The Gurrr's

2009-11-01T21:21:00.012-07:00

My SCARY crew... Kaleb said he was the scariest thing... a dentist! (No wonder they have one of the highest suicide rates among professionals... :)) We had a really fun Halloween this year. I'm sad the month went by so quickly... I feel like a lame mom... we didn't even carve pumpkins this year!!! The kids never asked, so I didn't offer... maybe next year. But, we had a fun week celebrating with church, school, and family get-togethers. I haven't taught my kids to be efficient trick-or-treaters though and they pooped out kind of early... Kaleb said he figured Dax was just going to take his candy anyway. :)
They're learning! j/k

Millie was hilarious! She RAN door to door! When we brought Emmett home after our first round, she wouldn't have anything to do with staying home... had to collect her chocolate... my kind of girl! :) P.S. A special thank you to Betsy for the adorable ladybug costume... too fun! :)

Ethan's not a very intimidating ninja with those big blues staring back at ya, but he sure loved his costume... has practically begged me to wear it at every moment since Wednesday's Halloween Carnival at church. At least we got our $6.99 out of it! :)

Emmett went through several costume ideas before he finally decided on a ghost... how funny. I was o.k. with it... easiest costume ever! And, doesn't he look cute? This was his scary boo face... ooooohhhh! :)

Kaleb wouldn't pose for an individual portrait... it was all I could do to get him to wear a costume this year, but I told him he couldn't just go around and ask for candy, so... How'd I get a son who thinks he's so cool? Gee wiz!!! :)

Millie's 2!

2009-10-11T22:02:00.010-06:00

While I'm on birthdays... Millie turned 2 on September 26th!!! How odd that I'd feel like a slacker for her cake this year. I mean, how many 2 year olds get a 4 layer cake with sprinkles... oh well. I've done it to myself! :)

Anyway, I really can't believe it. Who would've thought I'd ever be baby hungry again? But, my baby is a toddler now and I'm sad. Don't get me wrong. I probably only feel this need for another baby because I can't have one and because Millie only lets me hug her for an extended amount of time if she's getting chocolate in return (she is MY child afterall), but none the less... Anyway, we are having fun with our little princess and that she is. We can't help it. Just being the only girl sets her aside from the boys and since she doesn't know that they don't want a new pink purse or pretty shoes, she feels special. I'm glad she does... she is! She keeps us on her toes. She LOVES to play in anything she can get her hands on like my make-up, lotion, bandaids, towels, spatulas, etc... She's really speaking a ton now and in full sentences these days... usually, "I'LL DO IT!!!" :) I think it's funny how she immediately blames the closest brother next to her for something she thinks she's going to get in trouble for, how she puts herself in "time out" if there's no one around to blame :), and that she can hardly leave the house without "Shtick!" (lipstick... aka: lipgloss), a bow, and her purse. I also love that she reminded us to say prayers this morning before breakfast and sang "La la la la la laaaaaa" through every song during sacrament today. I feel so blessed to have this precious daughter in our lives! Considering that the kids still run to her the second they set eyes on her, I'm guessing they feel the same. And, since Dax will fully admit she owns his little finger :), I know he feels the same. Happy Birthday, Millie!!!

Millie's Grandpa Morley's special girl right now. We had a low key birthday dinner and I thought it was funny how she found the one tiny hole in her present, peeked through and yelled, "dolly"! Can't get anything past her! :)

Great to be 8!

2009-10-04T22:19:00.005-06:00

Of course it's great to be 8 because we believe that's when it's time to get baptized, but it's also great to be 8 when you're a McMurrin... so to speak. :) My dad's family has had a tradition since my dad was 8 that allows the boys to go on "The Hunt" every September. It freaks me out every year, now with 3 boys out there and all. But, it is really exciting for them so I try to hold my paranoia in a little. So, for Kaleb and now for Ethan (I can hardly believe it!), my dad took the kids shopping before their baptisms for a pocket knife of all things and some hunting gear!!! He may as well take them to Disneyland! They look so forward to shopping sprees with Grandpa... I think he does too. :) So anyway, that's what Ethan's morning consisted of on his baptism day. (Our stake holds baptisms at 5:00pm... lame) Then I'd love to say he rushed home to put his suit on, but this is Ethan we're talking about. Although he did get ready quickly and remind me we needed to be there 30 minutes early over and over again when it got closer to the hour, he had to first practice his pocket knife skills by cutting flowers out of my garden. What a great day for him! :) But, on to his baptism...
I can't believe I haven't even posted about Ethan's baptism yet (well, I can sort of believe it. :P). Shame on me, right? Well, it was a great day! I had my friend, Celeste, take these awesome pictures and he just sat there happy as a bug. He said he wanted to get it over with, but I think he felt special and I'm glad. I think he was also just really excited. Grandma Gurr got him his own set of scriptures. Once he stole Kaleb's scripture bag, he was ready to go... gotta work on that honesty thing... especially now that he's baptized. :) I LOVE this collage of our little Ether man! He looks so handsome and I'm already sad now thinking of his mission farewell... but can't you just picture it?

Ethan was baptized over Labor Day weekend so there were only 2 baptisms that day... Ethan and a litttle girl. Before the baptism, we were able to shoot this picture really quick with Dax's camera phone (my camera ran out of batteries).

He was so cute standing there looking into the font. He had said all week he wasn't really nervous, but as he looked down into the water he asked if I thought Duncan (his best buddy) was scared when he got baptized. After I assured him that most people are nervous to get into the water, but reminded him of what it was he was about to do, he was fine. Anyway, having a Stake Baptism Day is nice in some respects and not in others. Usually, you have nothing to do with the program and you don't get to pick the time. We've been lucky with both Kaleb and Ethan's baptism because for Kaleb's, he got to sing the Baptism song which made his day a little more special and personal and for Ethan, my mom was asked to sing. She wrote some new words to a Hilary Weeks song (sshhh... don't tell :)) and my friend Jennifer Ormsby played the piano (on very short notice I might add... thank you again!!!) It was BEAUTIFUL! I especially liked how Ethan watched my mom sing (even though my mom said he kept looking away... he seemed to kn0w she was singing to him). Not to mention, the other little girl just sat smiling up at my mom the entire time... too sweet!

Well, Dax baptized Ethan, of course... with Grandpa Mac and Uncle Slade as the witnesses. Dax also confirmed Ethan with Grandpa Mac, Uncle Slade, Great Uncle Bob, and Bishop Ulrich in the circle. It was a nice blessing. The entire day was filled with the Spirit and I'm so grateful he made the choice to be baptized. I hope he never forgets the Spirit that was present and how much joy the gospel brings. He's young, but I think he understands at least that much. I'm so proud of him and grateful he's my son!!!

I did get the battery for my camera, but by that time, it was too late and this was all we got. At least it's something! :)

Millie and Emmett

2009-09-28T22:36:00.002-06:00

Millie and Emmett are great buddies! They always have so much fun playing together. We missed Dax, Kaleb, and Ethan while they were hunting, but we had some fun of our own. We hit McDonald's a FEW times. :) We played games, went to grandma's, and went to church. Here's the two before church. It was the Primary Program and Emmett did a great job memorizing his part... that he wrote no less. "I love my mom and dad because they are my family and they help me do stuff." :)

Here they are having fun before we took off for the "circus". Actually, it was the parade of elephants before the circus started, but the kids were excited to see 'em none the less. But, that adventure will have to be another post. Anyway, aren't they too sweet? I hope they can be great friends their entire lives! I love how he takes care of her and watches out for her... she is really lucky to have a big brother like Emmett. Her dates however... not so lucky! :)

This is just a sweet one of Millie I thought I'd share.

Facebook vs. Bloggin'

2009-09-28T01:00:00.004-06:00

Can't sleep... Anyway, I've been thinking about how much time I spend informing people of my where abouts, random thoughts, photos, etc. For the past while I have posted on FB because I've been lazy and it's an outlet that is short and sweet for everyone. Because of this, I've gone back and forth about just FBing and ditching the bloggin' world but, I miss blogging. I enjoy reading my friends' blogs and getting a better understanding of where they're coming from instead of just a blurp. Will I stop FBing? I doubt it. But, I intend to attempt to use my time more wisely to post more... if not for you, for me... so prepare yourselves! :)

Being a Mom

2009-09-18T00:17:00.002-06:00

I feel sort of badly right now. I had a "girl's night" at my house since Dax, Kaleb and Ethan are at the annual hunt. It was a lot of fun! We watched "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" because a couple of them hadn't seen it and it's a must! :) Unfortunately for them, I still can recite it just about word for word... so can my friend Celeste. It was awesome! Anyway, I mentioned to them I never wanted kids when I was younger. It's true I never imagined myself as a mom... I really always thought I'd be the cool aunt. But, being that WAS true, I don't want anyne to think that means I don't love being a mom now. I really love it! Some days are harder than others. I'm especially grateful for something I read in Dax's cousin's blog that said if I can forgive and love my kids so much despite their imperfections, surely they'll forgive and love me despite mine. That'll help get me through a lot of days. :) I have fun with my kids and love them to pieces!!! I'm so happy to be called mom. :)

Emily's a College Grad!

2009-01-21T14:58:00.008-07:00

My baby sister, Emily, graduated from San Diego State University Dec. 2008 with a degree in Graphic Design. My dad was so kind as to fly me down to surprise her for her final portfolio show (examples above). I was so proud of her! It was awesome to see how all the hard work paid off in her designs. She's so talented! We had her design a logo for our new insulation co. and have gotten lots of compliments on it, too! (it sort of looks like this)
Anyway, then my dad took her out in Vegas for a grad dinner of her choice... Yummy! Some barbecue place. It was fun to be all together even though I had to go rescue Millie (or the sitters) because she wouldn't stop crying. It was all good. Anyway, a late, but well deserved shout out to Emily...

CONGRATULATIONS... "Oh the places you'll go!" Love ya!

The sibs and myself... Mary, Emily, and Jimmy.

Mom and Dad with Emily.

Millie's happy now... spoiled turkey! :)

Coupon Clipping

2009-01-21T14:48:00.002-07:00

I don't have everyone's email, so I thought I'd post regarding the class I told some of you about that Kim Story told me about. :)

Jane Maughan is a stay at home mom of five. Jane helps moderate the Pinching Your Pennies website and she has been teaching “coupon” classes for the Standard Examiner and Pinching Your Pennies for three years.

Date: Wednesday January 28, 2009
Time: 12:00-1:00
Location: McKay-Dee Hospital, Education Department, (level 1)
4401 Harrison Boulevard
RSVP: 387-7800 to reserve a lunch by Monday January 26, 2009. $6.50 each; no charge for the education portion only. Lunches need to be picked up no later than 12:00.

Let me know if you want to go and maybe we can meet up or something. Anyway, happy clipping!

15 1/2 Months Old and Finally Walking

2009-01-19T01:11:00.006-07:00

Kaleb was 12, Ethan was 13, Emmett was 14, so it just fit that Millie was 15 mos. old. Maybe it worked out that way because I get less and less in a hurry to see each of them walk. I am happy. Kids seem to be happier with every bit of independence they get no matter what age they are. But, it means she's getting bigger and she'll get into even more trouble. Both of which make me sad. But, she is cute teeterin' around! Don't you agree? :)

She's Such a Girl

2009-01-19T00:39:00.003-07:00

Growing up, if I ever thought about having kids, I thought I would have boys. I wanted boys. My aunt used to make everyone a customized porcelain doll and I asked for a boy. Then I had 3!!! Don't get me wrong. I love my boys! I wasn't even really upset or anything when I found out Emmett was a boy. I wanted to know what it would be like to have a girl, but was totally cool with three adorable boys. Well, I can remember the feeling I felt when I found out Millie was a girl. I was so excited. Yet, it seemed to me that everyone who had both boys and girls said they would trade to have 4 boys for 1 girl... emotional, whiny, emotional... :) Not my daughter. No way. I'm not like that so she'll be perfectly stable. Hee. Hee.

Here's Millie upset that I won't let her have the camera or something.

And TWO seconds later... :)

I love girls!!!

Primary

2009-01-11T23:38:00.004-07:00

I know I am really behind in posting pictures, but that'll have to wait. I just wanted to express how sad I was today that Emmett's now in Primary. Of course, not because I didn't want to see him, but because he's getting too big. (and according to Kaleb, it's because it means I'm getting old... smarty pants! :)) I don't think that's the reason, but it could be part of it... not gonna lie! But, mostly I just know how much I'm going to miss him when he's bigger and not cute anymore. :) You know what I mean. I just love this age when they're learning so many fun things, and saying so many cute things, and they still don't want to disappoint you TOO much! :) I just remember Kaleb at this age and I can't believe he's getting so grown up, too. He's really maturing early and is starting to remind me of a young man already instead of a boy. And on top of that... Ethan's getting baptized this year!!! How much more can I take? I can totally see why people hang on to their babies when they realize they're the last baby, ya know? Poor Millie has no hope of growing up too quickly. Good thing I'm o.k. with it since she's NOT EVEN WALKING YET!!! All in good time. It does keep her young I suppose. Anyway, I'm babbling, but do ya know what I mean?

Poor Emmett

2009-01-01T23:42:00.003-07:00

The other day I was baking Monster cookies (peanut butter, oatmeal, peanut m&ms, and m&ms). Emmett came upstairs and said with a sad tone and an even sadder face... "I smell something I can't have." (He's allergic to peanuts.) Don't worry. I had backup chocolate cookies just for him! :)

Believing

2008-12-17T02:10:00.004-07:00

I have lots of pictures to post, but there's always too much to do. So, those will have to come later. But, while reading a friend's blog about what to believe in and not I'm reminded of a conversation we had with Ethan after he lost a tooth not too long ago. It went something like this:
Ethan: "I know you're the tooth fairy."
Mom: "Why do you think that?"
Ethan: "Because fairies aren't real."
Kaleb: "Well, then what about Santa Claus?"
Ethan (with an annoyed look on his face as if to scream, DUH!): "Santa's not a fairy!"
Mom: :) "Good point, Ethan."
I love kids! Now I all but hand him the "tooth fairy" money... oh well. At least there's Santa! :)

A Thanksgiving Did You Know?

2008-11-24T21:35:00.004-07:00

I like learning something every now and then and although I remember the basic 2nd grade story about the pilgrims and indians, I didn't realize it took so long to become a national holiday. So, here's a tidbit on the Thanksgiving holiday... enjoy! (kind of long, but an interesting read.) The First Thanksgiving - 1621, to commemorate the harvest reaped by the Plymouth Colony after a harsh winter. celebrated as a traditional English harvest feast, to which they invited the local Wampanoag Indians. All thirteen colonies did not celebrate Thanksgiving at the same time until October 1777. George Washington was the first president to declare the holiday, in 1789. A New National Holiday - mid–1800s, many states observed a Thanksgiving holiday. poet and editor Sarah J. Hale began lobbying for national Thanksgiving holiday. During the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln, looking for ways to unite the nation, discussed the subject with Hale. In 1863 he gave his Thanksgiving Proclamation, declaring the last Thursday in November a day of thanksgiving. 1939, 1940, and 1941 Franklin D. Roosevelt, seeking to lengthen the Christmas shopping season, proclaimed Thanksgiving the third Thursday in November. Controversy followed, and Congress passed a joint resolution in 1941 decreeing that Thanksgiving should fall on the fourth Thursday of November, where it remains.
Thanksgiving Proclamation (abridged)- The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added which are of so extraordinary a nature that they can not fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever-watchful providence of Almighty God.
Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defense have not arrested the plow, the shuttle, or the ship; the ax has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well as the iron and coal as of our precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege, and the battlefield, and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom. No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.
... implore the imposition of the Almighty hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it, as soon as may be consistent with the divine purpose, to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity, and union. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.
I am so touched by Lincoln's acknowledgement of the Lord's hand in our nation's blessings. Even in the time of Civil War, he found good. How inspiring! He and my mom would've really gotten along! :)

Before and After

2008-11-23T22:41:00.010-07:00

I FINALLY found a few before pictures of our house. So, I thought I'd post a few for the out of staters. My mom says they don't do it justice, but it's all I have to show for the months, and technically years, we've put into this house. FYI: The picture of my bedroom is for my sisters who wanted to see what new decor I'd bought.

Living room. - Obviously, we replaced the old fireplace, my uncle put crown molding around all windows and doors, and we replaced almost the entire ceiling... good times.

Kitchen-We shortened the wall into the kitchen so I didn't feel like I was in a cave all day since with the way we eat around here, that's where I spend most of my time. :) We moved and painted the china cabinet and obviously redid everything in the kitchen thanks to the encouragement of Dax's best friend, Sean... the contractor. :)

Master Bed- Didn't do much here but paint the wall to give it a leather effect.

There's a lot to do still... those little things that wouldn't take too much time if you just did them, but you're sick of them, so you don't... like floor boards, some touch-ups, and believe it or not some of our doors in the basement still don't have door knobs. SLACKERS!!! Anyway, I'll post more for fun later.

Bear Lake

2008-11-23T22:26:00.007-07:00

My parents have a condo share at Ideal Beach Resort in Bear Lake. We (thanks, mom and dad for letting us use it) had it last week. So, Dax and I ended up using it. It was a trip totally needed. When I say Dax and I, I mean JUST Dax and I... no children. I was so grateful to my mother-in-law who was willing to come watch the kids for what was supposed to be just Friday night, but we were enjoying ourselves so much, we talked her into staying Saturday night also! The greatest thing about Lynette is that she didn't have to really be talked into anything and even though I know it can be tiring... she called and thanked me Monday for asking her to do that for us. I know the kids had a blast with Grammie, too. Thanks, Lynette!

Not a lot to do this time of year, but we went for a long drive and Dax spotted the Eagle from forever away... I was impressed. We shot off the potato gun for a little afternoon entertainment. The cows delayed our ride home just a little... they would not move... how rude. Finally Dax tried to run them over. :) Not really, but he did practically budge them out of the way with his car. And, just a final shot of how beautiful it was on the way home. We decided to come over Monte Cristo and at 9000 ft, the display was amazing!

Pictures Found

2008-11-10T15:50:00.003-07:00

So, thanks for sympathizing with me, but there's no more need... the pictures have been found! I was lying in bed and thinking how odd it was that a little person was able to delete just the right pictures and not touch any of the birthday or diabetes walk that was still on the camera. So, I checked and voila! My camera card was missing. I'm sorry Millie and Ethan. DAX and KALEB are actually the culprits... glad I didn't point fingers too soon. :) Dax told Kaleb he could use it for the Wii if he put it back. Kaleb has a problem putting back. From now on, the rule is... hands off, thank you! Actually, I'm just grateful I got my pictures back. Funny. They're not as cute as when I thought they were missing, but it makes the posts a little more fun!

Where's Millie and All of my Pictures?

2008-11-10T01:14:00.004-07:00

Well, Millie was under the chair. I could hear some slight squealing from the dining room while cleaning the kitchen and realized Millie had gotten herself stuck under a chair... silly girl. So, what did I do? Took a picture, THEN saved her! She didn't really seem too upset. :)

But, where are all of my pictures? I think that sweet little girl deleted them all this week when she found my camera in her diaper bag. Of course, I hate to point fingers since there were some incriminating pictures taken from a small person. Those photos were taken of Dax, Millie, and Emmett which leaves Ethan or Kaleb. Like I said, I hate to point fingers, but Ethan does get curious... I'll try to refrain from freaking out on anyone. I had written a bunch of posts Nov. 2 (Don't feel like you have to read them now. I only posted them anyway for my own sake.) and thought I'd add the pictures later. So much for that idea. I'm so sad, I just about cried. As you can imagine, I had some pretty good ones on there. Note to self: Download pictures right away in case little fingers get delete button happy. Sad day, but at least Grandma thought to get a Halloween picture of the kids with her "throw away." Better than nothing, I suppose. :(

Movie Quotes

2008-11-09T22:09:00.002-07:00

My friend, Shannon, posted a few quotes on her blog and I thought it was kind of fun to try to guess where they all came from. I was going to reply some of my faves, but the list was starting to get long, so I thought I'd add them to my blog and see if anyone else can guess where they're from. Also, it's fun to hear what your faves are as well.
- "Where you from, boy?" "Oklahoma City, Ok, sir!" "Oklahoma City? Only two thangs come out of Oklahoma. Steers and queers. I don't see any horns on your head so you must be a queer! You a queeeer, boooyy!?"
- "Beautiful, gorgeous, wish you were here!"
- "That ain't no etch-a-sketch. This is one doodle that can't be un-did, homeskillet!"
- "It's ok, kiddo. You're home, you're safe, you're alive! She almost spun to death on the uneven parallel bars!"
- "FREEDOM!!!" (Dax's quote from guess where!)
- "Does this suit make me look fat?" "No. Your face does."
- "You see? That is just like you, Harry. You say things like that, and you make it impossible for me to hate you. "
- "Doctors are sadists who like to play God and watch lesser people scream. "
- "Fester, fester, fester. Rot, rot, rot... You people make my a__ twitch."
- "I want my 2 dollars!!!"

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-02T16:55:00.006-07:00

October 30th was a very busy day. That was my volunteer morning. When I was done volunteering, I came straight home to get Emmett dressed in a costume and take him and Millie to the school Halloween Parade and class party. I was at the school the rest of the day. That gave me 2 hours to get dinner done and my house clean before Marcia and Ben came to dinner. It was a great day!

Halloween night was a beautiful night. The kids didn't even need coats over their costumes which was nice. It did rain a little, but it wasn't bad. We walked around with Zona and Nate and met up with some neighbor friends, Shannon and Jennifer and their kids. If I hadn't been throwing up all day, it wouldn't been perfect! Luckily, the fresh air did me good and I wasn't sick the entire time we walked around. But, the minute I walked through the door, it was time for bed!!! But, not until after I got a kick out of Millie loving all the candy! She's so my daughter!

There are pics, but I'll still just say... Kaleb was a clown (I was surprised that's what he chose, but it stemmed from him being chosen as the class clown in Mrs. Young's class last year), Ethan was the cutest vampire (we painted his hair black and gave him blood running out of his mouth at his begging request and he was still adorable... not scary at all :)), Emmett was a dinosaur (let me paint his face green... again, not scary, just adorable), and Millie was a pink poodle (I managed to get somewhat of a black nose and some freckles on her cheeks).

Grape Juice

2008-11-02T16:42:00.004-07:00

Occasionally, I have a domestic and maybe productive week. Last week was one of those. I got most of the tile done in my basement bathroom shower, finally put blinds up in the downstairs window, made grape juice with my friend Brittany, went to a work meeting, volunteered in the kids' classroom, had my aunt Marcia and uncle Ben over for dinner, and did the Halloween thing! Then I become tired and don't do squat for a couple of weeks. Maybe I'll get something done the week of November 16th or so! :) Anyway, it was fun for Millie. I can't believe there weren't any explosive diapers. The girl ate so many grapes!!! She just kept diggin' in!

Wolf Badge

2008-11-02T16:32:00.005-07:00

Kaleb finally got his Wolf in Cub Scouts. See the Gurr excitement coming through as his dad painted his face? He makes me laugh! He did eventually give a smile or two, but nothing too out of control! :) Only 2 months after his 9th birthday! Lets see if he gets his Bear before he's 12! :)

Dinosaur Park

2008-11-02T16:28:00.006-07:00

The kids had a couple of days of school off for UEA, so we decided to go to the Dinosaur Park since we hadn't been all summer. I'm so never going in the summer again! It was an awesome beautiful fall day. There were no more or no less people than usual, but at least we weren't dying of heat. Plus, they had their Halloween decorations up. I thought bloody (fake) body parts were a bit much hanging out of the dinosaurs' mouths, but of course the boys ate it up! Even Millie seemed to enjoy herself. Dax took time out to go with us and we had a fun family day!

Cold Days and Colder Days

2008-11-02T16:15:00.013-07:00

I'm a little behind at posting my pics. These are from the end of Sept/ beginning of Oct. We had some really cold days and an even colder one Oct. 12 when we woke up for church to like 7 inches of snow!!! But, of course it melted and we've had some rather beautiful fall days. The last week or two have stayed in the 70's, but today has started the downslide. We're expected to have snow by Wednesday and today it's been raining all day. I like snowy Christmases, but that's about it. And even then I only like the snow on the grass. I prefer the roads snowless. Can't have it all, I suppose. I don't do well in the cold, so I'm preparing myself. Maybe I'll take up skiing so it'll give me something to look forward to besides shoveling the driveway! :) P.S Dad was lucky enough to experience the snow with us. Probably not so bad when you get to fly to Vegas the next day! :)

Wednesday Club

2008-11-02T16:07:00.004-07:00

Every Wednesday is short day. I think it's absolutely lame, but I'm sure the teachers love it. It's supposed to be a day for them to catch up and work on teaching plans. The kids get out at 1:20 instead of 3:20. Anyway, since the first of school, Kaleb has put together a club on Wednesdays. The kids are supposed to be meeting at the school park after school to hang out but it's turned out that I usually have extra kids at my house every week... there aren't drinks and treats at the park! I really don't mind, usually. :) The kids are pretty good kids. At first we were getting as many as 9 extra boys here, but it's dwindled to 3-5 every week. I did try to at least have one fun thing for them to do, but they're boys and they would rather play football or basketball. So, since they're boys, I do try to at least have the drinks and treats and then they're on their own for entertainment. It's been fun for them and I like to get to know the boys. Here's a pic of them making cookies for their activity... that one they liked! (Afterall, there was treat involved!) Millie joined in, too... she's no dummie! She knows when a good time is being had! Occasionally, I've had to kick the boys out if it gets to dinner time or something, but for the most part, I think this will be a continued after school Wednesday tradition.

2008-10-23T21:41:00.004-06:00

Around 2:30 Saturday afternoon, my aunt and I decided we wanted to see the 2:45 showing of The Secret Life of Bees. We got a sitter quickly for Millie and her son, Nate (Dax had the boys shootin') and headed off. Sometimes those are the most fun times when you don't plan, you just do. Anyway, it was an AWESOME movie. I really just like inspirational shows and I think this was one. Wear water-proof mascara though... not sad, but dramatic! Whenever I watch a movie about such hateful times, I wonder what I would've been like then. I'm proud of my grandma. She had told me once that she was probably around 12 years old when she was riding the bus one day and there were plenty of seats in the "white" section, but none in the "black" section, so she pointed to a black girl standing in the isle to sit by her. She had to talk her into it and let her know it was all right. My grandma said she got very mean looks, but she didn't care. She knew it was the right thing. She was fortunate. Her parents taught her to love everyone. My grandma grew up on a tobacco farm (go figure!). My great-grandparents treated the black people that worked for them with kindness and so my grandma did the same and I'd like to think the habit has made its way down the line. Back then, my grandma said that a lot of the farmers fed their workers leftovers from their lunch (lunch was a huge feast of fried chicken, potatoes, veggies, pies, rolls, etc. all done in a log burning stove... and I complain about cooking now :)). But, my great-grandma, Kris, cooked the workers their own meals identical to whatever they were having. I'm grateful for that. Even though it was so long ago and I'm sure I've had relatives do things I wouldn't be so proud of, I'm grateful that they were people filled with love and decency. I know because of them, my grandma was made to be one of the most loving and decent people I know. If you've never met her, you're missing out. If you've met her, you'll never forget her or her huge heart (or macaroni 'n cheese or brownies!:)). Because of my ancestors and their examples, I'd like to think I know what I would've been like if I lived in such hateful times.

Birthday Cake

2008-10-07T22:43:00.007-06:00

I was looking at pics and forgot to post the birthday cake incident. As always, I made the cake and wish I'd bought it. I tried to do a sun which turned out to look more like the flowers I tried to make that didn't turn out either. Oh well. Like I said before, it's because my kids like the homemade ones. Anyway, the sequence went something like this...
Millie was curious at first. She tried to play with her 1 year smash cake flower. Fun enough. The candle seemed to itrigue her until...
it lit up. Freaked her out! She wanted nothing more than for Grammie to save her.
Eventually, we got her to taste it and she seemed to realized that it wasn't so scary afterall. Well, at least the inside was a chocolate cake from scratch (recipe on Hershey cocoa box... the best). So, how bad could it be?

Not bad at all, not bad at all! :)

Goin' Private!

2008-10-07T22:39:00.002-06:00

I'm going private as soon as possible. I've just had this feeling for a while that I need to do so. My friend, for all you "open book bloggers" out there, has a brother-in-law who's a police officer. He got her social security number, bank account, birthdays, etc. all off her blog within 24 hrs to prove to her how scary they are. I decided... I have cute kids and who knows what kind of psycho's out there waiting to make one of them his/hers since I'm sure my identity's not worth stealing. Please send me your email addresses if you're interested... mrsgurr@mail.com. I'll send you an invite. "See" ya then!

Diabetes Walk

2008-10-05T23:52:00.007-06:00

Saturday, Sept. 27th, we participated in the diabetes walk for the American Diabetes Association. My kids love it and I feel good doing it. My aunt (the one in the wreck who is, by the way, still in the ICU... prayers welcome) and my sister, Emily have type I and my dad and uncle have type II. So, this is the 4th year we've done it. It starts at the This is the Place Monument and ends up at the Hogle Zoo.

This year the walk took us up around the monument which was way cool! This was the kids (Kaleb, cousin Nate, Ethan, Millie, and Emmett) at the top of the hill overlooking SLC. Very beautiful!

We stopped along the way to take advantage of the cute little school house that was part of the monument set up of old cabins, churches, school, etc. Check out how cute Emmett is! He was loving being in school on a Saturday! Not so sure the other kids were as thrilled. But, Kaleb at least got to appreciate modern day discipline... nothing like holding books behind your back while leaning with your nose against the wall. Although, I thought I might be able to find a corner and an extra book or so at home... wonder what child services would think of that! :)

Dax and Millie at lunch in the zoo.

The kids of course love that it ends in the zoo. Even Millie initiated herself on her 1st walk while bravely petting some very odd looking turtle. All in all, it was a great day until the end when brotherly love wasn't so lovely. But, even with that, I had a good time and I look forward to doing it next year. Anyone interested, keep it in mind! My aunt only hoped to live to be 50 when she was younger, but research has brought diabetes treatment such a long way. She's 59 and even though she had that accident, she's doing relatively well and we're hopeful she'll see 60+! I'm happy we get to help aid in further research even if just a little so that maybe this disease will be completely curable one day!

Happy 1st Birthday, Millie!!!

2008-10-05T22:32:00.014-06:00

Millie turned 1 September 26th! I can hardly believe it. I have no excuses for my pant size!!! Actually, I guess I haven't for a few months now. Oh well. We love having Millie in our family. She's sweet, but can get attitude... typical girl. :) She's definitely Dax's little princess and I'll admit I'm having fun with a girl around, too. The boys haven't gotten sick of her yet. They're always helpful with her and Emmett especially takes very good care of her while the other boys are at school. She's got a slew of protectors... I feel for the first boy she dates for sure! She can say mama, dada, ca-ca (cracker), and of course, NO. She just shakes her head for that, but she uses it at the right times. I can tell she has a good sense of humor, too. She laughs at things she shouldn't even understand. She loves peek-a-boo and pat-a-cakin! She loves to make messes, play with her brothers, chocolate (my daughter), and to sing. Whenever music comes on, she "la, la, las." It's awesome and makes my mother very proud. :) Anyway, I'm just grateful to be her mom!

This was a picture taken through the nursery glass of Dax looking at Millie right after she was born. I just love it. He knew before Emmett was even born that we had a little girl waiting to come join our family. When I called to tell him the dr. said "girl", he just said, "I told you I already knew that." She lights up when he comes into the room and probably always will... his "pretty princess!"

This is my first picture taken with Millie outside of the hospital. It was a candid my sister-in-law, Shalon snapped. I kind of like it. Look how little Mills is! Makes me kind of sad.

I waited 10 years for my mother-in-law to be able to make Millie's
blessing dress from my wedding dress. Yeah!!! It turned out beautifully!

Pics for fun... must take time to learn to do slide show. :)

We love you, Millie!!!

Kiss 'Em Goodbye

2008-09-26T23:59:00.003-06:00

You would think with all we've been through as a family, losing Dax's dad so tragic and suddenly, we might be more aware of how fragile life can be. You would think when we walked out the door every time we would tell each other we love each other and give hugs and kisses. Maybe it was like that at first, but then the hussle and bussle of everything finds me running out the door with hardly a goodbye. I'm going to be better at that. You never know when your time will be up and wouldn't it be so sad if the last time you ran to the grocery store and something, heaven for bid happens, you maybe yelled at the kids to get in the house or failed to give those xxx's and ooo's. You see, these are the photos of my aunt's car accident that were posted in today's paper.

She hit a dump truck head on, flipped over it to another truck, and then proceeded to run head on with another car after she spun out several times. This was what was left of her Toyota. It seems she may have had a low insuline reaction from her diabetes. It was ironic that it happened just 2 days before we are going to "step out" for diabetes. This is our 4th year walking to raise money for diabetes research and awareness. Thank heavens no one was hurt worse than they were or even killed. Alice suffered a really bad broken arm (3 breaks that required surgery), a broken vertebrae, and a broken scapula. Other than some serious aches and pains, she's going to be just fine. We love you, Alice and are glad you're going to better soon!

Anyway, love your kids and your husband (or wife) all the time. Kiss 'em goodbye. I know I'm going to try to be better at it. Not to sound so down, but you just never know. And, so you know... I love you all, too! :) I'm thankful for your love and friendship. Good night!

Bye. Bye, football!

2008-09-15T00:34:00.003-06:00

I just came across this cute picture of Kaleb in his football workout gear. He looks so cute. But, cuteness aside, he chose to quit. We didn't want him to think he could just quit because it was hard, so we made him keep going and even play 2 games. He cried almost every day before practice!!! Finally, after seeing my neighbor's son on a Monday with bruises all over him after a Friday night game I caved and talked Dax into caving with me. Well, it may have happened a little differently, but at least it's over. We told him he had to be the one to tell his coach. He gladly did and the kid was never happier. Next time, he's paying the $75 sign-up fee. Other than that, I'm thrilled it's over if at least just for now. He's playing soccer and loving it. Practice only 1x a week, no coaches screaming in your face, no kids tackling on purpose, and smiles on Saturday... That makes for a happy mom, too!

Dedication of Utah Law Enforcement Memorial

2008-09-15T00:07:00.010-06:00

This is the entire (well almost... Shalon had a little boy Sept. 11) Gurr clan at the placement of Cecil's (my father-in-law) name on the memorial of fallen officers Sept. 5th, 2008. We met there Friday night to have an inidividual moment to place the plaque and then Saturday was the actual dedication. It's a beautiful site that sits close to the State Capitol bldg. It's good because it gives the kids a chance to learn about their grandpa and what a hero he is and it gives others an opportunity to reflect, I hope, on what a sacrifice our public safety officers make on our behalf everyday they go to work.

Saturday morning was beautiful. We got there a bit early and Kaleb and his cousin, Keston, had the opportunity to shake President Boyd K. Packer's hand. He and gave the benediction and dedicated the site. We sat next to his son who is a policeman in Orem and his wife... nice, nice people! Anyway, there was an amazing spirit there.

Gov. Huntsman said a few words, too. It was short and sweet and very appropriate.

2008-09-14T23:53:00.004-06:00

O.K. I've been a major slacker with the bloggin thing. I either spend all my time checkin' other people's blogs or it's like journal writing and I don't know where to begin because it's been so long! I'll try to get better, but Dax stole my camera for work 'cause he broke his so we'll have to see how that works. Anyway, here are the pics I have of Kaleb and Ethan's birthday cake... from August! (I mentioned to Celeste I would post 'em.) I got lazy and didn't even take the cake out of the pan, but they still loved it. :) My sister and I sculpted Mario, Luigi, and Bowser out of fondant. We were at Bear Lake when we celebrated, so Mario and Luigi are on the beach and they've buried Bowser in the sand. It's hard to see, but this is the best I could do. Hard to believe they're 9 and 7 now! I feel old. :) But, I'm glad to be old with two such awesome boys! Except for the occasional tantrum that reminds me they are still little sometimes, I feel especially blessed that they're growing up to be such studs!

As if...

2008-09-01T13:40:00.002-06:00

As if I have nothing better to do with my time, I've become a facebook junky during the last couple of days. My sisters, Mary and Emily have accounts so I originally only signed up to view them. But, I must say it's kind of fun to look up people you haven't seen in a while. I grew up all over the mid-west and in Vegas, so it's been fun to reconnect. Anyways, this might be worse than the Twilight series because it never ends. Sorry about the dishes, Dax. I'm facebooking! :)

Millie's Sooo Happy

2008-09-01T13:13:00.004-06:00

The funny thing about these pictures is that you don't see what a nightmare it was trying to take them . Millie's my happy baby, usually, but by the time we tried to shoot these, she was a tired baby bear! Oh well. We still managed a few cute ones. Thanks, Shalon!!!

The painful reality of that day...! :)

Grandpa Came For a Visit

2008-08-30T16:39:00.009-06:00

We love grandpa Morley, but he rarely just stops by. In fact, I can maybe count on one hand the number of times he has. But, today he was out driving around and said he just had to stop by and see "his Millie". The other kids were bonus. When Millie heard his voice she immediately crawled out of the bedroom to get hugs and kisses. I thought it was so cute how when I was trying to get a cute pic of him with the kids, he couldn't stop looking/smiling at them long enough for me to actually take the darn thing. Finally, after a few tries we shot one.

He's such a clown! I have always loved his sense of humor and his honesty... although brutal at times. :) He's the biggest sports fan ever!!! He has played, coached, reffed, umped, or watched anything you can name from women's badmitton to BYU football, of course. (For those of you who don't know, he has a BYU room, a huge statue of a cougar to boot, a coffin already ordered and paid for with BYU lining, a #1 fan deal from KSL?, I think, and the list goes on and on. We felt very special to think that after much deliberation he attended Kaleb's baptism instead of the home BYU game he had initially planned on for that date.) He has a big, big heart... he always means well anyway. :) I could continue on about my grandpa and how he bought cheap flowers for my grandma from a guy whom he later found out was a grave robber or how he tried to change Ethan's diaper, while babysitting no less, for me to find it backwards and halfway down his legs later that night. :) But, maybe later. Though obviously not perfect (ask grandma), I wouldn't change a thing!

He's a convert to the church and has been a faithful member ever since. He worked several jobs and moved his entire family, wife & 4 kids, here from PA to take them through the Salt Lake Temple to be sealed. He stayed here to be where he thought his family should be raised. He's pretty sure if you are a member, it's sac-relig to not cheer for... you guessed it! BYU!!! :) He now works at the temple. I'm grateful to be a part of his legacy. I love you, Grandpa!!! Thanks for stopping by!

School Is In!!!

2008-08-25T22:25:00.006-06:00

*I am trying to figure out how to retrieve my summer pics
from the comp Dax revamped for working out of his home
office. Then, I'll update on our summer fun. Until then...

For the last 2 weeks, I have been counting down until the day the boys go back to school. I seriously just couldn't take anymore fighting and nagging. They were just getting bored and it was time they got back into a routine... I'm not so good at that without motivation. But, this morning as I watched Ethan take off on his scooter to 1st grade and Kaleb on his bike to 3rd, I got a little sad. They're growing up so fast. :(

Then again (and I hope I don't sound terrible), they only had a short day and by 9pm when they were still not in bed and reading (my fault, sort of, but none the less) still wasn't done and they wouldn't settle down for scriptures, I smiled at the thought that tomorrow they go back! :) So, though I may miss them a little in those short 8 hours each day, I just might adjust. And hopefully/probably the absence will make the heart grow fonder and with any luck, the mom grow more patient.

Millie and Grandpa Mac

2008-07-16T09:21:00.009-06:00

I just love these pics of Millie and my dad. Notice how she's hanging onto his hand... so sweet!

Gift #2

2008-07-16T09:07:00.002-06:00

Here was another gift for dad. This corner of the yard has been just a pooping ground for the dog (R.I.P. Charlie). But, Mary had the idea of turning it into a gathering place. Notice the kids' artwork for the backdrop. It was fun to do S'mores. Look forward to that being a new family tradition!

A Gift Gone Right

2008-07-15T15:01:00.004-06:00

My dad is hard to buy for because he has a tendancy to get what he wants when he finds something he wants. So, I try hard to get him something he might not have thought of. Every once in a while, it goes the way I hope like when we got him a remote control fart machine, or a "Christmas Story" leg lamp, or a CD with a song that's made for him.

O.K. So, when my sister and I started dating, my dad began interrogating our dates in a joking manner by showing them his gun collection and giving him a "fatherly chat". No harm was done. We frequently went on second dates and no one ever got hurt. :) Only one time did a parent get offended because he was afraid his son only got the attention because he wasn't LDS. We assured him my dad was non-denominational when it came to his guns. So, I heard this country song called "Cleanin' This Gun" by Rodney Atkins and felt it would be an appropriate gift for my dad. Well, during Father's Day dinner he mentions he ran into a boy Mary used to date and he had told him how my dad's "talk" still rang in his ears to this day and how he remembered the guns. It couldn't have been a more perfect set-up for my gift and I hadn't even told anyone about it. So, here's my dad in anticipation to hear the song.

Here's dad's reaction to the chorus (Jimmy wasn't as entertained... maybe if he has a daughter of his own someday. :)): "Come on in boy sit on down And tell me about yourself. So you like my daughter do you now? Yeah we think she's something else. She's her daddy's girl, Her momma's world, She deserves respect That’s what she'll get, Ain’t it son? Hey y'all run along and have some fun. I'll see you when you get back. Bet I’ll be up all night Still cleanin' this gun!" Perfect!!!

Love ya, Dad! I look forward to seeing Dax's first date tactics for Millie. Although with 3 big brothers, he may get to sit back and watch. :)

Jimmy Graduated!!!

2008-07-15T14:50:00.004-06:00

We drove down to Vegas June 11 so we could attend the actual graduation (we weren't sure it would really happen :)) of my baby brother, Jimmy. I couldn't see much as far as faces go from where we were sitting at the Thomas and Mack Center, but I knew right away when my brother walked in because of his strut. And I wonder where Kaleb gets it from. :)

Afterall, he is his mother's son!

2008-06-03T22:10:00.003-06:00

Sunday was fast Sunday, of course, and Kaleb said Dax must really hate fast Sundays. Dax said they're not too bad and asked when he thought he might start fasting himself. Kaleb's reply: "I don't know. I just really LOVE food!" Thought it was funny and so typical.

Waiting

2008-05-29T14:23:00.003-06:00

Poor Emmett. He stood there patiently waiting his turn. But in the meantime, Kaleb got the line stuck up in a big tree and Ethan's pole broke. I had to get Millie out of there because the land was starting to feel mosquito infested. He walked away like a champ with no whining or tantrums about his turn or lack of one. What a sweet boy!

Fake Worms are Best

2008-05-29T14:10:00.009-06:00

Kaleb didn't love it either. After he dealt with the worm thing once, he decided to move on to fake worms out of his "fishin' kids" set. I was a little proud. :) O.k. more relieved! It gives me hope that Millie and I won't be chased around anytime soon with live creatures! :)

Ethan and the Worm

2008-05-29T13:53:00.012-06:00

Ethan had no problem applying the live worm to the hook... boys! I don't understand that. :) Well, he didn't love it, but he did it.

Fishin' Not in the Dark

2008-05-29T13:47:00.003-06:00

I love that Dax takes the boys with him to scouts now and then. They just love it! Yesterday, I hung out with 'em for a bit when I dropped Kaleb off to meet up with them. It's fun to see them "play." Dax hates fishing by the way (Dax can't sit). But, it's a father/son bonding thing so he occasionally entertains the boys with it. The first time he and I went fishing while camping he got so bored after about 10 minutes that he tied a steak knife to a stick and spent the remainder of the time trying to spear the fish. :) Personally, I'm grateful. I don't have to share him with sports, hunting, or fishing too often. I'm selfish that way. Sorry, off on a tangent. Well, here's the crew.

Bath Time

2008-05-29T13:43:00.002-06:00

Today was Millie's first bath in the big tub! How odd. I wonder why I waited so long. The boys were in the big bath long before now. Maybe since I know she's the last, I'm dragging out every milestone as long as she'll let me. Didn't think I'd be that way, but... Anyway, I don't think she loved it. This was the most excited I could get her to be and in between takes she looked more nervous than anything. We dried her off shortly after. :)

2008-05-27T22:13:00.002-06:00

Okay, I don't usually do these things, but I thought it'd be fun to get Dax's answers, too. So, his are in blue and mine are in red. Here it goes...

-Four places I go over and over.
1. work/ closet for diapers
2. home/ laundry room
3. work/ kitchen
4. home/ Wal Mart (it's a sickness, really.)

-Four people who email me most.
1. work people/ LDS Gems
2. grandma/ LTD Commodities
3. mom/ family (mostly Mary)
4. ?/ friends (mostly Heather Bracewell)

-Four of my favorite foods.
1. pork chops/ chocolate
2. milk and cookies/ Italian
3. cherries/ Cafe Rio
4. watermelon/ Zona's chicken and rice

-Four places I'd rather be.
1. Mexico/ I'd have to agree. AHHH! "Beautiful, gorgeous, wish (I was there)!"
2. Ireland/ New York
3. Montana/ anywhere fun with my family
4. Alaska/ in size 8 jeans. :) O.k... I'd settle for a 10 or even a comfortable 12! :)

-Four movies I'd watch over and over.
1. Braveheart/ French Kiss
2. Dumb and Dumber/ The Wedding Planner
3. Miami Vice -complete 5 season edition/ Pride and Prejudice
4. The Untouchables/ While You Were Sleeping

We're tagging Tara and Greg, Nicole and Jared, Mary and Steve, mom and dad

Millie Had Fun

2008-05-24T16:50:00.004-06:00

I forgot to say that at least Millie had a lot of fun at Grandma Morley's while I was in the middle of the cake fiasco. She was playing in the sink while grandma was curling her hair when I went to pick her up. She seems to be loving it! Don't you just want to eat her up!?!!

(Look closely. Just noticed, but that's not her ear. :) It's her ear blending in with the countertop. Kind of funny though!)

Kids Say the Darndest Things

2008-05-24T16:47:00.002-06:00

My friend, Nicole's little girl told her she smells like sunshine, which she and I both consider a compliment. Ethan wanted to sit on my lap during scripture reading the other night because I'm "comfy." Compliment? Not so sure. :) I just had to laugh!

Cake Malfunction

2008-05-24T16:16:00.006-06:00

So, here is what my kitchen looked like after an entire morning in it attempting to make my mother-in-law a fun birthday cake for her big 6-0! Sadly, the hours were wasted when in the end, I had nothing but a clump of cake and frosting to decorate the inside of my garbage can!

This was the sad cake after Kaleb and I attempted to move it from the counter to a plate to carry it on... stupid, stupid, stupid. Big lesson learned... must decorate 50 lb. cake on plate to be served on. :) Doesn't look so bad here, but the back side was torn out.

With a little saving grace, the cake might have had potential, but in the end it just kept getting worse. I tried to add caramel to a layer and overdid it. So, the frosting wouldn't stick well and just kept sagging a little more and more with time. Sorry, Lynette. Hope Dax picked ya out a good one at the grocery store! :) ... Maybe next year!

Bragging Rights?!

2008-05-23T09:30:00.004-06:00

What's that quote about saying everyone's special is just another way of saying no one's special? That's sort of how I felt as I sat at Kaleb's "Award Ceremony" Wednesday. Not that the kids aren't really special, it's just that it got annoying to hear every kid miraculously got just about every award. Although Kaleb did receive a few that he had to actually work for and only a hand full of kids got... Principal's Honor Award, Outstanding Penmanship (we take what we can get), and No Screen Week (he made it an entire week without watching t.v. or playing video/computer games... harder on the parents than the kids:))! Anyway, the kids had to sing the parents a song and this was Kaleb's reaction to the whole ordeal. Let me note this is about what he looked like during the Mother's Day primary performance when he was supposed to be singing with love and enthusiasm for his mother all the while holding a sunshine cutout :). Friends commented days later on how they were still getting a chuckle from it when thinking of my poor, tortured son leaning over the pulpit as if he might just die!!! Gotta love it! What'd I say...? Too cool!!! Well, just had to brag.?:)

A Nap and Some Tennis Shoes

2008-05-20T13:58:00.002-06:00

I can't seem to function on a productive level past 2pm unless I've had a nap and I put my running shoes on. Strange?! If I'm feeling not so motivated, as I am most days, I allow myself a 10-20 min. booster nap while Millie's napping, put on my running shoes and I'm good to go. It also helps if I have a coke zero and some comfy clothes on, but that's not necessary. So, here I am at 2:01pm with sandals on and Millie took her nap in the car... the prognosis of my kitchen's (and the rest of the house for that matter) future state isn't looking too good!

Expansion on the Shuttle Bus

2008-05-19T11:25:00.003-06:00

Mom wasn't aware of the shuttle bus info in my bio. I'm sure she is, just maybe forgot.? Dax and I had psychology together, but never even gave a simple "hello" in class. In fact, all I ever thought about him was how funny it was that he would get off at the 1st shuttle bus stop and run all the way down to the Social Science building so he wouldn't be late to class. I usually walked in shortly after him while riding the bus all the way around campus to the building... (lazy even back then!) Anyway, one day around finals he introduced himself at the shuttle bus stop and asked if I wanted to study with him and a small group. I said maybe and later declined because I did better on my own. I didn't talk to him again (not on purpose, just no real comfortable opportunity) until the next quarter had begun. We ran into each other at the shuttle bus stop again. I think it was a Wednesday and he asked me out for Friday. The rest as they say... :)!

Where's Emmett?

2008-05-19T11:19:00.003-06:00

Noticed I hadn't added a pic of Emmett. This is obviously when I finally got him to walk away from the chocolate covered pretzels and cheese crackers grandma brought to play for a bit. Don't think that's really a swing, but it was just his size! That kid is so funny... way too much like his mom. We were outside playing yesterday and realized Emmett hadn't come out of the house for a while. When we found him, he was on the counter eating all of the fudge striped cookies that were left from the day before! What a stinker.

Future Princess?

2008-05-19T11:09:00.006-06:00

I told you she loves her big brothers. When they're paying any attention to her, she couldn't be happier!!! They're not too sad to pay attention to her either. :)

2008-05-19T11:05:00.003-06:00

Sunday was just hangin' out at home after church, as usual. My favorite day of the week, actually! The one day I can get Dax to just sit. :) Millie finally got to wear her dress. It's the first thing I bought her when I found out I was having a girl. I think I was nervous to jinx anything so I waited until I was about 6 1/2 mos. and in Mexico to get it. The weather hasn't been nice enough, but yesterday was awesome. I had to take it in because I think she'll only be able to wear it once. It was a perfect fit and at the rate she's growing, it wouldn't fit her tomorrow. :(

2008-05-19T11:03:00.001-06:00

Millie loves to be outside. She just sat there happy as could be!

Goal Kick!

2008-05-19T11:00:00.003-06:00

I love how into this goal kick Ethan got! He played hard Saturday. I can't wait to see him next year because he gets a little more assertive each year. He's so fast! When he gets a little more confident out there, he'll kick the soccer ball and SERIOUS BUTT!

Bye bye, Soccer!... at least for now.

2008-05-19T10:57:00.003-06:00

Saturday morning was full of soccer!!! We like the kids to expend energy, but we'll be glad to have Saturdays back. We usually couldn't get projects or anything else going 'til after 1pm.

Kaleb played first. He's showing off his moves here. He's getting pretty good!

2008-05-19T10:55:00.001-06:00

This was the one shot Kaleb would allow me to take. He's too cool, ya know?

2008-05-19T10:52:00.004-06:00

Millie had a lot of fun just playing with Grandma and watching the kids. Love the outfit!!! ("Love, the hair, love the shoes, love the bag, love it...- guess what movie... may have misquoted a bit:)") Anyway, thanks, Betsy!

A Day at the Park (and almost a night, too:))

2008-05-19T10:45:00.005-06:00

O.k. So, my friend Jenny told me the thing about blogging was going to be that I would start to think of everything like, "Hey! I could blog that!" So true. So, here is what we did this weekend. Friday, I went to the park with Grandma Morley, Zona, Nathan, Rilee, Kaleb, his friend Colton E., Ethan, his friend Dawson, Emmett, and Millie. It was so beautiful and the kids were doing so well, we stayed for about 3 hours! One of the REAL soccer players was there with his niece, whom Kaleb and Colton knew, so he showed them some cool tricks! Grandma spoiled the kids with lots of treats, so I had to coax Emmett away from the snack table. All in all, it was a lovely evening!

Let the fun begin!

2008-05-16T12:27:00.003-06:00

I've done it! I've decided to dive into the world of blogging. I haven't gotten far yet, but I'll try to learn quickly. The info to the right is a little introduction to the fam. Let me first clarify that the nicknames were appointed by their father. I do not care for cutesy nicknames, but somehow, these seem to have stuck with them. Anyway, here goes nothing!