THE GREG & HEATHER HUNT FAMILY

TY'S AWESOME 5TH BIRTHDAY PARTY!

2010-07-01T13:13:00.001-07:00

TY'S BIRTHDAY PARTY INVITATION...

2010-06-28T21:58:00.000-07:00

This scrapbook personalized with Smilebox

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GREG!

2010-06-06T21:49:00.000-07:00

We certainly partied hard for Greg's 37th birthday. He got his gifts a couple weeks early..(Marrow the skeleton-the dogs already got a hold of his poor hand, and a shot gun.) So, the fun was all that was left to handle. He got a few summer t's, and then we played. Swimming, lemonade, watermelon, Rush.

All a guy could want, right? Later we saw Shrek 4, went to dinner, and came home to some red velvet cake. Oh, the love. Really. The kids made him a beautiful card. Maddi made him a party hat. I made him cake. I hope he felt the love. He is definitely loved! We had a great time celebrating his youth.

THE SPECIAL BAKER by Maddi Hunt

2010-06-02T18:21:00.000-07:00

For a talent show for activity days, Maddi- night before the big show had to come up with a talent to display. This is what she came up with. Pretty impressive!!!

Once upon a time, there lived an old, sad, baker who had no friends or family.well at least not anymore. his mother had passed away after he was born. His small, old shop had grown dull and his cakes grew rather boring. However, he used to put great effort in his cakes, and his friends and family appreciated his unique talent. Everybody loved them. Years passed. The ones who enjoyed his cakes most, either died, or moved away. Now, no one gave cakes to one another to represent love, and the baker was lonely. Since nobody cared about cakes representing love, he soon grew to care less also. Now he never put effort in his cakes . now all his cakes were just plain cakes, with plain frosting, and plain sprinkles. He had very few costumers but just enough to have a tiny, one - story house with nothing in it. One dismal day, an old lady came into his shop.''May I get a special cake for a special person?'' she asked very sweetly. Sure ma'am he said. Chocolate or vanilla? '' I want a special cake with special frosting and special sprinkles.'' she said with a smile.''ok, your cake will be ready by tommorow'' he promised as he went into the kitchen.''hmmmmmmmmm'' he thought. ''a special cake could mean anything.'' He baked a plain rectangle shaped cake with white frosting, and lots of plain colorful sprinkles.''That should be good" he said to himself as he went out the door and walked home. That night, he could not sleep for some weird reason. But, eventually he fell asleep. The next morning, the old lady showed up quite early in the morning waiting eagerly for her ''special'' cake. The baker handed her his plain cake and she looked at it with a big giant frown across her face. '' This isn't the cake that I was looking for. It's just not special enough.'' ''uuummm OK,'' he said a little bit frustrated. "I'll make you a cake that is more special,'' he said. He needed to hurry and make it because the shop was going to close in 1 hour. He hurried and made a plain circle cake with plain chocolate frosting and the same colorful sprinkles. He hurried home without giving much thought to anything. He still slept horrible, but he fell asleep eventually. The next morning he woke up very late and when he got to his shop, the old lady was standing there patiently waiting for him to unlock it. He unlocked the door and went in the kitchen to get her cake. he stared at the cake and realized he had seriously done it sloppy. He gave it to her anyway, though. Obviously she did not accept it. This time he was kind of annoyed. He seriously wanted to make it special. He took this cake so seriously that he even tried to make the shape special, a heart. After it was all baked, he decided that it was time to get to work on the frosting, which was for him, the best part.he walked over to the Fry's next door and instead of just chocolate and vanilla, he chose all of the different colors of the rainbow. When he started, he decided to do do it white with all different colored polka dots and he even picked wildflowers from a nearby hill and stuck them on the cake. he was so exited to give his cake to the lady. This time he had actually worked hard and he knew it. He kind of wanted to keep it himself. When he was finished, it was very late at night, so he walked home in a good mood. He fell asleep in a good mood too. He dreamt about his cake and he woke up with a smile. He had put so much effort into it! He had decided to come to work early. When the old lady got there, he gave her the cake hoping she would like it. She did! She took the cake and said, ''this is just perfect." She handed the cake back to him!!!! "

What in the heck are you doing ma'am??? "You are the special person that I wanted to give this cake to. You, my son." "What?" asked the baker. His mother had died right after he was born. Or, so he thought. "I was living on the road, she said."And I didn't have enough money to raise you, so I found someone who could care for you. I thought of you every day and every night. Every day after you opened the shop, I tried to convince myself to go inside and meet you again, but I just never could. About three days ago, I finally made up my mind and here I am. Please forgive me." She stared at the baker with kind eyes and he gave her a big,warm, hug. The baker put effort into his cakes from that day on and his life was happy. He believed that his cakes were actually special. THE END

by Madeline Hunt

MY MOM KICKS AS....

2010-05-08T23:27:00.000-07:00

MY MOM KICKS AS...HIGH AS YOU MIGHT EXPECT. NOT THAT HIGH. BUT, SHE IS THE BEST MOM IN THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE. THIS I KNOW!!!

My mom may be as close to angelic as you'll ever find. She selflessly cares unconditionally for others. Especially her family. I am so lucky that out of all of her grand kids, she likes my kids the best. She can't help it. (Hate to say it, but she likes me the best too.)

Check out this family she created. (With the help of my wonderful father) Pretty amazing how quickly we are catching up to her. Soon, we'll all be the same age. (Or at least look it) .

My mother in law is by far the best I could have. I really need to write a book on how much they teach me about motherhood, and what it means to love. These 2 really set the bar high! I am so thankful for their guidance and example. I only hope I can do half as well as they have. And are.

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!!

I LOOKED OUT THE WINDOW AND WHAT DID I SEE....?

2010-04-22T02:38:00.000-07:00

(SING IT TO THE TUNE OF "POPCORN POPPING"**** )

I LOOKED OUT THE WINDOW AND WHAT DID I SEE?

A BEAUTIFUL SPRING DAY GETTING AWAY FROM ME-

TIME HAS BROUGHT ME SUCH AN ODD SURPRISE

I'M GETTING OLDER RIGHT BEFORE MY EYES!!

I HAVE HEARD IT SAID FROM FRIENDS AND STRANGERS BOTH-

HOW QUICKLY TIME FLY'S- HOW FAST OUR BABIES GROW

I KNOW NOW THAT IT'S TRUE

I HOPE IT'S NOT TOO LATE

NOW LET'S GO OUTSIDE AND MAKE THE MOST OF THIS DAY!

boom pow!

ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER RATTLESNAKE

2010-04-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

Yes, we face the danger of a rattlesnake at our door, every spring. This one was at our neighbors front door. Jay held it down, while Greg chopped off its head.
Hunters, they are. Hunt they do. Men. Real live hunting men. They hunt. Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

SHE WAS UGLIER THAN I THOUGHT...

2010-04-04T13:17:00.000-07:00

Ya, the Easter bunny came. But, boy was she UGLY!

(So ugly, we wanted to keep her.)

An Idea to Win WARS...

2010-04-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

JUST SURROUND 'EM.
by Ty Hunt

An awesome visit!

2010-04-01T00:23:00.000-07:00

This is my beautiful Grandma Chesley. I feel quite privileged to have had the opportunity to have her stay with us. She has a sister who lives here in the Phoenix area, and came to stay with her for a few weeks. Before grandma went home, she was able to stay with me for a couple of days. It was truly a treat. She was a wonderful guest. Not enough trouble. I was prepared to really pamper her, but she just connected with my kids and with me. How many kids get to really connect with their great-grandparents? Austin, I must say, was a total gentleman. I was so proud of him. He treated her with such respect. She even helped him practice the piano. She was, after all, my piano teacher when I was young. I told her she was a great teacher, I was a poor student. Her, taking the time to teach me, was awesome, and I love her for it.

She also had quite the connection with Ty. I think he could see his own grandma in her, and absolutely loved her. She really showed us she has some giddy-up left in her. She pushed him on the swing, and went to watch Ty and Lauren at their tumbling class. She slept with Maddi, and had a good talk with her too. I loved it!

This is her sister, Marion. Adorable, right? She is an awesome lady too! Thank you, grandma, for coming to stay. And a HUGE thank you for giving me my mom!!! My mom is the most wonderful woman on the planet. No lie. She is. And, I am indebted to you for having her!

I hope I inherited some of her genes. She is 85 and, no lie, I have more wrinkles than she does!! She is amazing. I hope she knows how much we enjoyed having her around!

LOVE YOU!!

10 IS LOOKING TOO OLD.

2010-03-12T01:06:00.000-08:00

Can you see it? Look into this little girls eyes. She has such a beautiful spirit. Kind, creative, smart, pure....angelic. Even though she is looking so grown up, she remains sweet as ever. HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADELINE!If you're lucky enough to know her, you love her.

We love you soooo much!!!

I WOULD STILL BE GOOD, EVEN IF...

2010-03-03T00:08:00.000-08:00

The perfectionist:
I have always had the ingrained thought that I had to be a certain way in order to be loved, accepted, or "good". No matter how much my heart intercepts, and my brain intercepts, I somehow believe this absurd thought. Trying to reprogram myself is quite a slow and torturous process. I guess many think they must "perform" in one way or another, but is our worth dependent on that? Some may say if we didn't, we must be worth-less. But, in D&C 18:10 it reads that "the worth of souls is great in the sight of God." Just being a soul makes us great and worthwhile. If we could all just build on that, and make something of ourselves because we're already great, Not to prove to ourselves or others that because of what we accomplish, or how we look, or how popular we are, or how much money we have that we now qualify as great. We are counciled to "^aBe ye therefore ^bperfect, even as your ^cFather which is in heaven is ^dperfect". Which is only possible through Christ's atoning sacrifice. Not, "be perfect, even like the person in that parent, fortune 500, fitness, or high fashion magazine". If we all looked upon others without judgment, but love, knowing that they are a son or daughter of God, learning and growing on this great green earth, we wouldn't have to seek the approval of others, because they would already approve despite our faults and failures. Anyway, surely I'm not making sense by now, but if we can all believe that we are quite valuable, and make it our mission to convince others of this by loving, serving, and caring- rather than judging, our worth and happiness, love, and closeness to perfection would probably increase ten-fold.

These songs lyrics really struck a chord with me. Weird? I never claimed to be normal...and I've been accused of being too deep... oh well, at least I'm worth a lot.

*********

"That I Would Be Good"

that I would be good even if I did nothing
that I would be good even if I got the thumbs down
that I would be good if I got and stayed sick
that I would be good even if I gained ten pounds

that I would be fine even if I went bankrupt
that I would be good if I lost my hair and my youth
that I would be great if I was no longer queen
that I would be grand if I was not all knowing

that I would be loved even when I numb myself
that I would be good even when I am overwhelmed
that I would be loved even when I was fuming
that I would be good even if I was clingy

that I would be good even if I lost sanity
that I would be good
whether with or without you

ALANIS MORISSETTE

!!!WANTED!!!

2010-02-17T21:39:00.000-08:00

WANTED: BABY FACE TY

For being a stinker

(and his parents, for allowing it to happen)

A VALENTINE MEANT TO BE

2010-02-14T09:59:00.000-08:00

THE VALENTINE'S DANCE

If you weren't aware, Greg and me met in high school.

Here's the story-shortened.

So, I'm 16, allowed to date, and it's a girl's choice dance.

Who to ask? That's the problem. Well, not to brag, but I've always kind of known things- like I know what's up without knowing what's up. Make sense? Good. I'll now continue...

No one that I knew sounded fun to take. I started to think of older grades. Hmmmm....

I noticed this guy in my art class. I didn't sit by him, but he always seemed like a fun guy. I knew he was part of student council, and I knew his name was Greg Hunt. That's all I knew. Maybe I'll go out on a limb and take him. I don't dare. (I was pretty shy.) I told my enthusiastic and not so shy best friend, and she ran with it. "I'll ask him for you!" Ya, I was one of those. (At least I didn't put 500 balloons outside his window, and make him pop all of them, only to be covered with graffiti to find out who it was that might be taking him.) Well, he says he thought it was a joke, and that he must be on candid camera. He also said that he had this secret crush on me from the time he saw me. What are the chances? He already liked me. We had never spoken a word. I asked him out.

This was our first date. Documented in this cheesy picture. I had never curled my hair before. It looked terrible. I borrowed the dress, and wore flats. (Good thing, cause It looks like that would have made things more difficult. ) He had grown his hair to be quite high just so he'd be taller. Ha ha. He is taller. Really.

We were friends. Just friends. I didn't like him as a boyfriend, but I loved him as a friend. Apparently, he pulled hard guy to protect his pride. I was hurt.

We went on a date right before he left on his mission. We wrote a few times. I fell in love with him, head over heels, while he was away for 2 years. He would say it's because he was an awesome missionary. I agree, and, I think I realized that he was the guy I was actually looking for. My brothers also liked him, and for some reason their approval was cool. Lucky for me, he was still interested when he got home.

And the rest is history.....

Awww, Amour......

MOLLY'S VOICE

2010-02-09T14:06:00.000-08:00

I hope you can all take a minute to watch this short video of my sweet friend, Molly Jackson. I love her, and have learned so much from her. (and, her little boy Peter is the cutest thing ever.) Cheers, Mol. Keep pushing forward!

MOLLY'S STORY ON KSL 5
Go down to "Good Grief-Molly's story"

AS BAD AS IT MAY SEEM, WE DON'T HAVE IT SO BAD

2010-01-14T21:31:00.000-08:00

Service

Posted: 07 Jan 2010 11:00 PM PST

"The Savior taught His disciples, 'For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it' (Luke 9:24)."I believe the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives. Those who live only for themselves eventually shrivel up and figuratively lose their lives, while those who lose themselves in service to others grow and flourish—and in effect save their lives." Thomas S. Monson, "What Have I Done for Someone Today?" Ensign, Nov. 2009, 85

(following earthquake in Haiti, reuters photo caption: "A injured man carries his dead daughter...")

thanks for the pic, Stephanie...

to donate go to:

Humanitarian Services

I THINK WE CAN ALL TAKE THE TIME TO HELP IN ANY WAY WE CAN. I SLEEP IN MY HOME, CUSHY BED, CLEAN WATER, FOOD, COMFORTS, LUXURIES, ECT. WITH THE ONES I LOVE PRESENT AND ACCOUNTED FOR. I CAN'T IMAGINE THEIR PAIN. WE MUST ALL PRAY FOR THEM.

LAUREN TURNS 7.

2009-12-17T23:30:00.000-08:00

On Dec. 10, Lauren turned 7 years old! We decided to take a little family trip to Las Vegas, both to celebrate her birthday, and to go to the Dave Matthews/Tim Reynolds concert. We had 2 free nights to stay at the Belagio Hotel, so we thought what the heck. It turned out to be really fun. The kids think it's so fun to stay at a hotel. It doesn't happen too often. They really enjoyed it. LV isn't my first choice for a family vacation, but for a quick stay, you can make it work. I took Lauren and Maddi shopping for a new outfit for Lauren's birthday. (It's what she told me she wanted. ) Then, we went to Game Stop, a huge arcade/ games place where we had a little family party for her. What really made it special was to have Grandma and Grandpa Hunt come and celebrate with us!!! They stayed at the hotel, and played with the kids, and babysat (thank you), while Greg and I went to the concert. (Which was AWESOME). I was so happy to have all my kids there with us on this trip. They are truly the greatest kids ever. Thanks Grammy and Grandpa for truly making it extra

special!!!!

For the love of LAUREN!

2009-11-13T10:36:00.000-08:00

This past week, as I attended my Grandma Campbell's funeral, Lauren wrote me this note. She told me that when I was gone, the only way she knew how to express her love for me was through a note. Is this not the most beautiful thing? The gum is such a sweet extra touch. (sorry, couldn't help it). I AM SO THANKFUL FOR MY LARZY!

I love how Lauren's personality shines in these three pictures playing by a fan. This is Lauren. This is her. What more can I say?

Larzy is really flexible. She does the splits like a champion. I wish I was this flexible. Even when I was her age I couldn't do that.

WILLIAM JOSEPH

2009-11-10T16:42:00.000-08:00

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO ARE COMPLETELY OUT OF IT, AND HAVE NEVER HEARD OF WILLIAM JOSEPH, THE GREAT PIANO COMPOSER, HE IS AWESOME.

I'm telling you, he is an up and coming super star. He also happens to be in my ward and is very active. He has 3 kids and an adorable wife. Greg and I went to his concert Saturday night, and was blown away. Maddi and myself are going to take piano lessons from him. Please take a moment and check him out. Buy one of his 2 cd's, become a fan on Facebook, etc. He's very talented, humble, and great looking too. Click HERE to get a taste.

HALLOWEEN ENTERTAINMENT

2009-11-03T19:45:00.000-08:00

This Halloween was quite a crack up. Why does it seem birthdays and Holidays are more like a week long event, rather than a day long one? Anyway, we had fun. Greg and I went to a fun costume party, put on by the Proudfits. They did a great job, and we had fun.
And now....a couple of performances to share. Click HERE for the soon to be famous TY. Also, if you haven't seen it already, a break dancing number by Greg. Click HERE to be amazed.
and then......a Halloween gone by. Should I go blonde?

A little game we like to call "grab your ankles"
Since Greg has a bunch of fireworks left, he set off a bunch of his biggest ones. While wearing this mask. (fireworks are illegal in AZ, so I guess illegal ones are illegal, illegal. And I guess since Halloween isn't a firework holiday, it was illegal, illegal, illegal. And since it was around 11 pm, and we disturbed the peace, it was illegal, illegal- well you get the idea. We all were safely inside when the cops arrived. No harm done, and so much fun.
The kids made bank on the candy. Too much. Greg's trying to sell it all by the pound on ebay.
Wondering what Maddi is supposed to be? White trash. She has a mullet and a "MOM" tattoo. A little Preventive advertising doesn't hurt. Of course, it's Ty with a bunch of women.

OHHH, and a Halloween gone by....cute Maddi.

How is it that I have a 6 year old diva? She just knows the poses, and only allows certain things applied to her look. Apparently she knows what she's doing.

What was I doing with Ty on this one? I literally woke up next to him that night, thinking I was sleeping with the Joker. I kissed him anyway.

When Austin was 4 he dressed up like an old man. Now he's 12, and the old man is back. His hair just grew a bit, and he's older. It's gonna happen to all of us.

Here is the cute couple that threw the fun Halloween party. I should have gotten a picture of them when they were in their costumes. Oh well.

And here is our favorite new neighbors. They are so cute! When the moon is full, though, I always have to yell at him to "keep it down!"

NO BULLYING!!!!!!!

2009-09-23T22:47:00.000-07:00

If everyone could take a minute to check out THIS website and read about what all of us can actually DO about bully problems, and no friend problems, perhaps we can make a difference. Even if your child isn't being bullied, he can still make a difference. There is some awesome info. CHECK THIS OUT! (p.s. don't pay attention to Ty's shirt right below this.)

Ty's 1st day of school

2009-09-13T15:54:00.000-07:00

The 2nd was Ty's 1st day of pre-kindergarten. That's right. Not just preschool... pre-kindergarten. There is a huge difference. This means he's getting extremely big, and extremely smart. My baby needs to stop growing RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!!

September 11th. A touching tribute

2009-09-11T14:25:00.000-07:00

SEPT. 11Th is a sacred date. It is a day of TRAGEDY. It is awesome to see a MESSAGE OF HOPE that comes from something so tragic. All of us have, or may someday have a story of HARDSHIP or a tragic experience. To be able to find hope, or see the HAND OF GOD, and the POSITIVE FEELINGS and EXPERIENCES that stem from difficult times is a MIRACLE. Life is strange, sometimes very upsetting. But,to find the hope and RECOGNIZE our HEAVENLY FATHER'S HAND in our lives is CRITICAL and miraculous. Sometimes it takes STEPPING BACK and looking at the big picture, even years later. LOTS OF LOVE!
check out THIS video:

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE SSSLITHERY KIND

2009-09-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T HEARD YET, TY CAME FACE TO FACE WITH A 3 1/2 FOOT RATTLE SNAKE. I LOOKED UP PICTURES OF RATTLE SNAKE BITES, AND THE ONE I POSTED WAS A TAME PICTURE COMPARED TO THE GRUESOME ONES THAT I FOUND. IT TRULY MADE ME SICK! I AM SO GRATEFUL THAT TY IS O.K. IT COULD HAVE BEEN HIS FACE! IT COULD HAVE BEEN HIS LIFE!
To see a video of Ty giving a detailed account of his experience, click HERE.
(pause the playlist)

This is Ty holding the rattle.

Thanks Randy, Chandler, and Sydney for helping! Sydney helped save Ty, and Randy and Chandler took care of the snake.

IN A NUTSHELL..

2009-09-09T00:42:00.000-07:00

Warning. This post is totally messed up. Sometimes the Mac is hard to figure out for me. I got sick of it, and just published "as is". sorry.
Was the buggy parade getting buggy? It was for me! I'm glad to move on.

O.K., a very big nutshell. But, I do need to sum up our summer in Park City. On our way to Utah, traveling through Vegas, I got a call from my mom letting me know that my BFF's house was in the process of burning down. They have a very successful photography business that they had moved into the basement of their home; a perfect place for it with the beautiful scenery and surroundings. Everything was gone. The neighbors saved their hard drives, so the customers pictures were saved, but everything else-gone. Not only that, but Tiff was driving home from St. George and hearing about it on the phone.

Just a month or so prior to their house and business burning down, the little girl they were trying to adopt, and they raised for 9 months since birth, was given back to the birth mother due to a sperm donor father demanding parental rights. It was heartbreaking.

In their studio, a huge picture of my family was hanging in the entry. I imagined a vivid image of my family, wearing white, burning. starting at the corners, and moving in. I thought about how Satan is so determined to destroy families. Even my beautiful family. It really opened my eyes.

Tiff is amazing. I have been so impressed by her and Clark's reactions to all of this. Positive. Humbled (not that they needed it), and awesome. The weekend after their home burned down, Clark was called to be in the bishopbric. Ouch! Of course, he accepted and works on all of these things diligently. I know they will be so blessed. I love you Tiff!

Bulldogs, bulldogs, bulldogs. This was quite an experience having them with us. It was a bit chaotic. Keeping the condo smelling sweet was my main goal. With them having to have their bathroom in a sod-filled tub on the patio, and keep their hair cleaned up, was hard! And, to keep them from barking was a bit of a trial. Who knows if we'll get away with it next year.

The kids took most of these dog pictures. We have way, way, way too many dog pictures. It's all the kids photograph.

I had to bring this up, 'cause it was a bit shocking for us all. Z went through puberty, and man was it wacky. Gross, smelly, bladder infection included, -wacky. And, no, I did not know Z's vajay jay would look like this!

A real girly girl.

Lauren was so fun this summer. She took a gymnastics class and did sooo well. I never realized I have a gymnast on my hands. She can go all the way down in the splits, and do a back bend. This little girl does non-stop cartwheels. She's awesome!

Austin turned twelve on August 14th. He's growing up too fast! It really hit me when he passed the sacrament for the 1st time. I'm so proud of him. He went to a "big air" class in park City, and learned aireil skills and trampoline tricks. He loved it, and was determined to land his flips. He did great.

Boondocks! We have to go there at least once. It's fun to see the kids cut loose.

Crazy Ty. My mom had a luau and Ty took it to the next level. He is so much fun. And Funny! He turned 4 this summer, and all of a sudden He and Austin are fighting like cat and dog. I'm glad to be out of the condo and back to AZ for that reason. It's all better now. He also took gymnastics, and did great.

Concerts, concerts concerts! I've decided it's my thing. I love the feeling I get when I go. We went to Dave Matthews twice, Jason Mraz, The Fray, and American Idol. We are going to Rob Thomas and Jason Mraz in a couple weeks. I love these more than any other date!

Hangin' at the park. Of course is a big part of our summer. It's so beautiful there! We have so much fun in the 75 degree weather.

Greg's fireworks show!!! Oh what a show he had on the 4th of July. Another one was attempted on the 24th. Friends and family were gathered to witness the "GREG SHOW". It was cut short (thank goodness) by the fire marshal. Of course we didn't have a single legal firework on hand. The wind was also blowing, so I actually was glad. I don't want to be blamed for a house fire! The kids made the best of it and played a little red rover. Greg talked himself out of the $500 mandatory fine.

Of course, hiking in Park City is always fun. The scenery this summer was insane. So green, and so many flowers. Thanks, Flints, for showing us the trails.
Cousins, cousins, cousins. My kids love their cousins and love playing with them all day- then doing sleepovers.

Maddi had a fun summer too. She also did tumbling and had a great time. She has also just grown up way too much this year. I think what Maddi enjoys most is the one-on ones she was able to have with her grandmas. I have the best mom, and the best mother in law ever. My kids love them. They all got to spend quality personal time with their grandparents. I know it meant a lot to all of them.

The Dinosaur museum is always fun. We went with my cute friend Michelle and her 3 girls. My sister Mindy and Campbell went too. The best part was spending time with all of them.

Of course Lagoon. The highlight was when Greg won this red dog for Collin, after Collin kissed his coin and told Greg to win him something. 1st try, he won the big one.

Last, but not least, I visited my Grandma Campbell, who had just recently broke her hip. She had been heavily medicated, but I got to see the woman I knew and loved for a short time. I feel for her. She is almost completely blind now, and is unable to be the independent woman she is used to being. I love her and was grateful to spend this time with her.

Safe to say, another summer for the record books. We are so grateful to be able to live here every summer and enjoy family. I have grown closer to friends that I probably wouldn't have otherwise. I am so thankful for the friendships that I have there.

Now I can finally move on with my blog!

A "BUGGY" PARADE

2009-07-22T23:09:00.000-07:00

This year, for the Draper Days parade, The Salt Lake Preventive branch participated. I was trying to catch up on missed sleep, so I was missing. Ty was up all night with me, so he's missing too. Austin, Madeline, and Lauren along with Greg and Kevin and Campbell, were there to help. It was a fun, and tiring morning for them.
Brandon and Brienne did a great job (as usual) with the arranging and decorating. Brandon has been an awesome manager, and Brienne is one of the most creative people ever!

All of the kids handed out candy and Preventive stuff. They did a great job.

Way to go team! I slept well, thank you.

THIS....IS AMERICAN IDOL 2009

2009-07-16T15:15:00.000-07:00

For Mother's Day this year-a gift to look forward to, Greg and I took our moms to see the American Idol concert. Austin and Maddi were lucky enough to go too! We had so much fun. I thought Austin might be a bit embarrassed of me (a crazy lady who loves music), but he seemed to be cool with it. I attempted to make my first movie of the concert. Seriously, I had fun doing it, but Greg said it's weird. Just grin and bear it. Sorry, my sense of humor is a little off. (DEFINITELY PAUSE THE PLAYLIST before viewing!!!!!)

Maddi is my little diva. She was so fun. She screamed like crazy, clapped her hands, and danced. She's going to be my new concert buddy.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

PLAYIN' AT THE GATEWAY

2009-07-07T10:53:00.001-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

I'M PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN!

2009-07-04T01:54:00.000-07:00

We spent the 4th at Greg's sisters' house. They have the greatest yard I've seen! The kids and Greg (of course) had a great time lighting the fireworks. We always love to get together with the Hunt family and have a fun time with them! (Thanks Jen and Jason for letting us light all of the illegals at your house.)

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

HAPPY 4TH BIRTHDAY TY!

2009-06-28T17:04:00.000-07:00

TODAY WE HAD OUR ANNUAL BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR TY AT OUR FAVORITE PARK IN PARK CITY. IT IS SO BEAUTIFUL. HE TURNED THE BIG 4! WE, AT THE LAST MINUTE DECIDED TO GET HIM THIS JOHN DEER TRUCK. AT FIRST HE WAS IN TOTAL SHOCK AND ACTED LIKE HE DIDN'T WANT IT. YEAH RIGHT. HE DID LOVE IT, AND KNEW EXACTLY HOW TO DO IT. LAUREN WAS ESPECIALLY FOND OF IT. SHE DROVE IT WAY MORE THAN TY DID. I MUST SAY, I AM SO IMPRESSED WITH THOSE WHO MADE THE EFFORT TO COME. KRISTIN (MY BEAUTIFUL SISTER), AND HER HUSBAND, AARON DROVE WITH THEIR 2 KIDS, 1HR. AND 45 MIN. TO GET THERE. ON A PRECIOUS SATURDAY , EVEN! JARED AND LISA DROVE ALMOST AS LONG WITH THEIR NEWBORN BABY. GREG'S MOM FLEW IN FROM ST. GEORGE IN ORDER TO BE THERE. I AM SO THANKFUL FOR FAMILY. YOU ARE ALL SO AWESOME TO TAKE TIME TO COME. MAYBE NEXT YEAR WE SHOULD PLAN A BIRTHDAY HIKE, OR A CAMPING TRIP, OR OLYMPIC PARK, OR SOMETHING. I'LL LET YOU ALL CAST YOUR VOTES. ANYWAY, THANKS SO MUCH FOR COMING!

Kristin, My mom and me. I wish Mindy could have made it! I thought I had taken more pictures. I must have been chasing around my dopey dogs. This place is like Disneyland to them.

FATHERS DAY TRIBUTE

2009-06-20T22:30:00.000-07:00

I guess because Father's Day has been on my mind, It has also been on my mind what an important role being a father is to their daughters. Sons too, but since I'm a daughter, and I've spoken to other women, and girls, I'll speak for us. Whether girls are aware of it as children or not, or whether dads are aware of it, they have a significant impact on their daughters. We look to them for love, acceptance, an example, encouragement, and safety. Dads, in not so many words will let us know what they expect of us, and if they approve.

I've been looking forward to this post so I can express to my dad how much I love and appreciate him. (Wasn't he a great looking guy?) He means so much to me, and I love and respect him very much. My dad has always
been good example to me. Even though we sometimes have a hard time expressing it, I have always known that he loves me, and thinks I'm a good person. (thinks) jk. I try. He has definitely taught me by example. He has always tried to live what he has taught. He has also taught me a lot about the importance of living within our means.
This past year we had the opportunity to really grow closer and express our feelings toward one another. It was a priceless experience, and one that I feel everyone should have with their fathers. Sometimes I worry about his health, and tease him about his 10pm ice cream indulgences. I guess what comes around, goes around. ha ha. Love you dad. Happy Fathers Day!!!**********************************************************************************************

Where do I begin with Greg? Well, I'll just tell it like it is. You'll never meet a dad that loves his kids as much as Greg. He is such a fun dad. He's always the one jumping in the ocean or the pool with them. He loves "getting into it with them", and doesn't mind getting a little dirty. (As long as he can change immediately afterward.) He is CONSTANTLY bringing candy home to the kids. A couple of weeks ago, I was talking to Madeline about how it seemed like Ty was a little celebrity. She perked up and said, "I think dad is a celebrity." I know my girls (and boys) look up to him so much. They are proud of him, and have a great time with him, and miss him when he's not around. He definitely pulls through where I lack. Thank you, Greg for being such an exceptional dad, and a great provider.
hey dad, this is Austin. i just want you to know that you are the best dad i could ever ask for. Even though you are sometimes a little crazy, and weird you make a great dad. have a great fathers day and thanks for all the cool stuff that you do for us. ***** this is Maddi. my dad is very silly & funny with a titch of weird in him. he's very childish but that's just the way i like it.he is awesome,sweet,cool, and millions of other adjectives I'll always love him no matter what. dad, i love you so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so much.i love you more than anything or anyone besides our family. i love you whether you like it or not but i know you like it. dad once more, i love you . happy fathers day.love Maddi*****(this is from Ty) Thank you dad. I love you. Wock on. Happy Fathers Day, dad.*****(this is from Lauren just like she wrote it) I love u dad I love u so mash I hop u hav a nis fothrs day I love u so mosh I love u wen u tuc me in and i lic magen clubs I hop u had a nis fothrs day.
*******************************************************************************************

Who could ask for a better father-in-law than Richard? He has always been the best grandpa ever. He exemplifies hard work and service. He has even taken it upon himself to start his own Preventive branch in St. George, UT. Wow. I don't think too many Grandpas out there are starting their own businesses, and doing much of the work themselves. And trust me, It's work. Thanks for teaching Greg much of what it means to be a great dad and husband. Happy Fathers Day, Richard! Love, Heather. (In this picture, Ty is holding a dollar bill given to him by grandpa to spend in the shop they're in. Cute stuff.
******My dad is a modern day hero. He had my back recently when I almost got into a brawl with a biker short wearing hard guy. I can't think of a better guy to have on my side. I'm proud that he's my newest business partner and I'm especially thankful that he's my dad. He's always worked hard for the family and has been a fine example of fatherhood.
******************************************************************************************************************
The next 2 fathers are Rosalie's dad, (Grandpa Mark Turner)top
and My mom's dad, (Grandpa Evan Chesley). bottom
Both of these great men are not only good father's and grandfathers, and great grandfathers, but I respect them very much for both serving our country during World War 2. Not only did Mark serve, but was part of some very important battles, (Bulge and Normandy) he was shot 3 times and other men died all around him. He endured cold temperatures, that he still feels the effects of today. We are so glad he made it home safely to his wife and family. He is the father to 5 beautiful girls. We love him very much. He now enjoys entertaining the ladies (kind of like he is in this picture), in the assisted living place that he now lives in.

Grandpa Chesley is also honored, as he went through some other dreadful experiences while serving in the war. He endured being a P.O.W. for 2 years, which I can't imagine what this may have been like. He won't share very much, but I know he surely has suffered because of this memory and others he had while serving.
He has always enjoyed camping and the outdoors. Grandpa has traveled all over, and enjoyed this very much. He is the father of 7 children. His daughter that passed away from M.S. is remembered, as 2 of her daughters are showing him some love! kinda funny.
*******************************************************************************************My Grandpa Campbell, who passed away about 11 years ago, I miss very much. He was such a cute Grandpa. He was so funny, and such a great person. He was very dedicated to the church and his family. (And his BYU sports teams.) I'll post a picture as soon as I get one. I know my grandma has missed him very much. He is the father of 4 boys and 1 girl. I have so many good memories of him. His hobby; pigeon racing, was really cool. He had plaques and trophy's all over his house. Whenever I went to visit, he was usually in the backyard testing out a pigeon, or racing some. He also had quite a few young ladies that liked him (probably not as much as he said, he was like 80 and they were 16-18.) Love you, Grandpa.

Greg's Grandpa Hunt died from heart complications days before Greg was born. Russel M. Nelson was his surgeon. Greg had a chance to thank him when he ran into him at the airport, and Brother Nelson remembered him and the family well. Greg likes to think that while he was born, and when his grandpa died, that they talked and slapped high fives in Heaven. From what we know, he was truly a good man. If we ask too many questions about him, Richard gets choked up. We know he gave away full size candy bars at Halloween, and that he loved his grand kids. He was a good singer and song writer. He played the guitar. He ran a gas station in Southern Utah for many, many years.(I inherited his crooked bar stool that he sat on). He looked like Popeye because of his big forearms. He is the father of 2 boys, and 1 girl. *******************************************************************************************
If appropriate, I don't see why I wouldn't honor my Heavenly Father as well. I am so thankful for the knowledge I have of Him. He has given me everything I have. He is always there for me, and I know He loves me, and wants what is best for me. He sent his only begotten Son to die for me. I'm glad that He has an eternal understanding of why everything is the way it is, so I need to trust in Him, serve Him, and have faith in Him and his plan. ***********

BEAUTIFUL PARK CITY, UT

2009-06-18T16:01:00.001-07:00

We never grow tired of visiting Park City. I honestly believe it's one of the most beautiful places in the world. I feel fortunate to be part of it every year. We have such a great time! We look forward to enjoying it this year.

EBAY LOVES GREG PART 3 (THE CAR)

2009-06-07T16:46:00.000-07:00

I hesitated to post part 3 in this odd story, but knew that I would want to refer to it later(this is like my public journal), and also get your take. It's complicated yet simple, Funny yet sad, Heart felt yet Heart breaking. Yes, this is yet another chapter in the EBay saga. So, when the arrival of dolls slowed down, and the excitement of the Harley faded, late at night I saw Greg searching EBay for old cars. On dates he would spot different models that he thought were suitable to his taste. "You know what I'm kinda getting in to now, Heather? Old cars." "NO", I replied. "you don't know anything about cars. If it broke down, you wouldn't know how to fix it. We have a miniature 2 car garage that the 2 vehicles we now own, don't fit in. (4 if you count the motorcycles). You bought a new truck this year, and a motorcycle, no more, PLEASE. If anything, we would replace the van. But, I think we should wait 'til the kids are a bit less destructive to even do that." I depart. Fingers in my ears, singing a calming song to relieve the anxiety. The conversation is over.

Greg leaves town shortly thereafter. He is gone for a few days, so I was missing him. I talked to him on the phone and he tells me that he has a big surprise for me. I hang up wondering...."what could it be? He acts like he did something really nice for me." I forget about it, thinking he probably just said it. The next day, he was almost home, and told me he was bringing me home a surprise. "Could it possibly be? Could he have bought us a new family car to travel to Utah in?(We had already discussed what kind we wanted when the time came.) Oh, that would be exciting, but, I don't think we should yet...." I can't deny that I let my imagination get away. The thought of a new car was really cool. The minivan is great, but the kids are out of car seats now, and I could stop being a minivan mom. (I'm proud to be one anyway). I hear him come home. He comes in and says "come outside. I have a surprise for you." I walk outside, and what do I see? A 1969 light blue Cadillac sedan. Shock. "I bought you a car!" "You bought ME a car? You bought YOU a car!" "No, really it's for you. It's a girl car." "No you didn't. You bought YOU a car. Don't say you bought ME a car." A tear streams down my face. (day before my period) In my disappointment, I told him that he used me as an excuse to buy himself something HE wanted so I couldn't say "no" 'cause it's a gift, and that it was selfish. "It says CRUELAA on the licence plate, and it matches the Vespa." ......The thing is, he was looking for a car for himself, he happened on to this one that was in great shape, has only 70,000 miles, (same as the van!) and a a desperate seller with a good price. "I could just give it to Heather", he thought. And then he got excited. Thinking I would get excited. If the previous conversations and 'stuff' hadn't taken place, I would have. This car is totally my style. I love stuff like this. I never wanted it for me, but I do think they're great. To me, it seemed like such an unnecessary thing to buy at this time. He had some pretty roses on the front seat that he tossed on the sidewalk. The fight was a pretty good one. We are actually laughing about it now, but it surely wasn't funny at the time. After pondering it for a few weeks, I actually think he can see how I feel. maybe?....anyway... now we're trying to decide if we should sell it for a profit, or pimp it and store it in his warehouse until we have more space. (not much fun when it's not there for you to drive around.) Anyway, feel very free to express your take on this fine story. We are both very open to see other's views. Livin' and learnin' the best we can. Usually people seem to take Greg's side. Seriously though, does anyone see my side? Everyone?....Truth is, we're on the same side, so we just want further constructive criticism.

(YOU'VE GOTTA ADMIT, I'D LOOK CUTE IN IT)
I actually am going out on a little girls night in Cruelaa with my girl, Kelly. She's my best friend here. I truly love her. (Funny thing is, her and Greg are best buddies too.) We're really looking forward to it! We need to get it in since we were sited yesterday for having a car parked on the side of our house. We have 14 days to remove it, or we'll be fined.***

update: It's looking like I want to keep it. The more I drive it, the cuter, and cuter it is. I'm glad Greg is fun and crazy enough to balance me out. (am I really that dull?) He just needs to learn a thing or 2 about timing. (on our girls night he actually called me and asked me in the middle of dinner if I was cool with him buying some old fashioned Honda scooter on ebay for $700 just to "ride around in when he didn't feel like taking the Harley". On our very rare girls night. While we happened to be talking about how husbands need to be there for there wives emotionally. uhhhh, hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GREG!

2009-06-05T22:38:00.000-07:00

Today Greg turns 36 yrs. old. I hope he has a wonderful, awesome, birthday. His wife and kids love him and have missed him while he's been at scout camp. We can't wait to CELEBRATE! In other words, have some good, old fashioned, family fun. I think that's what Greg wants. No Stress. "Turn off the phone, shut the blinds". WE LOVE YOU. HAPPY BIRTHDAY.

EBAY LOVES GREG PART 2 (THE BIKE)

2009-06-04T10:38:00.000-07:00

THE SAGA CONTINUES....

This dreamy boy (refer to part 1) always had a vision of himself owning a Harley Davidson. If you haven't heard our Harley story yet, here is a brief rundown. I finally broke down and told him "Go ahead. Just drive on Sunday afternoons only, and I get a Vespa". Am I a brat? He got me the Vespa. Cute, cute. On the way to get the Harley, we got into an accident. Some kid pulled out right in front of us, and we t-boned him going 50 mph. Ty was 6 weeks old. I wasn't wearing a seat belt. We both went to the er fortunate to be fine. (Airbags are awesome!) This was a sign from above that a Harley was not in the cards. The fun was gone, the desire was gone. We moved on. He drove the Vespa more than me. Oh how vulnerable we are when others can just choose to pull out in our path, no matter how careful we are.

Well, 3 1/2 years later, the Harley itch re-emerges. He finds his Harley on EBay. It's a 1997 with 11 miles. "It's just going to sit in my office among my dolls for me to look at." Is it still in his office? Try the garage. It's got 700 miles already, and he's part of a nationwide motorcycle gang 'The Temple Riders'. Huh. We even went on a date with me driving the Vespa and him on the Harley. It was fun, but, I won't be driving among traffic very often. TOO VULNERABLE! Maybe when I don't have 4 kids waiting for me at home. Think Greg's itch has now been scratched? Na. He has it, wants to sell it, and get a different one. Oh, just be happy with this one! It's awesome, right? Kind of how he used to really want me until a better girl comes along? More itch's to come.

to be continued......

EBAY LOVES GREG-PART 1 (THE DOLLS)

2009-05-31T15:48:00.000-07:00

THIS IS A STORY OF A BOY WITH A DREAM. ONE DAY HE DECIDED HE WANTED TO FULFILL HIS DREAM. ALL IN ONE DAY. WITH EBAY. (OK, MAYBE IT TOOK A COUPLE OF WEEKS)... THIS IS A STORY OF A BOY WHO MAKES HIS DREAMS COME TRUE, EVEN IF OTHERS MAY MOCK HIM, OR YELL AT HIM, OR MAKE HIM SLEEP IN THE DOG HOUSE... "YOU JUST WAIT, ONE DAY MY GRAND KIDS WILL LOVE TO COME OVER TO PLAY WITH MY DOLLS. THESE ARE GOING TO BE WORTH A TON." WHEN I FIRST MET GREG IN HIGH SCHOOL, I WENT DOWN IN TO HIS ROOM AND SAW;..... POSTERS OF HOT GIRLS ON HIS WALL? NO..., PICTURES OF HIS FAVORITE BAND OR SPORTS TEAM? NO...., ACTUALLY HE HAD A MASSIVE COLLECTION OF UNOPENED, UNTOUCHED, MINI-BOTTLES SOME FULL SIZE, OF LIQUOR- LINING HIS BED, WALLS, AND DESK. WHEN HE GOT HOME FROM HIS MISSION, HE FINALLY LET WHAT WAS LEFT OF THEM -(THE COLLECTION HAD DWINDLED SOME WHILE HE WAS GONE-DRIFTING FRIENDS OF FRIENDS GOT WORD OF SUCH A COLLECTION) WHERE THIS IS NOW, I HAVE NO IDEA. JEN, JUSTIN, DO YOU KNOW? HA HA . MY LITTLE COLLECTOR. SEEMS HISTORY IS REPEATING ITSELF. OR, (MAYBE THIS IS HIS WAY OF KEEPING ME OUT OF HIS PERSONAL SPACE....HMMMMM) EITHER WAY, HE IS DONE COLLECTING THEM. I THINK HE SAW HOW MUCH IT STARTED TO BOTHER ME. SO HE ORDERED TWICE AS MUCH. ONE, TWO, THREE, ONCE IN A WHILE. COOL. THIS? OVERWHELMING. ISN'T LIFE OVERWHELMING ENOUGH? AM I OUT OF LINE? MAYBE I SHOULD ENCOURAGE HIM TO CONTINUE. HAVE HIS FUN. MAYBE I JUST DON'T KNOW HOW TO HAVE FUN, AND NEED TO LIGHTEN UP. BELIEVE ME, I'M TRYING.

THIS IS THE FIRST CHAPTER TELLING THE STORY OF A COMPLICATED, ENTERTAINING, BEAUTIFUL BOY. ONE THAT I DO LOVE! (HE'S NOT EXACTLY MARRIED TO THE MOST SIMPLE GIRL. I DON'T THINK I'M ONE HE'LL EVER FIGURE OUT! BUT, THAT'S ANOTHER STORY.)
PART1(MY VOICE IS SO STINKIN' ANNOYING)
PART2
HE'S CUTE, AND I ACT ANNOYED, BUT I ACTUALLY KINDA LIKE MOST OF THEM. (SOME CROSS THE LINE).

to be continued...

SCOUT CAMP

2009-05-30T16:16:00.000-07:00

Greg has always been one to fulfill his callings. Even though scout camp is pretty much the last place he wants to be right now, he's there, for nearly a week. The great thing is that he is able to bring Austin with him this year! I think they're going to have an awesome time having some good father-son time. (Since they didn't go to fathers and sons). Greg is an awesome dad, and Austin is growing up! He was excited to go with his dad. I hope they are having fun.
hey guys, this is Austin and i just got home from scout camp. My mom is making me write what i remember from it.I'm lucky my dad came!
*made an awesome 2 room tent for me and 2 other friends
*loaded up all the stuff into the tent, and talked with my friend Jackson.
*had some really good food at the cafeteria,drinks,fried chicken ,toast, bread sticks, all that stuff.
*went to bed in my tent with my friend Jackson and another kid named Michael who is like 14 and we got a pretty big kick out of him, this is what he said.
Jackson:"do you know Tessa Gardner, in your grade"?(Tessa is Jackson's sister)
Michael:"yeah,i hate her! she keeps on touching my butt".
Jackson:"dude, Tessa is my sister and would not do that"...
me:almost pukes because it's so funny
Michael:"oh...ugh...ugh there is another kid named Tessa Gardner...there are 2 Tessa's!"
Jackson:"uh hu, sure Michael."

*swam into a freezing cold pool and had to do like 5 laps...which took my like 3 tries.
*me, my dad, and some friends started to carve wood and we made a bunch of cool stuff.
*then that night when we were back inside the tent, i asked Michael a question.
me:"do you know who gorge Paul Dane is Michael"?(i have no idea who gorge Paul Dane even is.)
Michael:"i know him, he comes to my cousins house all of the time and fights with him a lot.
me and Jackson:laughing so hard we could not breathe.did i mention i made the name gorge Paul Dane??
*that morning i woke up to my dad hitting on our tent telling us that we had to get up to do the polar bear.(it was like 5:00 in the morning so we were not to exited to go and jump into a pool that we thought would be freezing and have to swim a lap. but actually it was not that bad, our scout master just made it sound really bad.
*went to our daily merit badge classes, swimming, environmental science,rowing, and wilderness survival.(in my opinion swimming was the worst and wilderness survival was the best because i suck at swimming laps.)
*me and my friends played pranks on each others tents
*for my wilderness survival merit badge, i slept out in the woods with the other scouts in my troop which was really fun but also cold. we talked and joked so it wasn't that bad.
*i went to the camp fire with my dad,and performed a skit with my troop which got everyone laughing.
*i went to hear a scary story about this Indian dude which i liked a lot ...but i dozed off in the middle of it because i was so freakin' cold outside.
*did the polar bear again...this time for 3 days straight.(i finally get to sleep in until 6:00 in the morning!!)
*swamped a canoe at rowing class, and right when i got used to the lake water, we had to get out.
*on the second to last day of camp, i finished all of my merit badge classes and passed every one! Now i have 5 merit badges, first aid, swimming, environmental science,rowing, and wilderness survival!
*on the last day of camp, i played football for a little bit, which i suck at and hate but my friends wanted me to do it so i did, and i got bruised and cut my knee open.
*then on the car ride back, i almost puked so we went to the gas station for a bathroom break and then when we got back into the car. i fell asleep for pretty much the rest of the car drive.
yeah....so that's about all i can remember from scout camp. oh yeah there was also a trading post there that a got a slushy and a cool spider knife from. That's about it=].

SWIM, SWIM, SWIM...GET IT ALL IN! SPRING 2009

2009-05-25T11:16:00.000-07:00

Where am I you say? Conveniently behind the camera, as usual. We are leaving the pool and will miss it in a couple of weeks. Here are some cute shots of our DAILY swimming routine.

(IF YOU DOUBLE CLICK ON THE COLLAGE YOU SHOULD BE ABLE TO SEE CLOSE UP)

MY HUSBAND, THE CELEBRITY....

2009-05-19T14:04:00.000-07:00

YES, THAT IS CORRECT, FOR THE 10TH TIME OR SO, GREG TAKES THE BULLET, AND IS THE MAN FEATURED ON THE NEWS. (AS OPPOSED TO ONE OF HIS CO-WORKERS). OF COURSE, HE'S THE MOST HANDSOME, SO IT MAKES SENSE. IT ALWAYS BRINGS IN A BUNCH OF NEW CLIENTS, SO IT'S GREAT FOR BUSINESS. YOU'LL HAVE TO PUSH PLAY TO THE RIGHT OF THEIR PAGE ONCE YOU CLICK HERE ON THE LINK. (PAUSE THE PLAYLIST) ***
******Much study and research went into Greg's responses. He watched Bob Wiley's(i.e. What About Bob) style and remarkable tactics before doing the interview.*******

MY FAMILY LOVES ME.

2009-05-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

For Mother's Day, my kids, and Greg all gave me these wonderful cards. Austin wrote me a scary story. (Probably worth $ someday, Maddi wrote me poems, Lauren drew many wonderful pictures of the 2 of us together, and Ty drew a picture of me wearing purple shoes. Everything was awesome. I love them. The kids brought me breakfast in bed-toast and cereal (I was dead asleep, it was Sat., milk already poured. Classic, beautiful children.) Ty ate the toast. I still have crumbs in the sheets.

I am one lucky lady. Ty invited me to a special mother's day pampering at his preschool. (Hats off teachers!) And, boy was I pampered. He picked out some nail polish, and painted my nails. Boy, did he concentrate! He splashed on my white shorts, but it was worth it. He made me a crown and a necklace. I drank water through a bendy straw. He shaved my legs, applied scented lotion, and uh, sang. Thanks Ty! Then we went to Fry's all done up. Fun fun fun.

MOTHERS DAY 2009

2009-05-08T23:17:00.000-07:00

A TRIBUTE TO MOTHERS...

(I think we all need to change this way of thinking)

My mom, Vie Maurine Chesley Campbell, the greatest mom in the whole world. I could seriously write a book about her. She is such a wonderful example to me. She has taught me what a

mother, sister, daughter, wife, grandmother, and friend should be. She is truly the most selfless woman I know. I could make a list of a hundred selfless acts; of DIFFICULT acts of service she has done for others just in the past year, simply because she loves them. I am crying tears while I type this because it's soooo true. Why is it so hard for me to be like her?? Mom, I love you, and hope you know that all you do is appreciated.

Love,

Heather

"God made Moms because there wasn't enough of Him to go around." I also happen to know that He likes my Mom a little better than most because she is so angelic and perfect. I have a Mom that spent her entire life in complete selfless service to her children and others. I would challenge you ask anybody who has ever met or knows my mother if she's not one of the sweetest people they've ever met. I love you Mom! A rotten kid like me couldn't ask for a better mother. Only you could have put up with me. You are the best!!!! Love, Greg

I also want to pay tribute to my heroic Mother in Law. She is truly special. Love ya' Vie.
Rosalie, I couldn't ask for a more amazing mother in law than you. I feel like I have double of the best moms in my life. You are such a sweet and wonderful woman. You have raised a son that really knows how to treat a girl. (most of the time). Thank you for all you have done and continue to do. I love you!

Moms who adopt..
For all of you who know my dear friend, Tiffani Swensen, her 8 month battle for custody of her baby girl Sadie, who she has been a mother to since the very day she was born came to an end. She and Clark courageously fought for her and now hope, as the wonderful parents they are, the wonderful MOTHER she is, that Sadie is in the best place she could be in for the long run custody outcome. How empty, and saddened they are. They have another son who they adopted, Samual, and also Tiani who is their natural child. How blessed, and how lovely she is, as a woman and a mother.

Young moms..
And then there are the mother-to be's. Lisa, my sister-in-law is a few days over due today! Jared is going to be a 1st time dad. I am so excited for them both. The have such an adventure ahead of them.

Older moms...

My grandma Chesley, mother of 7 children of which 2 have passed away, is still holding strong at eighty something. She has a ridiculous amount of grand children, as well as great grand children, and great great grand children. She taught all of her grandchildren piano lessons, which I never appreciated until later. I wish I would have capitalized on them more, knowing she was taking time out of her busy schedule for me. I love you, grandma! You are beautiful

(Grandma Chesley as a younger woman)

Grandma Rula Turner, Greg's grandma, was such a wonderful woman, and inspiration. A mother of 5 girls, I have always admired her strength. She has been an example of service and true beauty. Greg always looked forward to her weekly letters while on his mission. He could always count on her. I will always remember her with such love and fond memories. She exemplified motherhood.

Grandma Flora Campbell, Mother of 5, and who knows how many grand and great grand children was a true example. She served many selfless callings, and spent her life in service of her children and her husband. As a child I remember the funnest sleepovers, and the best cereal and ice cream cones. Her sheet always smelled of downy. She is in a rest home, and her sight is gone now, but her life has been one of amazing courage and unselfishness.I wish I had a youthful picture of her. She was beautiful. Funny, 'cause my grandpa was small and she was tall. He wanted big boys. I'm glad it didn't bother her.

Greg's great grandma, Laura Hunt, who recently died at 100 years old was a truly amazing mother and grandmother,great grandmother,sister, woman, ect. I knew her for her amazing talents with her hands. She could do needle work and quilting like no other. She left behind some beautiful pieces that we will treasure. I am so thankful that my children had the opportunity to meet her.

Richards (Greg's Dad) mom, and Laura's daughter, grandma Peterson, I salute. I can't imagine trying to raise Richard and his brother as kids! jk. not. She has had a hard life, though. She has suffered the death of her husband, and a stroke. She continues to tick and has many talents and quite a legacy. We love her.

DAVE WAS AT THE TOP OF HIS GAME!

2009-05-08T15:31:00.000-07:00

THE DAVE MATTHEWS 2009 TOUR....

if you don't love 'em, you have to at least appreciate their insane talent!

(all of these pictures were taken with my blackberry.)

If any of you know me very well, you know I'm a HUGE Dave Matthews fan. Wed. night, Greg and I went to the much anticipated concert here in Phoenix. We were sitting 2ND row and loving life! Greg got each member of the band to acknowledge us! The new sax player (due to the death of the original) is from the flecktones, Greg's favorite! He cheered directly at Greg multiple times. Out of all of the Dave shows we've seen, (about 8 to 10 now) this was a STELLA show! Tim Reynolds was there, he's such a mini genius. I can't wait for their new album. IT IS GOING TO BE AWESOME. June 2nd baby!!!!

Check out this link for a little peek......

THE GUM STORE

2009-04-30T23:14:00.000-07:00

Austin and Maddi have been making a few extra bucks by selling gum. They sell it on the bus, at recess, and after school. There's Tic Tac's and breath drops too! I guess now a couple of kids have caught on and given them some competition. Recently, an announcement was made, that whoever was selling gum in school better stop, or they'll be suspended. Oops. They still sell it. (Just not during school, before and after.) I hope I'm not teaching them the dealing of illegal substances.

It's just a fun little entrepreneurial business. (My idea, not Greg's for those of you that thought he was the only business savvy person in the family.) For some reason we have been calling the "Gum Store". I think tomorrow we'll send some suckers and airheads too. We need to bump up sales.

(notice Ty's weasly face)

SHOULD I BE MORE WORRIED ABOUT THE SWINE FLU?

2009-04-30T21:51:00.000-07:00

Z tends to be just a bit of a pig-alike. Seriously, from her breathing, her snorting, her eating, her pink skin, and her curly tail. We've really wondered if she has a little "Swine" in her.

She snorts and grunts like crazy when she eats. She crowds Vito out every time. "Hogs" it all. He's learned to just wait until she's through.

IF I ONLY HAD LAUREN'S ENERGY!

2009-04-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

IF I COULD USE ONE WORD TO DESCRIBE LAUREN, IT WOULD BE ENERGY, SASSY, FUN, HELPFUL, LUNGS, SMART, CLEVER.. (O.K., SO IT'S MORE THAN 1 WORD, BUT SHE'S TOO COMPLEX TO USE JUST ONE. I JUST LOVE HER, AND WOULDN'T CHANGE A THING ABOUT HER. (MAYBE THE WHINING, AND FIGHTING, BUT THAT'S IT!) LITTLE CUTIE.

I REMEMBER BEING AT THE PARK TO WATCH FIREWORKS. I THINK SHE WAS 3, AND SHE WAS SO PUMPED UP THAT SHE RAN AROUND THE BLANKET AT TOP SPEED AT LEAST 100 TIMES. SHE JUST WOULDN'T STOP. I THINK SHE WOULD HAVE BURST IF SHE HAD TO HOLD STILL. REALLY, WHATEVER BATTERY SHE USES, I WANT.

IT'S FUNNY, CAUSE EVERYONE THINKS SHE'S SO QUIET AND SHY-UNTIL YOU GET TO KNOW HER. WHOA! SHE'S JUST THE OPPOSITE. SHE FAKES A LOT OF PEOPLE OUT.

SPRINGTIME IN AZ IS BEAUTIFUL

2009-04-18T20:28:00.000-07:00

Can you believe how gorgeous this flower is on our cactus? This is my favorite thing about spring.

Lauren in her cute Easter dress is another springtime favorite.

These are all just the flowers in our front yard. When I go out there and just listen to the bees

humming, it makes me happy.

Maddi, on Easter is absolutely lovely.

Festivities at the park.

The boys look so fresh in their Easter clothes too.

Greg and I had fun giving the kids this little playhouse. They loved it.

Last night Maddi decided she was going to sleep in it. I couldn't believe it. Little miss determined slept through the whole night, all alone. Even the dogs slept inside.

It is safe to say that we are really enjoying the spring weather. It is a time of renewal and reflection on Christ. I love it!

ARE WE SICK OF TY PERFORMING YET???

2009-04-06T21:50:00.000-07:00

Ty sings take 1.. (PAUSE THE PLAYLIST)

Ty sings take 2..(notice him cover his mouth during the b word)-we told him to kiss them ONCE. funny. Also if you listen close, Z growls every time he kisses her. She's so vicious.

Ty sings take 3 ..

Ty sings take 4...

Ty sings take 5....

So you probably think we're a bit nuts, but, Ty finds Austin's ipod and memorizes songs. We were in the van today and this song came on. I have never heard it, and he starts belting it out word for word. I sat there completely amazed, as usual. How do I not notice these things are taking place? I really need to pay closer attention~!!

April fools on Z; Catching up....

2009-04-02T00:15:00.000-07:00

"Don't mess with me, or I'll rip your head off"

NOT!!!!!!He's a sweetie, really.

Poor little Z. I guess Ty couldn't find some paper, so he decided to color Z. It's up her legs, too.

And then there's nightime pass time "color your hand with red finger nail polish" after

putting Ty to bed. It looks like Batman had a fight....and LOST!

These are the cutest little travel buddies I could ask for. We had a blast flying to Utah. We got to see Grandmas, Grandpas, and all the gangs. Thanks for hangin' out with me!

***************************************************************************

I know this is random, but how often do you see a 90+ yr. old(both of them!) actually WALKING through the mall while holding hands? It was adorable, and I had to snap a picture.

Happy Birthday Madeline

2009-03-11T10:55:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how quickly time passes. Maddi was the most adorable and happy baby. As soon as I get a scanner, I will add some younger pictures.

Ty and Maddi joined me on a little

trip to Utah. My mom threw a party

for Campbell and Mads. (on the cake

you see a 5 and a 4 =9.) Very fun!

WHAT AUSTIN LEARNED IN MUSIC CLASS

2009-03-10T15:20:00.000-07:00

Before you watch these lovely movies, let me appologize for the use of the word "retarded", and also my annoying laugh! (pause the playlist)

Ty's Dream

2009-03-04T22:24:00.000-08:00

Ty went and found the exact doll that was in his dream. Perhaps I'd better stop with the creepy Tim Burton movies. (His shirt doesn't help either) ******Pause the playlist

LOOK AT THE "BULL" I'M DEALING WITH NOW!!!!(HER NAME IS BABY Z or ZION, AND MAN SHE'S A SWEETIE!!)

2009-03-02T22:07:00.001-08:00

SUS BUZZES GOES TO HOLLYWOOD

2009-02-26T23:39:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't know, Ty is a huge fan of Tim Burton movies.He watches Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory, over and over again. Then He discovered the new one. Now he watches both over and over. (he loves kicking Vito while acting like Veruca Salt)........I'm going to screammmmmm..... Anyway, then, he discovered The Nightmare Before Christmas and watches it over, and over and over. Seriously, beginning to end. I can't help but think that when he had to have his defective tooth with no enamel on it worked on, wrapped in a straight jacket with laughing gas and a sedative doing its thing, that he was dreaming he was in these movies. Acting out some part. Playing some important role. Becoming Tims next huge star. We can all dream.....

CONGRATULATIONS AUSTIN!

2009-02-24T17:47:00.000-08:00

Ty, Our Hero!!

2009-02-13T09:10:00.000-08:00

I had Ty and a few of his friends over after preschool. Needless to say, all women except Ty. It was raining that day, so we decorated cookies and watched "Barbie, Diamond Castle." Ummmm, It was a huge hit. They were soo in to it! When the dragon, (Slider) came they all yelled "Ty, save us!" Of course, Ty was all over that. He wrapped his arms around all 3 of them and rescued them. I have honestly never laughed so hard in my life as I observed him sitting on the couch with a straight face while the girls danced and sang. Yes, lady's man, chick magnet, whatever. The best thing is, on the way home from preschool today, he told me I was his SPECIAL VALENTINE. At least I know who comes first in his heart. XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

NEW PREVENTIVE WEB PAGES

2009-02-06T22:51:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to say how impressed I am with my husband and all of his hard work. Preventive has been a wonderful blessing in the lives of many. He and Kevin started it from the ground up, being diligent and hard working in so many aspects. It definately takes a fine tuned work ethic, money smarts(and not spending all of it!), and a dedicated team of hard workers. The new web pages were recently done and look great! I know we can all join in and acknowledge him for being such an awesome guy! Love ya Greg.

http://www.preventivepestcontrol.com/

http://www.theppcadvantage.com/

THE WAR

2009-01-29T09:48:00.000-08:00

About a year ago, I gave a talk in church about putting on the Armor of God. Since then, I've often thought about how much more difficult this world is becoming to live in. It seems as if the bad is just getting worse. The wickedness is more "in our face". With all of the technology, it is more difficult to keep it out of our homes. I'm afraid for the next generation, and the one after that. So what do we do? I say "THIS MEANS WAR." My talk isn't all that great, but here's a copy for anyone who wants to "join on in". (Thanks Tanner)
My Talk
If you can see the look on this soldiers face, you know he has been through a battle. One that has taken courage. One that has required him to be armed with the necessary gear and gunfire. By the look in his eyes he has seen and heard a lot Probably much of it he wouldn't have seen if he had a choice.
Our real contest in life is not with human agencies that come with guns and tanks and bombing planes to destroy us, but that our eternal struggle is with enemies that come in the darkness and that cannot be perceived by the human senses.
My talk is to put on the armor of God against wickedness. In (Ephesians 6:11-13) the great missionary Apostle, Saul of Tarsus, declares the reality of this individual spiritual warfare and urges us to arm for the conflict. Here are his words. "Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day and having done all, to stand.."
Unless we put on the "whole armor of God" to battle against this "spiritual wickedness in high places" we shall not be able to withstand "the wiles of the devil".

It would be foolish to go into a battle or combat unprepared. We must be prepared and prepare our children to face the challenges that face us so blatantly in this day and age. As parents we have the responsibility to prepare our children for their own upcoming battles.
SO WHAT IS THE ARMOR OF GOD? (It protects us where we are most vulnerable.)Paul, a valiant defender of the faith, points out the principle parts of an armed warrior that are most vulnerable to the attacks of these enemies which strike in the night or in the darkness and which are not seen usually by the light of day. Four parts of the warrior are spoken of.
1.THE LOINS: were to be "girt about with truth." in biblical diction the loins denoting the location or seat of the organs of procreation, where human life is generated. In (Exodus 20:14) it reads "thou shalt not commit adultery", which is unquestionably interpreted to mean all unlawful sexual association, inasmuch as the Master used interchangeable the words adultery and fornication in defining sexual impurity.

2.THE HEART: (Covered with the breastplate of righteousness). You will remember the Master had said, "From out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh". The righteous man, although far superior to his fellows who are not, is humble and does not parade his righteousness to be seen of men but conceals his virtues modestly. He strives for self-improvement knowing that he has daily need for repentance for his misdeeds or neglect. He is not so much concerned about what he can get, but what he can give to others. He knows that along this course only, can he find true happiness. The breastplate of righteousness has given him the strength of ten, because his heart is pure."
3.THE FEET: "shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace". The feet denoting one's course in life, or the way of travel in his journey through life. Fear is the penalty of unpreparedness and aimless dawdling with opportunity. (understand the gospel, read the scriptures, know your Savior, have oil in your lamps.) Whether in physical or moral combat, the tide of victory rests with her who is prepared. She has found the way to peace by "overcoming the world." She has built her house upon a rock, and when the storms come, it will not fall. Such a one is not afraid; she will not be overcome by a surprise attack, for She is ready.
4.THE INTELLECT:(The warrior is to have a "helmet of salvation") As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he. Harold B. Lee says "With the goal of salvation ever in our mind's eye as the ultimate to be achieved, our thinking and our decisions which determine action will always challenge all that would jeopardize that glorious future state. Lost indeed is that soul who is intellectually without the "helmet of salvation", which tells him that death is the end and that the grave is a victory over life and brings to defeat the hopes, the aspirations, and the accomplishments of life. Such a person may be the one who concludes "eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die." President Lee also says the one who confidently looks forward to an eternal reward for his efforts in mortality is constantly sustained through his deepest trials. He lives above his world and never loses sight of the goal of his salvation.
5. THE SHIELD OF FAITH and SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, which is the word of God, work together.
6. THE ARMOR OF TRUTH IS KNOWING AND DOING.What is truth? It is knowledge.-"knowledge of things as they are, as they were, and as they are to come. We must do more than know the truth. WE MUST LOVE THE TRUTH. Love of truth implies the willingness to sacrifice for its defense.
If we are clothed in the armor of God, we are prepared to face challenges, and if we are able to avoid that which is wicked, we can avoid much pain.But because we are not perfect we may sometimes fall short and be wounded in our battle. The Savior has made it possible through the mighty atonement to be healed, and become stronger and more valiant. By faith, as the word of God teaches, we understand that whatever contributes to our becoming more like Him is good for us, even though painful to us at times.
YOUTH, IF YOU DECIDE NOW TO BE A LEADER AND DEFENDER OF TRUTH AND RIGHTEOUSNESS, WHEN YOU ARE FACED WITH SUCH BATTLES THEY WILL BE MUCH EASIER TO FIGHT AND WIN.
Don't ever take on the attitude that "I am strong enough." "I can handle this." The only way to keep your mind sharp, your armor strong is with the strength of the Savior. Know Him. Study Him. Pray. Avoid music, words, movies, games, and places where the spirit cannot be felt. Doing so invites Him into our hearts.
THE ARMOR OF GOD SUGGESTS FACE TO FACE COMBAT. Harold B. Lee points out that you have no armor whatsoever to protect you from the rear. Does this suggest yet another quality essential to this eternal conflict with "spiritual wickedness in high places"? Evidently, no one can win this battle running FROM the enemy. The contest must be FACE TO FACE. There must be no retreat.
WE MUST BE DEFENDERS OF THE FAITH.You and I, to be worthy of our places in God's kingdom, must be defenders of the faith, and as someone has written, "If you have no enemies you say, alas, my friend, the boast is poor.He who has mingled in the fray of duty that the brave endure must have made foes. If you have none, small is the work that you have done. If you have hit not traitor on the hip, if you have dashed no cup from purged lip, you have never turned a wrong to right, you have been a coward in the fight."

AND SO I CHALLENGE ALL OF US, OLD AND YOUNG, ONWARD, CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS!MARCHING AS TO WAR, WITH THE CROSS OF JESUS GOING ON BEFORE. CHRIST THE ROYAL MASTER, LEADS AGAINST THE FOE; FORWARD INTO BATTLE, SEE HIS BANNERS GO!

THEY'RE GROWING UP TOO FAST!

2009-01-28T21:54:00.001-08:00

I can remember when you fit in the palm of my hand.You felt so good in
it; no bigger than a minute.How it amazes me you're changin' with every blink.Faster than a flower blooms, they grow up all too soon.

So let them be little,'Cause they're only that way for a while.Give 'em hope, give them praise,Give them love every day.Let 'em cry, let 'em giggle,Let 'em sleep in the middle,Oh, but let them be little.

I never felt so much in one little tender touch.I live for those kisses, your prayers an' your wishes.An' now you're teachin' me how only a child can see.Tonight, while we're on our knees, all I ask is:

Please, let them be little,'Cause they're only that way for a while.Give them hope, give them praise,Give them love every day.Let 'em cry, let 'em giggle,Let 'em sleep in the middle,Oh, but let them be little.The so innocent, precious soul:You turn around, an' it's time to let them go.

Let them be little

A 4 yr. old little boy in our ward died unexpectedly this week. It is such a wake up call. Life is too fragile to take our time with those we love for granted.

LIVE PERFORMANCES...

2009-01-25T19:50:00.000-08:00

The audience awaits a PERFORMANCE OF A LIFETIME!

GOOD JOB LADIES. (APPLAUSE)!!!!

I HOPE THEY CAN ALWAYS BE PROUD TO SHOW THEIR "TRUE COLORS".

THE ROCKET MAN

2009-01-15T19:00:00.000-08:00

Greg is such a fun dad. He was so excited to launch this rocket. He worked on it for a long time. He was like a kid with the greatest toy ever. He built up excitement among all of the neighbor kids, loaded them in the back of his truck, and off they went. It was really funny, 'cause the one with the tall yellow hat was under the impression that they were actually going to take turns getting in the rocket and being shot up. He really had to build up his nerve before agreeing to go. Then he saw the size of the rocket, and reality set in. Absolutely classic stuff.

He explained to the crowd that He would be mixing baking soda and vinegar to create a chemical reaction that would result in the launch of the rocket. >>>>>>

Alright all you dads out there. This is a challenge. No "cats in the cradle stuff".

RABBIT TRAUMA DRAMA

2009-01-09T15:21:00.000-08:00

The story of Oreo, the little rabbit.

O.K., so here's the story:We were driving home from church a couple months back. There's a sign saying FREE RABBITS on the side of the road. Greg pulls over. I say no no. Then Greg says "alright you guys, if we get a rabbit, will you stop bugging us about a dog?" Of course the kids say ya ya ya. We want that rabbit! Next thing you know we have a pet rabbit. Oreo is a good rabbit. Cuddles and everything. Problem is, He scratches everyone. Pretty soon, he is spending all of his time in the cage. He's making me sneeze and itch. It's messy. And we still get a dog.
After Christmas, The rabbit is never held or paid attention to. Poor little Oreo. I'm the only one to feed it and give it water. We all decide that we should let Oreo go on "the mountain". "He'll find a new family and a home there". So, we take little Oreo up the mountain, and let him go. A couple of chilly and rainy nights pass, and guilt is setting in for Greg and I. Next thing you know, one of the little

neighbor kids who frequently plays on "the mountain" yells, "I found Oreo!" All of the kids run up to greet him. He's alive and doing fine. They feed him carrots and pet his silky fur. "Oh Oreo, we are so glad you're doing good." Meanwhile, Maddi and Lexi are walking Lexi's dog, TANK. Tank is a very good (and huge) puppy. They hear that Oreo has been found. They run to see the cute little rabbit. Tank spots the black and white ball of fir, and takes off, pulling Lexi down. Both girls together can't hold him. Tank gets Oreo and shakes him around. Blood curdling screams come from all of the kids. "Oreo's dead! Oreo's dead! Tank killed Oreo!" Truly any dog would have done the same. The neighbors come out to see the commotion. One of them got it on video. Then they say he peed on himself and was breathing really fast. I told Greg to get off the phone, and go kill Oreo, so he wouldn't suffer anymore. Greg (rattled) goes to look at the rabbit. Meanwhile, a guy down the street is bringing up some plastic bags to dispose of him. Greg comes down the street holding the rabbit. "He's fine everyone. Calm down. He's going to be just fine." (Of course he won't put the rabbit down.) He's petting him and takes him in the back yard. Everyone just watches and stares. The kids breathe a sigh of relief. "Is he really fine, Greg?" You can guess. He takes him to a different mountain to "live". Every one's happy. Including Oreo, who is eating carrots in rabbit heaven.

MAD SKILLS

2009-01-07T10:53:00.000-08:00

WE'VE NEVER CLAIMED TO BE THE MOST COORDINATED
FAMILY IN THE WORLD, BUT CHECK OUT AUSTIN ON HIS RIP STICK, AND LARZY ON A BIKE.

IT'S BEEN A BIT OF A JOKE AT OUR HOUSE THAT THE NEIGHBOR, JAY TAUGHT LAUREN TO RIDE HER BIKE. WHERE'S GREG? A DAY LATE, A DOLLAR SHORT. ...the cat's n' the cradle and the silver spoon... ha ha IF ANYONE REALLY KNOWS GREG, HE PROBABLY SPENDS MORE TIME WITH HIS KIDS THEN ANY DAD YOU KNOW.

Yes, I know, get off. Greg can ride like a stinkin' teenager. Not me. I already said, not coordinated.

CHRISTMAS MORNING 2008

2008-12-30T15:24:00.000-08:00

SUCH A FUN CHRISTMAS. I HOPE WE DON'T REGRET IT.

JOY JOY JOY

2008-12-19T11:02:00.000-08:00

B E L I E V E R S-I WISH THEY COULD STAY THIS WAY FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!(AUSTIN'S NOT OPPOSED TO BEING MISSING. HE'S AT A SCOUT CAMP WITH HIS DAD).

I think all kids have a secret plan. They make their Christmas lists, and then, when they go sit on Santa's lap, a week, maybe a day before Christmas, and Santa asks them what they would like, they tell him a totally new thing. It was never mentioned before. Then Santa says "no problem". Seriously kids. Not cool.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LAUREN! 6 BIG YEARS.

2008-12-10T20:13:00.000-08:00

Thank you Brooklynn, Canyon, and Hudson for making it such a special birthday for Lauren. Special thanks to Madeline and Lexie for their help.

A GREAT LITTLE ADDITION

2008-11-23T20:53:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't have a fireplace in their house, (or just want some lovely warmth in a room), or whatever, I have a suggestion. This is a great little electric fireplace! It's a mini one that looks great in our kitchen, warms us up in the morning, and just creates that warm, welcoming look at the holidays. The brand is 'classic flame'. Look on their website for distributors if you're interested.

You can't really see the flame in the picture, but I promise it's cool.

We spent around $300.

Happy Anniversary Greg! 13 years.......

2008-11-15T22:11:00.000-08:00

Greg and I have now been married for 13 years. We have a beautiful family together and really enjoy one another. I was looking for a picture of our 1st date, a dance that I asked him to my junior year in high school. (We had never even spoken before! Yes, I made the 1st move. ) I will keep looking for it.

I just want to say that I feel so fortunate to be married to such a wonderful man. Greg is a great dad, a good provider, and just a ton of fun to be with. He is very sensitive to my needs. (How great is that?) We just really enjoy each other, and I love him sooo much. Sorry ladies, he's mine.

Happy anniversary lovey. You really are the best.

WORSCHESSSIIRAAAA AND SOY SAUCE

2008-11-13T08:41:00.000-08:00

CAN YOU GUESS WHICH KID DID THIS???????

Brand new bottles of the strongest smelling stuff ever. I could feel the sodium seeping into my body. Nasty!

o.k. I admit it. I did it.

And then today happened.

2008-11-11T19:12:00.001-08:00

Ty wasn't too happy about taking a nap, so he decided he would get back at us by taking a crayon to his closet door.

Do you think he's really sorry? If I didn't know about the "magic eraser" by Mr. clean, I probably would have lost my mind.

Another thing I'm not proud of is that Austin apparently has been letting him listen to this song "I kissed a girl" on his ipod. Maddi informed us that a girl sings it.What's this world coming to? Well, time to toss this song. I guess when a stinker little boy sings it I'll forgive him this one time. Then I'll delete it. Can you handle another song by Ty? If not, move on.

PAUSE THE PLAYLIST***

Ty, our superstar.

2008-11-09T19:54:00.000-08:00

Around these parts, Ty is quite famous. He's loved by nursery leaders, preschool teachers, and friends. Mostly, he's adored by his family. They are BORED when he's not around. We decided he's a superstar. We all want to be as cool as him, look like him, and be his buddy. He's a one of a kind. Sus Buzzes.

Of course he can sing too. (pause the playlist)

HALLOWEEN, 2008

2008-10-31T20:26:00.000-07:00

We had scary and cute for Halloween this year. It was fun. Maddi and Lauren went to the ward's trunk or treat, I took Ty trick or treating, Austin went with his buddy, and Greg stayed home and passed out candy. Another marvelous Halloween with way too much candy.

Ty and Austin. I don't like masks. You can't see their cute little faces. They still look cute, though.(notice Ty is shooting a web at Austin)

O.K., so Lauren looked so stinkin' adorable, that I didn't know which picture to post of her, so I put all of them on.

Ty, Lauren, and Brooklynn.

Ty with his cute friends at preschool.

5 LITTLE PUMPKINS

2008-10-30T18:49:00.000-07:00

Lauren made this cute poem in Kindergarten.
Does this bring back memories or what?

Austin gets his Arrow of Light!

2008-10-27T22:11:00.000-07:00

After a bunch of hard work, Austin earned his Arrow of Light award, and graduated to boy scouts.

His den leader, bro. Geist, was a huge help, and a great leader for Austin.

He officially crosses the bridge to boy scouts.

I hope he remembers all that this stands for. (me too)

His best buddy, Gracin also earned his.

Very nice. Each color represents something. Does anyone know what?

Great Job Austin! we're very proud of you. Now, on to your eagle.

Disneyland

2008-10-17T14:28:00.000-07:00

We went to Disneyland this past weekend with Mindy, Kevin, and Campbell. Ty finally got to go on that beloved Pirate's of the Caribbean ride. We had a great time!

We stayed at the California Disney Hotel.

What do you think about Greg and Kevin's new web page photo?

Handsome boys!

Off to the next ride. A day of rides is tiring!

(you'll have to stop the music on my playlist to listen.)

An angel among us...

2008-10-11T20:56:00.000-07:00

On Thurs. Maddi came home bothered because a lot of kids in her class say God's name in vain. It bothered her so much that the next day she gathered up 3 kids in her class, and went up to the teacher and expressed to her that it offended them. The teacher was good to make an announcement in front of the class to stop saying it, it's offensive to some people. Thank You, Maddi, for standing up for your beliefs! And thanks to her teacher for respecting them!