Taylor Lauren

Happy Birthday to our sweet 9-year-old Taylor!! Taylor was born at exactly 12 noon 9 years ago at Utah Valley Hospital in Provo. The funny thing is when I had my ultrasound I wanted it to be a boy sooo bad. Not because I didn't want a little girl, but because Doug's family was primarly all granddaughters infact it was I think 16 at the time. Once we found out it was a girl we were thrilled and she was named Taylor way before she was born. For some reason she was the only one out of our kids that was "pre-named" and it stuck. Its a good thing she was a girl, because if she wasn't we would have all boys in our house today!! I feel like we have jipped your birthday a little this year since we just got home from vacation. But I will say we are especially grateful to have you a part of our family. The list is endless but here our a few things that we love about you!

1. She is a great big sister
2. Very motherly and looks out for her brothers
3. Smart
4. A great dancer/gymnast and swimmer
5. Avid reader
6. Loves pink and blue
7. Her favorite food is ribs & steak like mom!
8. Is a great friend
9. Social butterfly
10. Has a spunky personality
11. Makes friends anywhere she goes
12. Loves to blast her music (like one of her aunts)
13. Now loves to boogie board and body surf!
14. The princess of the house
15. Has beautiful brown eyes
16. Is the prettiest girl we know!

The list could go on, but I want you to know we love you Taylor and are so proud of the young woman you are becoming. I know I need to cherish every minute with you since you are our only daughter. I am truely blessed to have you in our life!!




This is one of her favorite presents which happens to be from G'pa Stan and Susanne. Doug has already hooked it up and the house hasn't stopped thumping yet! You can tell she is getting older becauseA special thank you to all her grandparents, and family for making her birthday special!

On another note, I am definitely jet lagged. I woke up this morning at 9:30am! I can't remember the last time that I did that. I guess 2 hours in time zones makes a difference. I feel so out of whack. I did get to the grocery store at least today and I splurged and got the car washed. I was just too tired to tackle that task. Now I just have to figure out what to do for dinner! Now what to do should I get a last minute cake or just take her to get some icecream? I am feeling a little guilty about not doing it the traditional way, but my mom did get us a cake last week. What do you think? I guess I will just make the decision when Doug comes home from work.

We decided to let Taylor pick the restaurant for dinner and she chose Salt Grass Steak House. It didn't take much twisting of my arm so we went there for some yummy steak. We didn't end up getting her a cake and she was satisfied with us making some brownies. So she blew out her candle on a slice of brownie and Mackenzi is spending the night. Not a very exciting birthday, but hopefully she had fun.

Proud to be back in the Lone Star State!!

The alarm clock at 4am came a lot sooner than I wanted it too! We tried to get the kids to do down early since the night before since we had a long day of travels, but they all decided they WERE NOT going to do that. Weston proceeded to cry for about 2 hours for what ever reason. Luke did the same. They did so well going to bed every other night and chose to be like this on the night we needed them to go to bed! Doug got the car packed. I got some last minute laundry done and once the kids were asleep we crashed as well. The drive wasn't all so bad and the kids slept until about 7:30am or so in the car. The only thing slowing us down was all of the rain! It rained from Mesa all the way to Las Cruces, New Mexico. Normally, rain isn't so bad traveling because it is overcast and all. This usually makes it cooler and the kids sleep longer, but it hindered going the speed we wanted. There were times where Doug was only able to go about 60mph due to huge sheets of rain.

"The Fruit Loop Rapper"

Our long trip got a little boring early on due to our malfunctioning crappy DVD player. I think its on its last leg and just flat out quit working. Which meant no movies. Not a good thing when you have a 3-year old who is dependent on it in the car! Doug decided to entertain the family by doing a fruit loop rap. I was laughing so hard I almost peeed my pants. It was one of those moments I just couldn't stop laughing. Anyways, I got a photo of it. I guess you just had to be there. You do what ya gotta do for entertainment right?? The kids weren't too amused, but I was.

We made our first stop in Las Cruces, NM for gas and the kids wanted lunch. We found a perfect location for it. It had a Burger King, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell all in one. This made all of us happy since we all wanted different things. Just typing those restaurants makes me a little ill now, but you really don't have much choice when traveling. The kids were fed and off we went!

Our second and last stop was Fort Stockton, TX. We normally just make two stops for gas and during that time just feed the kids. It works out great that way we are not stopping all of the time. We stopped at Subway for dinner which my kids love. For some reason I am not sure if it is the "Eat Fresh" commercial, but they go crazy when we stop here. I can't complain because it is probably one of the healthier places to stop.

Finally after 14 grueling hours in the car we made it home!! The kids did remarkable and I will have to say that Weston is by far the best baby ever. He didn't complain the ENTIRE way. If there was an award to give he would definitely get it. Especially sitting for soooo long in the car. We survived which was the main thing and didn't kill each other before getting home. The best part was it wasn't dark yet. We arrived about 8pm our time. Taylor ran down to get the mail at Angie's when we got home and I got so many great cards and a package from Bridget. Which included a darling notebook, card and sonic money!! My family (both Justin and Janet) also got me sonic money. I am happy to say that I am set for a while for "free diet cokes"Here is a belated thank you photo of all my stuff I got for my birthday. I am excited to go and purchase my new running shoes and haven't decided if I should splurge and get an ipod. Of course my family over did as usual. A special thanks again to all!!



I was able to get the bags unpacked, a couple loads of laundry and everything put away. I was extremely tired as you can imagine and was so happy to crash onto my bed. Tomorrow is Taylor's birthday and I still haven't wrapped any of her stuff! I guess it will just have to wait. And I have no idea what we are doing. Its one of those play it by ear type days.

Living up the last 24 hours of Vacation

Today is our last day of fun and vacation. It was a blast and our living in a fantasy world has now come to an end. The kids had so much fun as did we being around our family. There is nothing quite like family. Just being able to hang around, eat at moms-especially her yummy home made ones (she made them today), go swimming whenever we wanted, and have so many people willing to watch the kids. All bonuses! Special thanks to G'pa Dale and G'ma Dorothy for giving us their house. I know that we were very noisy, so thanks g'pa for putting up with us. He is recovering well, but still needs to rest a lot. We do miss our house, our bed, and of course my sidekick Angie. (Doug misses you too Greg) I feel so out of my normal routine I think I will need another vacation to recooperate. July has been one big party month for us. Its hard to believe that school is going to be starting in just three weeks. Along with that all of the extra activities start back up as well and I again become the soccer mom.

The car is packed and now we just have to mentally gear up for our 4am alarm and head back to Texas! You may ask why so early? Well, in order to get home before dark we have to leave because we are loosing 2 whole hours of time due to the time zone! I really hate that little factor. So we will be a bit off on sleep, but hopefully will get back on track soon. I just feel bad for Doug since he is the one who has it the worst because he has to work on Monday!

Happy Birthday Allison!!

Hope you have a great day!!

Family Celebration

Mom & Dad C. took me to Claim Jumpers for lunch today. Yes, I know we went there the other day, but I had to get one more dose of ribs for lunch. It was mighty tasty as was the corn muffins! We later took the kids over to Doug's sisters house to swim. We got to check out her newly remodeled home. Of course the theatre room was Doug's favorite part of the house. She decorated it in very sheik retro couches. Very fun!! Too bad we didn't have time to pop some popcorn and enjoy a flik. We headed home because my side of the family was coming over to celebrate Taylor and my birthday. It was just like old times. Janet had burned a cd for me and so of course we had to put it on which meant dancing! We danced so much and were so goofy. I was exhausted and was completely drenched by the time it was over. It was so fun. I am sure that Doug and Aaron got a good laugh to see how weird the two sisters are when we are together!

My dad, Susanne, Papa, Grandma, Taylor and Weston

My mom brought a yummy white cake from A.J.'s. Isn't it cute?

This is my best birthday present of all! My husband has really gone overboard this year in spoiling me. He bought me so many nice things, sent me on a trip with Angie, took me to the beach and is an incredible dad. I didn't have all of my gifts so when I get home I will have to post them. Thank you Doug, and the rest of my family and friends for being so thoughtful and kind. All of your phone calls, tributes on the blog and gifts were so sweet. I truely feel blessed to have you all a part of my life.

My Birthday

This is the car that Doug bought me for my birthday isn't he so nice? Its been the best 31st birthday ever!! The car even has air conditioned seats! That is a major plus for such hot weather. No, I am really j/k this is my in-laws newly purchased Lexus. It is such a beautiful car, we heard all about it on the drive back to Arizona. So much that I had to take a photo of it. They turned in their 9 year old caddy for this white beauty.

We spent our last day on the beach literally soaking up the sun. We headed out for the beach around 9am and were there until 3pm. Sadly, we then packed our stuff up showered and headed back to Arizona for a few days. I must say it was a great birthday present being out on the beach for the day and not a cloud in the sky. Glenn & Jen showed up today as well as Doug's other brother Duane & family. Jared was excited to add another boy cousin to the mesh. It's too bad they couldn't come until the day we left. They had fun for a few hours together though.

We arrived back to Mesa around 11:30 pm. So exhausted from the sun, driving, having tons of fun and eating way too much. It was definitely worth it though.

Carlsbad Day 3

We walked the streets of Carlsbad today. I stopped at the local mexican joint "Cessy's" and got my daily diet coke with a yummy burrito. It was very hot, but we couldn't complain because we were at the beach. These fire hydrants were all painted differently around the city. I really should have taken more pictures of the different ones. Taylor thought the one above was so cool because it was a bunch of marathon runners. The one below I thought was cute since it blended in with the scenery. I must say pretty original!

Kathy took the girls Taylor and Jordan (her cousin) to get pedicures for their birthday. They are only three weeks apart. So the two little 9 year olds got painted pink toes along with cute little flowers. They had so much fun and loved every minute of it.

After the girls were done we headed out for dinner and back to the outlet malls to finish up some last shopping. I was able to take Dean & Kathys family pictures for them on the beach as well. They all looked cute coordinated in brown and white. Tonight we splurged and went to cold stone creamery for dessert. It was devine!! I am sad that tonight is our last night here in California.

Cali Day 2

Today was overcast all day, but that didn't stop us from hanging around the beach. The boys continued to play in the sand and daddy even built them some sand "cars" Of course Luke had to have a Mater car built for him. We were able to take family pictures and because of the clouds I think they turned out pretty good.

This was the view from our condo. We were up on the second floor it was so pretty. I couldn't resist this picture of the gorgeous sunset. We shopped all day long and were so tired. Needless to say I was very excited once I hit the pillow!

Carlsbad Day 1

Our place of living for the next 3 days!!

I found an internet connection off the balcony of our condo!! Hurray! I can now post listening to the waves of the ocean. It doesn't get more heavenly than that! Doug is loving that he can sit up here with me reading his book. (I really should be doing this too) But I guess I am a little addicted to modern technology. Why not if I have the hookup.

The boys had so much fun digging in the sand.

Taylor and mom

The kids woke up so eager to go down to the beach. So after Doug & I did our morning exercise we packed up and headed down the stairs to the beach. Taylor and Jared had a blast just riding the waves. We checked out a boogie board and they also had a lot of fun with that. The little boys got tired around noon so we headed back to the condo for some rest time. The older kids stayed with Dean & Kathy.

Claim Jumpers party of 12! The funny thing is Kathy went in to reserve us a seat for our hugomongo family and instead of saying just a minute. The girl said, oh your party is so big my manager has to seat you. The funniest part is it was only about 3:30pm and the restuarant was nearly empty. The food was so yummy and of course the portions are literally for 3 people. Jared's "kid" plate came with two pieces of grilled chicken. What kid is going to eat that much. It was like an adult sized meal. Their muffins were the best part. I couldn't resist and had to get some for breakfast. I just love corn bread!!

The double Clouse clan= 12 kiddos

We left lunar or (lunch combined with dinner) and went on to the outlet mall. We got there and shopped and shopped until the kids wouldn't allow us to anymore. We came out with a bunch of stuff. I am so glad we finally found Doug a watch! We have been looking for two months and he couldn't find one. I am also happy to say that he got a couple of pair of shoes and now can throw his old nasty ones away. We finished up the night with a slurpee trip to 7-11. Now we are about to watch a movie. Until tomorrow!!

Californication

This is the landmark I remember seeing as a kid driving to California. love the mountains near Palm Springs. I think they are so gorgeous. I was always amazed by all of the power mills. There is also a couple of movies I remember seeing them in as well. We are now in Cali! We stopped off to eat at In & Out. My favorite is their handcut french fries and vanilla shake.

Theres nothing like eating unhealthy grub while on vacation!!

It was so good to stop off and see the Palmers. The kids had fun for a few hours and Chanel made them some chocolate chips cookies.

My buddy Chanel I miss living close to!!



Lucy, Jared, Ruby, Taylor and Haley
Everyone is growing up so fast! Its hard to believe we met Haley
when she was just 12 months old, now she is 8!!

Later that day we drove on down to Carlsbad to check into the condo. It was extremely hot and humid, much like home. The boys were so excited to see the ocean. When Luke was sitting up on the balcony with Doug he asked him "daddy what is wrong with the pool?" meaning the waves. Its funny how they perceive and are so observant about things. I loved seeing them get their feet dirty in the sand and playing near the water. Luke is still very timid of it, but Weston loves it.

Road Trip to AZ

The kids were so good on our long trip!

We finally were able to begin our long journey to Arizona yesterday at 2:30pm. (since Doug had morning clinic and couldn't get away until then.) The big bummer is you are just looking at desert and scrubs for 545 miles (that is until El Paso). At least once you hit there, there are a few mountains and such. The kids did very well and I must say I can't believe Weston didn't even make a peep for the entire 10 hours in the car. We stopped off in Deming, New Mexico to get a few hours of shut eye. We arrived at midnight our time, so were pretty wiped!! I am not sure how much sleep we really got since we crammed all 5 of us in a king size bed. A little close quarters, but much better than driving another 4 hours in the car.

Yeah we made it!!

We awoke around 7:30 (our time) since we are 2 hours different from AZ time. The kids had a free continental breakfast and we were off! We arrived in Mesa/Chandler around 11:ooam. The kids were so excited to see their cousins. Our first stop was to the mall since I had to exchange something. And then we tried to visit my sister but she was called into work. We then finally headed out to Jen and Glenn's to stop by and say hello. By now I was starving and the burrito from Freebirds yesterday (they are really big) was no longer holding me over. So we dropped the kids off at his mom & dads and we headed over to Tia Rosas for lunch. Yum!!! In Arizona you never can get enough Mexican Food! I also just found out today that they opened a Cafe Rio near by, so after Cali we will have to head there as well. (before our trek back to Texas) The kids played all afternoon. This is the one thing that I miss so much living out of state. My kids playing with their cousins and visiting grandparents. They played non-stop while Doug and I cleaned out the car. (so nice and pure entertainment) We also decided it would be nice to wash his parents cars to. His dad still isn't able to get around much since the surgery. So we did that and Doug and I went running. Yes, I did say running at 4:30 in 110 degree weather!! Were we nuts? Probably. But weirdly it really didn't feel any hotter than 90 degrees with 80% humidity. And we did drink lots of water.

We love our cousins!!

Tonight my mom stopped by to say hi to the kids and I was able to meet her new "hang out friend" John. I am not even sure what they call dating friends these days. He was very friendly and outgoing. And they seemed to enjoy each others company. I am glad that she has finally found someone fun to hang around. I just hope her corky cleaning habits don't scare him away. Tonight Doug's mom has been nice enough to help me prepare for our week in Carlsbad at the condo. I made my lists and went to the store since there is a kitchen and all there for us. I am totally excited and can't wait to get there! Heres a picture of all our food. Can you believe how much stuff you have to take when you have kids?? I would much rather have too much than not enough. Before we head out to the beach we are stopping by our good friends Eric & Chanel. I am not sure if we will have internet connection, but I am going to try and post during the week. I'll just have to see.

24 Things I love about Janet

This is me & my sister on my 24th b-day.
She was only 17 in this picture!
I was already pregnant with my second.
How crazy is that!

1. Never afraid to express her opinion
2. The baby in the family
3. Loves to hang out and just relax with Aaron
4. Has a dog (I think her dog is cute, but haven't convinced myself to get one yet.)
5. Keeps me hip
6. Loves to blast music in the car and her house
7. Is an exercise guru
8. Isn't afraid to try new things
9. Married someone older than my husband!
10. Is a great o.b. nurse
11. Always showering my kids with gifts
12. Is a great dancer
13. Has gone on more tropical trips than me--so impressed! (and jealous)
14. Is always thoughtful
15. Is "freaky" clean like me
16. Takes showers 2-3 times a day. (I guess she thinks she smells--but never does!)
17. Likes to have fun
18. Laughs out loud
19. Smells the milk before drinking it (just like our dad)
20. Still loves to put stickers on cards
21. Is a great wife
22. A great friend
23. Makes sure she calls me during the week
24. The best sister ever!

Love you sis and can't wait to see you in a few days!
Hope you have a great birthday!!!

Pleasant

All I have to say is I feel like I have been going at super speed and the day is already almost over. I can't believe it is nearly 5pm. I have yet to shower today from my morning exercise. So you can imagine the stink. I forgot how long it takes to pack 6 people for a 14+ hour road trip! Of course we had to get a new DVD for the drive--family tradition. I have stocked the car with snacks, drinks, books, and music. And I didn't forget to bring extra towels and some handy club soda just in case of spills or what not. You can't be too prepared right??

It was kind of nice to sit in Taylor's room today and help her pack her clothes. We actually killed two birds with one stone and tried on stuff to see if it fits. I had her do this because we are visiting my good friend Chanel and her daughter is one year shy of Taylor. So it works out perfectly to clean out the closet and bring hammy downs to her instead of just dumping them to good will.


What a pleasant surprise this was this afternoon. It has been so bloody hot lately! We have been having occasional cloudy skies but nothing has ever come of it. I was just about ready to start edging my yard when it began to down pour. Sadly it didn't last long because as I look outside the sun is now shining again. So I guess I won't be able to get out of mowing the yard.

My boys were so excited to see the rain hit the window!

Tonight is our Relief Society's annual hi y'all, bye y'all. (If you haven't noticed y'all is a very Texan Southern thing to say)It is a chance to say goodbye to those who are leaving and those who have moved in. I don't even think there are any families left in town to say goodbye to. I really don't feel like going, but feel extremely guilty since I haven't attended a enrichment since I was released from being the enrichment leader. I told my husband I better go to this or they will think I am inactive. Dang that guilty conscious!! If it were my choice I think I would take a bubble bath and go to bed. I am so exhausted. I have a feeling this extensive traveling is going to take a toll on me when I return. But as of now I am excited to go to the beach, see family, and just hang out in the sun!! I am just glad that my cleaning, changing beds, doing laundry, and packing is almost DONE!!

 

Randomness--is that a word?

I think sometimes my husband thinks I am weird. I have a flag for almost every season. I just love flags on the front of houses. I think it makes them look warm and welcome. Maybe I got this idea from the south who knows. I will be taking them with me and my move whereever we go though. I don't think they are that big in AZ, but I will put them up anyway!

Its almost time to switch to my birthday flag!!

I have been meaning to post this for a while. But here is that shirt I bought in New Orleans Tasha and the flag I got. I believe this one is a little different that the ones you and Shawna purchased.

Okay, I know... a little cheesy taking a picture of myself in a shirt!

I think I have said this before but I am amazed as to how much your kids can pick up parents behavior. We really don't have to say much it is how we act and do. You always want your kids to pick up the good vs the bad, but unfortunately they never do right?

I say this because I often find Taylor acting as a little mother to my boys. Most of the time I don't mind and she is VERY helpful. She offers to take Luke to the bathroom, dresses the little ones and helps them with snacks etc. But we had an issue the other day. When I was gone the kids had a babysitter during the day while Doug was at work. I am not really sure what occurred, but Taylor completely ignored the babysitter because she thought whatever she was doing was fine. (in her eyes) And well, she probably thought she isn't my mom-- so I am going to just not listen. We did get it ironed out and I must say I am glad dad had to deal with this one. I also sometimes find her getting frustrated and yelling at her brothers much like me! Its almost scary at times. I always tell her please don't yell Taylor. But who am I to judge when I do it myself?? I have tried to be better, but I think once your kids are past 2 years of age they have a lot of times learned many of your bad habits. Like drinking Diet Coke!! You do it so why can't I??

I had to laugh when Angie and I were walking this morning and talking about this very same thing. I guess when she was gone her girls constantly were telling Greg how to drive and park the car. I chuckled and said "why would they do that?" In which she replied, "Well, I do that to Greg when I am in the car." That explains it. Isn't it crazy how kids do this?? Its funny when you look back at it, but I am sure it drove Greg crazy for his 5 and 9 year old telling him how to drive.

Doug told me the other day when I was gone Luke said the funniest thing. After they had cleaned up the kitchen for dinner he proudly announced "Well now the kitchen is closed" This is something Doug says almost on a daily basis. Too funny.

I have to ask am I the only parent who yells at their children in a store for bad behavior?? Because when we were in Utah there were several children and I don't think I heard a child scream or make a peep once! Maybe I am doing something wrong and the Utahians are doing something right.

Doug is actually reading a parenting book right now that his brother Glenn recommended to him. (we thought he may know because he is a psychologist). Anyways I guess he has tried some of the things out on Jared this past weekend as well as Luke and it seemed to work. Since as I wrote earlier we have been having some behavior issues in our home. I need to get motivated and read it!!

On another thought I totally dread packing for my family for our beach vacation. Don't get me wrong I am very excited for it, but just keep staring at the luggage. Hoping it will pack itself. Wouldn't it be nice if you could magically have another wardrobe whereever you went?

My favorite part about it is the
different colored chairs you pick to go with it.

I love this table!! This is the table I would love to have, but maybe someday. We actually saw it at a great little furniture store in Orem called The Four Chairs. Steph actually knows the people that own it. I was sad to later find out they could ship, but it would be much much cheaper if you bought it locally. Doug claims I won't like it in a few years and will want something else. Well, I just beg to differ!!


And speaking of wants and money.... I also dread doing my checkbook and paying all of my bills that are do this week. There is just something about that, that is depressing. And the sad thing is it really needs to be done. I also think I have some buyers remorse because while I was shopping last week, I was so happy to buy things. Now I am looking at ALL my purchases and think do I really need that stuff? Can we really afford it?? NO!! I guess I am justifying it because mine and Taylor's birthday is next week. But I do feel extremely guilty about it. Well, I have babbled on enough hopefully I will be a little more cheery tomorrow!

***Happy Birthday Susanne, Courtney and Haley!***

Hammered

Fairwell Salt Lake City!

How cute is that?

We arrived home last night around 10pm. The minute Greg pulled up at the airport Angie's car was plastered in WELCOME HOME!! MOM WE MISSED YOU! It was so cute. He immediately handed us a diet coke from Sonic. Little did he know I think we drank about 5 gallons of it this weekend. But it was so kind and thoughtful. Doug had kept the kids up and I was glad because I think I would have pulled them out of bed to hug and kiss them anyways.

I walked into the house and was greeted by many hugs, beautiful pictures and a vase of candy! There was a huge "quilt" sign right as I walked into the door decorated by the kids. Doug said he couldn't find any pretty flowers so the candy "bouquet" was the best he could do since he didn't get home from work until 7pm. It was so sweet! (well the candy too). I was so glad that I was missed and instead of getting "I missed you cards" I received a thank you for all that you do type of card. Doug and I stayed up till about midnight talking about my weekend. I had to laugh when he was complaining about the babysitter not picking up. He came home from a long day at work and spent the past 2 hours of it picking up stuff from the kids! Welcome to my world honey! But I am glad he cared enough to do it.



I awoke this morning feeling SOOOO sleepy. And have a MASSIVE cold sore on my mouth. I had forgotten how the dry heat brings these puppies out on my mouth. (I'll spare you the picture). Don't you hate when you feel this way?? Maybe it was because I finally had a "good night" sleep for a change. Once I pulled myself out of bed I started cleaning. I even forfeited my morning walk because of it. My house was pretty clean considering, but I just had to touch it up a little. And I had to organize it so I could function. The floor was grimey, laundry a little in dissoray, etc. I have to write that my husband called to check on me this morning. I must of sounded exhausted because heres how the conversation went:

D- "Are you a little tired? Looks like you had a little too much fun"
J-Yes.
D-"What are you doing right now?"
J-Cleaning, picking up.
D-"Have you blogged?"
J- No.
D-"Wow, you must be tired if you haven't done that!"
D- He said this with a chuckle "I am so glad you are home and I am at work."
J-Me too I thought.


Its amazing how you need each other to balance out your family. I am so glad I went, but on the other hand I am glad to be home!

Last night we met up with Allison at the Gateway and saw Devils Wears Prada. I must say that I really enjoyed it. It was a perfect chick flick.

Today we went into Nordstroms on the spur of the moment and got a Mac makeover. (too bad it wasn't from one of the drag queens in S.L. but oh, well) I have never in my life bought makeup products from a department store. I always get mine at Wal-mart, Target, or anywhere cheap. Since Allison has been telling me to just try it out. Angie and I did just that today. It was fun to have someone do for a change. I bought a few products and they were a little pricey I must say. Hopefully it will be worth it. Oh, and mom--I have a few on the list I want for my birthday-hint-hint.


Once 3pm hit we had to head back to catch our plane in Salt Lake. We were pressed for time a bit and I was sweating a tad because of it. But we made it onto the plane and are now back safely home! I just wanted to add some highlights from the trip.

*Shopping all DAY!
*Hanging out with Texas and Louisiana friends combined!
*Flooding back memories from BYU
*Great food!
*Laughing tons and tons
*The razor conversation with Steph
*Steph's husband Mitch just being Mitch! Too hard to explain you just have to meet him.
*Steph's beautiful home/family
*Hiking the Y (yes, Jill we did it because we wanted--are we crazy??) I thought so when we were doing it!
*Having fun crafts at your fingertips (we don't have that in SA)





I had to post Steph and her beautiful family and thank her for putting us up for 4 days! It was so fun to she her and be back in Provo. There family is amazing and I am still baffled as to how there is no yelling in her house! I will have to have her come stay with me to teach me a few lessons.

Party Girls

Well, as I said before we have literally going non-stop since we have arrived. I feel like I have run some sort of race or marathon. My body completely aches all over. Yesterday, we shopped until we DROPPED! No kidding. We went up to University Mall and hit another Nordstroms to see if we could find anything. I did end up finding some stuff for Taylor, but much of it was over picked. We strolled the mall--I felt like I was in a time warp because I used to live at this mall when we were first married.

We met up with Steph and went to Cafe' Rios for lunch. Double YUM!! Doug--you would love their burritos!! Anyways we once again ate until we were sick. On another note, Steph has been telling us about this amazing cleaner that she has been using. Since we were right by the store we thought we would walk down to see it. BUMMER! The store was closed. For those who don't know Steph she is the cleaning master and always has great tips for cleaning. The store is called Klean and is right next to Reams in Orem. So we will try our luck back on Monday and I think I might have to buy some stuff and stock up!

We then moved on to BYU bookstore in which we spent 2 hours there! Can you believe it? Allison had called me periodically to see if we were going to the movies or what not and was baffled at how much time we spent there. Well, I guess when you haven't been bak to BYU for a while you just have to get your fill right? There were so many cute knick knacks. Once we got out of the store we were all longing for a pedicure. Since it was getting late we weren't sure we would find a place but sure enough the one Steph goes to in Orem was still open. Score!! There were three openings and it was heaven sent. Our feet hurt sooo bad! After the pedicure, I got a hold of Allison. And the sweet, dear friend that she is drove an hour down to Steph's to hang out with us!! She drove an hour from Bountiful! I am so glad that she did because it was so fun to laugh and just sit around and talk. We tried to convince her to stay since we didn't go to bed until 1:30am, but she decided she better go. I am glad she made it home safe and sound!

I feel like I have a hang over (even though I have never had one). We have been living on 3 hours of sleep each night. I really don't know how my husband does this for his job. But I now appreciate my 8 hours of sleep I get each night.

Jenny & Alli

This morning we woke up and hiked the good old Y.

Gotta love those pictures taken by yourself!

I must say it was much harder that I thought. I think I panted the whole way. But it was fun to do. Now I am getting into the shower and we are headed to Park City for the day!!

We Made It!

Just a quick hello! We made it and have been going non-stop since the moment we arrived. We started off by getting a pleasant surprise at the car rental place. We thought we were going to be driving a little metro type car. Much to our surprise we got there and ended up getting a Chevy Eclipse! I think Greg (Angie's) husband was relieved we weren't driving a matchbox car. Instead we are driving a little mini suv type car. Anyways, we hooked up with my friend Alli and went to lunch at The Gateway in Salt Lake. We had a yummy lunch. I ate until I was sick, but it was a good sick. Got my feel of Diet Coke and we meandered the mall. We were excited to come across some shade shirts. We moved on to the Nordstroms sale in which we saw some interesting men at the Mac makeup counter. I tried to take a picture discretely but it didn't work. They moved the minute I went near them thinking Angie was taking a picture of me (oh, well). Allison left and we ended up walking across the street to see a little of Temple Square. I had forgotten how beautiful it was since I haven't seen it in person in nearly 5 years. We just always see it on tv when we watch conference. It was a little warm and we decided we better head out just in case of traffic.

We pitstopped off at Thanksgiving point and being so close we thought we could pop in on Jill. We were a little hestitant to do this, but then we thought what the heck!! We are on vacation and really wanted to meet her. I think she was a little surprised, we drove up just as she was getting home from none other than birthday present shopping! I guess we should of called and warned her. But it was great to be able to meet the wonderful Jill so many talk about. Her house was darling all the way down to her amazing computer room. I know she said it was messy, but all I could think about was how many cool scrapbook things and stamps she had! Needless, to say I am glad we stopped and hopefully she didn't think we were stalkers.

Jenny & Jill

Finally, we made it to Steph's house and it was so good to see her again! It was just like old times and we picked up where we left off. Her house is absolutely gorgeous, 5000sq ft. Gorgeous!!






And yes, Doug I am jealous, but it does give me hope. Well, we are off to play some more. Until later!

"All my bags are packed.......

and I'm leavin' on a jet plane......." well you all know the rest of the song. If you know my husband at all he is funny and sings everything or implies something with a song. So when I say this-- I say it in his voice. I am off to Salt Lake City for my girlie girl weekend!

I am off to....

*Beautiful mountains
*Temples galore!
*Cougarland
*Happy Valley
*Trolley Square
*Park City
*Water skiing!
*Brick Oven
*Cafe' Rio
*Nordstroms half year sale!



I just wanted to add a few things before I leave.

-Taylor please continue to be a big helper for daddy and Laura.
-Jared please be a good listener and don't tease your brothers.
-Luke don't fight dad when he has to put you to bed.
-Weston well, isn't old enough to no any better yet. Try to stay out of the cupboards! Remain sweet like always by giving daddy tons of hugs!
-Doug, I love you and thank you tons for allowing this weekend to happen--please try not to be grumpy when I call. I know, I know,-- your gonna be busy busy busy!! (his words last time I left).
-I will miss all of you so much!! Hugs and Kisses--mom

Don't y'all miss me too much! I'll try and post if I can. Anyways, Doug claims he is going to post on our blog when I am gone. About our messy house and what they are doing without me. Ha! Ha! Doug I have the camera. And really do you know how to blog?? j/k I really don't think he would be able to do it anyway. Until next time--

(not that anyone really cares but me about my posts)
**Do you ever wonder how many non commenters read??**

Meet My Mailman!

This is our current mailman Art. I would classify him as an interesting character. Don't get me wrong he is very friendly, but kind of a "interesting" friendly. I am not sure what it is about him that makes me think this way. I guess if I were a mailman I would know a lot about someone just by looking at their mail. He made the comment to me one day as I drove up to get my mail with Doug, "wow-- I think that is the first time I have ever seen you and your husband together" Oh, great I thought now he knows he is gone all the time--lovely. Should I be worried--probably not but, Angie swears that she saw him on one of the most wanted posters you get in the mail (too bad I didn't keep it to show you). We always get a good chuckle about that one. Another thing he always is commenting to us is how we mow our lawns. We finally decided since we know the time he delivers the mail to do it when he is not around. One day he made the comment to Angie as she was finishing up her yard, "Ahh, darn, I just missed you mowing." Okay is that a little weird for the mailman to watch us mow our lawn?? Maybe a compliment, but at the same time "interesting." Since he does know Greg & Doug are gone a lot. He probably thinks we are a little crazy out in the heat of the day mowing our lawns and not letting our husbands do it! Another "interesting" thing happened about a year ago. I heard a knock at my door and saw it was Art. I thought he may of had a package or something for me because he has delivered them before. Not so! He wanted to know if I had any pepto bismal because he had such a stomach ache! Okay for one weird! For two a little too much information in which I really don't need or want to know. We also sometimes thought it was "interesting" that he would stop at the end of our street and take a nap on someones porch. It wasn't until later we found out his cousin lived there. I am glad that was cleared up--I was beginning to think that was strange! However on a more positive note, he does a great job and always is handing me my mail directly to me. And I really have to give it to him for delivering mail in such TERRIBLE heat. Despite what my opinion is my kids really like him. When he is out sorting the mail they can see him while jumping on Angie's trampoline. They always yell out to him "mail man--mail man gimmie some rubber bands!" In which he always slings them on over the fence.

Since I am on the topic of mail I was the recipient of some "good mail" yesterday!! I got this wonderful package in the mail from Jill yesterday. I was totally shocked, surprised and completely excited all at once!! How nice not to get bills in the mail for a change. Thanks Jill!!--I have my cookies packed. I also must say Doug was impressed with the book (his comment was "hey--hey thats a classic") just so you know he's the reader and history buff in the family. Thanks for making my day!!

Okay, I saved the best for last. This was our mailman in Metairie, LA. I really was sad and knew I would miss his cheery face along with his "Nu Awlin's" accent. I really wish I could explain the cajun tone, but unless you've been there its too hard. His name was Gilbert and he seriously was the ultimate, greatest, mailman you will ever meet! This was a picture we took because he was delivering our last mail to us. (we had just finished loading our moving truck) If you had a package or were waiting for a paycheck (which I was a lot of times since I was working then) he would deliver it to you before doing his route. I remember he would always make an effort to say hello and wave to us. Taylor would a lot of times stand and the door and just wait for him because he would hand her the mail. Another thing is if you ever stopped him--he literally would talk your ear off! He always had a great story to tell and knew so much about the New Orleans area and its history. I am not really sure how long it took him to do his route, his poor wife! The only time I remember him rushing through and not really stopping on his route to talk was on Lundi Gras. (The day before Mardi Gras) In New Orleans this was the day so many great parades were going on. I was hoping I would somehow run into him when I was back visiting our old neighborhood last March, but no such luck! I am sad to say I never knew my mailman in Provo or Arizona growing up, but I am glad my kids knew theirs!

**Do you know your mailman?**