The Blake Gang

My Boys

2012-01-05T17:13:00.002-07:00

Yep ... I pretty much LOVE these guys!

I am so lucky to be Mom to such fun, smart, GOOD kids. They have their moments - but what kids don't.

I love you, Parker and Caleb!!!

Mormon Message - Santicgy Yourself

2011-10-25T09:38:00.001-06:00

Of course this story made me cry.
Love my Football boys!

http://lds.org/pages/mormon-messages-gallery?lang=eng&cid=facebook-shared#sanctify-yourselves

Visiting the Witches

2011-10-23T18:43:00.002-06:00

We made our annual trip to see the Witches at Gardner Village. Caleb got a cool new lightsaber to help us find our way in the dark.

He also found a new friend ....

What a fun Family Night!

Happy Halloween!!!!

Saturday

2011-10-03T21:10:00.003-06:00

My heart was so full this past Saturday.

Saturday was the first walk in Salt Lake City held by the Childrens Tumor Foundation in support of Neurofibromatosis. I have been volunteering and helping prepare for the walk but had planned all along to have to miss the walk itself as we knew it would be during Parker's football game. However, the closer the walk got, the more I felt I really needed to take Caleb and let him participate.

As many of you know, Sunday, October 2nd, was our sweet daughter, Bailey's, birthday. She would have been 3 years old. In honor of her birthday, Parker's football team was planning to wrap their cleats in purple tape for their game. We were all so excited. I really wanted to be at the game to support Parker (if you have followed Bailey's Journey you know that Parker is the one that has really struggled - and still does - with the loss of his little Sister). In addition to the expected emotions of the weekend thinking of my baby girl, the emotions of the "unknown" of what will happen with Caleb and NF, being very worried about Chris who had been in the Hospital the day before with chest pains, etc, I was struggling so much with having two very important places to be at the same time. This is where the blessings begin.

I finally made the decision that we would go to Parker's game. I was still feeling bad because I wanted Caleb to be able to participate in the walk, but I also knew that there would be other opportunities and, honestly, he really didn't understand what the walk was and what it was for anyway. Still - I felt very emotional about my decision. My beautiful niece, Heather, and her Princess friends (they do Princess Parties) had graciously volunteered their time to come to the walk and visit with the kids for "entertainment". When I called her to give her the name of the person she would need to look for since I would not be going to the walk, she asked if she could take Caleb with her and the Princesses. Such a sweet thing to do with an already full plate and such a weight off of my shoulders. Maybe everyone could get to where they needed/wanted to be after all. Caleb went with the Princesses, had a great time at the walk, and then my Dad picked him up after and kept him until I could get finished at the Football game. Like I always say .. what would we do without family?

Next event causing my heart to overflow ... the Football game. Unfortunately, the tape that we had called and had held at Sports Authority did not end up being what we had asked for. When we got there late Friday night to pick it up, it was too late to do anything about it. However, Chris took what we had to the game Saturday morning and between him and some of the other Parents, all of the boys had their arms wrapped with purple in honor of Bailey. What a great feeling! Again - for those of you that have followed Baileys Journey, you know how much of a part Parker's Football Team played the year we lost Bailey. They were AWESOME! Football is such a family to us. This is one of the reasons why I get so emotional at Football Season. I had been so looking forward to having my little cheerleader with me at all of Parker's games. She was going to help me yell for him .. she was going to be his good luck charm. I miss that so much but Parker knows that she is watching from Heaven - yelling at him to "Work Hard" just like Caleb does from the sidelines. Having the Coach give Parker a chance to tell his new team mates about his little Sister at the Pep Rally on Friday night and then having them all wear the purple for the game meant so much to our family.
And it didn't stop there ..
Within the first 5 minutes of my arriving at the game, one of the other players Moms came up to me and gave me a big hug. How could she know how much I needed that? It meant the World to me. Someone that I hardly know (this is a new Team and we are still getting to know the other Parents), showing this friendly gesture. So much appreciated!
The game was rough .. we knew it might be a tough one .. and we ended up losing 19 - 0.
Parker played his best, though, and did end up winning 2 of the Coach awards at the end of the game. Again - something that made my heart so full and my tears stream down my cheeks.
I am sure that everyone thought I was crazy to cry over my boys awards .. but that was just one piece of my emotional puzzle. It wasn't about the awards - all the boys played hard and were just as deserving ... it was that there was a little bit of happiness in my boys day that day - and that is what mattered to me.

All of these little acts of kindness made this usually unbearable day a great day for me. Was it emotional? Yes. Did I still struggle at times? Yes. Do we all still miss our sweet little Bailey? OF COURSE! But we are healing .. and it is getting easier. And we have our Friends and Family to thank for that.
We love you all! Thank you!

My new home?

2011-10-03T21:08:00.002-06:00

I am in the kitchen tonight and Caleb comes and gives me a big hug. This is how the conversation goes from there ...

Caleb: "When are you going to get old?"
Me:
Caleb: "I mean .. you are already old, but when are you going to get REALLLLLY old and die?"

Hmmm .. think he is going to be putting me in a home soon?
I love my kids!!!

Think he's sexy?

2011-09-05T17:41:00.001-06:00

Louisville, KY - May/June 2011

TIDAL WAVE !!!!!

2011-09-05T17:38:00.001-06:00

Swimming at the pool in Louisville, KY - May/June 2011

Caleb and the Rockin' Robys

2011-09-05T16:59:00.004-06:00

While we were at Mamaw's in Louisville in May/June 2011, Aunt Starla and Natasha taught Caleb how to boogie with the Wii. Way fun!

2011-09-05T16:49:00.003-06:00

We went to Louisville, KY at the end of May 2011 for Papaw Paulin's funeral. The boys had so much fun swimming together at the Hotel in the evenings.

Happy 11th Birthday, Parker!

2011-08-20T08:47:00.013-06:00

A little football, video games, presents, food, and most importantly .. friends!

Buddy Peterson, Caleb Blake, Seth Villagomez, Noah Chesley, Ryver Roskelley, Parker Blake, Scott Lovato, Jared Laster, Nick Condra, Brennan Bone, Tanner Isbell, Cayden Meitchen, Will Hatch, Braden Hansen, Zach Condra

Parker - Webelos

2011-08-20T08:42:00.002-06:00

On July 26, 2011 Parker earned his Webelo, Arrow of Light, and Religious Knot. They had a very special ceremony for him. It was a great night!

This is a picture of his Leader, Sister Hubbell, who helped push him and get everything finished up in time. THANK YOU!

I'm their Mommy!

2011-05-05T22:05:00.004-06:00

With Mothers Day coming up I thought I would show off my awesome kids. They are so different from one another but so special and amazing in their own ways. I am so lucky to be "Mommy" to each and every one of them.

I love you all!

Parker Jacob Baldwin Blake was born on July 18, 2000. I have always been teased because he has such a "big" name. Well, it is fitting for such a big boy. He has always been big for his age and has a heart to go with his size. He is the most caring boy you have ever met. He will do anything for anyone and is loyal beyond what most "Tweens" could even comprehend. He truly understands compassion and service and is an excellent example of both.

Caleb William Blake was born September 20, 2006. Opposite his brother, Caleb has always been a little small for his age. However, his personality makes up for it! He has a HUGE smile, a contagious laugh, and a hug that could squeeze ANYONE tight. He loves his Brother more than anything in the World and wants to do anything he does. Caleb is quite a comedian and entertains everyone around him with his jokes, his stories, or just his funny faces. He is such an affectionate little guy!

Bailey Grace Blake is our sweet little Angel who was born on October 2, 2008 and passed away on October 4, 2008. She was loved by so many people even before she was born. She has truly made an impact on people all over the World who have heard her story and felt touched by her sweet Spirit. Our family talks about Bailey often and will never forget what an important part of our family she is. We love you Bailey and look forward to being together with you again someday.

*** Parker and Calebs photos taken by Abbey Kyhl from AK Studio. Bailey's pic taken by Julie Williams - courtesy of NILMDTS. ***

Orange Tigers soccer

2011-05-05T21:48:00.003-06:00

Caleb seems to have finally figured soccer out. As many of you will remember - past soccer seasons have been what we have described as "painful" to watch. Whether it was Caleb sitting on the sidelines with his ears covered, running down the field AWAY from the ball, or just plain refusing to go out on the field, it has NOT been a fun experience. I was seriously considering not letting him play again. I almost signed him up for baseball. But he said he wanted soccer so I decided to give it ONE MORE TRY. Well, I am sure glad I did. He actually ran right out there the first practice and is actually quite good. He can dribble the ball - he has AMAZING ball control for a 4 year old - and he is FAST! They won their first game 5 - 2 and Caleb made 4 of those goals (3 for us and 1 for them - HA). Anyway .. looks like this should be a much more fun experience - if we could just play some games instead of having them cancelled for snow every week! GO ORANGE TIGERS!

A Picture A Day - August 2005

2011-04-27T22:15:00.002-06:00

Parker (5 years old) on the 4wheeler at Grandpa and Grandma's cabin at Fairview Lakes, Utah.

A Picture A Day - April 2010

2011-04-27T22:12:00.002-06:00

I haven't downloaded my pictures from this years bday celebration yet so I thought this was a fitting "Picture A Day" from Memory Lane for today. This is Chris's bday last year.

Happy 39th THIS year, Chris! Love you!

A Picture A Day - December 2005

2011-04-21T19:54:00.001-06:00

Parker before his first snowboarding lesson at Brighton in December 2005.

Picture A Day - Easter 2010

2011-04-18T19:12:00.002-06:00

Little Bunny Foo Foo!

Picture A Day - August 31, 2008

2011-04-17T19:34:00.000-06:00

My two favorite boys having a "sleepover" in the TV Room. They love spending time with each other and Parker is such a good big Brother to Caleb. Love you guys!

HAVOC Football

2011-04-13T16:45:00.004-06:00

Another great picture of Parker taken by Dave Collard of Capture It. Even with Parker going in for this tackle, the boys ended up with a loss that week. We'll get 'em next week, boys!

Picture A Day - Hawaii January 2009

2011-04-13T16:39:00.002-06:00

Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center. We got to spend a fun Anniversary while on a trip to Hawaii with our "Allied family" in January 2009. A little R&R after a stressful 2008.

More Memory Lane - A Picture A Day

2011-04-12T19:37:00.000-06:00

OK - apparently I struggle to put multiple pictures on a blog post and make it look good. SOOOO .. I am going to continue our little trip down memory lane by posting a picture a day and telling about it. Boring for most of you - probably, but it's my blog and we want to take this trip - HA! ENJOY!

Memory Lane ..

2011-04-04T22:03:00.014-06:00

Last night I was sitting with the boys and we were looking at all of the old pictures on my computer. OK, so just because I am a little behind on their scrapbooks doesn't mean we can't have "memory lane" nights, right?

We had so much fun - until my battery died because my laptop wasn't plugged in. :)

Anyway .. I am going to share a few of our favorites over the next few posts. Hope you enjoy our trip down memory lane as much as we did.

Awww .. such sweet boys. Parker and Caleb - Christmas 2006 (Parker 6 years old, Caleb 2 months old)

My Football Boys - September 2008 (Parker - 8 yrs old, Caleb - 2 years old)

Throwing/Skipping rocks at Grandpa and Grandma's cabin - 24th of July weekend 2010.

Parker and Dad - Huntington Canyon above Fairview Lakes - 24th of July weekend 2010.

Updated "old" posts

2011-03-31T18:38:00.001-06:00

I told people that I had updated and added some older pics and posts but they keep telling me they can't find them. I guess I should have pointed out that I put them in chronological order so you have to look down into September/October .. but they are there! Thanks for reading!

HAVOC vs Xtreme Black

2011-03-26T23:31:00.002-06:00

Third game of the season ended in a loss (33 - 8). The boys were a little "off" today but we will make a comeback. GO HAVOC!

It's time for some HAVOC!

2011-03-13T23:21:00.003-06:00

The HAVOC Indoor Football Season has begun. First game was last Saturday. We lost 19 - 6 but there is plenty of time for a comeback! Go HAVOC!

** Thanks to Dave Collard from Capture It for the picture. You ROCK!

My Dad

2011-02-23T21:06:00.002-07:00

I have always, always, ALWAYS been a "Daddy's Girl". Does this mean that we have always gotten along perfectly and I have always done everything right and we have always been best friends? Umm .. Nope. But I have always had a special relationship with my Dad. I could go on and on with stories about time I have spent with my Dad, things we have done together,conversations we have had, etc, but that's not what I wanted to talk about tonight. What I wanted to share with all of you is what an amazing Man my Daddy is. My Dad likes to tell everyone that he is such a "grumpy old Man" but that is so not true. He says he is "set in his ways" but that isn't even true (ok - maybe about SOME things but I think you are entitled to that by the time you are in your late 70's). My Dad is one of the most giving, compassionate people I know. Not only has my Dad always been there to help me when I needed it (even sometimes when I didn't want to admit I needed it), but he has helped numerous others from the neighborhood, Ward, etc all throughout his life. Both of my Parents have always willingly served others which taught all of our family to do the same. But what I find even more amazing is the unconditional love and service he gives to my Mom. No matter how hard things get, my Dad does whatever is necessary to take care of the Wife that he has loved for over 50 years. I'm not even exactly sure what I wanted to say when I started this blog entry, but I just have so much admiration and respect for all that my Dad does. As my Mom's health has continued to decline, my Dad continues to do whatever necessary to help her and make her comfortable. Things are not always easy. It is not easy to watch some of the things that she has to go through. It is not easy to have to get her in and out of the car to go to the Hospital for her medication every day. But my Dad does it - no matter how he feels, how tired he is, how bad the weather is, whatever - he just does it.
I am sure he will not be happy that I put this blog post out so I have not gone into too much detail but I wanted EVERYONE to know what a very special man my Dad is.
I love you so much, Dad. Thanks for being you!

Missed me?

2011-02-18T01:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I have really been a slacker on my blogging, haven't I? Part of the reason is just plain lack of motivation but things have also been pretty crazy busy around here the last month or so. No matter the reason, though, I am publicly (ok, as publicly as my blog gets) making the commitment to do better. Not only am I going to update with the Blake family going-ons but I AM going to go buy a new cord for our camera so I can download the last years worth of pictures and get them on here. Here's to lots of catching up over the next several days.

Happy Holidays from The Blakes!

2010-12-12T21:37:00.002-07:00

Photos by Abbey Khyl - AK Studio and Design: www.abbeykyhl.com

Cornbellys - October 2010

2010-10-31T23:48:00.018-06:00

We had a fun family adventure at Cornbellys again. We all agree that this needs to be one of our annual family traditions each Fall. We had fun watching Parker ride the mechanical bull, playing on the slides and haystacks, moseying on through the corn maze, watching the pig races, and much much more. Nothing better than family time!

Brothers headin' in for some fun!

Welcome to Cornbellys!

Jumpin' off of haystacks!

Fun on the train!

Ride 'em Cowboy Parker!

Soccer - Fall 2010

2010-10-31T23:34:00.000-06:00

Well, this season of Soccer went a little better for Caleb. (At least he was able to keep his pants up this time!) Good job, Fireballs!

Congratulations, Parker!

2010-08-14T17:13:00.002-06:00

Tryouts for Herriman Ute Conference FINALLY ended last night and the draft took place.

Parker got his call just after 10 PM. He made the A1 Team!!! Congratulations! You worked hard and you deserve it.

GO HERRIMAN - MUSTANG PRIDE!

A Few Questions

2010-08-10T11:44:00.002-06:00

Another song that I love!
Everyone must face challenges .. we all just get different ones. No matter what we are given to face, we need to remember there are others out there going through things just as tough.
Our trials are chosen for us by someone who knows we can make it through them and we can't give up.

JUST A FEW QUESTIONS
(Ray Scott/Phillip Moore/Adam Wheeler, sung by Clay Walker)

How in this world can we put a man on the moon,
And still have a need for a place like St Jude's?
And why is one man born,
In a place where all they know is war?
An' a guy like me,
Has always been free.

An' how can two people who built a lovin' home,
Try for years an' never have a child of their own?
When somewhere out there tonight,
There's a baby no-one's holdin' tight:
In need of love.
To me, that don't add up.

But I wasn't there the day you filled up the oceans.
I didn't get to see you hang the stars in the sky.
So I don't mean to second guess you,
Or criticize what I don't understand.
These are just a few questions I have.

An' why did my cousin have to die in that crash?
A good kid, only seventeen, I still wonder 'bout that.
It seems unfair to me,
Some get the chance to chase their dreams,
An' some don't.
But what do I know?

I wasn't there the day you filled up the oceans.
I didn't get to see you hang the stars in the sky.
So I don't mean to second guess you,
Or criticize what I don't understand.
These are just a few questions I have.

Why do I feel like you hear these prayers of mine.
When so many oughta be ahead of me in line?
When you look down on me,
Can you see the good through all the bad?
These just a few questions I have.

The Boys of Fall = Football starts! YAY!

2010-08-08T21:34:00.000-06:00

"Rockin' Out"

2010-05-11T00:06:00.000-06:00

Both of my boys LOVE to dance! Here are some cute pictures that Abbey (http://www.abbeykyhl.com/) captured of Caleb "rockin' out"! SO CUTE!

Spring pictures

2010-05-10T23:59:00.000-06:00

YAY! It was time, again, for pictures with Abbey! She is awesome and does great with the kiddos! (http://www.abbeykyhl.com/)

It was a little chilly that day but it was still fun!

Here are a few samples. I can't believe how grown up my little boys are getting!

Caleb's "Allowance"

2010-04-27T19:30:00.002-06:00

Well, I guess I am going to have to start allowance for Caleb even though he is only 3 1/2 years old.

Caleb came home from DayCare tonight and helped me make banana chocolate chip bread, did the dishes, brought all of his dirty laundry up from his room, and then started helping me fold the laundry. As we were finishing up I said "WOW, Caleb! You have been such a big helper! I think you deserve a treat." To this he replied, "No, just money."

Hmmmm .. I think I am in trouble with this one!

Little Havoc Team - Spring 2010

2010-04-26T22:27:00.002-06:00

Team picture of "Little Havoc" - Parker's Indoor Football Team for Spring 2010.

Parker is #90 (of course).

Happy Birthday, Chris

2010-04-26T22:12:00.006-06:00

Happy Birthday to my wonderful Hubby, Chris!

Thank you for all you do for our family and for being such a great Dad to our sweet boys.

We all love you!

True Parker

2010-04-26T22:00:00.007-06:00

Parker threatened me that I am NOT allowed to get mushy about him in public or about football anymore. However, I already warned him I was making this post sooo ... sorry, Parker. :)

I just HAD to take this picture and share it. It is so totally my Parker. No matter how tough and grown up he looks in his football uniform, this shows my TRUE Parker. He is such a good sport, always thoughtful of others, kind, big-hearted, etc, etc, etc. Those of you that know him well know what I mean. This picture totally shows Parker and his sense of caring for others. I notice all the time at his games and at practice .. he is always helping others up, giving them hugs or high fives, telling people that they either did good or gave it a good try.

This is my boy. I love him. He is AWESOME! (Is that an acceptable word, Parker????)

Bathtime with Aunt T

2010-03-06T11:46:00.004-07:00

NOW we understand why Caleb always wants to have a bath at Aunt Tammi's.

Caleb's owie

2010-03-05T20:27:00.004-07:00

So Caleb kept complaining to me that his "chin" was hurting tonight. He had a bit of a fever (which happens quite often with him) so I immediately thought he probably had some sort of virus that had caused sores in his mouth. I kept trying to look inside his mouth on his gums and lip. After the third attempt and him telling me that his lip "doesn't come off" I finally asked Chris to help me look. Chris just started laughing and told me he was fine. I was a little frustrated that he thought I was over-reacting since I am so not really that way. Come to find out, however, that Chris knew what the problem was already. Apparently, when Chris picked him up from daycare Caleb reported to Chris that he "may have been going a little too fast on the 3-wheeler bike" and he had hurt his chin.
"May have been going a little too fast", huh? Sheesh .. why do my kids start speaking like grown ups so early??? I am SO in trouble!

Are you ready for some foooooootballllll???

2010-03-02T22:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, we have started Football again. As most of you know, Parker had to take some time off last year to do some physical therapy on his legs. However, in order to be ready for the first year of Herriman Ute Conference (nope, we will no longer be Bingham Miners) we are doing Arena football this Spring, as well. We are on the Havoc Indoor Team and Parker is LOVING it so far.
On thing we have learned is that Mom's tears didn't come last time just because of the pregnancy hormones - I still cry at practice and it is SOOOO embarrassing. :)
I am just so stinkin' proud of Parker. He NEVER gives up and he has such good sportsmanship. He is always supportive of everyone on his Team, he listens well to his Coach (even when it's criticism), and he pushes and pushes himself to do things that I know are hard for him to do.
He is such an Awesome kid and I am so lucky to be his Mom!
I love you, Parker.
GO HAVOC!!!!!

Modern Medicine

2010-01-26T21:44:00.002-07:00

As I was sitting in the Hospital last week .. waiting with my Dad to go in for a procedure on his heart I couldn't help but keep thinking how amazing modern medicine is. With all we have gone through the last year and a half with dealing with Doctors and Insurance and Medical bills - we DEFINATELY have been frustrated and had a negative outlook on the whole medical world at times. But if you really sit back and think, despite the frustrations that go along with medical treatment, the treatments themselves are AMAZING! I mean, how amazing is it that Doctors can go in and work on a heart - one of the very things that keeps you living - without making it stop.
Those of you that know me well know that I am a real Daddys girl and even the thought that something might happen to my Dad terrifies me. But I was at peace - I knew that he would be taken are of .. I knew that modern medicine is amazing and there is so much now that can be done that couldn't in the past.
Yes, I also know some of this from personal experience. When I hemorrhaged last year and almost bled to death they had numerous things they could try to help me. They didn't just try one thing and give up when it didn't work. There were multiple things to try.
When we were pregnant with Bailey, the ultrasounds and tests they were able to do on her while she was still growing inside me were, again, amazing.
Our daughter was kept alive long enough for family members to meet her thanks to, again, modern medicine and technology.
All of these things would never have happend 50 years ago.

I really have no idea why I felt the need to post this other than to say that, despite my frustrations with our medical bills, the fact that I have to continually fight with Hospitals and Insurance companies trying to get out from under our every growing pile of financial responsibilities to them, I am so very grateful to those that have studied so long and hard to become Doctors to take care of myself and my family and friends and for those that have researched and found so many amazing ways to prolong life and keep us all together as long as possible.

"The Climb"

2010-01-26T21:37:00.002-07:00

OK .. So I know it is Miley Cyrus but you all know how I am about listening to the words of a song and I LOVE this one .. it is so true! We can learn so much from our struggles .. we just have to keep going.

THE CLIMB
I can almost see it
That dream I am dreaming
But there's a voice inside my head saying
"You'll never reach it"

Every step I'm taking
Every move I make feels
Lost with no direction
My faith is shaking

But I gotta keep trying
Gotta keep my head held high

There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

The struggles I'm facing
The chances I'm taking
Sometimes might knock me down
But no, I'm not breaking

I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm gonna remember most, yeah
Just gotta keep going

And I, I got to be strong
Just keep pushing on

'Cause there's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah!

There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle
Somebody's gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah!

Keep on moving, keep climbing
Keep the faith, baby
It's all about, it's all about the climb
Keep the faith, keep your faith, whoa

Soccer

2009-11-05T16:06:00.013-07:00

The end of Parker's Fall Outdoor season .. great job, guys!

And the beginning of Caleb's soccer career .. let's just say he is WAY different than his brother has been. He is the SMALLEST on his Team instead of the BIGGEST. They gave him the X-Small shorts and, well .. do you like his dress????

What the heck is going on with these shorts, Mom??? (The funniest part was 10 minutes later when he was running down the field and stopped and looked over at me with his shorts around his ankles and his pullup hanging out for the World to see.)

Pulling his shorts up - ONE MORE TIME !!!

Bullriding

2009-11-05T10:07:00.003-07:00

As many of you know, I have many rodeo family members. We decided it was time for Parker to give it a try. There was a calf for the kids but the guy running the Bull told Parker he thought he should try the real thing (of course, he didnt believe us when we told him he was only 9 but that is another story).

He started out pretty good:

But just like in the "real thing", it gets harder the longer you hold on:

Halloween 2009

2009-11-05T09:37:00.009-07:00

WOW! What a fun Halloween! It IS my favorite Holiday of the entire year and I guess we had to make up for not really celebrating last year.
We went to several parties and the kiddos had a great time trick or treating. Parker and Chris even went through MULTIPLE costumes.

Parker "The Nerd" getting ready for the Ward party:

My "Boys" - Parker the Tacky Tourist, Caleb as "Diego", and Chris - The Disco Dude!

Blog neglect

2009-11-05T09:35:00.001-07:00

OK .. I am guilty - guilty of blog neglect. It really isn't because I didn't WANT to blog .. it is because I haven't been able to download pics from our camera forEVER! Well .. I FINALLY got them all downloaded. Now to catch up on the blogging. Stay tuned!

Is there life out there?

2009-08-20T20:23:00.002-06:00

Those of you that know me well know that I am always listening to the words to songs. I have had a lot of time alone lately - in the car and on planes traveling mostly - to think about my life ... you know, the "what if's". During one of these times this song just kept coming into my head over and over. I have been through a lot in life - the highs, the lows - and learned from every one of them but you still have to wonder sometimes .. what else is out there? What if???

"IS THERE LIFE OUT THERE" (performed by Reba McEntire)
She married when she was twenty
She thought she was ready
Now she's not so sure
She thought she'd done some living
But now she's just wonderin'
What she's living for
Now she's feeling that theres something more

Is there life out there
So much she hasn't done
Is there life beyond
Her family and her home
She's done what she should
Should she do what she dares
She doesn't want to leave
She's just wonderin'
Is there life out there

She's always lived for tomorrow
She's never learned how
To live for today
She's dyin' to try something foolish
Do something crazy
Or just get away
Something for herself for a change

Is there life out there
So much she hasn't done
Is there life beyond
Her family and her home
She's done what she should
Should she do what she dares
She doesn't want to leave
She's just wonderin'
Is there life out there

There's a place in the sun that she's never been
Where life is fair and time is a friend
Would she do it the same as she did back then
She looks out the window and wonders again

Is there life out there
So much she hasn't done
Is there life beyond
Her family and her home
She's done what she should
Should she do what she dares
She doesn't want to leave
She's just wonderin'
Is there life out there

Is there life out there
So much she hasn't done
Is there life beyond
Her family and her home
She's done what she should
Should she do what she dares
She doesn't want to leave
She's just wonderin'
Is there life out there

Caleb's Birthday

2009-03-18T10:02:00.003-06:00

Apparently yesterday one of Caleb's friends at DayCare had a birthday. All we heard last night was Caleb singing "Happy Birthday to Austin" over and over. Then, after running some errands, he informed Chris and I that we would be taking him to McDonalds for dinner because it was his birthday. And then he started singing "Happy Birthday to me, Caleb ...." over and over and OVER!!! I thought this would pass while he was sleeping and he would "move on".

Well, guess what ... Today is Caleb's birthday .. AGAIN!

He got up and we got him ready for DayCare and he was just getting ready to leave when he went in the kitchen and reached up on the counter and grabbed a package of cookies that we had just bought at the grocery store. He said he needed to take them to School because it was his birthday. AAAARRRRGGGGHHHH! Chris thinks I am weird but I told him to let him take them and just explain to DayCare what was going on. So ... here is Caleb on his .. ummmm .. "unBirthday" with his "unBirthday treats".

Love you, "unBirthday Boy"!

St. Patricks Day

2009-03-17T20:35:00.003-06:00

Well, for once I remembered to make sure everyone was wearing green when they headed out the door this morning. However, I didn't get pictures of everyone before they left.

Parker slept over and Grandpa and Grandma's so I wasn't able to get him in his "green" but Caleb came home from Daycare with a cute little addition to his outfit. What a cutie!

Temple Day at Primary

2009-03-14T20:22:00.000-06:00

We had a fun, fun Primary Activity centered around Temples. The kids made temples out of marshmallows, a journal page, and got to help put together a temple that will be on display at the Open House for the Oquirrh Mountain Temple this Summer. (Don't forget to look for their "block" on the temple display if you go to the Open House!)

As you can see, the marshmallow Temples were a hit with both boys! (They used Karo syrup for "glue", marshmallows, toothpicks, green coconut for grass, and 1/2 of a carmel square to mold the Angel Moroni. WAY CUTE!)

Parker did a VERY good job molding his Angel Moroni. I tried to get a closeup because I was so impressed but it turned out a little blurry.

And, of course, after all the pictures ... they had to taste them!

Drums

2009-03-10T01:58:00.000-06:00

It seems that both of my boys have aspirations of being "drummers" when they grow up. Parker has been obsessed since he got his first drum set when he was 2 and now Caleb (again, at 2) has been practicing with his Uncle Rick. Guess we will be building that "soundproof room" when we finish the basement after all.

Sarcasm

2009-03-03T17:48:00.003-07:00

K, so you would think I would have learned this by now but, once again, I was reminded that 8 year olds don't always get your sarcasm.

I realllly haven't been feeling good lately and I SO did not want to go to the store. I kept putting it off and putting it off so I finally decided I just needed to go and get it over with. I got myself up and ready to go and headed to the store - no makeup, messy hair - I really didn't care. I made Parker go with me and he is usually such a good helper. He was, again, a good helper - good at helping me put way more in my cart then I was planning but still .. a helper. One hour later with 15 extra items and a Red Box DVD in hand we are in the car headed home. I see one of Caleb's "sippy cups" that had been left in the car and ask Parker to carry that in for me as he gets out of the car. Now keep in mind that Parker normally is really good about helping me carry the groceries in so I ASSUMED he would be back out to help me. I take the first load in - 3 bags in one hand, 3 in the other .. showing how much of my strength I still do NOT have back. I set them on the cupboard and see him sitting on the floor playing with his "army men" and watching a movie.

ME: "Thanks for helping me carry the groceries in, Park."
PARKER: (Silence)

And out I go for another load. Once again, carrying more bags than I really should have tried, I go back inside. Parker is STILL watching the movie.

ME: "PARK! Thanks for helping."
PARKER: "I carried the cup in."
ME: "Gee, I hope you didn't strain anything."
PARKER: "I didn't."

At that time I just decide to finish myself ...
Gotta love that kid!!!!

"A Cup of Tea for Daddy"

2009-02-23T15:55:00.003-07:00

I got this email today and thought it was way cute ....

Cup of Tea
One day my Mother was out and my Dad was in charge of me. I was maybe 2 1/2 years old and had just recovered from an accident. Someone had given me a little tea set as a get-well gift and it was one of my favorite toys. Daddy was in the living room engrossed in the evening news when I brought Daddy a little cup of "tea" which was just water. After several cups of tea and lots of praise for such yummy tea, my Mom came home. My Dad made her wait in the living room to watch me bring him a cup of tea, because it was "just the cutest thing!" My Mom waited and, sure enough, here I come down the hall with a cup of tea for Daddy and she watches him drink it up. Then she says, (as only a mother would know.. :) )"Did it ever occur to you that the only place she can reach to get water is the toilet?"

SO CUTE!

What Animal starts with "X"?

2009-02-23T10:00:00.003-07:00

We spend ALOT of time in the car. Parker reads a lot and LOVES it which is good since our DVD player broke and the boys can no longer watch movies as we are on our neverending commutes. However, one day Parker came up with a game he wanted us all to play. It's a little twist to the "Alphabet" game or "State" game that we have played over and over again.
We each took turns and had to come up with an Animal that started with "A", "B", "C", and so on. The first person that couldn't come up with one loses. Let's just say .. it's tougher than it sounds. What animal starts with "X"????
We have also done this with "Foods" and "Candy".
Boy - the things we do to entertain ourselves on car rides! :)

My ol' Kentucky Home

2009-01-26T20:30:00.002-07:00

(If you aren't from KY you probably don't get the title .. it's a song.)

So the weirdest thing happened today. I had to fly to KY for work - nothing unusual about that. The thing that was weird was that when I landed at the airport and was walking through towards the rental car area I heard people talking around me with their accents and the different phrases that you hear only in KY and ... I WAS HOMESICK. I felt like I was "home".
Why is this weird you ask? Because I am from Utah .. I grew up in Utah. Sure I have traveled a lot and I lived in KY for several years but it still isn't my "home" yet I felt like I had come home. Weird how things just happen to hit you sometimes.

Aloha, Monica

2009-01-22T16:15:00.003-07:00

I haven't had a chance to upload our photos from Hawaii or blog about our great trip yet. However, I have had MULTIPLE requests for the video of Chris's awesome Boss, Monica, showing off her secret talent - poi balls! Therefore, I am posting this separately so everyone can enjoy. Stay tuned for a later post about the rest of our trip!

One question, Moni ... does your tongue help????? heh heh heh

Bingham Silver Gremlins - 2008 Season

2009-01-08T15:10:00.003-07:00

OK - Since the season ended in November, I figured it was time to remove the sidebar with the scores from each of the Bingham Silver Gremlins games. However, because it WAS such a good season, I still wanted them documented somewhere. Hence .. this post. :)

Bingham Silver Gremlins 2008
Aug 30 Hillcrest Black Gremlins W 49-0
Sept 6 Riverton Gold Gremlins W 40-0
Sept 13 Jordan White Gremlins W 46-0
Sept 20 Tooele White Gremlins W 21-0
Sept 27 Taylorsville Gold Gremlins W 21-0
Oct 4 Bingham Bronze W 14-0
Oct 11 Bountiful Grey Gremlins W 7-6
Oct 18 Highland Black Gremlins W 12-6
Oct 25 Alta Pewter Gremlins W 13-7
Nov 1 PLAYOFFS! Tooele White Gremlins W 19-0
Nov 8 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP! Grantsville L 19-0

Once again - great job, boys! Love you Parker!

"Twilight bug"

2009-01-05T13:02:00.002-07:00

OK, so I know I am behind the times and everybody else in the entire Valley has already read the Twilight series AND seen the movie. HOWEVER, I kept putting it off because I was not interested AT ALL. I don't do Vampires and it just didn't interest me. EVERYONE kept telling me "It's different", "You will LOVE it", etc, etc but being my stubborn self, I kept saying "No".
My Sister, however, was not going to take "No" for an answer and gave me the first book for Christmas. I figured since I had it in my house, sitting right next to me, I may as well give it a shot. I planned to take it with on the plane to Hawaii next week. I figured I wouldn't have anything better to do. However, I picked it up the other night "just to check it out" and .... I HAVE THE TWILIGHT BUG! Ya know .. a BUG .. like DISEASE! I can't put the stinkin' thing down! I guess I am going to have to go get the 2nd one to take with me on vacation now! SHEESH! Now I see what all the hype was about!

Letter to Santa

2008-12-29T22:28:00.005-07:00

Chris' Mom was visiting from Kentucky for Christmas this year. She was sleeping in the room with our Christmas tree where Santa normally visits on Christmas Eve. Parker was very concerned about this. He was worried that either 1) Santa wouldn't stop because Nana was in there or 2) Santa would wake Nana up. How did he resolve this? He left a note for Santa taped by the front door so that Santa could see it as soon as he came in.

(It is kind of hard to read unless you click on it and enlarge it but it says "Dear Santa, We rearranged because my NANA is here. <---------- (arrow pointing to the room he wanted Santa to leave his presents in). From: PARKER P.S. Tell your elves thanks for me.")

Bobcat (Cub Scouts)

2008-12-21T15:14:00.002-07:00

Parker earned his "Bobcat" the other night in Cub Scouts. He has worked hard and was so excited. He really loves being able to participate in Cub Scouts.

Mom got to paint his face during the awards ceremony and it was especially cool because it was held at the Primary Quarterly Activity this month so most of the Primary kids were there to see him receive it.

Great job, Parker!

Thanksgiving Point lights

2008-12-16T22:23:00.012-07:00

My Sister and her family have had a tradition every year since their kids were little to go downtown and take a carriage ride and look at the lights during the Holidays. Now that her family is growing with the addition of 3 wonderful Son in laws, they couldn't all fit in the carriage together anymore. To resolve this issue, they rented an entire trolley car to cruise around and look at the lights at Thanksgiving Point instead. Because there was room for a few extras, they invited our family to tag along. It was so much fun! Thanks for letting us be part of your tradition, everyone!

Afterwards some of the "kids" decided to play in the fire. Uh .. I mean .. warm up by the fire. (Great example, Uncle Rick!!!!)

There were even real Reindeer there!

It was a fun night for everyone! (OK, so some of us had more fun than others, huh Heidi?)

Thanks, again, everyone! We love you guys!

Until our next adventure ....

Caleb the Red Nosed Reindeer ...

2008-12-16T22:11:00.003-07:00

Parker's Christmas letter

2008-12-05T21:35:00.001-07:00

Tonight we went to our Community Christmas Celebration. One of the activities they had was for the kids to write their letters to Santa.
This is what Parker wrote:
"Dear Santa,
I would like a cat, video games, something for my Sister's grave, and something for me."

The other day we went and visited Santa at the mall and all he asked for was a cat and an Elmo for Caleb. (Hmmm .. I'm seeing the cat theme here - NOT GONNA HAPPEN!)

Anyway .. what a sweet boy - always thinking of others!

Girls Night Out at Desert Star

2008-12-03T06:51:00.002-07:00

Just wanted to say THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU to the great friends (and my Sisters and Niece, of course) that joined me for a fun night out at Desert Star last night. We saw "Miracle on 42nd Street - Give My Regards to Blitzen" and it was so much fun! I used to go to Desert Star all the time when I was younger and I was really in the mood to go. All I had to do was send a note out and ask for friends to join me and a group of us got together. I was so excited!!! Then, afterwards, some of the ladies suggested dessert at The Cheesecake Factory - WAYYY good idea!!!
Hopefully we can keep these fun nights up. It is so fun to get to know people better, make new friends, and hang out with the "old" friends.
Yesterdays outing came at a time when I really needed some fun and it was a total blast! What a great group of ladies! Thanks again!

Fall Family pictures

2008-11-25T21:21:00.008-07:00

Here is a sample of our Fall family pictures for this year.

We had them taken at Wheeler Farm by Abbey Kyhl (http://www.abbeykyhl.com/) and let's just say that it was getting late and dark and Mommy was cold and Caleb was not in the mood. BUUUUUTTTT .. not too bad considering all of that. She did a GREAT job! Here are just a few of my favorites.

Discovery Toys Open House

2008-11-25T15:46:00.002-07:00

I am having a Discovery Toys Open House at my house on Saturday, November 29th from 10 AM - 3 PM. (If you need the address or directions, give me call or email me or just comment here.)
There will be lots of "After Thanksgiving" deals!!!
Come and do your Christmas shopping without the crowds!

If you can't make it that day but would like to see the list of discounted items, let me know and I can email you the list and then hold them for you. You can also shop from my website at www.discoverytoyslink.com/jennbstoys and email me your order to still receive the "After Thanksgiving" deals. :)

Hope to see you Saturday! Come visit!
Jenn

Things that make you go "Hmmmm"

2008-11-24T09:36:00.002-07:00

OK, so I got this email that many of you may have already seen but they truly are questions that make you wonder ...

* Can you cry under water?
* Why do you have to 'put your two cents in'... but it's only a 'penny for your thoughts'? Where's that extra penny going to?
* Once you're in heaven, do you get stuck wearing the clothes you were buried in for eternity?
* Why does a round pizza come in a square box?
* What disease did cured ham actually have?
* How is it that we put man on the moon before we figured out it would be a good idea to put wheels on luggage?
* Why is it that people say they 'slept like a baby' when babies wake up like every two hours?
* If a deaf person has to go to court, is it still called a hearing?
* Why are you IN a movie, but you're ON TV?
* Why do people pay to go up tall buildings and then put money in binoculars to look at things on the ground?
* Why do doctors leave the room while you change? They're going to see you naked anyway.
* Why is 'bra' singular and 'panties' plural?
* Can a hearse carrying a corpse drive in the carpool lane ?
* If the professor on Gilligan's Island can make a radio out of a coconut, why can't he fix a hole in a boat?
* Why does Goofy stand erect while Pluto remains on all fours? They're both dogs!
* If Wile E. Coyote had enough money to buy all that ACME crap, why didn't he just buy dinner? * If corn oil is made from corn, and vegetable oil is made from vegetables, what is baby oil made from?
* Do the Alphabet song and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star have the same tune?
* Why did you just try singing the two songs above?
* Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you, but when you take him for a car ride, he sticks his head out the window?

My "Keener"

2008-11-19T22:33:00.004-07:00

Does it say something about my house when my 2 year old insists on "keening" all the time? He is OBSESSED with the broom, the mop, the dust rag. Too bad I am sure it won't last until he is old enough to actually do a really good job!!!

My Boys

2008-11-19T22:21:00.002-07:00

I LOVE MY BOYS!!!

My new "addiction"

2008-11-13T10:04:00.004-07:00

I have a new addiction. OK, maybe it isn't so new but it has newly become an addiction. :)
Scentsy candles. I had heard about them a lot and had seen them at boutiques and fairs but had never purchased one. (I am cheap and didn't want to spend the money on it when I wasn't SURE I would love it.) My good friend, Pam, was having a party so I decided to finally try one out to support her at her party and ... I LOVED IT! I now have a couple of them as well as numerous scents. I had always had a bunch of candles around my house but I am loving these so much more! I can just use one and I can smell it through my whole house and the wax is reusable and lasts FOREVER! OK .. no I am not a consultant .. I just LOVE them.
Because of this I want more, more, MORE! However, I can't spend ALL of our Christmas shopping money on them so I am having an online party to HOPEFULLY earn some more yummy scents for my house!
If you would like to give them a shot or if you have already become addicted and just need some more scents OR if you want a car freshener or smaller room freshener, etc, etc, please go to this site and select my Party (go to "My Events" or else "Place An Order" and select my name) or else just shop online and then email me your order and I will turn it in to the Consultant. I am going to close my party on November 22nd (a week from Saturday) - Happy Shopping and Thanks for helping me make my party a success!

www.scentsy.com/wicklessaromas

5 Things Tag

2008-11-11T15:33:00.002-07:00

5 Shows I watch
1. Grey's Anatomy
2. Hannah Montana
3. CSI
4. The News
5. David Letterman

5 Restaurants
(in no particular order)
1. Olive Garden
2. IHOP
3. Paradise Bakery
4. Taco Time
5. Training Table

5 Thing that happened yesterday
1. Everyone got along ALL DAY!!!!
2. Parker was "green" at School
3. Caleb tried to go on the "big boy potty"
4. I got to go to bed early
5. We went to a fun party for our friends to celebrate the adoption of their darling daughter!

5 Things to look forward to
1. Going to Hawaii in January
2. Taking the boys on a fun Family vacation
3. No more diapers
4. Getting my strength back and not being tired all the time
5. Thanksgiving and Christmas

5 Things I love about fall
1. Holiday smells
2. Fresh, brisk weather
3. Halloween
4. Pretty snow
5. Warm, snuggly, comfy clothes

5 Things on my wish list
1. No more work - stay at home
2. Perfect, clean, organized house at all times
3. All bills paid off
4. Happy family all the time
5. Taking time to enjoy the little things

5 Things important to me
1. Spending time with my Husband and Boys
2. My Family
3. Friends
4. Teaching my boys to serve others
5. My Family's health and well-being

5 People I tag
1. Heather
2. Tammi
3. Heidi
4. Lauriann
5. Jen
And anyone else who wants to play!

State Championship Game

2008-11-10T16:12:00.002-07:00

As you will notice by the scoreboard on the side of the blog - The Bingham Silver Gremlins received their first "L" this week. It was a sad time for the boys who had worked so hard all season and then lost their final game - The State Championship! However, we are SO very proud of them for having an UNDEFEATED SEASON up until that point.
They practiced hard, played hard, made some great friends, and grew - physcially, mentally, and emotionally.
We had an AWESOME Team this year and have such mixed feelings about the season ending.
Until next year ....
(Photos to follow soon.)

Christmas music

2008-11-05T21:09:00.002-07:00

So I am driving home from Parker's football game last Saturday and flipping through the radio stations trying to find something to listen to since, for once, I was all alone in the car. I hear a Christmas song and think it must be a commercial for some store that is looking for early Christmas shoppers or something. However, another one comes on right after that one ends .. and then another one. I then realize that this particular radio station must be playing Christmas songs already!!!! That is just WRONG!!! It was November 1st!!!
However, the more I thought about it .. the more I kind of got into it.
Halloween is my FAVORITE holiday and we really didn't do as much celebrating as we normally do this year so I decided I will put all of that pent up "celebrating" into Thanksgiving and Christmas instead. Soooo .. 'tis the Season! I am listening to Christmas music in my car - ALREADY!!!

Snow, Snow, Snow!!!

2008-11-04T12:08:00.002-07:00

I have ALWAYS loved the winter and the snow, etc, etc.
Blame it on my low iron, blame it on my low blood count, I don't know what it is but MAN IS IT FREEZING this year!!!!
I still LOVE Winter, though, and am so excited that Fall has come and Winter is coming!!! (Yes I am watching it snow out my window as I type this.)
Hopefully I can figure out how to stay warm so I can enjoy it as much as I normally do.

Bingham Silver Gremlins - Let's take State!!!

2008-11-01T17:28:00.005-06:00

Another Saturday - another football game - and this one was the playoffs!
Our AWESOME Bingham Silver Gremlins once again defeated their opponent and entertained their fans with an impresive win over Tooele (19 - 0).
This means they are headed onto their next challenge to TAKE STATE!
They will be playing Grantsville next Saturday, November 8th at 10:30 AM.
The location has changed and the game will be at:
Elk Ridge Junior High School
9800 S. Bangerter Hwy

*** ADDRESS UPDATE: Changed back to original location:
West Hills Middle School - 8270 S. Grizzly Way ***
(Let me know if you need a map.)

Remember .. this is the STATE CHAMPIONSHIP game so there is a fee for entry:
$3.00 for Adults
$2.00 for Seniors
$2.00 for Children 12 and under

Come and cheer our great team on - and don't forget to wear your BINGHAM BLUE!!!!

Playoffs here we come!!!

2008-10-27T10:49:00.004-06:00

Well, the Bingham Silver Gremlins finished the 2008 season UNDEFEATED! They played their last game on Saturday and won 13-7. This means that they have earned a place in the playoffs. The first game is on Saturday, November 1st at 9 AM (I know .. icky right after Halloween!!!) and then, if they win that game, they will go to the State Championships which will be held on Saturday, November 8th.

The addresses are listed below:
Saturday, November 1st (9 AM) - Midvale Middle School - 138 East Pioneer Street in Midvale
Saturday, November 8th - West Hills Middle School - 8270 S. Grizzly Way in West Jordan
(if you need specific directions, let me know and I can send a map)

Because it is the PLAYOFFS, there is a charge for these games.
Prices are:
$3.00 for Adults
$2.00 for Seniors
$2.00 for Children 12 and under

This will be a WAY FUN time - wear your Bingham wear or else at least your BLUE and come and cheer for our Bingham Silver Gremlins!
GO PARKER - #90!!!!

First "REAL" Football injury

2008-10-23T09:20:00.003-06:00

Well, Parker got his first xrays from a football injury yesterday morning. He has had the normal, expected bumps and bruises since starting football but yesterday he got "real" xrays and an exam by the Doctor.
Parker came home from football practice on Tuesday night complaining he couldn't walk because he had gotten tackled at the very end of practice and landed on his knee wrong. I figured it was just his "normal" football injury scenario (those of you that know Parker know that he can be a bit of a "drama King") so I gave him some tylenol, told him to soak in the tub and go to bed. When he woke up on Wednesday morning he was still limping and he had his Dad look at it. Chris said that it actually was swollen and thought we should take him to the Doctor. He has missed so much school lately that we didn't want him to miss more than he had to so we decided it would probably be fastest just to go over to instacare. We went over there and they looked at it and took some xrays. We don't think there is anything seriously wrong but the Doctor did say that he had a bit of concern about the growth platelet on that leg so he is having the radiologist look at it. They are supposed to call us back sometime Thursday to let us know if Parker is out for the rest of the season or if he can play. It will be a real bummer if he is out since he has played all season and now will just have to miss the playoff games.
Luckily, when he got home from school on Wednesday he said it felt a BIT better and the swelling had gone done a little. I think he will live - we won't need to amputate! :)

(NOTE: Speaking of amputation .. while we were at the Doctor they asked Parker to rate his pain on a scale of 1 - 10. The way they explained this was by saying "1 means it doesn't hurt at all and 10 would be like if your leg was cut off". Parkers eyes got HUGE and he immediately LOUDLY said "1". I looked at him and said "Parker, if it doesn't hurt that much why are we here?" He said "Like I am going to tell them it is even CLOSE to a 10 if they are going to cut it off!!!!" K - guess he didn't totally get their analogy. HA HA)

Challenges

2008-10-21T20:55:00.003-06:00

Well, we have had our share of challenges lately, that is for sure.
Between all of the drama leading up to Bailey's birth and then her new diagnosis and passing away and my Mom's illnesses causing her to be in the Care Center and/or Hospital for the 3 months prior to Bailey's birth and my Dad not feeling good and worrying about Mom, etc, etc, etc ... you would think we would have had our "share" and would be done now. I know that is what WE were counting on. Unfortunately, however, I was rushed to the Hospital on Saturday afternoon and had emergency surgery that evening and was there until this afternoon. Again - I thought we were done. I will tell you that I think that my poor boys (all 3 of them) have had enough. I worry so much about them. My Husband and oldest Son were both convinced that they were going to lose me just like they lost Bailey and neither of them dealt with it very well. Caleb, who isn't exactly sure what is going on is finally realizing that things aren't just right and is starting to be affected too. We have been fairly strong as a family and all of our challenges have really brought us even closer but there is a point where you finally say "Please just let us be done!". It is at that point, however, that I really have to try to think of the blessings that we are receiving by "enduring to the end" and dealing the best we can with the challenges that we are given. I have been taught my whole life that our Heavenly Father will not give us anything to endure that we can not handle. Sometimes I really question that as the challenges that I get are not challenges that I would wish to have. However, I do seem to always make it through and learn something from each one.
I don't know what made me decide to post this as it is really just a bunch of rambling but I felt it important to let all of my friends and family know that we ARE ok and we do truly know that we will make it through these challenges - thanks to the support and love we have from all of you. Thanks for everything you do for us! We love you!

Bingham vs Bountiful (W 7-6)

2008-10-16T16:03:00.002-06:00

First time ever that our Bingham Silver Gremlins were scored against. Luckily (PHEW!) they pulled through at the last minute and still ended up winning by 1 point - still undefeated!

Car Entertainment

2008-10-16T15:45:00.000-06:00

What did we do before we had DVD players in the car?????

What have you done in your life?

2008-10-16T15:02:00.002-06:00

My friend, Jill, had this posted on her blog.
I challenge everyone to cut and paste this list and bold the ones that you have done. It's kind of fun to see which things you have done and remember those times - some are good memories and some not so good. :)

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance (with my Child)
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee

"The Sharker"

2008-10-16T09:48:00.006-06:00

As most of you know, Parker was able to start Cub Scouts in July of this year. He has really liked it but has had to miss a lot because of Football. When it came time for the Pinewood Derby he had to make a choice because he also had football practice that night. He decided that he and his Dad would still go ahead and build his car and then he would see if he could find someone to race it for him. It worked out just great.

This is a picture of "The Sharker". (Notice that he was #90, of course - his football number.)

Thanks, Geri, for the AWESOME paint job! Of course he won the "Best Paint Job" award!

Our Family ROCKS!

2008-10-14T13:39:00.003-06:00

We have such an amazing family!
Over the last 2 weeks we have experienced the birth of our sweet baby Bailey, the passing away of that same sweet baby, her viewing and graveside service, the BEAUTIFUL wedding of my adorable niece April and her new Husband Eric, the 17th birthday of my ever so handsome nephew Jordin, etc, etc, etc.
So much to do and so little time yet our family has all supported each other in each and every event. We are so very lucky to have such an AWESOME family. They are there to take care of my kids when I need them to - to be their "substitute Mommies", they are there to cry with us, to laugh with us, they are there to just be there. We are so very lucky!
I love you guys! Thank you for everything!

Caleb's Bday Party

2008-10-09T14:23:00.002-06:00

Welcome Home, Grandma!

2008-09-27T09:34:00.003-06:00

Well, after being in either the Hospital or the Care Center since the middle of June, Grandma is FINALLY going home! We are so glad that she has made enough progress to finally go be back in her own house with Grandpa again.
Although Parker loved visiting the Care Center he is looking forward to his next sleepover!
We love you, Grandma!

Bingham vs Tooele (W 21-0)

2008-09-21T15:50:00.003-06:00

Look at that good-looking line.

GO BINGHAM!

(Parker is #90)

Happy 2nd Birthday, Caleb!

2008-09-19T09:43:00.004-06:00

It seems like this was just yesterday!

Happy 2nd Birthday on Saturday, September 20th, my cute little Caleb!

DISCOVERY TOYS - New Catalog is here!

2008-09-19T09:43:00.002-06:00

I usually don't post a lot about my Discovery Toys business on here, but I am so way excited about the new catalog and with the Christmas shopping season coming up (or, actually, HERE), I thought I would just mention to you all that the new products are HERE! As always, there are lots of great new products for all ages but I am espeically excited that they added so many new things for older kids and adults. Parker has already picked out several for my "birthday closet" for his friends upcoming birthday parties as well as for his own Christmas list.
You can take a look at the new catalog online at www.discoverytoyslink.com/jennbstoys or else I am happy to bring you a "real" catalog if you would like to see one. I am also currently having my "Inventory Clearance Sale" to get rid of some of the stuff I have on hand to make room for the new products so if you want a list of what I have on discount, let me know and I can email it to you!
Also, all of my past customers know that I usually have a "preferred Customer" Open House at my house during the Fall so you can come and get your Christmas shopping all taken care of. I am hoping to still do this but I am not sure when it will be this year (it is usually early-mid October). If you want to get your shopping done now, please let me know and we can do a personal shopping appointment or a catalog shop. I also have "Santa Pack" discounts this year - buy all of your Christmas presents in bulk at HUGE discounts.
Anyway .. I guess what I am saying is - My Discovery Toys business is still open for Christmas shopping - we may just be doing it one on one instead of in a big group party this year!
Let me know if I can help you with anything!
Thanks!

Birth Order of Children

2008-09-16T19:41:00.003-06:00

This is pretty cute .. and Oh So True!

BIRTH ORDER OF CHILDREN
1st baby: You begin wearing maternity clothes as soon as your OB/GYN confirms your pregnancy.
2nd baby: You wear your regular clothes for as long as possible.
3rd baby: Your maternity clothes ARE your regular clothes.

Preparing for the Birth:
1st baby: You practice your breathing religiously.
2nd baby: You don't bother because you remember that last time, breathing didn't do a thing.
3rd baby : You ask for an epidural in your eighth month.

The Layette:
1st baby: You pre-wash newborn's clothes, colour-coordinate them, and fold them neatly in the baby's little bureau.
2nd baby: You check to make sure that the clothes are clean and discard only the ones with the darkest stains.
3rd baby: Boys can wear pink, can't they?

Worries:
1st baby: At the first sign of distress--a whimper, a frown--you pick up the baby
2nd baby: You pick the baby up when her wails threaten to wake your firstborn.
3rd baby: You teach your three-year-old how to rewind the mechanical swing.

Pacifier:
1st baby: If the pacifier falls on the floor, you put it away until you can go home and wash and boil it.
2nd baby: When the pacifier falls on the floor, you squirt it off with some juice from the baby's bottle.
3rd baby: You wipe it off on your shirt and pop it back in.

Diapering:
1st baby: You change your baby's diapers every hour, whether they need it or not.
2nd baby: You change their diaper every two to three hours, if needed.
3rd baby: You try to change their diaper before others start to complain about the smell or you see it sagging to their knees.

Activities:
1st baby: You take your infant to Baby Gymnastics, Baby Swing, Baby Zoo, Baby Movies and Baby Story Hour.
2nd baby: You take your infant to Baby Gymnastics.
3rd baby: You take your infant to the supermarket and the dry cleaners.

Going Out:
1st baby: The first time you leave your baby with a sitter, you call home five times.
2nd baby: Just before you walk out the door, you remember to leave a number where you can be reached.
3rd baby: You leave instructions for the sitter to call only if she sees blood.

At Home:
1st baby: You spend a good bit of every day just gazing at the baby.
2nd baby: You spend a bit of everyday watching to be sure your older child isn't squeezing, poking, or hitting the baby.
3rd baby: You spend a little bit of every day hiding from the children

Swallowing Coins (a favorite):
1st child: When first child swallows a coin, you rush the child to the hospital and demand x-rays
2nd child: When second child swallows a coin, you carefully watch for the coin to pass.
3rd child: When third child swallows a coin you deduct it from his allowance!

Who is here?

2008-09-16T14:21:00.002-06:00

We were talking and would LOVE to know who is reading our blog. Please post a comment and let us know you are here! We'd also LOVE to keep up with you so please share your blog with us, too! We have had lots of fun with our Family blog as well as keeping you all posted on Bailey's "journey" on her update log. Please post and let us know you are here!
Thanks!
The Blakes

Daybreak "Laws"

2008-09-15T16:51:00.002-06:00

This morning Parker and I are driving home from delivering some Discovery Toys orders and we are passing the lake. "Hmmm, Don't feed the birds" he reads to me. "We sure have some crazy laws here. I mean, you can feed birds at public parks but you can't feed them at your own home????"
The way that boy's mind works. But he has a point.

Bingham Silver (40) - Riverton Gold (0)

2008-09-07T15:36:00.000-06:00

Going into the game this week the boys were VERRRRY nervous. This was going to be a TOUGH Team and the Coach really, really wanted to beat their rival. Practices were hard leading up to this game - nerves were on edge - and emotions were high.

Outcome? Bingham Silver 40, Riverton Gold 0!!!

GO BINGHAM SILVER GREMLINS!

AWESOME blocking, Blake (#90)!

And he even gets a chance to kick off!

Chicken Wings

2008-09-07T15:10:00.001-06:00

OK .. here is just an example of how different our kids are.

Same appetizer (chicken wings) but look at the faces!

Daddy did my hair!

2008-09-07T15:04:00.000-06:00

Enough said ...

Modeling Portfolio

2008-09-05T19:05:00.000-06:00

When Parker was 5 he did some modeling. I was going through some old pictures on my computer and found his portfolio and thought I would share some of his pictures.

What a handsome dude!

This is a copy of his first ad. It was published in the Salt Lake Magazine - October 2005 issue. (Not the very best copy since I scanned it in.) He is on the left hand side, second row from the top.

Caleb visiting Lily's "Condo"

2008-09-05T19:01:00.001-06:00

Caleb decided he wanted to go to Lily's (our cat) "Condo" for a visit. I guess he didn't realize he didn't actually have to go inside to play!

Happy Birthday, Grandma (Mom)!

2008-09-05T18:48:00.000-06:00

We celebrated Grandma's bday a little late this year due to the fact that she was still having some issues with her medication and didn't even realize where she was on her actual birthday (August 26th). It was so much more pleasant having her "back to normal" for the party that we had on August 31st!

It was filled with all the kiddos (Grandkids, Kids, Cousins, etc, etc), cake, presents, friends she has made at the Care Center, and lots of visiting and fun!

We love you, Grandma! Get better and come home soon!

My Sweet Parker

2008-09-05T13:53:00.001-06:00

Parker just got home from school and was so excited. Today they had their auction in which they can use the "Dolphin Dollars" that they have earned for doing good work, being good, etc, etc to buy things (toys, candy, all that good stuff). He was so excited to show me that he had purchased a darling little Teddy Bear for his Sister, Bailey. It about broke my heart - I didn't know if I should feel bad, happy, sad ... I asked him how much it had cost him and he said "Most of his Dollars". He also got himself 3 pieces of gum.
What a sweet boy!!!!