill. It is pretty freakin awesome! It took us 4 HOURS to get it all put together, and we almost got divorced in the process, but besides that it's pretty cool. And yes, we do have it in our front room because Mother Nature forgot that it's June and the rain just won't stop!! (I love the rain though)
Thanks for being such a good daddy, Ken! We love you so much!!

AAHHH, Retirement!

2009-06-14T15:14:00.003-06:00

For any of you who know my mom, you know she is one of the hardest working people there is! She has been a school teacher for 20 years, but her time as a professional teacher is coming to an end. This is her last year teaching, and she is about to join my dad in the world of retirement. She has definitely worked hard for many years, and now she can finally take some time and RELAX! I know she will continue to teach and touch many lives in different ways, but here's to your retirement, mom!!!
We had a family celebration dinner last weekend. It was very fun and VERY LOUD!!

Love Story meets Viva La Vida

2009-06-02T17:31:00.003-06:00

This is amazing! This is one talented guy! Oh, and pause my music at the bottome of my blog before you press play...

Gone Fishin'...

2009-06-02T09:25:00.005-06:00

Ken had to work this weekend, so Nicole and I decided to take the kids on an "adventure". We went up to Tibble Fork and went FISHING! I have never been fishing in my life! Surprisingly, it was fun. We didn't catch anything, but we had fun!

Mr. Tough Guy

2009-05-21T16:37:00.006-06:00

Aden had to get two cavities filled today. They were his first ones, and he was SO BRAVE! He only cried one little time when he got the shots. I was more nervous than he was...

The BIG K

2009-05-09T16:15:00.006-06:00

Aden and I went to Kindergarten Orientation yesterday. We had fun, but we were both a little nervous. I was sitting there looking at all of his fellow school mates, and I got thinking--What if he doesn't make friends? What if he gets picked on? What if he doesn't like his teacher? What if he needs me, and I am not there? All these thoughts were going through my head. My baby is growing up, and I am not always going to be there to protect him! It's scary! Just at that moment, Aden looked up at me and said "I'm nervous, Mama." I explained to him that it was okay to be nervous, and that most of the other kids were probably nervous too. But he jumped right into the activities, and I think the nervousness went away...at least for him...

Our Little "Mother Hen"

2009-05-05T20:36:00.005-06:00

Jayne has always been a little "mother". She is so good with her two little brothers, but today she has a different little one to take care of. She and her friend Ashlyn found a BABY BIRD at school!! Of course they had to bring it home, since it's nest and mother were nowhere to be found. This is the tiniest little thing I've ever seen! They have been finding worms for it, and it actually eats them! We aren't quite sure if it will make it through the night...cross you fingers for little "Floob"! (Did I mention that I have a giant fear of birds?!? This one doesn't count though.)

One Lucky Girl...

2009-04-27T16:15:00.006-06:00

Okay, it's confession time again... I have been in a little bit of a "slump" lately. I haven't been a very happy person, and I haven't been very fun to be around. I have been very focused on ME and all the things that are not going the way I think they should. Let me just say it, I have been very selfish lately. I have been having one giant pity party for the last few months! I have been so focused on all the "bad" things that I haven't opened my eyes to see that I am so blessed!
I had a total "Ah-ha" moment yesterday in Relief Society. I know, imagine that, right?!? I went to bed on Saturday night really not feeling up for 9:00 church, and I really had no desire to go. I woke up Sunday morning (right at 8:00, with exactly an hour to get up and going--perfect!) with a really strong feeling that I needed to go to church, and especially all three hours. I walked reluctantly into Relief Society (our church is backwards, and we have sacrament last) and our lesson was about being true disciples of Christ. The whole thing was amazing, and I felt like the lesson was written just for me! We talked about how instead of approaching things in our life with anger, we should approach them with love and look at our trials as a teaching/learning experience. I could totally relate to everything, and it was like a lightbulb went off in my head! I am so blessed with so many things and people in my life that I have no reason to be unhappy or angry all the time. I have an amazing husband who loves me even when I am not fun to be around, I have three healthy and happy kids who are so good to me, and I have the blessing of the Gospel in my life...which I need more now than I ever have before!
To top things off, I answered the door today and there was our neighbor standing there with a delivery for me--a dozen long stem red roses from Ken (which also tied in with my "life lesson" to see the beauty of the roses and not the thorns)...I really am ONE LUCKY GIRL!!

Soccer Boy

2009-04-22T20:08:00.008-06:00

Aden's first soccer game was last night, and it was the cutest thing ever! He is so lucky to have two of his cousins on his team (Charlie Jr. and Aubrey), and his Uncle Charlie as his coach!
Aden had a rough first half. He wasn't quite sure how to handle things at first. I asked him what was wrong, and he said "I don't want to take the ball away from the other kids." He is just too sweet sometimes! After we had a little pep talk, and I explained to him that soccer games are not the time to take turns and share, the second half of the game was much better. All of the kids are so cute! It was so much fun to watch. It's going to be a fun soccer season!! (I just wish Aden wasn't such a shorty)

EASTER SUNDAY

2009-04-12T13:16:00.006-06:00

I love my cute little ones!!

Spring Has Sprung!!

2009-04-11T21:53:00.008-06:00

And where have we been?? I know, I have been a major slacker lately when it comes to blogging. The main reason is that I haven't had much to blog about lately...
Today we got really into the Easter spirit! We started off the morning with an Easter egg hunt at Thanksgiving Point. There were TONS of eggs!!! The kids had a lot of fun. Aden was so focused on finding the GOLDEN egg that he forgot to pick up any of the other eggs. The poor kid came back with a completely empty basket! Luckily the employees were very nice and they filled up his basket for him.
Tonight we colored eggs. This is my favorite part of Easter. The kids really got creative this year, and we ended up with some beauties!! :)
Happy Easter to all, and may we all remember the reason we celebrate this special holiday!!

My Best Buddy

2009-03-10T13:47:00.002-06:00

I went and registered Aden for Kindergarten today, and I have to admit I am having a bit of a hard time with it! I just don't want him to be old enough to go to school! I want him to stay 4 forever. This is the best age--He is old enough to be pretty self sufficient, but he is still young enough that he is still my baby, and he still needs me. I love it!
So, this morning I woke him up and told him we were going to go sign him up for school, and he said, "Am I five already?" He has been looking forward to being 5 for a long time, and he can't wait to go to school with Jared.
After we left the "big kid" school I said, "Aden, I can't believe you are going to be in Kindergarten! It makes me a little bit sad because that means you are getting too big." He replied with, "Oh Mama, it's okay. I am still gonna be your best friend. Actually, I am gonna be your best friend until I am 100!" Oh, how I wish that were true! I just love my little guy!

The Best Two Years!!

2009-02-22T09:26:00.004-07:00

Tomorrow is our two year anniversary! I can't believe it's been two years...seems like it was just yesterday. This was the happiest day of my life! I love you Kenneth! Thanks for being the best husband and dad!!!
And here are just a few of our million and one pictures from our special day.

Our Future Rock Star

2009-02-09T08:48:00.010-07:00

We went to Amber's (Ken's niece) baptism this weekend, and on our way the kids wanted to listen to some very uplifting music (ha ha). Aden loves this song, and he knows most of the words! It is hilarious! Well, at least I think it is! I was laughing so hard while I was filming this, while still trying to hold the camera still and not let him see me laughing. He is so serious, which makes it that much better! I love this little man!!(Oh, and don't forget to pause my music at the bottom of the blog!)

From Here to Eternity...

2009-02-04T11:28:00.006-07:00

I went to the Draper Temple open house on Friday. It was so beautiful!! I loved it! I can't wait to one day be there with my little family...
Here's to a beautiful day--looking forward to ETERNITY!! Thanks for sharing the day with me, Chels and Cole. :)

Happy Birthday, Jayne!!!

2009-01-20T11:29:00.006-07:00

Jayne had a birthday over the weekend (on the 17th). She is 12 years old! I can't even believe it. I remember when I was 12 like it was yesterday! Okay, we all know it wasn't that long ago, but still!
I think she had a pretty good birthday. She got a new cell phone (she killed her old one), some Skull Candy head phones, and we had a small celebration at her favorite restaurant, Cafe Rio! We love you, Jayne! Thanks for being born!! :)

FEBRUARY

2009-01-15T12:23:00.012-07:00

February is quickly becoming my favorite month of the year! It is a big deal for me--I have Valentine's Day, then our anniversary is on the 23rd, and my birthday is on the 28th! I think Ken hates February for all those reasons, but I LOVE it! So, I am planning ahead for this coming February, and I thought I would put together a little WISH LIST. (This is pretty much for Ken, but others may find it entertaining!)

At the top of my list is a Cricut. These things are amazing! You can do so much with them. I NEED one! I even told Ken he could just get me this one thing, and I would be happy for the rest of the year!!

The next best thing to a Cricut is a sewing machine. I have dreams of one day making my own curtains, pillows, and whatever else I can manage...Ah, a sewing machine would be fabulous!

Next, a new set of scriptures. I have had my same FAKE leather scriptures since 9th grade! Maybe even before that! I need new ones. Ken laughs at me every time I pull mine out. It's embarrassing...

And of course, SHOES! You can never have too many shoes! I found the cutest Steve Madden shoes, and I think I heard them calling out for my feet...

"Come What May, And Love It!"

2009-01-14T14:27:00.003-07:00

My very favorite quote that I have ever heard! Elder Wirthlin said it, and I just can't forget it. Let's be honest, life sucks a good majority of the time, but I know things happen for a reason. I have had many trials in my life, and I continue to have them, but I look back on all my trials and I know exactly why I had them--I learned a ton from them, and I am a stronger person because of them! Now, I am going to try and take Elder Wirthlin's advice and try to just love whatever comes my way. If you try hard enough, you can usually get some lemonade out of those lemons. :)

"Is that where they keep the monsters???"

2009-01-09T09:09:00.011-07:00

I was down in Lehi with Aden and we drove past the dinosaur museum at Thanksgiving Point, and Aden said "Uh, mom, is that where they keep the monsters?" I explained to him that they were dinosaurs, not monsters. He quickly decided he wanted to go check it out. I felt a little obligated to take him, seeing as how he apparently didn't know what a dinosaur was! (I took him to that very same museum when he was about 2, but I guess he didn't remember)
We went in, and he got freaked out immediately! He heard the dinosaur sounds they have playing in the background, and he got nervous. We were off to a great start, before we even entered the museum! When you first walk into the museum there is a really dark area with stars...again, he freaked out--Awesome! We kept walking and he sees the HUGE dinosaur skeleton, and then he really got scared. It's okay, I thought, we can just get to the sand and water part and he will enjoy digging for bones...wrong! He wanted nothing to do with "getting dirty." He was being really difficult pretty much the whole time, and he wouldn't cooperate with me at all about standing next to the dinosaurs for pictures. My friend Nicole decided to come down and join us for a few minutes. As soon as she got there, it was a whole different story. He was into everything, and not scared at all! Why is it that Nicole can make anything okay?? (I think it's because Nicole is his girlfriend, and he has to act like a tough guy around her!) Well, thanks Nicole! Glad you joined us. :)

Hello 2009

2008-12-30T16:11:00.004-07:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! Here's a little survey about my 2008...

Kissed someone new?
Nope. I only kiss two people...Ken and Aden!

Done something you've regretted?
Hmmm...Just the fact that I didn't get my butt back to school like I had planned.

Lost someone?
Not this year

Tripped over a coffee table?
Uh, maybe I did--I'm not really sure!

Came close to losing your life?
No, well, unless you count the times in the car when Ken was driving...Ha ha ha

Read a great book?
I read the Twilight series, they were pretty great!

Grow apart from anyone?
Yes...sadly

Did you change at all this year?
I'm pretty sure I did. I know I got fatter! I think I changed in other ways too. You'll have to ask Ken.

Did you get your hair cut?
YES! And now I want it to grow back!

Were you in school?
No--but my kids were, so I pretty much was too.

Did you get good grades?
Jared got dang good grades, and I helped him with his homework! Does that count??

Did you have a job?
Um, yes

Did you own a car?
Well, I don't own a car, but I have one that I make payments on. :)

Did you move at all?
No, I wish!!

Would you change anything about yourself now?
UM, YES! I'm gonna work on that in 2009 baby!

Do you think 2009 will top 2008?
I know it will!

Any big plans for 2009?
We're going to the temple!!

What did you love the most about 2008?
Settling in with my new little family

What did you not like about 2008?
The Economy, and the gas prices! LOL

Christmas Joys!

2008-12-29T09:45:00.014-07:00

We had a fabulous Christmas this year. It was kind of a struggle getting me in the Christmas mood, but once I actually started doing my shopping and decorating it was lots of fun!
We were very lucky this year to be able to spend Christmas eve and Christmas day with both of our families. We went over to my parent's on Christmas eve afternoon and my mom and dad took the grandkids sledding. They had a ton of fun! After that, we got together and ate and opened presents. Then we headed out to Ken's sister's house to see his side of the family. We got there and we ate some more, and opened some more presents.
Christmas morning was spent with just our little family opening our gifts. Ken spoiled all of us and got us a new laptop! We are all very excited! After the gifts, we met up with Ken's family and went to see 'Bedtime Stories.' It was pretty cute, and the kids loved it.
Christmas was very nice, but I have to say, I am a little glad it's all over...
And don't mind Jared in his underwear...my boys hate wearing pajamas! :)

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

2008-12-22T11:32:00.002-07:00

I just wanted to say Merry Christmas to all. May the spirit of the season be with you now and always!!

Body Worlds 3

2008-12-19T14:05:00.002-07:00

Freakin amazing! For any of you that haven't been, I would highly recommend it. It only runs until January 11, so you better hurry up!! :)

Christmas Tag...Because Afton Said So...

2008-12-17T11:40:00.002-07:00

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper, and it has to match the tree!
2. Real tree or Artificial? Artificial...so easy, and the lights are already on it.
3. When do you put up the tree? After Thanksgiving
4. When do you take the tree down? Around the first of the new year
5. Do you like eggnog? Not really, I like about one sip. I can kinda handle it if I dilute it with some milk, but even then...
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Hmmm... Probably my American Girl doll Samantha
7. Hardest person to buy for? Dad
8. Easiest person to buy for? Jayne
9. Do you have a nativity scene? No, but I want one. I am too picky though.
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail for sure!
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Our lame Christmas gift from the Hospital this year. So lame!
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Christmas Vacation
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Well, I still haven't really "started" yet this year.
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? No, but not a bad idea...LOL
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Peppermint ice cream
16. Lights on the tree? A must, and they must be white
17. Favorite Christmas song? The Christmas Shoes
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? I love being able to just stay home. But we travel to go see the Gentrys every other year.
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Star
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning
22. Favorite Christmas Tradition? Watching Christmas Vacation with my family
23. Favorite ornament, theme or color? This year I'm loving the black, white, red, and lime green theme!
24. Favorite Christmas dinner? Anything my mommy makes
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? Nothing really...Just want my kids and hubby to be happy. :)

Mr. Horizontal

2008-12-11T09:52:00.012-07:00

Last night my sister and I were looking at my pictures and she made the comment that in almost every one Ken is laying down! Now, why would she say something like that?! ;)

I Confess

2008-12-05T14:01:00.003-07:00

I saw this on my friend's blog, and I thought it might be kinda fun to confess some of my dirt...

* I have an obsession with Court TV (well, it's TRU TV now). I LOVE LOVE watching Forensic Files and The Investigators. I have thought about becoming a Private Investigator.

* I am totally OCD. I can't stand if things are crooked, I have to have all my clothes and shoes perfectly hung and matched up, I can't deal if I don't know where something is--I will look until I find it, I hate it when chairs aren't pushed in all the way, when I fold shirts they have to all be the same size or it drives me nuts... I could go on and on, but I won't. Ken LOVES living with me, it's so easy!!

* When I want something really bad I cannot stop thinking about it until I get it! I am spoiled! :)

* I am a huge list maker. I make lists for EVERYTHING! I love the feeling of taking something off a list.

* I love Hollywood gossip. I record Entertainment Tonight every day! I also love to watch True Hollywood Stories. I find celebrities so interesting.

* I check my blog and my email all day long!

* I hate to cook. Well, I don't hate it, but I don't love it. I would eat out every day if I could.

* I hate it when people kiss in front of me! That is not something I want to watch...A little peck is okay, but nothing more please!

* It drives me crazy to walk behind people that are so slow! Same goes with driving.

* I am fascinated by the body and how it works. I find myself reading stuff online all the time, just for fun.

* I love babies, and the little noises they make. So cute!

* I love going to the dentist. I know, I'm weird. But I love having my teeth cleaned.

* I get so frustrated by people that don't speak English, but they get mad at ME because I don't understand them.

* I think pierced noses are so cute! I love a little tiny stud in a cute little nose. If I could pull it off, I totally would.

* I like the feeling of getting my eyebrows waxed--It's a good pain!

Okay, I think that is enough about me. Now, let's hear some of your dirt!!! :)

So This Explains It!!!

2008-12-01T16:27:00.000-07:00

A Very ThankFUL weekend

2008-12-01T10:43:00.007-07:00

I just love long weekends when I don't have to work. This Thanksgiving weekend was fabulous! I worked hard, played hard, ate a ton, and rested lots. It was awesome! We went to my mom and dad's house for the feast. I was in charge of the rolls. I make the rolls every year... This year I had a special little helper. And I must say, I think he added a little something to them this year. The food was all so tasty! I think it might be because I like food a lot more than I used to...maybe a little too much!?

We also saw a few movies this weekend. Ken and I took Aden to see Bolt. It was so cute! Then the two of us saw Four Christmases. It was really funny, and very good! We both really liked it. And I also went with my mom to see the much anticipated Twilight. I was very happy with it! I liked it a lot more than I thought I would. I will definitely see it again.

And of course we had to decorate the tree! That is my favorite part about Thanksgiving! Well, I like the food, but I just love that we are that much closer to Christmas!!!

A Bad Day Gone Bad

2008-11-25T09:04:00.001-07:00

I just hate those days where everything seems to go wrong! Yesterday was one of those days. I just kept thinking it couldn't get any worse, but it just kept going!
It all started with my stupid car. Well, my car issues started about a month ago, but they have just gotten worse and worse (more on that in a bit). So, I was driving to work yesterday morning in my stupid car (I know, weird!), and I was on Foothill Drive in the rush hour morning traffic--which is constant stop and go the whole time! Well, every time I went to stop I would hear this beautiful scraping sound. I would literally close my eyes and pray that I was going to stop in time, and that I wouldn't hit the car in front of me. Luckily I made it to work without harming myself or anyone around me. Then I got a text from Ken asking me to meet him at the dealership with my car so they could see what was wrong with it. Good that we were finally going to get it looked at, but bad because I really didn't want to get in it again! My wonderful boss was kind enough to let me leave for a little while and take my car in. So I headed out to the front of the hospital to wait for the shuttle (we have to park far away and then they shuttle us to the hospital). After about 15 minutes of waiting, the 'O-Zone' bus finally came. I was kindly waiting for all the passengers to unload before I got on...and when I went to step into the bus...'SMASH!!' yes, that was me getting smashed in the bus door. Apparently the bus driver didn't see me getting on! Ouch! Then when I finally got on I got harassed by an Asian lady (I won't even tell you the conversation that went on between us). I dropped my car off at the dealership hoping and praying that it was going to be something that was covered by the warranty, but at the back of my mind I knew it wasn't. Ken then took me back up to work, which was nice that I didn't have to get smashed by the bus door again. When I got back to work I was greeted with loads and loads of work. I have been doing about 4 peoples jobs for the last couple of months, and I just don't have enough time in my days to get all the work done. Not to mention that everyone I talked to on the phone yesterday was not exactly nice. I won't go into all of that though... I also found out that it was my brakes and roders that needed to be fixed, which I was pretty sure was going to be the case. So, $370.00 later, at least my car was fixed! Merry Christmas to me! Next, we have my wonderful phone issues. I got a Blackberry Pearl about 5 months ago. Since then, I have had 4 or 5 replacement Pearls. I have the worst luck with phones! So yesterday I was trying to get my newest one all set up. Nothing on it was working! I was literally on the phone with T-Mobile for probably 6 hours of the day yesterday. I was so not happy!! I talked to about 5 different people, and none of them could make my new phone work. One of the guys told me that I needed a new SIM card. After work I headed to the store to get me a new one. I got to the store and they told me I had to go to another store because they were out. So, I drive to the other store and get a new SIM card. Finally, something that went smoothly! As I am driving home with my new SIM card in hand, I decided to put it in my phone and fix the problem...WRONG! The new SIM card didn't work either! I got home and told Ken what the issue was. I got my phone out to call T-Mobile YET AGAIN, and Ken offered to call for me. I think he was nervous I was going to rip someones head off, or say something that I shouldn't. So he was on the phone talking to them, and we were still getting nowhere. I was so frustrated! By that point I was just done with the whole day! In the end, I ended up just sticking with my previous phone and my previous SIM card. At least it somewhat works...
After all of that I was just fried. I had nothing left to offer anyone. I finally just broke down and cried. Ken was good to comfort me and just let me get it all out. What a crappy day!!!!
Sorry that you had to listen to all of that...

Go Utes!!!!!!!!

2008-11-24T08:11:00.002-07:00

Whatever, Martha!!

2008-11-19T14:16:00.005-07:00

I have been feeling a bit crafty lately. Maybe it's because I have been trying to cut down on my shopping, or maybe it's because Ken told me I am not allowed to buy any more furniture until we move (he doesn't want any more to move than we already have). So, we have this dresser...and it is OLD! I am talking, like, it used to be my grandparent's, and then it was my parent's, and now it is ours...Old! But it is really nice and really heavy wood! Anyway, it started out a mahogony color, when my mom gave it to me I painted it black (all the furniture in our house is black). Well, I am kinda bored with it...so I decided to change it up! I took off all the handles/knobs, got some new and updated knobs, found some cute wrapping paper (thanks Nicole), and sat down with some Mod Podge...

Here is what it started out looking like:

And here is the final look:

And here is a close up look:

I'll Be Loving You Forever...

2008-11-17T09:38:00.005-07:00

They are back, and freakin BETTER THAN BEFORE! I had SOOOO much fun at the concert on Saturday. Not only did we look freaking amazingly hot, but the music and the company were FABULOUS! I got 4 tickets, and I took Jayne, my bestest Nicole, and my sister-in-law Stacy. We started the night off with some dinner at the Training Table...fabulous cheese fries! When we got to the concert we had to buy Nicole a T-shirt... While waiting in line for that, I looked up and there was my sister Kathy and her hubby Kirk (What are the chances? I didn't even know they were going)! After discussing how hot we all looked, they invited us to hang out with them in their suite! We went on up, of course! We watched the amazingly beautiful and talented Natasha Bedingfield in the suite. She was awesome! Then we decided to head down to our seats to join some of my friends from work. Our seats were pretty freaking awesome (Thank you Make a Wish and Mandy)!! We had so much fun singing along to all the songs, and dancing like it was 1994 again! I could have listened to them play all night long! It was by far my favorite concert I have ever been to!!!
Now for the pics...I know, I look so hot!! Try not to be jealous! :)

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK!!!

2008-11-13T10:29:00.005-07:00

Yes, that is correct! I am going to the concert on Saturday, and I can't even tell you how excited I am!!! I can't wait to get all decked out in my 80's attire and go kick it with Danny, Donnie, Joey, Jonathan, and Jordan!!!

Jaynifer Got Bangs!!!!!

2008-11-12T09:48:00.003-07:00

So, last night Jayne and I decided that it would be fun if she got some bangs...all the girls are doing it these days. I told her I would take her somewhere and get them cut. She wanted me to do it because she doesn't trust anyone else! So, I got out my hair scissors and went for it! I think she looks so adorable. Please excuse the not so good camera phone photo.

I've Been Tagged!

2008-11-10T11:48:00.002-07:00

I am a total dork, but I love blog tags!

8 TV Shows I Love to Watch...
1: Desperate Housewives
2: Brothers and Sisters
3: One Tree Hill
4: The Hills
5: America's Next Top Model
6: Grey's Anatomy
7: Friday Night Lights
8: Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

8 Things That Happenend Yesterday...
1: "Helped" Ken make breakfast
2: Got kids and myself ready for church
3: Went to church
4: Took a TINY nap (This never happens!)
5: Went to my parent's house for dinner
6: Waxed my entire family's unwanted hairs!!
7: Watched Madagascar with the kids and Ken
8: Went to sleep entirely too early (with some killer heartburn)

8 Favorite Places to Eat...
1: PF Changs
2: Cheesecake Factory
3: Chadders
4: Cafe Rio
5: Texas Roadhouse
6: Training Table
7: Rusted Sun Pizzeria
8: Red Robin

8 Things I'm Looking Forward To...
1: Losing weight
2: Finishing school
3: Aden going to school
4: Ken working his day shift
5: Christmas
6: Going to the temple
7: Buying a home
8: Retirement

8 things on my wish list...
1: A house
2: A new car
3: Lipo suction :)
4: New wardrobe
5: A laptop
6: Health
7: Happiness
8: Long Life

I tag Nicole, Karyn, Erin, Julie, Katie, Afton, Lori and Tiffany

Good News Minute!

2008-11-06T08:19:00.003-07:00

Yay! I found an awesome lady to watch Aden for us. She lives about 2 blocks away from us, her house is super cute and CLEAN, she is state licensed, she has 3 kids of her own (one of them is in school all day), and she said she will only take 2 additional kids. She is accepting Aden and another 4 year old boy in December. I feel really good about this decision, and Aden is really looking forward to his new "teacher." What a relief!!

Halloween Pics

2008-11-05T14:16:00.010-07:00

I guess I should probably post some Halloween pics, since it is now November! I can't even believe how fast this year is flying by! Halloween was fun. Jayne was a jock, Jared was a princess, and Aden was Batman. Yes, I know...interesting choices this year! They had a lot of fun trick or treating, and they got a TON of candy.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

2008-11-03T12:19:00.004-07:00

I have some good news, and some not so good news. The good news is that Ken finally got a DAY position at eBay! I am so tired of being home alone with the kids every night and never seeing my cute hubby, so I told him the next opportunity he has to get a day position, he needs to just take it! So, the opportunity arose, and he took it (He is so obedient!). So, please join me in welcoming Ken to the world of daytime work... :)
Here's for the not so good news. With a day position for Ken comes the loss of our stay at home dad. That means that Aden is going to have to go to daycare...sigh...we have made it through 4 years without daycare, so I consider us to be very lucky. I am currently on a mad search to find a daycare that measures up to my expectations. I have found a few possible options, but I have to go check them out first. If I walk in the door and there is any sign of nastiness or smelliness, I am walking right back out the door!
I'll keep you posted...

Cutest Preschool Program Ever

2008-10-30T08:45:00.014-06:00

Ken and I went to Aden's very first Preschool program yesterday. It was ADORABLE! They sang the cutest little songs. I had my video camera all ready to go, and half way through the program it died! Of course! So, here is half of the program...(Oh, and go down to the bottom of my page and pause my tunes! And turn on your sound!)

Here's a cute little song about the months...

Mr. Jack-O-Lantern...

Christopher Columbus...kinda delayed...thought they were starting, but they didn't...

Boa "unstrictor"...little nose pick action...check out that enunciation!

I put what under my chair??...

Fall Fun!

2008-10-28T09:18:00.000-06:00

Ken and I took the kids up Millcreek Canyon this weekend and took some Fall pictures. It was so pretty up there! I love the trees in the Fall. Here are a few of my favorite pictures.

The Love Birds

2008-10-28T08:30:00.003-06:00

I just wanted to give a shout out to my brother Adam. He recently popped THE question, and he got a YES!! I am so happy for him. He is an awesome guy, and I am so glad that he has found someone that makes him happy. Congratulations Adam and Tori! I love you, big brother.

Til We Meet Again...

2008-10-24T08:55:00.004-06:00

I just got the sad news that my Bishop from when I was growing up passed away this morning. He was such an amazing man. He was always outside with the kids talking to us, and joking around with us. He used to call me his "little campaign manager" because when I heard the news that we were getting a new bishop, I KNEW it was going to be Gordon! I told everyone "Gordo is gonna be our new bishop!" and he always just smiled. He was a really great man, and he will be missed!

Yoga Anyone??

2008-10-21T09:16:00.007-06:00

I know, I have gone a little crazy with the posts lately, but this one was too funny not to post! Last night I decided to do some Yoga, and the kids decided they wanted to join me. It was hilarious!! Aden was actually really good at all of the poses. Jared didn't last very long-- he got bored and wanted to watch TV instead. Jayne and I stuck it out for the whole thing. I am sore this morning, and now I am wondering if the kids are too. Oops. Sorry guys!

YA YA Sisterhood

2008-10-20T08:52:00.007-06:00

On Saturday night I went with my mom, my sisters, Jayne and my nieces to Thanksgiving Point for a girls night out! It was pretty fun. We got new names for the night-- I was 'Countess Fiesty Pants' (very appropriate, I thought) and Jayne was 'Viscountess Tiger Lily'. We walked around and looked at all the fun stuff there was to buy, had some yummy food, and just enjoyed a night with the girls. Thanks to everyone who came!

Why are Men and Women so Different???

2008-10-17T15:05:00.005-06:00

So, the other night when Ken got home from work, probably about 1 am, I was sound asleep. As the TV came on I woke up a little... and when I heard what came out of his mouth I was wide awake!
Ken: So, I bought something...it's a new remote.
Kristen: UM, why? We already have 3 remotes!! Why would we need another one?!
Ken: It's a special football remote... It's a Falcons remote.
Kristen: So?
Ken: It's an infared remote.
Kristen: So? How much did you pay for it?
Ken: How much is too much?
Kristen: $10.00 would be too much! How much?
Ken: Around $25.00...but I could point it at the wall and it would still work.
Kristen: Like it's hard to point it at the TV?
Ken: Well, sometimes it is, when the blankets are piled up they get in the way.
Kristen: Sigh...(I knew there was no changing his mind. Can't wait for the awesome remote to arrive!)

High School Tag

2008-10-17T10:11:00.004-06:00

My friend from high school (Melissa) tagged me, so I am gonna do this fun little tag!

1) Did you date someone from your school? Yeah, a few guys. Nothing too serious though. Well, back then it was serious, but not now that I look back on it.
2) What kind of car did you drive? I drove a 1992 Ford Explorer. I loved it, it was my baby! Katie and I used to go and wash it every week, and she always made sure it was full of gas...thanks Katie! :)
3) Did you pass your driver's license test the first time? Of course I did!
4) Were you a party animal? Uh, NO. Not one little bit.
5) Were you considered a flirt? Nope
6) Were you in band, orchestra, or choir? Uh, No again. Not so musical...
7) Were you a nerd? I don't really think so.
8) Were you on any varsity teams? No, gave up on basketball by that point.
9) Did you ever get expended or expelled? No, I didn't go to school a whole lot my senior year, but that was my choice.
10) Can you still sing your fight song? Um, I couldn't back then, and I still can't.
11) Who were your favorite teachers? I loved Mrs. P and Mrs. Russell. Oh, and Mr. Bergholm was really cool too.
12) Where did you sit at lunch? On the steps.
13) What is your school's full name? Lehi High School
14) School mascot and colors. Pioneers, purple and white. Go Pioneers!!!
15) Did you go to homecoming and who with? Um, I know I went, but I can't remember who with. I know my Senior year I went with Beaver. OH, junior year was Kevin Anthony.
16) If you could go back and do it again, would you? I would, but I would do a lot of things differently.
17) What do you remember most about graduation? That it was long and boring, and that I just wanted to be out of there.
18) Where did you go on Senior Skip Day? Every day was senior skip day for me!! ;)
19) Were you in any clubs? Yeah. National Honor Society, and HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America). Maybe I take back my answer on question 7...maybe I was a nerd!
20) Have you gained weight since then? Um, Yes! But let's not talk about how I was a size 2 in High School...it makes me cry.
21) Who was your prom date? Um, Kevin again, and Bronson.
22) Are you planning on going to your 10 year reunion? No, I keep in touch with everyone that I want to see. I have no desire to go.
23) Did you have a job while in high school? I worked at Hogi Yogi, and then Junior and senior year I worked for a chiropractor.

Now I tag everyone, and I want Ken to do this one too!!! Come on, baby! :)

I Love to See the Temple...I'm Going There Some Day

2008-10-15T14:36:00.005-06:00

As many of you know, I am the Sunbeam teacher at church...yeah, I know! Anyway, we have been practicing for our upcoming primary program. As I sat there on Sunday and listened to the sweet little kids in the primary sing "I love to see the temple, I'm going there some day..." it really touched me. I looked down at Aden (yes, he is in my class) and he was singing his little heart out. It was so cute! I just had to hold back tears as I thought about the words he was singing. Like I told my mom when he was born, I think he came to me for a reason, and that reason was to help me to be a better person. He really has changed my life, and I am a stronger person because of him.

Ken and I have been taking the Temple Prep classes for the last month and a half. We go on Tuesday nights, and we have the cutest little couple that teaches our class. I find myself really looking forward to Tuesday nights, not only because Ken gets off work early those days, but because we get to leave the chaos of our home and go and learn about the temple. Last night got me especially excited to go. I can't wait for the day that I get to be sealed to Ken and Aden for eternity!! What a special blessing for all of us.

The BIG Day

2008-10-06T13:38:00.006-06:00

Today was the BIG day! We went to our hearing at 9:00 this morning. It was a surprisingly easy process. The judge just went over all the paperwork, had us officially sign the documents, and talked to us about things for a little bit. (She was a really great judge) She asked Aden if he wanted to be adopted, and he just nodded his head and looked down (smiling). She also asked Jayne and Jared if they wanted Aden to be their brother, and they both said yes too. After it was all done she let Jared go up and sit at the witness stand and talk in the microphone. Jayne even got to sit in the judge's seat! It was a fun experience for all of us. At the very end, Aden said to me, "Is my last name Gentry now?" I said yes, and he ran over to Papa and whispered in his ear, "Papa, my last name is Gentry now!" It was a really special day, and I am glad my dad was able to be there with all of us.

I feel so lucky to have found such a great man that loves my baby enough to do this. Ken is so special to Aden and me. I know it wasn't an accident that we all found each other. I knew from day one that Ken was the man I wanted for a husband and a father to Aden. It just made my day when we got home today and I overheard Aden say to Ken "Daddy, I am so glad I got adopted!" and Ken said, "Me too!"

Almost There!

2008-10-02T08:22:00.002-06:00

So...We have our hearing date!!!! It is scheduled for Monday, October 6th! I am so excited. This is the day we have been waiting for! I submitted all the paperwork to the court on Tuesday, and I can't even believe how quickly we got our hearing date. Ken says he is going to have to watch Aden very closely these next few days to make sure that he wants to go through with it. We are all so very excited, and we feel so blessed that it all went so smoothly.

KALAI

2008-09-29T13:04:00.005-06:00

I went to the Kalai concert at Thanksgiving Point on Friday with my brother Josh, his wife Lori, and my BFF Nicole. It was a lot of fun! Even though it was cold, and the opening bands went on FOREVER...I still enjoyed myself. For those of you who haven't heard of Kalai, he is fabulous! If Dave Mathews, Paul Simon, Ben Harper, James Taylor, John Mayer, Bill Murray (Yes, the comedian) and Béla Fleck had a baby, it would be Kalai! Check him out at http://www.myspace.com/kalai.

YAAAYYY!

2008-09-24T19:29:00.002-06:00

Good news! We got what we have been waiting for in the mail today! We have the official signed consent from Aden's biological father. That is such a relief for me. I don't think anyone else is very surprised, but I am just so relieved! The hard part is now officially over, and nothing can hold us back now. Get ready, because once the adoption is official, we are having a big PARTY! I can't wait. :)

Soccer Girl

2008-09-22T13:38:00.004-06:00

We went to Jayne's first soccer game of the season on Saturday. It was a really good game. They played a good team, and still managed a win! (2 to 1) Jayne totally rocked the mid-field. Her team was really glad she joined them. Way to go, Jayne!!!

Getting Even Closer...

2008-09-19T08:20:00.002-06:00

So, I know it's been a while since I updated everyone on the adoption process... I sent the "Father's Consent to Adoption" to Aden's biological father on Saturday. I am starting to stress about things, and being the pessimistic person that I am, I am getting worried that he isn't going to sign the papers. But, like my mom said, if he doesn't, I have 4 brothers who will be at his front door with baseball bats! :)
Once I receive the papers (Please!), we will be pretty much done!!! Then we'll just have to wait until we get our Hearing date. Pray for us that this will all go smoothly. We have been waiting for this for a very long time! Love to you all.

First Day of Preschool!!!

2008-09-09T08:29:00.007-06:00

Aden's first day of Preschool was on Thursday. He absolutely LOVED it! He wasn't nervous at all. I was sad that I had to work, so I couldn't take him on his first day. Ken was given instructions to take pictures, and of course he did. Aden can't stop talking about the things he has learned, and he is constantly singing "I'm a VIP to my family..." So cute! My baby really isn't a baby anymore... :(

Golfing in the Tighty Whities...

2008-09-02T12:53:00.008-06:00

The other day as Ken pulled out of the driveway to go to work, and I stood at the front door waving and blowing kisses (ha ha), our beautiful Pleasantville moment was interrupted by a golfer in our front yard. That golfer happened to be our son, Aden...in our yard, with Daddy's clubs, in his underoos!!! We couldn't help but laugh at how cute it was. So, of course we had to get some photos. I later made him go in and put some clothes on...

White Trash Fest 2008

2008-08-27T15:22:00.007-06:00

Ken and I took the kids to LAGOON this last weekend. I am not a fan of Lagoon...neither is Ken. But eBay was doing a work deal where we got in and got lunch for $10.00 a piece (and we have been telling the kids for months that we would take them) so we figured there was no better time.
The kids had a lot of fun. It wasn't too crowded, so I guess I can't complain about much either. We went on all the rides that Aden was tall enough to go on, and Ken took Jared on The Rocket. All in all, it was a fun day, but not one that I am dying to repeat anytime soon!!

Concert in the Park

2008-08-20T15:02:00.004-06:00

Last night my mom, Nicole, the kids, and I went to a concert in the park downtown. It was Peter Brienholt and Nancy Hanson! I LOVE them both, so it was AWESOME! I love being downtown at night, and it was so nice to just sit on our blankets in the grass and listen to some tunes. I even got up and danced for a little bit with Aden.
They didn't have a song schedule so they opened it up to requests. Nicole and I asked Jared to go up and request 'What About', and with a little bribery from Nicole he did it! Unfortunately, they ran out of time and didn't have time to play our song. Peter said, "I need the little boy that requested a song to come and see me after the show. I don't have time to play your request, but I will make it up to you." So, after the show we all headed up to talk to Peter. Jared was so excited! Peter asked me for a piece of paper, and before I could even answer him Jared says "You can write on my arm!!" Peter proceeded to write on Jared's arm (with a permanent sharpie) 'Give Jared a "Best Of" CD' and signed his name. Jared was THRILLED! I then asked if we could get a picture with him, and when I turned around to gather the kids Jared was already on his way to get the CD. So, Jayne got a picture with Peter (Aden was too shy). We talked to him for a minute about the Gentry family. He grew up with Ken and Uncle Rick, so he thought it was really cool that Ken's kids came to watch him. We had a really fun time! The kids were all really excited, and Jared vowed to never wash his arm again...

"Earwack"

2008-08-15T16:21:00.002-06:00

I just thought this was so adorable, so I had to share! Last night we were driving home from Nicole's house and Aden says from the back seat--
"Mama, I need to roll my window down. Will you unlock it?"
"Why do you need your window down Aden? We are on the freeway."
"I have some earwack in my ear!"
"Ear wax?"
"No Mama, EARWACK, it's only in ONE ear!!"

So, is earwack the singular of earwax??? Makes sense, huh? Good thought, Aden! :)

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BABY!!

2008-08-13T14:44:00.008-06:00

Yesterday was Ken's birthday! I won't mention his age, because I don't want him to get mad at me. :) Anyway, he took the day off work yesterday, and while I was at work, he went to a movie with the boys, went and got ice cream with all the kids, and even found time to get my car registered for me! (How sweet is he!?)
Then when I got home, Ken and I went to dinner at Ruth's Chris Steak House. Let me just say-- it was really good food, BUT I don't think it is worth the money! Maybe it's because I don't eat steak, so I can't really judge...but the creme brulee sure was good!
I got Ken season tickets to the Utah football games this year. I am looking forward to going with him!!
I hope you had a good birthday Ken. I love you lots and lots!!

Young At Art

2008-08-06T12:58:00.010-06:00

Good old Auntie Nicole took my kids to a cute little place called Color Me Mine the other night. They had a lot of fun painting bowls and plates. After they are done "cooking" we will be able to go pick them up (Thursday) and use them! The kids are looking forward to that. Thanks Nicole for the fun time! :)Aden had to take time out to come give Mama a kiss...So sweet! :)

School Days

2008-08-04T14:44:00.003-06:00

School is just around the corner. We can't believe that the summer is already almost over! July flew by for me, and now it is August already! Jayne can't stop talking about school shopping...clothes, supplies, backpacks...We have started doing some shopping here and there. We got their backpacks, lunch boxes, some super cute "skinny jeans" for Jayne, and some really cute Converse shoes for all three of the kids. I love that they all match! The kids think it is great too. :) I can't believe that this time next year we will be getting ready for Aden to go to school too! Wow, time really does fly...

Look Ma, No Hands!!

2008-07-23T09:22:00.006-06:00

Aden can officially ride his bike with NO TRAINING WHEELS! Jayne, Ken, and I have been working with him every now and then for the last couple of weeks, but last night he really got it! He can turn, go over dips and bumps, and even use the brakes. He has a hard time getting started, but once he gets going he is really good. I was a proud mama last night! Pretty soon he'll be able to keep up with my brothers and my dad. :) Way to go, buddy boy!

California...California...Here we Come!

2008-07-15T13:15:00.015-06:00

We had a fabulous time in sunny California last week, and I am finally getting around to posting about it. It was really good to see Ken's parents and his siblings. (His parents were kind enough to let our clan stay at their house) We spent a lot of the time just hanging out and relaxing, but we did some really not so relaxing things as well!

On Monday night, Ken and I took all of the kids (our kids, and his brother's 3 girls) to the Braves/Dodgers game. It was so much fun! Ken LOVES the Braves, so I think it was the highlight of the trip for him. Even though the Braves lost big time, we enjoyed it. We got a lot of comments about being some of the few Braves fans in the crowd, but that made it even more enjoyable for me. :)

On Tuesday, we went to Sea World with our kids, Ken's brother Rick, his wife Denise, and their 4 girls (Emily, Kelsea, Amber, Lindsey). It was so much FUN! We started the day off with a ride on Journey to Atlantis...SO fun. Aden just barely made the height requirement of 42 inches, so he was able to ride with us. It is a pretty scary ride, and I wasn't sure how he was going to handle it, but when we got done he said "I want to ride that ride every day!" Then we decided that we were going to go see a Dolphin show...Aw, aren't they so cute and adorable, and look at all the tricks they can do...Oh, we may get a little wet because we sat in the front row and they will probably splash us a bit...WRONG!! We got DRENCHED! I'm talking like someone took a barrel of water and poured it all over us. That dang dolphin wasn't about to stop either! It went on and on for what seemed like forever. After that, we didn't think the dolphins were so cute anymore, and thanks to them we were WET ALL DAY LONG! We spent the whole day at Sea World, and we had a blast. We ended the day with Shamoo...and I must say, Shamoo was much nicer than the dolphins!

Ken and I made the journey home on Wednesday afternoon WITHOUT the kids! Ken's mom offered to keep them with her for the week so we could have a little break. I have to say, I thought it would be a nice break, but I sure am missing them a lot!!!!

What did you say?! A BOMB?!?

2008-07-03T12:07:00.003-06:00

So, yesterday was an interesting day at work for me (University Hospital). My manager is out of town for the week, so she put me in charge of the front desk while she is gone (I'm her Assistant). I get to take care of all of the problems that arise, so, of course something major is bound to happen when she leaves me in charge! Anyway, so I am just answering phone call after phone call, and I went to put one of the calls on hold, and a frantic lady says, "No, I can't hold, I need to speak to someone about the bomb threat. We are having a meeting right now!" WHAT?!? I ran to get my Charge Nurse to send her to the meeting to get the info. She came back and informed all of us that a man with a "Middle Eastern accent" had called the hospital and said that he had planted three bombs, and that we should all evacuate. He later called back and said, "I am watching you...why aren't you evacuating yet?" We had the fire marshall, the bomb squad, and the police doing sweeps through the entire hospital. They told us to just sit tight until we had more information. What more information do you need??? It's a BOMB! While we sat and waited for word, we started calling all of our patients who were scheduled to be seen that afternoon and evening. We couldn't tell them what was going on, just that we needed to reschedule their appointment because "a situation had occured." After we had called all of the patients we were told that the staff needed to stick around in case we needed to help evacuate all the patients from the hospital. That's when we started getting really nervous, and that is when I texted Ken to tell him that I love him... Finally, after a few hours of waiting, we got word that it was all clear. What a relief! Of course, we didn't want to call all of our patients back and tell them to come in after all, so I did get to go home a little early last night. What a day!
Can I just tell you how excited I am for my week off next week? Yay! California, here we come!!

Our Baby Boy Is Four Years Old!!!

2008-06-23T13:11:00.004-06:00

Happy, Happy birthday to Aden! I can't believe that 4 years ago today I gave birth to our little 6 pound 9 ounce baby boy. From the minute I first held him he has been my constant companion. He definitely changed my life in 2004, and he continues to do so every day. Now, he is a tall, skinny, 42 pound kid (but still my baby)! He has a really funny personality, and he is ALWAYS making everyone laugh. If I am having a bad day, he can make me happy within a few minutes. I can't stay mad at him for long because when he knows I am mad he says, "Mama, are you still mad at me?" As soon as I hear his sweet little voice the anger is gone, and I can honestly say that I am not mad. He definitely knows how I work!
We celebrated his birthday yesterday with our families. Yesterday afternoon Aden couldn't stop talking about his party and who was coming. He would watch the cars outside and every one that went by he would say, "I think someone is here for my party!" It was so cute! When the time finally came for the party, my dad and mom were the first to arrive and he yells out to all of us, "We have our first customers!!!" It was hilarious! As the people started arriving and our little house was getting fuller and fuller we noticed that Aden was missing. I found him in the bathroom. He was near tears as he said, "Mama, I want everyone to go home. I don't want to be 4 anymore." It took a little coaxing to get him out of the bathroom, and within a few minutes he was just fine, and enjoying the party.
Here's to a Happy Birthday for Aden! We love you, buddy.

Two Amazing Fathers

2008-06-16T13:25:00.007-06:00

I have to say that I am one lucky girl! I am so blessed to have two of the most amazing fathers as part of my life. Since it was Father's Day yesterday, I want to take a minute and tell you about the two important fathers in my life.

Let me start off with my dad. If I had to describe my dad in one word (which isn't easy to do) I would say that he is my hero (I guess that is two words). Ever since I was a little girl I have looked up to my dad so much! He is the kindest, most generous man I have ever met. If anyone ever needed anything, my dad would be the first to silently jump up and help. There were many times growing up that I saw my dad do acts of service for those around him. He never did it so that he could get the credit, he did it because he genuinely wants to help people.

My dad is probably the hardest worker I have ever met. He is always working on a project around the house or in the yard. He wakes up at the crack of dawn so that he can get a head start on his day. I have always admired that about my dad, and he taught us kids about the value of work.
My dad has such a big heart. He is a big, strong man, but he is so gentle and comforting. My favorite memories of my dad are from when I was little and I would sit on his lap, and he would rock me and sing to me. I felt so safe and so loved in his big strong arms. I have enjoyed watching my dad do the same thing with Aden. My dad and Aden spent a good portion of Aden's first few years on the front porch in the rocking chair. I am so glad that Aden and I can share the same special memories of my dad.

Now, let me tell you about the other very special father in my life... Jayne, Jared, and Aden's daddy. Ken is the best thing that ever happened to me and our kids. He is the glue that holds our whole family together. He is such a strong person, and he has so much love in his heart for all of us!

I admire Ken so much for all that he does. He makes sure that all of us are taken care of before he even thinks about himself. We all know that if we ever need anything, we can count on him. I can't even count how many times he has gone to the store in the middle of the night to get something for me or the kids. He is always making sure that I get my prescriptions dropped off and picked up, which I rarely do, so he ends up doing it for me. When I am sick he forces me to take medicine so that I get feeling better. :) When any of us are sad he has a way of cheering us up. He is always making us laugh with his crazy singing and dancing. He plays games with the kids. And most of all, he is my best friend and partner always!

Happy Father's Day to two awesome dads!!! I love you both!

ABC TAG!

2008-06-12T14:16:00.012-06:00

A- ATTACHED OR SINGLE: Attached-Married for 1 year and 4 months

B- BEST FRIENDS: Ken, Nicole, and my kids

C- CAKE OR PIE: Cake, I LOVE carrot cake!

D- DAY OF CHOICE: Saturday, it's the only day I get to play with Ken AND the kids

E- ESSENTIAL ITEM: MASCARA! I don't know what my eyes would do without it. My other
essential item is my cell phone...I am not sure how we survived before the days of cell phones

F- FAVORITE COLORS: Green and brown

G- GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT: Giving birth to a healthy baby boy

H- HOMETOWN: Sandy, UT

I- INDULGENCES: Chocolate chip cookies (a little too often!)

J- JANUARY OR JULY: July! I love summer!!

K- KIDS: Yes, 3 amazing and adorable kids...Jayne, Jared and Aden...the loves of my life

L- LIFE IS INCOMPLETE WITHOUT: My family

M- MARRIAGE DATE: February 23, 2007

N- NUMBER OF SIBLINGS: 6, 2 sisters and 4
brothers

O- ORANGES OR APPLES: Definitely apples (with peanut butter). But I would have to say I prefer orange juice over apple juice

P- PHOBIAS OR FEARS: Small/Enclosed spaces, losing a child/husband, not being able to take care of myself or my loved ones

Q- QUOTES: Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away

R- REASON TO SMILE: Getting off work, weekends, family, blessings

S- SEASON: I LOVE the Fall! Too bad it's the shortest season

T- TAG THREE FRIENDS: Nicole, Katie, Morgan

U- UNKNOWN FACT ABOUT ME: I can't smell skunks...well, I think most everyone knows that...hmm...

V- VERY FAVORITE STORE: I love TARGET! I know, boring

W- WORST HABIT: Picking my nails, not biting, picking (It drives Ken nuts! He even said he would pay me $5 every day that I don't pick at them!)

X- X-RAY OR ULTRASOUND: Definitely Ultrasound! That's my career goal

Y- YOUR FAVORITE FOOD: Bread (Any kind, as long as it is FRESH and warm)

Z- ZODIAC: Pisces

Girls (and boys) Just Wanna Have Fun!

2008-06-06T08:15:00.005-06:00

So, last night I was giving myself a little facial because I have this massive zit on my left cheek! I was hoping that maybe a mask would help reduce it's size by just a tad... Anyway, I have the cutest kids in the world, and they wanted to join me. We had ourselves a little spa night last night. (Jared wasn't interested in the whole idea)

Miracle on Wellington Street

2008-06-04T15:00:00.006-06:00

My dad watches Aden for us on Monday afternoons when Ken goes to work. This last Monday was an interesting one for my dad.

Ken dropped Aden off at the normal time, with his happy meal in hand, just like every Monday. After he left Aden says to my dad, "Papa, I have a popcorn seed up my nose." So my dad proceeds to look up his nostrils to try and find the popcorn seed. It was nowhere in sight. My dad started getting worried, and was getting ready to haul him off to the Emergency Room, when he looked over and saw Aden with his happy meal straw up his nose! He pulled it out, and low and behold, sitting right there on the end of the straw was the popcorn seed!!

We aren't quite sure how he managed to get the seed out with the straw, but I must say, Good work Aden!

The Daffodil Principle

2008-05-30T12:58:00.007-06:00

I am always learning things from my dad. He is an amazing man, and full of insight. The most recent email he sent me was about daffodils...I thought it was great! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did...

Several times my daughter had telephoned to say, "Mother, you must come to see the daffodils before they are over." I wanted to go, but it was a two-hour drive from Laguna to Lake Arrowhead "I will come next Tuesday", I promised a little reluctantly on her third call. Next Tuesday dawned cold and rainy. Still, I had promised, and reluctantly I drove there.

When I finally walked into Carolyn's house I was welcomed by the joyful sounds of happy children. I delightedly hugged and greeted my grandchildren. "Forget the daffodils, Carolyn! The road is invisible in these clouds and fog, and there is nothing in the world except you and these children that I want to see badly enough to drive another inch!" My daughter smiled calmly and said, "We drive in this all the time, Mother." "Well, you won't get me back on the road until it clears, and then I'm heading for home!" I assured her.

"But first we're going to see the daffodils. It's just a few blocks," Carolyn said. "I'll drive. I'm used to this." "Carolyn," I said sternly, "Please turn around." "It's all right, Mother, I promise. You will never forgive yourself if you miss this experience."

After about twenty minutes, we turned onto a small gravel road and I saw a small church. On the far side of the church, I saw a hand lettered sign with an arrow that read, " Daffodil Garden." We got out of the car, each took a child's hand, and I followed Carolyn down the path. Then, as we turned a corner, I looked up and gasped. Before me lay the most glorious sight. It looked as though someone had taken a great vat of gold and poured it over the mountain peak and its surrounding slopes. The flowers were planted in majestic, swirling patterns, great ribbons and swaths of deep orange, creamy white, lemon yellow, salmon pink, and saffron and butter yellow. Each different-colored variety was planted in large groups so that it swirled and flowed like its own river with its own unique hue. There were five acres of flowers. "Who did this?" I asked Carolyn. "Just one woman," Carolyn answered. "She lives on the property. That's her home." Carolyn pointed to a well-kept A-frame house, small and modestly sitting in the midst of all that glory. We walked up to the house. On the patio, we saw a poster. "Answers to the Questions I Know You Are Asking", was the headline. The first answer was a simple one. "50,000 bulbs," it read. The second answer was, "One at a time, by one woman. Two hands, two feet, and one brain." The third answer was, "Began in 1958."

For me, that moment was a life-changing experience. I thought of this woman whom I had never met, who, more than forty years before, had begun, one bulb at a time, to bring her vision of beauty and joy to an obscure mountaintop. Planting one bulb at a time, year after year, this unknown woman had forever changed the world in which she lived. One day at a time, she had created something of extraordinary magnificence, beauty, and inspiration. The principle her daffodil garden taught is one of the greatest principles of celebration. That is, learning to move toward our goals and desires one step at a time--often just one baby-step at time--and learning to love the doing, learning to use the accumulation of time.

When we multiply tiny pieces of time with small increments of daily effort, we too will find we can accomplish magnificent things. We can change the world . "It makes me sad in a way," I admitted t o Carolyn. "What might I have accomplished if I had thought of a wonderful goal thirty-five or forty years ago and had worked away at it 'one bulb at a time' through all those years? Just think what I might have been able to achieve!" My daughter summed up the message of the day in her usual direct way. "Start tomorrow," she said.She was right. It's so pointless to think of the lost hours of yesterdays. The way to make learning a lesson of celebration instead of a cause for regret is to only ask, "How can I put this to use today?" Use the Daffodil Principle.

Stop waiting.....

Until your car or home is paid off

Until you get a new car or home

Until your kids leave the house

Until you go back to school

Until you finish school

Until you clean the house

Until you organize the garage

Until you clean off your desk

Until you lose 10 lbs.

Until you gain 10 lbs.

Until you get married

Until you get a divorce

Until you have kids

Until the kids go to school

Until you retire

Until summer

Until spring

Until winter

Until fall

Until you die...

One Step Closer

2008-05-27T18:56:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to update everyone on how the adoption process is coming along. We are officially on the down hill side of things (I think!). We have all the papers, and they are all filled out. Now, we just have to get Ken's criminal history record, his child abuse history record, a new birth certificate form, and submit the forms to the court! After that, they will give us our Hearing date and Aden will OFFICIALLY belong to Ken and me! I can't wait!
Thanks to all of you for being so supportive and excited for us during this whole process. We really appreciate it.