The Hellbusch Family

5 Months Old!

2012-02-09T19:28:00.000-08:00

Hi! I am Hazel Bushes(Zuri gave me this name). I am 5 months old.

I am loved!!!

I am a talker. I love to tell stories.

I roll over on a regular basis.

I love to hear Emmie's voice. When she gets home from school I am so happy.

I HATE baby food!!! It makes me cry.

I get really hungry at 4 am.

I drool all over everything.

I always giggle at Ryanne.

I love to hang with Jaxson when mommy goes running.

Hanna is so busy that I rarely see her. But when I do, I still like to fall asleep on her.

I like to blow spit bubbles.

I only nap if I am in my swing or someone is holding me.

I always have smiles for Daddy.

I don't like kisses from dad when he has stubble.

I still HATE "tummy time."

Morgy was helping mommy take my pictures. She jumped in. I love her kisses.

I am a happy, healthy baby. I am always the center of attention and I won't have it any other way!!!

Hazel's Blessing Day

2012-02-05T18:59:00.000-08:00

Hazel Elayne Hellbusch

hazel has blessed our family in so many ways. today it was her turn to receive a blessing. first things first, have i ever mentioned that mr. hellbusch is amazing? he is for so many reasons. right now, i would like to talk about just one of them. when hazel was a newborn, tim mentioned that jaxson would be able to bless her. i immediately asked if that would make him sad because it is his right to bless his daughter. to my questioned he simply replied, "nothing would make me happier than having my son bless hazel. i love the men in my life and so does sweet hazel.

jaxson gave hazel a name and a blessing. it was tender and sweet. i am so proud to be his mom. he did a great job. you would never have guessed that jaxson was nervous. sounded so strong and sure of himself. i am so grateful for this day and the love that hazel has brought to our family. jaxson blessed hazel with so many wonderful things today. he was joined in the circle by his dad, bill markham, dave crockett, tanner squires, austin mansfield, trek robinson, and our bishop. these young men are some of jaxson's best friends the "old" men are family friends and examples to jaxson. these boys will all be leaving on their missions soon. some have their calls, others are anxiously waiting for calls. i will miss every one of them. i have loved having them in our home on a regular basis. hazel is one lucky girl. she has so many fine young men wrapped around her cute little finger.

me with "my" boys. i will miss them with all my heart.

this is how they usually act. yet, i couldn't love them more.

they love pictures

tanner missed the group photo and this is the only picture i had of him that day.

i am so proud of all of these boys and grateful for the influence they have had on jaxson's life. hazel's blessing was one a the last few events before they all leave. it is bittersweet for me. there is nowhere i would rather have these boys go. however, as a group they will take a piece of my heart.

thank you to all the friends and family who came for our families special day. we have been blessed to have all of you in our lives. i am continually amazed at the love we have received from all of you over the years. thank you to my wonderful girls who wear the "big sister" title with honor. i love that hazel has such great examples in her life. you will be her best friends. she is such a blessed little girl.

4 Months Old

2012-01-09T22:48:00.000-08:00

Hazel Elayne Hellbusch

at 4 months old.....

-is beautiful

-rolled over for the first time today

-holds a grudge

-loves her soft blankie by her face

-hangs out with Ryanne

-is spoiled rotten

-drools all over the place

-snuggled with mommy today

-giggles

-likes the binkie less and less

-holds toys

-wants to sit up

-stores lint in her neck

-still naps with Hanna

-always has smiles for Emmie

-loves her daddy

-loves to look at Morgan (usually with a look of wonderment)

-gives Jaxson open mouthed kisses

-only "catnaps" during the day

-knows what a bottle is and loves it

-is generally a happy fun loving baby who is loved beyond measure!!!

Happy Birthday Hazey Layne!!!

...For if love blossoms and meadows and walking, I learned how to love them, dear Grandma, from you....

2012-01-03T18:19:00.000-08:00

i have been friends with michel for what seems like forever. we were young marrieds in byu housing together. as long as i have known michel, i have known grandma(my whole family calls her "grandma"). i instantly loved grandma. sometimes she made me miss my own grandma. other times she filled the void left when my grandma passed away. michel's grandma always made me feel like i was part of the family. she was always so kind to me and interested in my family. i often thought that if my grandma lived nearby i would have a relationship with her that was similar to michel and her grandma's relationship. to put it simply, i loved "grandma." i will miss her.

i was shocked when i learned of grandma's passing. i learned a valuable lesson that day. i also don't believe it was by "chance" that grandma taught it to me. you see, earlier that week i had thought, "i should call michel." i clearly remember pushing the idea away twice! it wasn't even because i was lazy. i honestly thought that michel was busy getting ready for christmas and the last thing she needed was for me to bother her. when i talked to michel i told her that i had thought i should call. she replied, "you should have. i was dying and needed you." if only i had listened....

during the funeral i was honored when sharon said that grandma would want me in the family prayer. i was also so pleased when my older kids said that they wanted to attend.

the great grandchildren sang "i often go walking," at the service. i lost it when they sang the words, "For if I love blossoms and meadows and walking, i learned how to love them, dear grandma, from you."grandma did love all of those things. so did my grandma. i was reminded that my love for them came from a grandma i looked up to and nurtured by another grandma.

grandma even touched my hazel.

the week before grandma passed away, michel and i were at grandma's doing something. hazel was screaming. i handed hazel to grandma (nervous that she would be too wiggly or ornery for grandma to handle. when michel and i came back into the room hazel was as happy and calm as could be.

i am grateful to all the "grandma's" that have touched my life. i hope that one day (many years from now) i can follow in the footsteps of the many wonderful grandmas that i have been blessed to know.

i will miss you.....

Baby's First Christmas

2012-01-03T13:14:00.000-08:00

To say that Hazel is loved doesn't quite do her justice. She seems to be somewhat of a celebrity around here. It makes me happy.

Here are a few Christmas pics of sweet Hazey Layne...

We all had a wonderful Christmas.

2011-12-09T20:37:00.001-08:00

3 months old today....

i have mixed feelings about time. i feel as though time has flown by since hazel came into our family. i also feel like the last time i showered or slept or even sat down to eat without worrying about whether or not a sweet "someone" would beckon me with a cute little cry, was ions ago. but just look at her....

how could you not want to cherish ever moment with her? even morgan's friends want to come visit hazel.

hazey lane at 3 months...

smiles....often

giggles even

often gets her hair done by jaxson using his mouth to form a mo hawk

looks for dad when he is on speaker phone

sleeps through most nights

loves to chill with sweet emmalyne

tries to sit up (i swear! she is almost always in a "crunch" position)

knows and loves her family

hates, and i mean hates, tummy time.

is getting a "flat" head due to the above

will only sleep on hanna

wakes up all smiles in the morning

loves when morgy gives her a bath

has conversations with ryanne

she even got her ears pierced today!

we love our little hazey!!!

2011-11-09T16:49:00.000-08:00

look who is 2 months old!

we can't imagine our family without hazel in it.

a few facts about hazey

she loves 2 be held

she loves 2 sleep on jax when mom goes running

she loves 2 practice spanish with mo

she loves 2 walk around the house with emmie

she loves 2 nap hanna

she doesn't like 2 be put down

she doesn't love 2 sneeze

she loves 2 smile at ryanne

she loves 2 sleep with mom

she loves 2 listen to music

she loves 2 take a bath

she hates 2 have her clothes changed

she loves 2 have her feet rubbed

she loves 2 suck on her paci

she loves 2 look at herself in the mirror

she loves 2 talk to daddy

2 have hazel in our home is 2 have a piece of heaven with you all the time!!!

hazel loves 2 be spoiled. it just so happens that we love 2 spoil her 2!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T17:39:00.000-07:00

Tim ended up being in town just long enough to go trick-or-treating with Emmalyne. That is a "treat" that hasn't happened in years! Emmie might be my favorite. She wanted to be a nerd and it was my good fortune that we already had the costume. (Thanks to years of dance)

Ryanne and Hanna both wanted to be Wonder Woman. So, we made Wonder Woman costumes. Both girls helped make them. These two were both busy with friends and parties.

Morgan and her friends wanted to indians. So, we made 3 indian costumes. Morgan totally helped with the costumes. She and her friends looked so cute.

Jaxson helped pass out candy. I choose my "photo" battles with that kid wisely....
so you won't see a Halloween picture of Jaxson. As always, he is so handsome!
Hazel hung out with me. No costume this year. I ran out of gas.....

Hope you all had a Halloween. We sure did!

2011-10-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

The other day a women lent me these. I stopped to talk to her and was sad. I had just been yelled at by another adult for doing something that in her opinion was terrible. My intentions were good. I wasn't even sad about what happened I was hurt that someone thought it acceptable to talk to me as if I were a child who just broke a cookie jar, or stole a toy from another person, or to be honest, murdered another human being.

I ran into the owner of these sunglasses. She was kind and offered the glasses so my kids wouldn't know I was upset. She is honest and kind. She did not need to be nice to me. I am merely a person she runs into now and then.

I hope that through these sunglasses I can see the world the way she does. I hope to always remember her words, "No one deserves to be spoken to like that. No matter what they have done." I have never seen or heard her be unkind.

I hope to become more like her. Strong, independent, beautiful, wise, kind, thoughtful, and did I mention beautiful.

You know who you are, and I thank you with all my heart for reminding me that there are still good people out there.

The Big 15!!

2011-10-25T08:07:00.000-07:00

our BEAUTIFUL morgan is now 15. on her birthday, i enjoyed an afternoon of food and pampering with morgan and two of her friends.

i LOVE these girls. what a great age. you know the one, 15 going on 27. they know almost everything and what they don't know, they pretend to know.

morgan was hard for me when she was young. we would butt heads a lot. i loved her, but sometimes i wanted to beat her. it's funny. (i still have those same feelings today) tim always said that morgan and i butted heads because we were so similar. naturally, i thought he was crazy. i never act the way she does. i am realizing that we are very similar. in fact, it is scary sometimes how similar we are. i also think, that even back then i felt the way she did, it just wasn't socially acceptable for me to throw tantrums. i was just much better at controlling my emotions (bahhahahaha!).

morgan makes me laugh every day. she is an amazing young woman. she is a great friend and example to everyone around her. she is passionate about most things. she is smart. she is kind. she is a great student. she is an amazing daughter and sister. she is driven. she knows what she wants. she still throws tantrums now and then. :0) she is responsible. she is beautiful. she dresses cute. she can do ANYTHING that she sets her mind too.

happy birthday to our daughter, sister, and friend.

we love you morgan-morgy, morganna, mojo, mo jito, mo!

see why we love her! she definitely gets all of her good qualities from me!!! heeheeeheee!

Hazel Elayne Hellbusch

2011-10-04T12:43:00.000-07:00

hazel is sleeping in the other room. i just looked at the pictures from the day she was born. already i have forgotten details from that day. it was such a sweet time for our family. i decide i need to blog before i forget more......

i don't remember what day it was (everything is a blur). it had to be monday or tuesday. i had a dr. appointment. i remember standing on the scale and, for just a moment, smiling when the nurse said i had lost 3 pounds. in a flash, i remember that i am 9 months pregnant and my weight should not be going down.

i see the dr. and he tells me i am still measuring small and that i need to go have my amniotic fluid level checked at the hospital. i rush to a hair appt., get a pedicure while it processes and return to the hospital for an ultrasound. the technician explains that a "normal" fluid level ranges from 1-25. mine is a 6. at 5 they won't let you go home. my dr. consults with a perinatologist and they decide to check me again in a few days. deflated (literally) i go home.

i really want the baby to be healthy. i really want to not be pregnant anymore. i am miserable.

i notice my family has "looks" between each other. you know, the looks that say, "just grin and bare it, she won't be pregnant that much longer anyway." my husband is now telling the kids not to even look at, or go near me. i can tell i am pleasant to be around.

now it is friday. i have to go in for another stress test and fluid check. i have given up. she is never coming. i even voice that i will die an old woman with a teenager still inside of me. (dramatic, i know.)

the stress test looks fine. the baby looks great. now, downstairs for the ultrasound.

the technician is doing something with a concerned look on her face. i finally ask what my fluid level is...

she tells me it is only a 2 1/2 and i need to go back upstairs.

WE ARE HAVING A BABY!!!

i text my dr. and tell him to come "get this baby out of me." by now, i am sure he is regretting ever giving me his cell phone number. i don't really care.
tim runs to round up the kids.

be patient....it was a BIG event..

the pictures above are all of us waiting...

we bet on birth weight...Ryanne won.
we debated when Hazel said goodbye to her namesake, my grandma. then as she was being born, or months before when she was conceived.

tim messing around while i am being prepped for surgery

the above photos are self explanatory

first glance at little sis

not wanting to say good bye as Hazel was taken to the nursery

our beautiful baby

waiting again

hazel had to have an IV and emmie was not happy about having to wait to see her

tim stretching......

hazel elayne

meeting hazel for the first time

i had visitors the whole time. hazel and i were well taken care of.

daddy and emmie changing her diaper. there are no photos for proof but one of my favorite memories at the hospital was watching jaxson change hazel's diaper. he was all over the place. she peed on everything. it was hilarious.

and baby makes "6"!!!!!

hazel had so many visitors. she is well loved. since she has been home she barely cries. if she makes a peep some one picks her up and tends to her every need.

i don't' really remember the day she was born. my kids say that i kept saying i was so glad i wasn't pregnant anymore. which was so true!!!

i already don't remember why she had to have an iv.

the older kids were so fun.

a couple of memories since hazel came home

she loves the song angel lullaby from my turn on earth. i sing it to her all the time. when we play it, she recognizes it. i promise that is true. you can tell.

the first couple of days that hazel was home, emmie would not leave the house except to go to school. she would return from school and yell, "is hazel home."

grandma stopped by one day and ryanne said, "it is still my turn to hold hazel.

jaxson got a cold and couldn't hold hazel for a few days.

one day he came in and said he was sad because he was missing her most snuggly time.

so many people brought gifts over and came to visit hazel and i. one friend came clear from centerville to see us. morgan said, "mom, so many people love you and hazel." so true. we are so blessed.

hanna takes a nap with hazel every day after school.

they all take turns feeding, changing, and holding hazel. they love her and this makes me happy

morgan and her friends tell me i am so happy now and smile so much.
i am so glad hazel is here and that i am not still pregnant!!!!!

Ryanne's Birthday Party

2011-08-23T15:27:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I am having trouble keeping up on life lately. I would like to blame pregnancy. Ryanne turned 12 on July 27th. She is such an amazing young lady. We FINALLY had a party for her. Tim put together some "Minute to Win it" games and we had pizza and junk food.

I love Ryanne's friends! They are all such great kids.

Don't get me wrong, it sucked but we loved it.....

2011-08-03T15:46:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying, "I love my girls!"

We made Hanna and Morgan go on Trek. This is an object lesson on walking across the plains as the pioneers did. They took buses to Wyoming and then walked about 40 miles as if they were pioneers. They were split into families and pulled handcarts and even dressed as the pioneers did (Morgan was the most upset by the clothing). They left at 4:30 am on a Tuesday and returned Friday at 6 pm. I went to meet the buses with hesitation. I was afraid they would both hate me when they returned.

Once the buses stopped it was mayhem. Pioneers everywhere. I walked into the crowd honestly fearing the wrath I was about to receive.

It seemed like I walked around forever. Finally, I felt my girls on either side of me. BOTH of them were smiling.

I started to cry. I was so happy that they were home and had smiles on their faces.

They were stinky and dirty and look at Hanna's hair.

Morgan had her pioneer clothes off before her second foot was off of the bus.

BUT, let me say it again. They were BOTH happy!!

They both had cute friends that went with them.

They were welcomed home by a sign made by Emmie and Haidyn.

I took the girls to dinner that night. They both told stories that made me laugh and cry. In the end they both loved Trek. They said, "Don't get me wrong, it sucked and was so hard, but we loved it."

To which my wise friend and neighbor replied, "Doesn't everything worth having/doing suck sometimes?"

I realized that I sent my daughters on Trek not as much for the experience, but mostly because we made our son go 4 years ago and I did not want to deal with his wrath for not making the girls go. (Remember pregnant and taking the path of least resistance) What they came home with was an experience that they will never forget and a respect for hard ships faced by many of their ancestors. Not to mention friendships that I am sure they will treasure.

On Sunday Hanna spoke in church of her experience on Trek. I would never be able to do justice to the wonderful talk she gave, so I won't even try. I will simply leave it at this.....
"Oh the things I learn from my children...."

Happy Birthday Ryanne!!!

2011-07-27T09:11:00.000-07:00

Ryanne is 12 today!!!

I can't believe it.

Ryanne is beautiful on the inside and out!

Happy Birthday Ryanne! We love you!

4th of July

2011-07-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

We spent the 4th of July at the Lloyd's house. Great friends, great food and great games!!!

Good times!

Steel Days 2011

2011-07-11T10:58:00.000-07:00

Tim and I took the "littles" to American Fork Steel Days. I remember days of taking 5 little kids to the carnival. I would do it again in a heartbeat. For now, this is how the carnival goes.....

Morgan ditched us to hang with her friends (As was totally expected).

Ryanne talked Emmie into this ride. Emmie almost peed her pants. She ended up loving it and went again by herself.

Tim joined the fun.

Slide races....

Happy Em

Not my best side. But, I wanted proof that I participated. I was pooped just walking around.

Emmie Lu!

We ended the day with HUGE ice cream cones from Maceys. No pictures. I was worn out!

As were leaving, I saw a lady that I had worked with at Ross before I was married. I usually refrain from saying hi to old acquaintances. I mean, what if they don't remember me? I swallowed my pride and said, "hi." She remembered me and told me I was so much fun. It is weird. She is the one who referred me to our Doctor (the same one that is about to deliver our 6th baby.) It made me realize that people we only know for a short time have such a big impact on our lives.

I am so grateful!

Party On!

2011-06-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

it seemed only appropriate to celebrate jaxson's graduation. i love this kid! we had a great day with family and friends. as i think about all of the amazing people who came to celebrate, i am touched at the influence each of you have had on jaxson's life. jaxson is a great young man. i firmly believe that it is due, in part, to all of you! many thanks to all......

I mean look how cute he is. how can you not love him to death?

look at that old man go!

happy graduation son!!!

Class of 2011

2011-06-03T20:56:00.000-07:00

Our High School Graduate

It was a great day. We had dinner at Outback with friends and family. We are so proud of Jaxson. Honored to have such an amazing son!

6th GRADE GRADUATION

2011-05-31T21:43:00.000-07:00

disclaimer: Morgan took the pictures today and I forgot to set "auto"

Ryanne graduated from Highland Elementary School today. This event is definitely met with mixed emotions.....

Pride:

Ryanne is smart, motivated, beautiful(on the inside and out), friendly, caring, tender, kind, and compassionate. Every single day she does something that makes me proud to be her mother. I know she will meet this new chapter with grace and a sense of humor.

Love:

I love Ryanne. I love that she is excited for Junior High. I love that she is a happy beautiful girl.

Sadness:

I am sad that Ryanne is becoming a young womman. Not because I am afraid of what she will do, but because she has been such a wonderful little girl.

Joy: It makes me so happy that Ryanne is happy!!!!

Happy Graduation Ryanne!!

We love you!!

(Jaxson attended the ceremony. He left before I could catch him for pictures!!)

Jaxson is.....

2011-05-25T07:25:00.000-07:00

I can't even bring myself to say....

"18 years old today!!!!"

Happy Birthday to my favorite son!

Today I am wishing....

I had read more stories....

I had said I love you more often....

I had put down whatever I was doing that seemed so important...

I had played more games...

I had been a better listener....

I had held him a little tighter...

Snuggled him a little longer...

Told him how proud I was of him a little more often....

Given him way more hugs...

Enjoyed every moment I HAVE had with him...

Loved him more unconditionally....

Taught him more of lifes important lessons....

Today I am grateful that Jaxson is...

MY SON!!!!

I LOVE HIM WITH ALL MY HEART AND COULD NOT BE MORE PROUD OF THE MAN HE HAS BECOME!!!

Seminary Graduation

2011-05-23T21:41:00.000-07:00

Denial about my son turning 18 and graduating from high school, added to my being 23 weeks pregnant and still sick equals my not facing anything in a timely manor. I have decided to blog when I can and not even think about catching up.

Jaxson graduated from Seminary two Sundays ago.

We are so proud him. Jaxson accomplished something that I never was able to do.

I am always amazed at the great people my children are.

Thanks Bill and Joy for coming and supporting Jaxson. Especially since Tim was out of town.

I just love this guy!!!

It's True....We are having another baby!!!

2011-03-24T17:38:00.000-07:00

I know it seems as though we fell off the face of the earth. Let me explain....

WE ARE HAVING ANOTHER BABY!!

Thus, no updates....I have been puking my guts out! And I'm not joking!!!

Life has continued on, I just have been so sick that posting seemed like an exertion of way too much energy!

We are very excited and the other kids couldn't be happier! I am grateful for all of my kids and how much they have helped me lately. I have often thought how I did this when they were all so young. Everyone is quick to remind me that I was much younger then too.

I am grateful to the few friends that knew and kept my secret until we were ready to tell "the Littles!"

We have truly been blessed!

Here is hoping that this posts begins the "starting to feel better" phase of my pregnancy!

I will be playing "catch up" as time permits!!

TreasureLayne Give Away!!!

2011-01-27T14:39:00.000-08:00

Give Away on the TreasureLayne Blog. It is my first one ever. So please, let me feel the love!!!

Check it out!

treasurelaynephotography.blogspot.com

Or press the button to the right!!!

Every Moment

2011-01-25T22:21:00.000-08:00

I fight my own "wars" until I can no longer fight them alone. To be truthful, I usually wait until far longer than that. Yesterday, Tim brought the mail in and said, "Our Christmas card to Margaret was returned to sender and oh yeah, Jaxson got an acceptance letter from the University of Utah." He said it so nonchalantly. I knew exactly what he was doing. Tim was acting as if it was no big deal with the hope that I wouldn't really focus on what he was saying. That way I couldn't be sad.

I did what I do best. I put it out of my head and tried to pretend it wasn't happening. Even when Tim came over to Joy's to tell me that Hanna cried when she heard, I pretend. I looked right at him. I listened to every word and still, if I think he is really telling me that we are going to Jamaica as a family...

I am already lying on the beach and

Jaxson is still five!

Today I am driving to dance and a song that goes a little something like this...

"We laughed out loud 'til we cried

And the tears were sweet

Midnight melted to morning

A moment faded to memort

All these days

Just slip away through our fingers

So...

Don't let go

Hold onto every moment

Always know

Hold on to every moment that you can........." comes on.

It was then that I decided I had to get my big girl panties on and acknowledge this.

Jaxson was accepted to college!!!! I have known this was coming. I have wanted and even prayed for this. It isn't that I don't want this for him. It is just that in my mind Jaxson graduating marks a change in our family. Things will never again be as they are. Someone will be graduating and leaving every couple of years.

That being said, it is time that I hold on to this moment. I am proud of Jaxson. I am grateful that he is my son. I am honored to be his mother.

More letters will come. Some good, some bad. No matter where he decides to go, I am grateful for a son that wants to go to college. I am grateful that we are in a position to help him do that. We are blessed and these are all good things!!

Married to an "older man"

2011-01-25T21:37:00.000-08:00

Now I know what it feels like to be married to an "older man!"

Tim's flight did not land until after midnight, so it really was his birthday. The "Preference" kids had all gone home, so we decided we would all go pick up Tim.

Tim-"Let's all get In N Out.'

Kids-"No, we are going to IHOP"

Tim-"Isn't it MY birthday."

Kids-"Yeah, but we are going to IHOP!"

Tim accepting that this celebration is due to his old age!

Pretending he is okay with it!

We made this book of "40 Things We Love About You." for Tim. It is filled with pictures of Tim and quotes from each of the kids about their dad! Great gift!

Hope you had a great birthday!

2011-01-23T21:44:00.000-08:00

Look Who's 40!

2011-01-22T23:35:00.000-08:00

Lucky I'm in love with my best friend.

Lucky to have been where I have been.

HAPPY 40TH TIMMY!

Some days I wonder how I got so lucky to marry someone as great as this guy!

I know, it sounds cheesy.

IT'S TRUE!

I am blessed!

Tim is

sexy (as shown above)
a hard worker
a great dad
funny

strong
dedicated
faithful
honest
kind

did I mention sexy?
my best friend
loving
romantic
sensitive
athletic

I love this guy with all my heart. I love the father that he is to his children. I love the husband that he is to me. I love that his children love and respect him. I just

LOVE

Tim!!!

Happy Birthday!

Preference!

2011-01-22T20:51:00.000-08:00

Hanna is 16! It kills me. As many of you know, she is now allowed to date boys. (Much to Tim's chagrin!) Tonight she went to "Preference." Preference is a girl's choice dance. This meant that Hanna had to come up with a clever way to ask someone to accompany her to this dance. She asked her friend, Nate. She made a poster that said, "I got so nervous to ask you to preference that I PEED on your porch. She put frozen peas all over his porch. Clever? I know. That is my Hanna!

Nate replied with the word "YES" spelled out on our porch in chocolate covered raisins. (It looked like some kind of poop.) For the record, I couldn't be more proud of either of them. Very original!

As much as I just want to blog about how beautiful Hanna looked and what a fun group they went with, I want to express how much I love Hanna. I loved watching her plan. They went with a of group 7 couples. All of them great kids. I watched as they made plans, changed plans and carried out plans. I loved dress shopping with Hanna. I loved watching all aspects of the preparation.

I watched all of my kids help clean the house and watch each other while I was busy cooking, taking pictures and serving dinner to the Preference group. Don't get me wrong. My kids were all human and definitely did not do all of this with a smile. What matters to me is that they did it. When I needed their help, they supported both Hanna and I. What more could a mom ask?

Ally, a good friend of Hanna's, came to see her all ready. I love this girl and am so grateful for "good" friends.

Hanna and Nate

The group

The girls

The group again

The girls again

Once again, the fabulous Joy Markham, helped me do the dinner. Now, when I use the word, "HELPED," I mean that Joy told me what to make, what groceries to get and then she cooked the main course. Everyone needs a friend like Joy. Just find your own friend like Joy. This Joy is taken!!

Not only is Joy a fabulous friend and neighbor to me, my girls LOVE her. At the end of the day that is what matters most. My girls look up to Joy and love her to death.

Joy happens to be married to CRAZY Bill Markham. (Shown in the background here.)

We love Bill too. I just like to give him a hard time.

Dinner time

After the dance everyone came back to our house for an "ice cream bar." This was such a fun group of kids. It was an honor to have them in our home!

A great night!

Peter Pan!

2011-01-20T15:25:00.000-08:00

Joy, Bill and I took "the littles" to BYU to watch the musical Peter Pan. It was really good. Made for a late night, but all the girls liked it!

Showing Bill the Love!!!

Good times! Great friends!!!

Family Pictures

2011-01-20T08:10:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! I posted some family pics on my "new and improved" TreasureLayne blog. Just click on the TreasureLayne button to the right and check it out! Would love to hear comments!

Movie Time with "the littles!"

2011-01-17T11:13:00.000-08:00

All the big kids had plans so Grandma Robin and I took "the littles" to see Gulliver's Travels. I am not a huge Jack Black fan, but I thought it was a cute movie. The little girls loved it and giggled a lot!

Emmie's friend, Jacee, came to see it with us. They brought their American Girl dolls with them. How could they not? They spent the hour before the movie getting the dolls "ready" for our outing.

Emmie and Jacee have been friends since they were 2. They play so well together and always have a good time. I have been blessed with great girls friends and it makes me so happy that Emmie has too!!!

Todays Favorite

2011-01-15T17:32:00.000-08:00

It is funny. Every book you read about parenting will tell you that it isn't good to have a "favorite" child. I disagree. Today my favorite is Morgan. How can it not be Morgan? Look at this cute necklace she gave me. Just out of the blue, "Mom, look what I bought you."

I love her. To all my other children, tomorrow's spot is still open. Start sending the gifts!!

Please do not send hate mail. I am joking. I love all my kids the same (Most of the time). I just thought it was so cute that Morgan found this and thought of me. Love her!

Does anyone feel my pain?

2011-01-06T17:04:00.000-08:00

Does anyone else feel like once you have children, nothing is sacred anymore? It's true. For example....

Sunday I went to put on the outfit I had planned to wear and....one of my beautiful girls wore it and got a hole right on the front. I changed and decided to wear a skirt that someone had put away with spots down the front. Frustrated, I decided to wear a shirt that wasn't anywhere to be found. GRRRRRR!

Often the kids come home from school and one of them is wearing an article of clothing that belongs to me. When I say, "I would like to be asked before they wear something of mine." I am told that they thought it was okay because it was in their room.

Occasionally, I go to get in my car and don't have one because one of the kids has it.

Frequently, I am ready to go to sleep and anywhere from 1-5 kids are in my room, in my bed, on my chair, using my brush, wanting my blow dryer etc. etc etc.

Thus, it was no surprise when cleaning off/ organizing picture files on my computer(we do have a "kids" computer), I found about 100 of these...

Does anyone feel my pain??

While I might complain about it. Certainly, I will moan and groan about it.

Secretly, I LOVE IT and wouldn't have it any other way!!!!!

Jaxson

2011-01-04T21:16:00.000-08:00

Jaxson was on one tonight.

First we got to watch Jaxson SWOOSH three pointers in his Jr. Jazz basketball game. He definitely gets that shot from ME! Nothing makes me happier than watching Tim out there coaching the boys. They don't need a coach, they just need an old guy to sit on the side line and pretend he is the coach. Really, Tim let the boys do "their thing." But I love watching Jaxson and Tim together!

When we got home from Jaxson's game, Emmie was sad. She was afraid we wouldn't get home before she and Ryanne fell asleep. I gave her some love and then.....

Jaxson descended upon her!

He kissed her until she couldn't stop giggling. It was really cute! I just love them!!!!

Then, Jaxson decided to show Hanna who was boss. He definitely won!

I think everyone will sleep well tonight!

Thanks Jax for a great night.

1-1-11

2011-01-01T17:05:00.000-08:00

While trying to put together a book of pictures from last year, I realized that I have very few pictures of adults. While I love my kids dearly, I wanted to document fun trips and play dates with Tim and our friends. This year, I plan to remedy that problem.

Today, Tim and I went to a movie with Joy and Bill Markham. We then invaded Wingers too close to closing. It seemed like maybe they weren't very happy to turn the oven back on to make our "cookie zookie." NO matter.....It was a great "cookie zookie." The wings were fabulous too.

It was the ending of a great day. I photographed a wedding, ate breakfast with Timmy, and shopped with my girls all afternoon! It doesn't get better than that.

We are blessed with great kids, jobs, and friends!

Here's to a great 2011!!!!!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T16:06:00.000-08:00

Hoping everyone enjoyed the holidays as much as we did! I can honestly say that I loved every minute of the season.

We spent Christmas Eve at Kate's house with grandma and cousins. It's always "quite the party!"

Christmas Day we opened presents and played games, did puzzles, watched movie and ate and ate and ate....

Does anyone else notice that my kids are always "making faces" in pictures? I'm not sure where they get that!!!!!!!
Loved Christmas 2010!

Twas' the Week before Christmas....

2010-12-24T13:51:00.000-08:00

And all through the house, nobody sat down....Not even a mouse.

We have had a CRAZY week before Christmas. Life never seems to settle down here. However, I wanted to post this quickly. I have loved this Christmas season. I have loved watching my kids pick gifts for their siblings. I love that they are excited to watch each other open gifts. I have loved every minute of time spent together. This is, after all, our "last December" before Jaxson graduates(I jokingly say with a tear in my eye and a half smile on my face). Here is a brief play by play of the week....

Christmas Dance Show...

Hanna had a "Senior Sleepover" with her dance team.

Snow day with cousins from Vegas and Haidyn. I must say, I loved the snowman they built!

Tim took all the younger kids sledding.

We had a "Festivus" celebration with the Markhams and Kellehers. It was so fun. We couldn't ask for better friends.

Spaghetti Factory with my family.

We ended the week before Christmas at the BYU basketball game.

We have been blessed! It really has been "the most wonderful time of the year!"

Merry Christmas!!!!

Eli

2010-12-17T17:39:00.000-08:00

My good friend, Eli, spent the afternoon with us yesterday! We had so much fun. WE...

had treats
played kick ball
watched Alvin and the Chipmunks
ate Dinobytes
played games
etc., etc., etc.,

Emmie read him a story and Eli cried when it was time to go home. It is pretty safe to say that everybody around here loves that guy! Thanks for a fun day, Eli. Let's do it again soon!

Twelve Days of Christmas....

2010-12-14T11:45:00.000-08:00

I honestly love this time of year. I have seen friends that I don't usually see shopping and out to dinner. It has been so good to see and hear from everyone! I love it!

I also love the 12 days of Christmas!

Santa has been dropping off gifts for the 12 days of Christmas. Emmie noticed that the writing was the same as mine. I explained that Santa is in a hurry and asks me to write the note.Emmie never misses a step! I love that girl!!

LAZY DAY....

2010-12-10T11:35:00.000-08:00

After two week s of weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth....

The tree is up!!!!

My "to do"lists of late have been daunting. Today I am almost finished with everything. I think I will have a lazy day.

I can't lie....

2010-12-09T15:26:00.000-08:00

I can't lie. I love Christmas cards! I love going to the mail every day in December. They come from all over, from old friends and new. I love opening Christmas cards almost as much as I love opening presents. It makes me happy to read about and see pictures of family and friends that we love.

That being said, my excitement for getting the mail in December was met with dismay the other day. I ran to get the mail. I was shuffling through junk mail looking for Christmas cards from everyone that I love. When I stumbled across this.....

If you can't see it. It is a note from the U of U thanking Jaxson for applying to their college. While I am absolutely 100% supportive and proud. I am sad. This marks a change in our lives that I am not sure I am sufficiently prepared for. I love Jax. I love the decisions he is making. I want him to move ahead in life. Is it wrong for me to admit that I meet this pending cross road with some sadness??? Don't judge me!!!

I just want him to be 5 again!

Morgan and Brookie

2010-12-04T19:52:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when Morgan gets her hands on my camera....

Morgan might be Brookie's favorite person! I just love this little game that the two of them played!

Good times!!!

Junior Jazz

2010-12-02T17:43:00.000-08:00

Jaxson is playing an a "Junior Jazz" basketball team again this year. They had their first game the other night and demolished the other team. Really, the score was 40 something to 8. I love watching Jaxson play. I love him. I know most of the guys (I am no longer allowed to call them "boys")on his team. I am so happy that Jaxson and his friends are comfortable around me. I love bantering with the guys on the sidelines almost as much as I love watching them play together.

You gotta love the "white man's afro!" Again, I love this guy!

Thanksgiving Weekend

2010-11-29T21:06:00.000-08:00

We had a great Thanksgiving! Each one of our kids asked if we could "just stay home" for Thanksgiving. The more I heard that question, the more I was grateful for my family. I love that our kids just wanted to be home together to enjoy the holiday! That alone is a tremendous blessing. We had extended family from my side join us. The kids were great, the food was fantastic, and the company was even better! The list of things I am grateful for seems to get longer and longer everyday. I am truly blessed in so many ways. It is so nice to have a day in the middle of this crazy season to reflect on all that we have.

I weathered the "Black Friday" crowds with my older girls and sister. I really just got a kick out of watching people fight over $4.00 toys. My girls were cute and loved the excitement. It is quite a turning point when you love to shop with your daughters. (I'm sure Tim would agree!) We had a great time together.

We went to see "Tangled" on Saturday. Loved it! Jaxson opted out. How could I even argue? I think Tim might have wished he were with Jax. I thought the movie was so cute and loved some of the music. The littles loved the movie!

We are grateful to have neighbors home safe (life always seems better when Joy is home) and leftovers in the fridge. We are even more grateful for the many people who have touched our lives in so many ways. I am also SOOOOO GRATEFUL that we have more than a month down in the count down until the Crocketts return. There is not a day that goes by that one of my kids doesn't express how much they miss them. I feel the same!

A Success!

2010-11-24T13:36:00.000-08:00

Emmie all ready for Market Day

Mom: "Emmie, how was Market Day?'

Emmie: "It was awesome. I SOLD OUT in the first 20 minutes."

Mom: "WOW!"

Emmie: "There was one boy who didn't sell anything."

Mom: "That is sad."

Emmie: "I know, there was 5 minutes left so I gave him $100 for all of his donuts."

Mom: "That was so nice of you."

Emmie: "I know!" (sigh)

You gotta love Emmie!!!!

Arts and Crafts

2010-11-22T22:50:00.000-08:00

Today I helped my friend, Shannon make these cute capes for her son, Hayes', Birthday. I was gone by the time he got home to see them. Apparently, he like them.

I came home to help Emmie make tye dye shirts for Market Day at school tomorrow. I love how excited Emmie gets! She was so cute. This ended being a family project. I hope Market Day is a success. Even if it isn't, everyone enjoyed "family tye dye" afternoon!

It was all arts and crafts here!

Emmie is 9!!!

2010-11-20T13:20:00.000-08:00

Emmie is 9 today! All she wanted was a cell phone! We kept telling her that she wasn't going to get one. Emmie told me that "NO MATTER WHAT, SHE DID NOT WANT CLOTHES" for her birthday. Naturally, I bought her clothing!!!Emmie opened present after present of clothing. She even did so with a smile on her face. The last thing she opened was a coat. In the pocket she found......

a purple cell phone!

Emmie is happy which makes me happy!

A little info about Em...

She makes me laugh
She is very easy going
She has her "own" style
She is a good friend
She loves telling stories
She won't go to bed unless Ryann is close by
She loves to dance
She is a great student
I can't imagine our family without Emmie

Happy Birthday Emmie!!! You are loved!!!!!

Ruby/Elmo

2010-11-16T15:50:00.000-08:00

Ruby loves Elmo. She has this Elmo shirt that she always wants to wear. In fact Carey has to rotate laundry pretty fast to keep Ruby's Elmo shirt ready for wear. Morgan got this shirt from a friend for her birthday.

Naturally, when I was in New York and saw a "Ruby sized" shirt like Mo's, I had to buy it. Turns out, Carey was not thrilled with the idea. She was weaning Elmo shirts from Ruby's wardrobe! To that I say,"hahahahahahahahahaha!" Love to you both!

Ryanne wanted in on the photo shoot, so she borrowed Morgy's shirt. Ruby is honestly one Ryannes favorite people. (Next to me. Of course!)

As you probably can tell......We are MISSING Ruby like crazy!

Farewell dinner!

2010-11-12T14:31:00.000-08:00

Okay, I don't like it a bit, but I have finally accepted that the Crocketts have moved. The adult/mature side of me is happy for them to have this adventure. As we all know, that side of me is small. The rest of me is looking forward to Joy and I going to visit and counting the days until they return!

Morgan and Ruby

Hanna and Carey

Jaxson and Jude

Ruby and Carey

The night before they left, Ruby and Jude came trick-or-treating and then we had a "farewell dinner." Another bitter-sweet event! Joy made great food! It was a nice evening! I am touched by the love my family has for the Crocketts! Everyone cried when it was time to say goodbye. Ryanne is definitely my tender child. She loves those guys so much she cried for a couple of hours. I can't express how grateful I am that my kids have so many wonderful people that love them!

We love and miss them to death!

Jude's Blessing

2010-11-10T15:36:00.000-08:00

Jude's blessing was bitter sweet. It was one of the last things to be done before the Crocketts left for Australia. For, those of you who know me, I like to pretend things aren't happening until the last moment possible. I love Jude and will miss him terribly. I am sad that he doesn't know me the way Ruby did at Jude's age. I rarely get to hold Jude because every time I do, Ruby says, "Kari hold you." Which means she wants me to hold her. Which, I do with a smile because she loves me and I love her. In any event, it was a fun day. As always, grateful for good friends!

Morgan never misses an opportunity to tell me that Jude loves her more than me. Which he does! How could he not? Just look at how cute Morgan is!!

Isn't he handsome?

Ruby makes me smile!!! Just look at that cheeser!

Libby's Baptism

2010-11-06T21:58:00.000-07:00

Emmie's little friend, Libby, was baptized today. Libby looked so pretty in her baptism dress. It was such a beautiful day. Casey, Libby's father, talked about Libby and her understanding of baptism. He talked about how the night before her baptism, Libby had told him that baptism was "taking the next step in our commitment to Heavenly Father." I love that! Then he told a story about a man from his mission. A man who loved and wanted to serve his country. He had been in the military at one point, but wasn't anymore. He had written the government asking to be allowed back in the military. It was so important to him. Unfortunately, they never let him back in. Anyway, baptism was a big step for this man. After he was baptized, Casey (then a missionary) asked him how he felt. The young man replied, "Like a soldier with a chest full of medals." Casey ended the story by saying that this man realized that where he wanted to be was different than what Heavenly Father had in store for him and that it was okay.

I absolutely loved that story! Thank you, Casey. I needed to hear that today. I am so grateful for the Bulkleys! I love that they let us be part of this special day. I love that our lives are blessed with great friends.

Sweet 16!

2010-11-04T20:34:00.000-07:00

Hanna is 16 today. I can't even wrap my head around that! I couldn't let today pass without publicly letting her know how amazing I think she is. Hanna is truly a blessing in our home. I had a dream about Hanna when I was pregnant with her. I knew how important she was to Heavenly Father. I knew I was so lucky to be able to be her parent. Never could I have imagined how many things Hanna would teach me. A few words come to mind when I think of Hanna

STRENGTH

GOODNESS

FUNNY

HAPPY

TENDER

LOVING

HONEST

GREAT JUDGE OF CHARACTER

FRIEND

Our kids are all so close that when they were young I literally felt like I ran around like a chicken with its head cut off. There were times (even years) that I remember feeling totally inadequate and completely overwhelmed. I remember people saying to enjoy that phase of life. I wanted to laugh right out loud. How could anyone enjoy

carrying screaming kids out of restaurants

wiping up one kids puke and the others poop

having the neighbor knock on your door holding your one year olds hand saying, "we found this outside"

years of sleepless nights

bathtubs overflowing

broken hearts

the school calling and saying, "did you know that when your sons knee is the size of a cantaloupe, you should keep him home"

knowing you were a walking add for birth control

knowing people were so nice and helpful because they pitied you and knew that they were wondering when you would figure out where babies came from

the list could go on and on....

Looking back, I do wish I had enjoyed those times more. I wish I had worried less about how everyone looked and more about how everyone felt. Now, I mourn knowing that Hanna can drive, and that just like Jaxson, she will be gone more and more. I treasure all of our memories even more. Hanna is an amazing daughter. She is not only my daughter, she is one of my very best friends!

Happy Birthday Hanna. I am so proud of you! You are a great person!

Halloween!

2010-11-03T21:37:00.000-07:00

I am a slacker, I know!!! Last week seemed like a whirlwind. I am behind but decided to post this and fill in the blanks as time allows.

Emmie and her best little friend Haidyn were fairies this year. They were so cute. I love them both to death. The Turleys came over for pizza and then all the little kids went trick or treating. They hit 3 neighborhoods and felt like they were "the stuff!"

I did not take as many pictures as I would liked to have. They were all really cute and had tons of fun!

NYC!!

2010-10-17T15:26:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of spending UEA weekend in New York City with Hanna. We went with some friends and their daughters also. What a BLAST!! We shopped, ate, went sight seeing, shopped, ate and ate some more. Having a large family is wonderful. However, I realized how little one on one time I get with each of my kids. Hanna is so much fun. I will always cherish the memory of our trip to New York!

Miranda, Hanna and Brynne on the airplane

Big Suz, Me, Lucie and Polly on the airplane

The girls in the LIMO. That's right, I said LIMO

The moms getting in the Lime (I know, these two pictures are out of order)

Eating at Ray's Pizza

This guy sang to us on the Subway

The streets of New York

The moms on Canal Street

Hanna loves graffiti A picture seemed only appropriate.

The Subway

This was a church by our hotel. I loved the red door.

Sightseeing

There are the coolest churches all over town

The girlies in front of a church

Hanna and I at Wicked

The whole gang!

The whole gang in Central Park

Chilling in Central Park

The day we were leaving, we rented bikes and rode through Central Park. I didn't even have to pedal! (hee, hee, hee)

Hanna and Brynne riding Tandem

I loved hailing cabs

The Naked Cowboy!

I came home from this trip with a renewed appreciation for my family. For a husband who works so hard and makes it possible for us to do things like take trips to New York. For family and friends who helped with my kids at home. For all of my wonderful children who were happy and nice while I was gone.

I am grateful for time spent with Hanna. Hanna is an amazing young woman. She is thoughtful, kind and respectful. I love her!

I came home grateful for the person that I am. Though my faults are many, at the end of the day I am a good person. I am grateful for all the many people and experiences that have made me the person that I am. I like me and I love that my kids like me.

I loved, loved , loved this trip! Thanks everyone for a great time!

Homecoming!

2010-10-09T21:58:00.000-07:00

Having 4 sisters has finally paid off for Jax. He wanted to ask this cute girl to Homecoming but needed a female touch. Luckily for him, he has plenty of females around to lend a hand. Morgan and I helped him make up a poem and Morgan went with him to put it on her porch! I don't have a picture of his invitation. But, lucky for everyone, I have a picture of her reply....

Jaxson took Ashley to Homecoming. Ashley is such a fun girl. She has been to the house a few times and never seems flustered by the craziness that we call "home." She is also very beautiful. All of Jaxson's sisters are enamored by her and think Ashley is so nice. Emmie even likes her!!

Jaxson and seven of his friends are fortunate to have Joy as my friend and neighbor. I made dinner and Joy set her beautiful home up so these kids could have a semi formal. I loved having them all here. I can't express the gratitude I feel for all these amazing kids. I love that Jaxson has such good friends. I love that they feel comfortable around Tim and I. I am also lucky that most of them know and love Joy! My favorite comment of the day was Jaxson's reply when I told him that he needed to see Joy's house. I told him that it looked so good. His reply to me was, "Mom, I know. It is Joy. I knew she would take care of us." Honetly, I almost cried! I love that Jax knows he can count on Joy! I have been blessed with really great friends that love my kids!

After dinner they went to the dance and then came back to my house for the ultimate ice cream sundae bar. I can't, nor will I even try, to imagine my life without so many wonderful people being part of it! I am so honored that these kids trusted me and Joy enough to let us serve them!

Happy Birthday Morgan!

2010-09-30T15:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Morgy!

I have been thinking about the day Morgan was born. I remember the delivery room was full of spectators. It seemed like everyone was anxious for Morgan to join our family. Even Dr. Corry's nurse came to the hospital. I guess what I am saying is Morgan was loved and anxiously awaited for long before she was born. When Hanna was a newborn, I told Tim I was so excited because I knew we had more kids coming and I just wanted them here! We welcomed Morgan with open arms. Today she is 14 years old! I can't believe what a beautiful, talented strong young woman she has become. Morgan has taught me many things over the years. All of which, (okay, MOST of which) I am grateful for. I'm not sure what I did to deserve a daughter as wonderful as Morgan! Happy Birthday Morgan! You are loved beyond measure!

Spoiled!

2010-09-28T00:04:00.000-07:00

I am truly SPOILED! Last Friday a friend of mine was having a wedding reception in Philipsburg, Montana. Tim and I left Thursday evening and drove to Idaho falls. We got up early Friday and drove to Philipsburg, or "Pburg"(if you are Tim or a local). "Pburg" is the coolest little town. Great little buildings. Great people! It was so fun to meet Heidi's husband and see the town that she had told me so much about.

Heidi's family owns a huge candy shop known as, "The Sweet Palace." I was in heaven!!

We ate lunch at a little restaurant in town. Tim kicked my trash at Checkers!

Heidi looked so happy! She was beautiful. Her family was everything she had told me and more! I loved everything about our visit!

We made it home just in time to see our family friend, Jacee, baptized! Tim and I seriously got to the church right as the baptism was starting. We walked in to see all 5 of our beautiful children sitting in the church, dressed nicely and happy. I am spoiled! I have a great husband, an awesome famiy and amazing friends! What more could a girl ask for????

Projects....

2010-09-18T20:45:00.000-07:00

This has been quite the week. "Normal life" (if there is such a thing) has been crazy, Tim was gone this week, and for some reason I thought starting a "few" projects would be a swell idea. I was DEAD WRONG! We have been walking around in a maze of unfinished projects. It has honestly been driving me CRAZY! Thankfully, two of my many projects are now complete...

1) I have been taking pictures for a few years now. I finally decided to start an "official" business. Check out my new blog http://treasurelaynephotography.blogspot.com/. I am blessed to have amazing family AND friends. This was definitely a group project. "Thank you, Thank you, Thank you" to everyone who has helped me!

2) I bought this old piece of furniture at an antique store. This is what it looked like when I bought it...

This is what it looks like tonight....

I'm not going to lie, I'm not sure if I will ever endeavor to do something like that again. BUT, I love it! I can't wait for Timmy to see it! :0)

GO LONE PEAK!

2010-09-14T20:05:00.000-07:00

Morgan is a "Lone Peak Cheerleader" this year! It was so fun to watch her in action!!

Morgan is quite the "tumbler!" It was amazing!

Emmie and Haidyn, her dedicated fans....

Isn't she so cute?

Morgan is......

Strong
Organized
Dependable
Cautious
Loving
Happy
Very social
Smart
Dedicated
Beautiful

I love you Morgy!!!

Music to My Ears!

2010-09-02T08:38:00.000-07:00

Imagine if you will, these four girls getting ready for school in ONE bathroom! It could be (and I am sure sometimes will be) ugly. So far they have been amazing. So, I have to document it. I hear them in the bathroom helping each other, telling each other how nice they look, and giving opinions on what each other is wearing. I hear them tell each other "good bye," and to have a great day! It is music to my ears! I love these girls! More than that, I love that they love each other!!!

Here's to many more beautiful mornings with beautiful girls.....

Crazy taking pictures!

2010-08-31T21:26:00.000-07:00

Socks

2010-08-29T20:57:00.000-07:00

Many socks enter our washing machine NEVER to return! Does anyone else have a "pile" or "basket" that houses mates to the socks that have been "eaten" by the washing machine??? Hoping that one day the mate will miraculously appear and the world will be right again? I am willing to bet that nobody else has a "sock pile" that looks like this.....

Every morning my children go to the "sock pile" in search of a PAIR of socks....

THIS IS THE OUTCOME....

I am not sure what bothers me more. The fact that they don't even kind of match, or the fact that they look like this....

I am proud to say, "Goodbye sock pile! I can no longer hold on to each of you hoping that one day your mate will be found. It is with sadness that I put you in the trash."

First Day of School 2010!

2010-08-26T15:25:00.000-07:00

And they're off......

These are the faces that greet the question, "Can I just take a couple of quick pics before you go?"

Any sympathy?
These are the good looking faces that surrender to my pleading....

Much better huh? They are so cute. Jaxson is a SENIOR!!! Hanna is a high schooler!!!
These are the faces of love as Jaxson teases Hanna without mercy.
Any sympathy yet??????
These are the angelic faces that ASK for a couple of quick pics before they go....

Morgan is in 8th grade!

Emmie is in 3rd grade and Ryanne is a "big" 6th grader.

"This is my life! And it's beautiful!" (I say with a smile.) In all honesty, I MISSED my kids today. No one asked where I was when I came in from running. No one joined me in the shower to ask futile questions. No one made messes and left them all over the house. And no one cared if I came or went. Wait, did I miss them?!!! I DID!!! I love these kids, funny faces and all.

On to a new chapter.....

JAXSON!

2010-05-25T14:59:00.000-07:00

Seventeen years ago today, right this minute, I was anxiously awaiting the arrival of my first born. Who would he look like? Would he have my temper or be more mild mannered like Tim? Would he love me? Who will he be when he grows up? Would he have a thirst for knowledge? Will he know that he has a noble lineage? Looking back, it seems odd.....I meet this day with very similar questions. Jaxson might not ever fully understand the magnitude of the birth order in our family. I want him to understand that he was given a mission long before he was ever born. I know that he carries a weight that few people in our family understand. It is very real. Jaxson is the comfort to a pain that has no healing. To put it simply, he is a blessing!

Jaxson entered this world with a strength that I have always admired. I love the answers to the questions posed the day as I waited for him to join our family. He looks like his father. He has Tim's disposition. He studies more out of necessity than desire. I believe he has a knowledge of his birthright. I still wait to see who he will be when he grows up. I know I will love him no matter who or what he becomes. I know that he has his own cheering section on earth and in heaven. I am eternally grateful for the relationship he shared with my maternal grandparents. He was a light in their lives, as he is in mine. Jaxson shoulders the responsibility of being the oldest and the only man in the house when Tim is gone. (Not an easy task with 5 hormonal women in house.)He is a friend and help to our family and friends. I love Jaxson. I love the relationship he has with his father. I love that he holds the Priesthood. I love his friends. I have fasted and prayed for Jaxson's friends. They are good young men. While they eat more than anyone I know, they are a help and a blessing to my family. I love that Jaxson is the same person no matter who is around or where he is.

Don't get me wrong....Jaxson has a "few" faults. His faults are far from my focus this day! Happy birthday Jax! I am so proud to have you for a son!!!

Happy Birthday Marnae!

2010-05-24T20:25:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is my friend Marnae's Birthday. I have to blog about it tonight because tomorrow is also the birthday of my Jaxson. It is a great day! For some reason, I NEVER forget Marnae's birthday. As unforgettable as Marnae's birthday is for me, so too, is she. I love her. Marnae is one of the most down to earth, honest people I know. I do not know many people who serve others more than Marnae. I have many memories of Marnae ....of girls, dance, late nights in hotels, laughing, playing and yes, even crying. When my girls were all young, Marnae helped me in so many ways. Now that they are older, she continues to help me. I could never repay her for all that she does for me and my family. Tim and I have been honored to share special events with the Ballantyne family. Her daughters carry on her tradition of serving and blessing the lives of those around them. I honestly don't have words to express the love and gratitude I feel for Marnae. I know she is truly a blessing in my life. I know that my kids respect and love her. She is a woman that every mother would want their kids to not only know, but have as an integral part of their lives . Marnae has always been an example to me and everyone around her. She has been there at times when I felt like grief would consume me. She has loved me at times when I felt unlovable. She has inspired me at times when I felt so far from the spirit. I need to express my gratitude to Marnae for talks over tears, and the unconditional love she has always shared with me. I wish her the happiest of birthdays and want her to know how much I love her! To know Marnae is to love her!

Carey Crockett

2010-05-17T16:30:00.000-07:00

Thirty seven years ago, one of my favorite people was born. It would be years later before I realized the full impact of that event, but I will forever be grateful! Carey is, to put it simply, extraordinary! I get emotional just thinking about how lucky I am to have her in my life! Carey has seen me at my worst, and loves me in spite of myself. She has been my cheerleader and confidante. Carey has the uncanny ability to make people want to be better. She makes me want to be better! She is an amazing friend. Carey is smart. She loves my children unconditionally and they know it! I am touched by how willing Carey is to love my children and let them be such a big part of her family. I know that each of my children love and respect Carey also.

Now, lets talk about one of Carey's greatest accomplishments: RUBY! I love that little girl! Ruby is blessed to have such a wonderful woman as her mother. Carey and I were friends before Ruby was born. I like to think that Ruby has only enhanced our friendship. I love being able to talk motherhood with Carey (The good, the bad and the ugly). Carey is so down to earth that she makes it easy to tell her how you are feeling. Carey will always tell me when she thinks I am wrong, but I know without a doubt that she loves me!

What more can I say? Other than that "I LOVE CAREY!!!!" I wish her a year of happiness.

Thank Heaven for Little Girls!

2010-05-13T20:56:00.000-07:00

Today was definitely a PARTY!! It was a "little girl" heaven! We had a play date with Libby, Indie and Jacee. The girls played jump rope, colored with side walk chalk, and jumped on the trampoline. Everyone seemed to love just being together.
The weather was fantastic! We barbecued hot dogs and ate dinner outside. Since our kids usually eat together anyway, Joy and I decided to "tag team" for dinner. Carey and Ruby even came to hang out at the sorority house. Days like today make me smile! Even hot dogs taste good with friends and family around.
When I was young, I babysat for the Barnes family. They had four wild and crazy boys. I loved those kids. I always thought that I wanted a house full of boys like the "Barnes boys." I couldn't love Jaxson more. I love when the house is full of boys and girls. But, I wouldn't trade my four sweet girls and all of the little girls that come to play at our house for anything! I thank Heaven for every one of these cute girls!

Hellbusch Family Fun/Vans Day...

2010-05-12T20:23:00.000-07:00

So, we begin week number 3 of Tim being out of town. Luckily, his flight was Monday night. We got all the kids out of school and had family night at 11 am. In our never ending effort to appease all ages, we decided to surprise the kids with a day of fun.

We checked them out of school and headed to lunch....
We ate at "Santa Monica Pizza." They have this great "all you can eat" lunch special. The kids loved it and I loved watching them.
Smile Hanna!!! This is "Hellbusch Family Fun Day!" Look at how cute Timmy is! I just love that guy!

After lunch, and much to the surprise of our kids, we headed to the mall. When we walked in the "Vans" store, we told them that each of them could pick a pair of new Vans. They thought Tim and I were the BOMB. (I mean, I know we are, but it is refreshing when the kids think so too.) I am sure the worker was happy to see us leave. As per the pic, Tim was not happy to see the receipt. It was a fun day! I am truly blessed with a great husband. He is such a hard worker and an amazing father.
I love him.
I loved spending this day with Tim and the kids.
I love beating them at "Name that Tune."
I love laughing with them.
I absolutely love loving them!!!!!

"Dancers Against Cancer"

2010-05-10T21:31:00.000-07:00

WOW! What a night! Morgan and Hanna performed in a Benefit Concert for our friend, Tiffanie. Tiffanie is one amazing young woman who is undergoing treatment for muscular cancer. Obviously, many people share our thoughts and feelings about Tiffanie. The auditorium at Pleasant Grove High School was overflowing with supporters. Tiffanie's aunt and cousins put the whole program together. The group, "Afterglow" sang a few songs and MC'd the concert, dance teams from all over the area danced in honor of Tiffanie, even artists from "Dancing with the Stars" shared their talents with the hope of raising money for Tiffanie.

I am so proud of Morgan and Hanna. They truly "caught the vision" of this concert and encouraged many others to do the same. We have known Tiffanie for years. My girls look up to her and the example she sets for those around her. I am forever indebted to Tiffanie for the strength and determination that she is so selflessly teaching my children. I am grateful to a Heavenly Father that has let our lives be influenced by so many great people. As a mother, I feel so inadequate at times. I need others to help me teach my children in area's that I am lacking. I know that as a family we have been richly blessed.

At the concert, everyone who has been touched by cancer was asked to stand. Few people remained in their chairs. As I watched and listened to Tiffanie, who has stubble where beautiful hair once resided and casts on both feet, one word came to mind....HOPE!!!!! I know that is why Tiff and her family remain so strong. I know that is why my family looks to her and learns lessons of endurance. I know that is why many people face each day anew.

For all of these things, and so many more, I truly stand amazed.

(Avery, Emmie and Haidyn watching the concert)

"...my other dance shoe...."

2010-05-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

So, Saturday was another fun filled "dance day"! I had to have Morgan at the competition early, so Emmie stayed and was going to come up later with Joy. My phone rings at the crack of dawn.
The conversation went something like this.....
Joy-"Have you already left?"
Kari-"Yep, almost there."
Joy-"Don't panic! Emmie just said, "I hope my mom found my other dance shoe!" I didn't want to stress you out but I thought you might want to know."
Kari (pulling her hair out) "I noticed one was missing last night around midnight. I am hoping that someone has one she can borrow."

What the heck is a girl supposed to do??? Does anyone know Emmalyne? THAT SHOE COULD BE ANYWHERE!!!! I love that without a care in the world, she simple states, "I hope my mom found my other dance shoe!" I mean, of course there is a "shoe fairy" walking around scouting out missing shoes! Em, you are the cutest!

Reaching....

2010-05-04T21:59:00.000-07:00

Ryanne might be one of the most tender kids I know! She is definitely beautiful on the inside and out! The other day Ryanne was in her room listening to her ipod. The song "Reaching" by Hillary Weeks was playing. Ryanne asked if I would come to her room for a minute. When I did she said, "Mom, I really love this this song." I won't bore you with all the lyrics but, the chorus goes like this...

"We are reaching for the future.
We are reaching for the past.
And no matter what we have,
we reach for more.

We are desperate to discover
what is just beyond our grasp.
But maybe that's what Heaven is for."

There is not a day that goes by that Ryanne doesn't bring a little bit of Heaven into our home.

She is such a thoughtful young lady. (It has recently come to my attention that she needs me to let her grow up a little. I have always called Ryanne and Emmie "The Littles." Ryanne does not like me referring to her in that way anymore. Thus, "young lady!") She has a point. She is beyond my years in many ways. I often look at Ryanne and wonder if she realizes how amazing she is. What I would give to have a heart like her. Ryanne is a peacemaker. She loves to learn. She loves everyone. She is giving. She is a great big sister. She listens to the meaning of words in songs. She has a beautiful smile. Most of all, Ryanne makes me want to be a better person.
I love Ryanne!!!!

Weekend Reflections.....

2010-05-03T13:09:00.000-07:00

Friday-dinner and a movie with a great friend.
Saturday-watched my nieces perform in a play (my little Brookie is now calling me "Kari" instead of "Auntie." I am not liking that at all) and went to dinner for my sisters birthday (Kate is the "older" one).

Sunday-We have somewhat started a tradition of Sunday dinners in Joy's backyard on her beautiful new patio furniture. I say "some what" because we only got to eat outside on Joy's birthday. Every other Sunday it has been freezing outside. But the company is great, the food is great, and I love playing with the little kids. My favorite part of yesterday was walking on the path with Ruby and Zuri. I love those little girls. I love that they play such a huge role in our lives. Yesterday, I even made grilled mushrooms and onions for burgers. Tim was home long enough to barbecue burgers and then had to head out of town again. I am so blessed to have such a hard working husband, awesome kids and wonderful friends. I loved the weekend!!!

Just like old times....

2010-04-29T17:01:00.001-07:00

After all the other kids had started school, it was just Emmie and I home during the day. Emmie was my best friend! I miss our lunch dates and our trips to Target together. Yesterday I kept Em home from school because she had been sick the day before. It turned out that she was fine. So Emmie and I "played" all day. It was just like old times. We babysat in the morning, ate lunch at Taco Amigo and then ran a few errands. I didn't realize how much I have missed that one on one time with Emmie. She NEVER stops talking. I loved it. I loved sweet conversations while driving, insights to what songs on the radio mean, discussions about her latest crush and

Emmie asking me to ask her how to spell "medium" words. It was a cold, rainy day that I ABSOLUTELY LOVED! Thanks Em!

"Haidyn is the best friend EVER!"

2010-04-27T22:19:00.000-07:00

"Everyone hopes to find, one true friend whose the kind
you can count on for forever and a day......"

I hope Emmie and Haidyn remain best friends throughout their lives. Emmie was sick today. I mean sick! She threw up all night and a couple times this morning. This afternoon there was a knock at the back door. Haidyn had written Emmie this cute little note. Later, another knock. Haidyn brought these pretty flowers over for Emmie. When I carried them upstairs Emmie got the biggest smile on her face and said, "Haidyn is the best friend EVER!" Sometimes I wonder if Emmie and Haidyn realize how lucky they are to have each other. Where you see one of them, you see the other. These cute girls are always doing things for each other. They are the cutest little friends. They love each other so much. Everything seems so much better when you know you have a friend. Emmie and Haidyn are two are lucky girls.
I can't imagine life without either one of them!

A VERY LONG DANCE DAY!

2010-04-26T22:01:00.000-07:00

Saturday the girls had a dance competition. We left the house at 9:30 am and did not get home until after 10 pm. It made for a LONG day. It was so fun to see each of them dance. I am loving the teams they are on this year. Amazing groups of girls! I was so tired of sitting by the end of the night. When the little girls did their last dance, I am not sure if at that point we were cheering for the performance or for the fact that we got to go home. They all did great and it was really fun spend the day with good friends. We are truly blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives.

....it was so tender....

2010-04-21T16:45:00.000-07:00

Our friend Chelsea was married on March 26th. Congratulations to an amazing girl and a handsome young man! My lack of blogging about it has nothing to do with the importance of the event. I wish them all the best!

I wanted a picture of Chelsea and Lindsay together(Lindsay is to Chelsea's left). Lindsay is my friend Marnae's daughter and one of Chelsea's best friends. I have watched the two of them dance together for years. I had the privilege of being in the Temple when Chelsea took out her endowments. What a neat day. I watched as Chelsea came into the celestial room. So many people that love Chelsea and Mason were waiting anxiously for them to enter the room. (I imagine our reunions in Heaven will look something like that.) Something so sweet happened there in that room. I watched as Chelsea walked across the room to where Lindsay was waiting. I watched from the back as they embraced and whispered to each other. Something I have seen them do a million times and yet, some how in the Celestial room, it was so tender. I LOVE THESE GIRLS! I admire them for there strength. I love the women that they have become. I have watched them grow up. I have seen them both happy and sad. I remember years when one of them was not seen without the other. I have watched Chelsea and Lindsay whisper and giggle in many places over the years. That moment, watching them in the Temple, was simply the best. Thank you, Chelsea for letting me be part of the whole wedding.

A smile on my face...

2010-04-20T21:11:00.000-07:00

Let me start out by saying, "I HATE CHANGE!" I know this about myself! (As do many others) It is another one of those things that I am learning to embrace. However, Heavenly Father knows me and loves me in spite of this. I know this is why I am lucky enough live in a place where I am constantly running into people I knew when I was young. I need that. I love that!!

Earlier, due to sunshine, I went running on the trail behind my house. As I was headed home, I ran into my friend Shannon. Shannon is a friend from San Jose. We still keep in touch. I love her and can't imagine my life without her! We have shared many things from happiness to heartache. We chatted briefly and then went our separate ways....I left with a smile on my face!

Cheryl......

2010-04-15T15:42:00.001-07:00

This is a picture of Kristin and her daughter Lauren, me and my Ryanne, and Robynn and her Emily. Robynn, Kristin and I go way back. We "grew up" (hahaha) together in San Jose. Cheryl, their mom passed away a week ago. I am heading to California for the funeral in a minute and wanted to express some of my thoughts and feelings about Cheryl. She was diagnosed with MS years ago and just lost (another) battle with cancer. Earlier I was on the phone with Robynn and we talked about how her body is "whole" again and how happy she must be. Part of the reason I wanted to quickly blog is that I never want to forget what Robynn said to me. She said, "can you imagine the impact she would have had in this life if she had had a working body." That is so true. I will never understand why such a charismatic, life loving woman had to go through the trials she did. Cheryl really was amazing. She was my young women's leader for years and I loved her. I never doubted that she loved me then, or now. Cheryl made such an impact on people with the body she did have. I know that everyone that knew Cheryl is a better person for having had her touch their lives. I know that she is now happy and whole again. I know that she would want us all to be the same here. She would tell us all to never give up! I believe that Heaven is a better place with her there. She would want us to celebrate her life.

Obviously, Cheryl was not perfect. She had her moments. (I shutter to think of my involvement in many of those such "moments.") I mean she HAD to love her kids, but she did not have to love me! Yet, I knew she did! Now that I am a mom, I realize that she taught me many things that kids need to know. Like.....sometimes you just want to throw a shoe at overly obnoxious teenagers, that is really isn't okay to pee on your brother's pillow when you are 14, that you shouldn't pull over to pretend to pick up hitch hikers, that you should be nice when a little kid writes on the shower door in poop, no driving without a drivers license, etc., etc., etc..

Seriously, Cheryl was one of my favorite leaders. I still remember some of her YW's lessons and her sweet testimony. Today I was in a store and the lady helping me heard me say that I was going to California for a funeral. After I hung up, she asked where in California. I told her I was flying to San Jose and that the funeral was in Sacramento. She said, "Oh, I lived in Roseville (which is by Sacramento) for a long time." I replied, "My friend lived in Roseville for a long time." Long story short, she knew Cheryl they had been in the same ward. She told me a funny story about Cheryl that I can't wait to tell the family tomorrow. This woman loved Cheryl and her family.

To know Cheryl, was to love her. She will be missed!

Eternal Twins

2010-04-12T19:03:00.000-07:00

This is a quick preface to my "Easter" blog. I can't remember where we all were, but Emmie and Haidyn told us that they were "Fraternal Twins". "You know," they said,"the kind that don't look alike." I called them "Eternal Twins," in my Easter post and wanted to make sure everyone knew why, and how cute they are!!!!!

Easter

2010-04-12T14:33:00.000-07:00

Morgan put together a day of Easter fun for all the little girls. Ruby, Haidyn and Zuri had to be invited! Morgan made invitations, gave assignments, stuffed Easter eggs, and helped the Easter Bunny hide eggs. It was so fun. Morgan also made a couple of goody baskets for lucky neighbors. She is amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed being Morgan's helper. I loved hearing her idea's and watching her thoughtfully put everything together. I love that Morgan can serve others with a smile. Morgan has become a beautiful young women. I simply love her.

On lookers...

The Eternal Twins...

There is usually a fight over who "gets" to help Ruby.

Ruby "getting" Jaxson.

The party planner and Ruby

Ryanne helping Zuri.

Emmie, Zu and Haidyn

Haidyn and Zu

We went and had Easter dinner with my family at Kate's house. How I don't have pictures of that I will NEVER know. It was great food and so fun for the cousins to hang out.

More than anything, I have a hard time wrapping my head around all of my blessings. I loved every minute of today. I am deeply grateful for the atonement and the resurrection. I believe with all my heart that there was nothing better to do on this day, than hear from the Prophet and spend time with family and friends!

Happy Birthday Joy!!

2010-04-10T19:42:00.000-07:00

Webster defines the word "friend" as one attached to another by affection or esteem. That being the case, Joy is truly my friend! I am attached. I can't imagine my life, my neighborhood, or my street without Joy being part of that picture. Today is her "29th" birthday and I think we should all celebrate! I love her and wish that everyone knew the "Joy" that I am lucky enough to know. Joy is amazing. She is, hands down, one of the best people I know. Joy is good at everything. She is a great wife, devoted mother, fabulous sister and AMAZING friend. Joy is an example of love, patience, kindness, determination, honesty, loyalty, faithfulness, and discipline. Not to mention, service. I rarely see Joy when she is not serving someone in one way or another. Joy is beautiful on the inside and out. I wish I could be more like her. She is truly "JOY" and I wish that everyone knew her the way that I do. Happy Birthday! I love you! :)

Annual Easter Party

2010-04-07T21:36:00.001-07:00

Changes occur everywhere around us.....the weather, our hopes, our fears, friendships, favorites, hair color, clothing styles, hair styles, seasons, etc......
Two things are for sure. One, Michel will have a Easter party and two, the kids will absolutely love it. We have been attending this party for years. Rain or shine, new baby or not, in sickness or in health, the party always goes on. Generations change. The kids that were once little and loved the egg hunt are now the Easter Bunny's helpers. Thousands of eggs are stuffed and hidden. I am sure that nobody fully appreciates the time put into this party. Michel is a champ! Many things change. Many things do not......

The kids love the Egg hunt! It used to be Hanna and Morgan racing for eggs. This year, Hanna and Morgan helped Brookie and Quincy fill their baskets. I loved watching them help just as much as I once loved watching them run around collecting eggs.
Smiles! What more can be said. If you aren't smiling at this party, YOU have a problem.
A huge slide. At one point we had "adult time" on the slide. It's true, I did a front flip! I dominated!
Baskets of goodies
Friends and fun

Thanks Michel!!

It doesn't get better than this!!!

2010-04-02T20:45:00.000-07:00

The other day I had the privilege of babysitting my niece. I had seen these clever Rice Crispy Treat eggs on T.V.(or in a magazine). Confident, Brookie and I set out to make them.

I know, they don't look that neat. Jaxson and Ryanne even tried their hands at decorating. We all had a good laugh! This was our finished product. The inspiring pictures I saw looked MUCH better. Oh well, I will always love the day I spent with Brookie making Easter treats. I am a lucky girl!!
Later, Ruby came over to critique them. She HATED them!!!!

I love that these little girls walk in our house and make everyone happy!

Still thinkin' about Grandma

2010-03-26T12:18:00.000-07:00

I was lucky growing up. (Putting these thoughts in words, I realize I am also very lucky now for very similar reasons.)I was surrounded by great people. I had great friends. I was part of an amazing youth program. I loved and still love many of the people I knew then. Janel Jeppson was one of my very best friends. I will not bore you with, nor divulge ANY details, but my grandma loved her too.

Last night I was reading a book of my grandma's poetry. I came across this poem titled, "Janel Jeppson."

Once in a while it appears to be
That life is a series of storms.
That our personal climate is "winter" alone,
And wind, snow and sleet, the norms.

Like Jan---is forever----uary,
Like bleak cold is all they allow.
(What nut said California was Sunny?
It's as black as the inside of a cow!!!)

But know, Dear Janel, pretty lady,
That God who is infinitely wise
Has provided for each January
a thaw and a crystal sunrise.

Trust Him whose love is eternal,
Who watches and cares for you,
To help and sustain in your troubles
And make all your skies turn to blue.

-Elayne Reid January 26, 1987

That was written for Janel around when she hurt her hip. See, my grandma loved me and my friends!!!! Years have gone by, we have married, moved, Janel grew up, we've both started families, we both have loved and even lost. I know that part of who I am today is the result of great friends like Janel and a loving grandmother who took such an amazing interest in our lives.

Missing Grandma today........

2010-03-22T21:21:00.000-07:00

When I was young, my Grandma Reid was the primary chorister. I can still picture the way she held her hand as she taught us the words and music to "I Wonder When He Comes Again." I can still picture her enthusiasm and pure love as she taught about the Savior and His love for each and every one of us children. My grandma LOVED music almost as much as she loved her Heavenly Father. She loved to dance and sing and laugh. She loved to bear her sweet testimony verbally and by example. I have many memories that took place in her living room around her piano or simply sitting next to her as she read The Littlest Angel or My Turn on Earth to me. Grandma took me took get my Kindergarten shots, helped me conquer fears, helped me write papers for school, loved every one of my friends and they knew it, took me on vacation, let me stay up late and watch "Love Boat," painted my nails, watched countless soccer games, and loved my husband and children. I love and miss her as much today as I did when she passed away years ago. I don't have any clever pictures to post. I only have gratitude in my heart to a Grandmother, who among many things, taught me to love and appreciate the impressions left by the spirit on my heart. She loved me. I never doubted that I was the most important person in the world to her. I never doubted that she had a testimony. I never doubted her devotion to her family. I never doubted that she loved my children. She made all of these things abundantly clear! I couldn't love her or miss her more!

"I read that one!"

2010-03-08T20:47:00.000-08:00

Emmie always comes through. Tonight, Jaxson gave a great lesson for Family Night. (I can't lie-I absolutely love that kid!) After his lesson I asked how we could avoid being tempted to make wrong choices. Each of the kids gave 12 really good answers. I told them about a talk I had read in the Ensign that gave the idea of having a "delete button" in your head. Right after I said the words, "delete button," Emmie yelled, "I read that one." PAY DAY!! They do listen to us sometimes! Who would have thought? A while back, Tim did a Family Night lesson on the importance of reading modern day revelation. He gave each of us a copy of the Conference Ensign and encouraged us to read it regularly. Tonight I was more than impressed with our eight year old's declaration: "I read that one!"

I just love her!!!!

"Broken"

2009-12-09T20:38:00.000-08:00

"I believe that God loves broken things!"

Today I was asked a question that I wasn't quite sure how to answer. Luckily, I was with a couple of great friends. One of them quickly replied, "Don't ask. We don't want to have to carry her out of here!" The other friend said something like, "Let's not talk about that." My reply was simply, "I was broken!" My friends and I finished our business and left. I went about the day without giving it another thought.....

A few days ago my sister, Kate, invited me to her Christmas Enrichment. Brad Wilcox and Steven Kapp Perry were going to do the Program. (For those of you that grew up with me.....THAT'S RIGHT!) When I was growing up, these guys spoke at quite a few firesides and youth conferences. I can still remember songs that they sang and words that they spoke. I was so excited to get to hear them again. Somewhere,I have a picture exactly like the one posted above that was taken more than two decades ago. Appropriately, the theme of the night was the Atonement. Steven and his wife, Joanne started by singing a song called "Broken." One of the lines was, "I believe that God loves broken things." Suddenly, I was back in that little shop saying,"I was broken!" I forgot! I have tried what I thought was EVERYTHING to claw my way out of being broken. I forgot that I wasn't alone. A year and a half later, a voice that touched me 25 years ago, reminded me of a truth that I have known for years! I just needed to hear it from a familiar voice!

Brad then got up and in his fun, yet touching way, expressed that Christmas IS about getting. It is all about a gift that was given to us long ago. A gift that sometimes even in a season where reminders are all around me, I forget that it was given to me.

St George Again!

2009-11-11T01:20:00.000-08:00

We messed around in St Gerogre for another weekend of fun. I have to admit that I did not love "Thriller." However, we had a great time laughing and playing and swimming and shopping??

Who could ask for anything more? Ruby has the "flirts" with Jaxson and is so funny to watch!Jax and his friend, Trek, joined us on our outing. Aside from a few teasing.....They got along great!

Hanna is into finding the coolest poises for pictures! She is always very creative!

Technical difficulty, it wont let me add the rest of the pics. Heres for now!

THRILLER!!!

2009-11-02T16:32:00.000-08:00

Hanna desperately wanted to see Thriller. Obviously, I obliged. I am not going to lie, I didn't like Thriller at all. The Zombies were everywhere and Ryanne, Emmie and Haidyn were not very happy about it. However, it was a great group of travelers. We had so much fun together! Thank you to all!!!!

These two harassed Hanna and Sarah. They wouldn't leave them alone! When Thriller was over, they chased Hanna out of the Theater. Ryanne just might be scared for life, but watching Hanna run.....PRICELESS!!!

Morgan, Ruby and Carey!!

Hanna and Sarah made shirts to "celebrate" the event!

The gang! Pre show!!!! I just love them all!!!

UEA WEEKEND!!!!

2009-10-18T20:17:00.000-07:00

We decided to spend UEA close to home. After hearing the idea from a friend, Joy and I decided to have a "Staycation" with the kids. Thursday we took the girls to Park City for the night.

My girls and I. (Hanna wasn't so excited about pictures!)

Joy and Haidyn

Emmie and Haidyn

We shopped at the outlets, swam, and ate the best pizza.

The little girls in Old Navy

Emmie and Haidyn in Claires

Ryanne in the swimming pool

Ry trying on hats at the Gap

Friday the girls swam some more and then we headed to Gardner Village.

Morgan and Ryanne got their hair colored for the day

The girls at Gardner Village

Hanna even got her hair sprayed

We walked around, ate lunch and then had sleep overs at home that night.
Saturday we had a "Spa Day" for the little girls. Actually, everyone was invited. Jaxson wanted nothing to do with it and Morgan and Hanna decided a day with friends was more their style. So.....

Joy,being the over achiever that she is, had a wonderful lunch prepared when the girls arrived.

We washed their feet and gave them manicures and pedicures!

Then we applied a facial mask and cucumber slices.
Emmie

Haidyn

Ryanne

The finished product

The day would not have been complete without a visit from Ruby!

Good times!!!!!

Morgan!

2009-10-04T18:03:00.000-07:00

Morgan is 13! I honestly can't believe how fast time goes by. Her birthday was on September 30th, but we had our family celebration today! Don't get me wrong, we have been celebrating since Wednesday. Wednesday Tim took her lunch at school, , I took her to dinner, and Karla made her a cake.

Morgan is one popular girl. Many birthday wishes have been expressed along with treats and gifts. Thank you to all. Morgan is such a beautiful, fun, energetic and loving young woman. (How weird is that to say?) At dinner Tim had everyone say something nice about her. Morgan is.....
nice
a great big sister
funny
a helper

has the best lips
beautiful
loving
fun
has great hair
loved by all

and...
Tim loves that even though she acts so "old" and "grown up," she still asks him to lay with her a night!

Tonight we partied with Grandma, aunts and uncles and cousins! Morgan wanted lasagna for dinner and chocolate cake for dessert. Totally do able!!!!
We love our Morgan!!

St. George Vaca!

2009-10-01T18:40:00.000-07:00

I took my older girls to St. George for the weekend. We were joined by Brooke and her girls and Karla and Sarah. What a blast! We went to "Aida" at the Tuacahn. I have wanted to see "Aida" for a long time. The soundtrack has been a favorite of ours! I absolutely loved it. I owe many thanks to Carey and Dave for keeping Jaxson and the "little" girls. We are truly blessed. We have so many great friends!

Everyone ready and waiting for "Aida" to start!

All the girls with the cast of "Aida"

I got the privilege of sitting in the back with Sarah and Hanna. We were bored so we played my favorite game. I say a word and then take a picture of the girls making the first face that the word brings to mind. I can't remember the word, but you gotta love these faces!

Goofin' around!
Shoppin'

Thanks to all for so much fun!

No More Braces!!!

2009-09-30T19:52:00.000-07:00

My ever beautiful, Hanna, got her braces off!!!! I think she looks too grown up! What's a mom to do?????

Jaxson!

2009-09-24T16:27:00.000-07:00

If any of you have ever been in my house, you know I love pictures. My girls are all over this! They pose for pictures all the time. Jaxson, however, rarely lets me take a good picture of him. Saturday he gave me an hour or two! Just Jax and I drove around and found cool places to get some pictures......

Jax....
always makes me laugh
loves me
good friend to his dad
great big brother

handsome
loves my friends

protector
organized
clean

helpful
strong
dependable

I love this kid! I had so much fun!

Crazy Days!

2009-09-10T16:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had to postpone lunch with good friends. Emmie had to stay home from school. She is so cute. She REALLY wanted to go to school. However, I was afraid that I would get that ever embarrassing call from the office, "Mrs. Hellbusch, did you know that you shouldn't send your kid to school when they are coughing up a lung?" I stood firm. Emmie stayed home.... Ryanne stayed home too. They are inseparable, and so fun. Last night, after my stint of "domesticness" I came in and heard the little girls giggling in their bed! I have to admit, I love that sound.

My attempt at being domestic...

Raspberry freezer jam

Tomato soup

Ok, the truth is Karla offered to help Carey, Joy and I use our crops and make tomato soup. I offered Joy's kitchen (I know, I'm nice). While they were busy making the food, I was doing this.....

I just love Ruby!!!!

Garanimals!

2009-09-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

What ever happened to good ol' Garanimals? Does anyone remember those? I think the clothes had colored tags that indicated their compatability! I can't quite remember how they worked, but Emmalyne needs them. She will put 15 different colors together in one outfit. Admittedly, there was a time when I would have prefered death over one of my children leaving our house like this.....

Yep, she wore this to school today. Twelve different colors and all! I didn't even protest. My good friend, Carey, loves Emmalyne's style of dress. I believe she calls it, "creative." I just love Emmie and love that she thinks she wears the cutest outfits ever!!!

The Lindon Pool

2009-08-31T19:43:00.000-07:00

We spent Saturday at the Lindon Swimming Pool. If you haven't been there, you are definitely missing out! They have so many fun things for all ages. It was so fun to spend the day playing in the sun. I love summer!!

Crazy kids!
Morgan and Ryanne
Emmalyne
Ryanne, Haidyn and Hanna

Public Apology!

2009-08-25T10:54:00.001-07:00

( Tim was out of town, so no boys were allowed in the pic!)

Ok, so last week was crazy! Tim had been gone for 2 weeks and school started. It's seems funny now that I felt so overwhelmed. Apparenty, I was a little grumpy. SO, I would like to publicly apologize to pretty much any one I came in contact with. "I'm sorry!" I had so many good intentions, very few of which ever came to fruition.

The night before school started we had the most amazing dinner at Karla's family cabin. Karla is an amazing cook. She is also an amazing person and friend. I consider myself lucky to have her as one of my very best friends. I can't imagine not having her in my life. If Karla is not busy serving me and my family, you can bet she in somewhere serving someone! I just love her! I can't even begin to say enough about Karla and I know that Joy and Carey feel the same!

Ryanne playing on Karla's sweet swingset!

It's funny how no one ever asks me to cook! Or is it???

Best Friends!

School Starts!

2009-08-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

One junior in high school, one 9th grader, one 7th grader, one 5th grader and one 2nd grader! Wow, when I put it like that, I feel old and tired! I hope they all have a wonderful year! I am so glad that Ryanne and Emmie have each other. I love this picture of the two of them walking to the bus stop! I hope they always remember how lucky they are to have each other!

Ryanne was so cute last night. She couldn't fall asleep and asked if she could try drinking a glass of milk. When she went back up to bed she said,"Sorry mom, I just can't sleep the night before school starts."

Jaxson is really way to cool for pictures. But check out how good lookin' he is! (I can say that because he looks just like his dad!)
Hanna makes me smile. She has such a cute sense of humor. I missed her all day! I love her friendship! She will do great in school!

Morgan's First Day of School!

2009-08-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

Today, Morgan attended her first day of Junior High. She left home this morning looking so excited and happy. I am grateful that she returned looking even happier and more excited! I love her to pieces and love that she had a good day!

As for the rest of the crew, we had a "lazy" day. (That is what Ryanne called it.) We got everyone's bedding washed so they would have a great nights sleep and I made zucchini bread. We ended the day with food and fun at Karla's cabin.

Thank heaven for bedtime!!!!