Andie's things

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!

2011-12-25T20:44:00.000-08:00

Today is almost over but I want to at least post a few words about our Christmas this year. It has been a wonderful day, proceeded by our Christmas Eve Party yesterday. Whats really special for me this year is that my Dad is here to spend the holidays with us. We have all our children here and a new grandson to share this special season with. Jamie is engaged to great young man whose name is Ryan and he will be joining here later in the week. This month has really gone by so fast. First I had Desert Club duties to do as I was the Grounds Chairman this year. Then afte that I had my Quilt group day which is one of my favorite days to go to! Then after that i promply got sick for about a week and then I have been trying to get all the bridesmaid outfits pulled together. Then the other day I realized it was Dec 23 and hadn't started on my Christmas shopping or figuring out what I was making for Christmas dinner. Thankfully, my older girls had it under control and reminded me of what I was suppose to make. Still my thoughts were all over the place, trying to get into the spirit of the Holiday. One day I was up and the next feeling sorry for myself and being stressed about life in general. Because we all know life doesn't stop just because its Christmas! I saddens me to hear my kids fight argue with each other or they don't realize how selfish they can be sometimes. Then there are moments when I look at a daughter and see the beauty that she turned out to be or the mother that they are, each one doing the best they can be and I am so proud one moment and the next want to get after them for some dumb thing the next moment. I realize I am talking like a basket case, but oh well... I just finished watching "The Nativity" and it was wonderful to watch Mary give birth to baby Jesus and then to feel what she was probably feeling holding her newborn in her arms, loving every inch of her child, knowing that this was the Son of God. She had the pleasure of kissing him and looking into those little eyes that will love her and call her Mother. Yes, Mary was very blessed. I too have been blessed. With the birth of each of daughters, holding them and loving everying inch of them. I am grateful for my husband whose was there every minute of it. Grateful for my children and now, my grandchildren. Grateful that my Dad was with me this Christmas holiday. And grateful for our Savior and celebrating his birth as a family. Grateful we are an eternal family! I love my family....till next year, MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Taylor turned 19 on Nov. 19TH !

2011-11-23T06:48:00.000-08:00

Wow, just realized that Taylor's birthdate and this year match! Anyways I forgot to post on her Blog Date but wanted to add a few lines. Taylor graduated in the spring of this year and then moved up to Rexburg, ID to go to BYU-I . This is her first time being away from us for a long period of time. Did it affect me? more than I thought it would. First, I lost my driver. I loved having an extra driver in the house. (I wonder if I can get a job doing that.) Second, its just plain unnatural that we are losing are children. Soon its going to be just Jessie in the house. She'll have to sleep with both dogs!. Anyways, Tate came home for Thanksgiving holiday and our dog Diego was so HAPPY! He's her little Princess!! (I know, kids say the darnest things!) Dad and I love you Taylor, the thing I remember about you when you were born, was seeing this cute little baby with the blondest of hair and BROWN eyes!! You've had a smile on your face for everyone and our little family was blessed even more. Your sisters loved you and watched over you as you were growing up. Now here you are, all grown up and taking their clothes (did I say that? I meant borrow...) Its a tradition, handed down from oldest sister to the next...we have cleptomanics in our family. Just kidding, no really! Anyways, heres a few pictures to show off my little darling! Love you Taylor Rachel Smith, tu mom :)

Hi Jessie, today is your BIRTHDAY!!

2011-11-22T20:46:00.000-08:00

This here is my youngest daughter, hija, one of my six loves of my life!! My heart is full and its hard to express the joy that you and your sisters have brought into my life. I know your biggest wish today was to get your driver's license and we will, soon, really! Soon as I get the guts to take you on the freeway and teach you to paralle park ( sorry can't spell tonight) Love you Jessica Rae (Rabbit) Smith!!

Alivia's Thanksgiving program

2011-11-21T21:38:00.001-08:00

The school made the Thanksgiving sign for the backdrop.

Shawneen, Jessie and I went to Alivia's little program at Highland Elementary school the other night and it was so cute! My camera wasn't the best and the lights were awful to take a picture in but anyways, I tried. What it brought to mind is all the little events I have gone to for my own kids at Highland. It has been a wonderful school for my children and now its on to the next generation! Amazing how time flys when your having fun!! Thank you Alivia for your performance with your class. Nana loves you! :)

Jamies Fiance!

2011-11-14T19:03:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd post a picture of Ryan and Jamie. These aren't the best but it will have to do for now.

Jamies Engaged!

2011-11-06T21:06:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to announce to the world that my Jamie is engaged to Ryan Christensen! He is the best thing for her and we all love him dearly. What a great addition he will be to our family!! Now on to the preparations. Yippee!!

My Halloween Decor for 2011

2011-10-28T20:17:00.001-07:00

Susan E. Halloween Decorations

2011-10-28T20:11:00.000-07:00

My Christmas quilt!

2011-10-25T16:38:00.000-07:00

The other day I finally finished my quilt. I had started it a few years back and it wasn't that it was so hard that it took me so long...it was because I only worked on it one day, a month. But I really enjoyed putting it together that I am going to make another one, but maybe in brights this time. Don't hold your breath though!! :) The pattern is called #230 Tree's Up! Lights On!

To DAD

2011-10-20T18:07:00.001-07:00

Hi, dad, just posting so that when you see it its because we talked! :) Anyways, there are lots of different things you can do with blogs so please go to the right and look at my friends or whatever and check out how they've created theirs. On the top right are a couple of "buttons" FOOD Storage Made Easy and My Giveaway. You click on those and those are businesses, you can see what they do and from them, they will have "buttons" you can click on and it will go to their blogs. Anyways all this takes time and I don't go to my blog as much as I do my FB. Love ya, tu Hija

Great Quote!

2011-10-05T19:56:00.001-07:00

Found this quote at a model home. Really liked it!

Ethan's Quilt

2011-10-05T18:42:00.000-07:00

Ethan's quilt! Thought I'd try to add this picture for my blog. I completed this a while back ut hadn't had it quilted. Then I got it done for Lauren but she still doesn't have it because I didn't get it binded in time for me or Dana when we went to see her. She gets to use it when they come for Thanksgiving!

Remodeled upstairs bathroom

2011-10-05T14:45:00.000-07:00

A while back my husband Jim decided we needed to remodel our upstairs bathroom. It keep leaking down to the bathroom below it. So one day he started ripping things out and so it began! So heres a before and after picture:

Catchin' up!

2011-10-02T18:37:00.000-07:00

I see that I haven't posted in a while so I thought I'd give it a try!! Its fall here in AZ. And where I live, you can't tell very well. So I am out adding a little bit of Halloween onto my porch and in my house. I love this holiday, as my kids can tell. :) My daughter Lauren and Phil had their first child- baby Ethan. What a beautiful gift from our Heavenly Father! I love my grandchildren, up to 9 now, with the 10th on its way next April from Shawneen.

School has started also. I have Jessie in 10th grade now. Just one school to carpool now. Its amazing how sad I was when I drove my daughter there the first day of school! My next daughter, Taylor, is at BYU-I now. Her freshmen year. She's staying at Royal Crest Apt and I hope she enjoys her time there. She's not a big caller on the phone to me. But thats okay if she's studying that is... Then there's Jamie who works with her dad up in Globe. She's met a new-someone and we are really liking this young man! Her eyes light up everytime she see's (and not the See's candy kinda look) him. So that's it so far I will come back to this to post some pictures later!!

A New Day!

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

I think I finally got rid of that pesky "photobucket" sign over all my stuff. Hope it stays gone, cuz now I can concentrated on trying to put things on here. I am in Humanitarian now and over some of the summer stuff for the youth to do every Thursday. So weekly, I have been putting together flip-flop pkgs and cutting out fleece to do fleece blankets and cutting out ball forms for the sisters to sew in the Wards, then get back to me so that the kids can stuff them. Then there's a sister that takes all this stuff to local charities and shelters that can use them. And I am also helping with 4th year girls camp. Jim and I were going to do the shooting for the girls but it got canceled do to the drought. So we are helping other ways, I am doing the cooking and Jim is helping with leather works and the repelling the girls are going to do. Plus we have to do a devotional one of the nights. So I have all this to think about! Yikes.....

Mia has learned to SWIM....

2011-06-25T01:20:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post that my granddaughter MIA has really started to swim this past week. Her progress is great!! It was just the other day she was screaming and crying about being in the water at ALL and we were so mean to drag out to the deep-end. But not anymore, she has turned into a real fish and loves to go into the water all by herself. I still try to watch her though and I don't want her jumping off my diving board but it won't be long now. I need to get a picture of this!!

Summers here!!

2011-06-14T21:27:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd try to post a Hello, since its been a while. I haven't posted because its so annoying to see a Photobucket stamp over my stuff and I don't know how to get rid of it. IF any one sees this and has a solution, please, leave a comment!! Thanks. Andie

Stories Of A House: Laundry organizer tutorial & sketches...by Romeo.

2010-11-29T21:50:00.000-08:00

Stories Of A House: Laundry organizer tutorial & sketches...by Romeo.: "This is the Cliff's Notes version. Scroll down for mega details on how to build one yourself. (And please send your husband my apologies in ..." I thought this was a great idea! Someday I want to do this for my washer and dryer!! :)

Recipe I want to try!

2010-11-20T14:59:00.000-08:00

PUMPKIN OREO CHEESECAKE

2-8 oz pkgs. cream cheese, softened
1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
2 tbsp. sour cream
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. canned pumpkin
oreos
whipped cream

Preheat oven to 350* Place cupcake liners in a muffin pan. Beat the cream cheese until creamy. Add the sugar and cream again. Add the eggs one at a time beating after each one. Add the rest of the ingredients and beat again. Place one whole oreo in the bottom of the cupcake liners and fill up the liner 3/4 full with the cheesecake batter. Push another whole oreo into the top of the batter. Bake for 20-22 minutes. Cool in pan for 15-20 min before removing and placing on a wire rack to finish cooling. Keep refrigerated. Top with whipped cream and oreo sprinkles before serving. Makes 24.

More Alaska pictures!

2010-08-03T23:13:00.001-07:00

This is the place where we'd get ice cream for the evening!
The guy sold it out of his motorhome and its almost 10 pm, whenever we showed up more people would follow. He liked it when we came!
The next 3 pictures are of Chena Hot Springs. The place has changed and for the better! This is there Ice museum, we didn't go in but I thought the place looked cute. Then Dad and I are in the outside pool. Very nice, 105 degrees! And the last picture is their inside pool. It didn't change that much. They could enlarge their ladies changing room though!

Isn't my dad the cutest!! I am a lucky daughter! Thats Jessie with my dad, she's lucky too!

More Alaska pictures!

2010-08-03T23:03:00.000-07:00

Heres Jessie and Taylor at the tourist spot where you get to stand close to the pipeline!
Heres us at the Knotty Shoppe, notice the Mosquitoe made out of knotty wood! The boy is Jane's grandson and him and his girlfriend helped us find the place. We like ice cream!
Here we are at Santa Clauses reindeer herd! Jessie and Jamie and some kid.
Taylor and Jamie getting closer!
And then into the sled by Santa Clause House! I thought it was a great evening!

Alaska Trip!

2010-08-03T22:45:00.000-07:00

The reason for my trip was to go and support my brother Pete for his run for State Senate!! Jamie and I participated in the Golden Days Parade. It was obviously overcast and kinda rainy at the beginning but by the time it was our turn to go, the weather cleared up nicely. Of course, my hair was ruined. :)
Heres Jamie holding up our hard work. That truck behind her, is what my family came to Alaska in back in 1967. It was a brand new 1967 Ford, with a camper on it and we came with 2 dogs and our cat that just had kittens. Their eyes were opened by the time we got to Anchorage. I learned to drive with this truck. No power steering back in those days either!! And it was a Clutch too!!

This here is the rifle range at UAF, where I shot for the UAF team. Only now its all computerized! Those are the targets you shoot at now, and its stays in the same place and everytime you did a shot, it would be downloaded with the score and put on a screen so every one could keep track of what you were doing. Very spectator friendly! I was really impressed!
And this picture is Jamie growling with the Polar bear at the UAF entry way! She's a silly girl! :)
I think I will start out with pictures!!

Playing Catch-up!

2010-07-07T17:24:00.000-07:00

Where do I start? I thought I start with our little puppy! It died this morning, only living 5 days. It was extra sad for me because this one was going to be Laurens. And for once, Chica was actually being a good mother to it. Lauren had named it Stanley, what a cute name! Stanley will be missed at our home! But I'd like to think that its with my mom or Granny in Heaven, along with all our other pets that have passed on!

My drive home with Tia Eva

2010-05-12T22:29:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to make a few comments here about my drive home. My Tia Eva flew in to help me drive home on Sunday after I put Jim on the plane home. Lauren and Phil had left for Beeville and I was left to my own devices. Well, I had this great plan to sew while I was waiting for my aunt to arrive. She wasn't going to be there till 10:30 that evening. Well, she surprised me by getting in at 7 so off I went to pick her up. Of course, I got myself lost a few times getting to the airport and then really lost coming back. Which is normal for me, anyways, we stopped at an Applebees for dinner, our Mother's day dinner for us and then found our way back to the hotel. I finished sewing my little project and then we went to bed. The next morning we started for PHX by way of a few side stops to a little store and a little town called Fredricksburg! What beautiful country we went through! That little town was so cute. I think Germans founded it because they had a lot of German named businesses there. But worth the drive for us. Then we meandered back to the highway and made it as far as Las Cruces and stopped for the night there. The next morning we started on our way again. Of course we had to stop at this place that was offering "the THING!" My aunt had never seen "the THING" so we pulled in there and paid our dollar to see it. I won't spoil the surprise because I think you should see it for yourselves. Then we started talking about the relatives and the ancestors and I was wishing I had my recorder. Did you know that Fransesco Vega was not only a thief but also a murderer? Not only once, but a few times! What a life he led! And that my Tia Sophie, who I always called my Tia Sophie was called Tia Chue, by my aunt and of course her real name is Sophia. So many ways to call our Aunts, people! My mind was reeling during all this.... Then we moved on to the treasure stories...again, I have the brain that leaks any kind of info...wishing I had that stupid recorder! So that was my 2 days of traveling. I am so grateful for my Tia Eva and her taking the time to be with me and sharing her storys. Oh, then, I drop her off and Lucy wouldn't say 2 words to me. Finally I followed her into her room and said Hello again, asked if she was okay and THEN, she says Oh Hi Andie, I am fine how are you? I truly can not figure what goes on in her head some days. But thats another story!

Just a few more pictures of the CAVE!!

2010-05-12T22:25:00.001-07:00

The Natural Caverns in TX of course!

2010-05-12T22:19:00.000-07:00

So while Phill was studying, we decide to go see a cavern! It was very nice, very humid and way down deep in the ground! I really wanted to get a picture of this cool lizard that was very bright green but didn't have my camera out yet. :( But here are some other shots!

Back from Texas!!

2010-05-12T22:15:00.000-07:00

First, just want to say "HI YA ALL". I think thats how they say it down in Texas. Dad and I were just there for Lauren's graduation banquet and to help her and Phill by driving the white truck home. Here's a few pictures of the kids:

I forgot Easter Pictures!

2010-04-05T23:26:00.000-07:00

Next we went over to Dana's after the 1st session of Sunday Conf. for Easter dinner and our Easter Egg Hunt! Dana had it all nicely set up. We had us, Dana's family, Grampy and Lorraine and Blake!

Blake was our Grand Prize Egg Finder!

After Easter and Conference!

2010-04-05T23:18:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to touch base with everyone! I had a really nice time during the weekend and wanted to share it with everybody! Here's a few pictures of our watching Conference at home..

As you can see, we are in the office watching it on our computer! It was nice and cozy and Jamie joined us later!

More Pictures for March

2010-03-12T20:41:00.001-08:00

Dana is trying on Shawneen's wrap for the babies, She said I couldn't post on FB so its on the blog... Baby James looking at Chica...Baby James with Baby Payton!

Its March already!!

2010-03-12T20:31:00.000-08:00

I have no clue how time flies, but when it comes to my blog, it seems to be flying! I have been blessed with healthy and happy children so here are some pictures to update whats been going on in my days! Chica, Diego and Tink...Grampy's birthday!...Marshall snoozing with the Diego, Chica and baby...Emme & Payton Blessing day!

Some Pictures of my Dad!

2010-01-27T16:30:00.001-08:00

I never know where my words are going to go, but let me tell alittle about the pictures:1. My dad in his Navy suit! We still have his suit. I think Albert my brother has it. 2. My dad with me and mom, its taken during our Golden Days Parade in Fairbanks. I thing my dad looks like a Dictator here. :)3. My dad at the trailer park. This was our official first home. We were renters first when we moved to Alaska. It was a little trailer with a leanto attached and I slept in the hall way. :( 4. Dad and Uncle John, his bosom buddy! 5. Dad and me at a birthday party. Sorry, can't remember who or when.

Tata's Birthday!

2010-01-27T15:11:00.000-08:00

My dads birthday was yesterday, Jan.26th. He was born in 1932 to Nephi LeRoy Higgins and Guadelupe Sena. And I think, child no. 3. I can't remember if Aunt Lucy was older or younger than hIm. I wish my camera worked while he was here but my kids did get pictures of him with their kids. I am so happy that he is still here for me. I wish he lived close to me so my kids could see him anytime they wanted. Its one of the things I envy about my brother, Pete and Chris and their family. He turned 78 this year! My Uncle John lives close to him and they are tight! Always have been since they were little boys. I miss my dads stories, he has so many funny ones! Just want to say I love you Dad, if you should figure out how to get to my blog and read this! I am so glad you have Jayne to share this time of your life with. She has been so good to you! Love you dad, tu hija (now to find some pictures)

Felt Flowers from Material Girls Blog!

2009-12-29T06:31:00.000-08:00

Felt Flower Tutorial (pictures didn't come through)
My name is Somer of Rainy Day Wren and I am a long time customer of Material Girls. And, well, I kind of hijacked things here.

Like I said, I have been shopping at the Material Girls for a long time and I often get butterflies when I see a new fabric line. But today I went in for some felt and my heart skipped a beat when I saw all the beautiful colors. "Nadine," I said, "these colors are amazing! I think I'm in love." To which she said, "I know, but I haven't advertised it much." So I took the challenge to find some fun projects for the amazing array of colors.
As I drove home, my mind was reeling with ideas. Just trust me when I say these colors are edible, but I couldn't settle on just one idea.
So, first up we have a flower brooch/hair clip.
To start you need: a glue gun, scissors, headband/hair clip/pin back of your choice, felt, and a button or bell, if desired, for the center. You will also need a piece of scrap paper and pencil for making a template.
You need two circle templates, one about 3" diameter and one 2" diameter. I used a drinking glass and a cookie cutter to make my circle template.
Pin template to felt and cut out 8 0r 9 large circles and two small circles. (You need 9 if you want a rose and 8 if you want a peony with a button or bell center.)
If you want to put your flower on a headband, cut two slits in the middle of one of the small circles. Now, place a small bead of hot glue in the middle of a large circle and...
fold it in half. Hold it there for about thirty seconds.
Place a bead of glue on folded circle, where shown, and...
fold again. Hold in place until it is secure and glue is dry.
Repeat with the other seven circles (if you are using nine, leave the ninth alone for now.)
Put hot glue on small circle without slits and place two folded circles with folds facing on the circle.
Repeat with two more folded circles, matching similar folds. (Two folds by two folds, double thickness folds by double thickness fold.)
This is what it should look like from the back. Flip it back over and repeat with four more circles, centering them over the first to hide the folds. (You can see what I mean in the next photo.)
If you want a jingle bell or button center glue that in place now. A fabric covered button would be darling.
For rose center, fold circle in half but don't glue it. Then, place glue up about 1/4" from fold and...
pinch through one layer at glue bead.
Put a dollop of glue in center of flower and press point of circle in place.
Glue pin back and top edge of hair clip to small circle with slits. Open clip to make sure you don't glue it shut and make sure you glue the top and not the bottom of the clip. (I placed the headband through the slits to show how that works. The teeth of the headband will keep the flower from sliding.)
Put glue on circle, being careful not to glue between slits.
Attach your circle to the back of your flower.
If you want a leaf, cut a 1" square from green felt and fold and glue like a cone.
Glue it to your flower and you're done. Slide headband through slits when you want to wear it that way.
Pin, clip, wear your flower anyway you want.

All Together Now-Shawneen's Family

2009-12-25T23:26:00.000-08:00

Here are Shawneens pictures that she sent to me from Idaho. They had their jammies ready for me to add to our family pictures!! My grandbabies may be far away, but at least I have pictures. Love you guys!

Hannah and her rodent!

2009-12-25T23:04:00.000-08:00

Okay, so its not really a "live" rodent! Her and Lexi got these hamster things that go along the floor and squeak and stuff! Well, on the bottom of this thing, in bright yellow, a warning... Don't put by your hair. And I'am sure Dana told the girls not to do this. So, of course, while Dana and Marshall are at the hospital getting Emme, Hannah has gotten her hair tangled in the hamster's wheels! Its was way too funny and between Jamie and Lauren, they were able to untangle the miss without cutting it out! So here's a picture of that and her on the counter with Grampy as he's getting my pomegranites out for the salad!
And here's also extra pictures on Christmas. :)

Somemore CHRISTMAS!

2009-12-25T22:56:00.000-08:00

We also had Grampy and Lorraine over and I wanted to mention Christmas Day. Dana and Marshall came over to open presents with us and then we got our turkey in the oven and got the rest of the fixin's ready for an early supper! I think we have eaten so much these last couple of days. Dana and Marshall brought home Baby Emma and we were so happy for that! She is such a cute little thing. To me, she lookes alot like her sisters and Payton, well, he looks like a Smith at the moment. Can't wait for him to come home too. Heres a few more pictures...

Christmas Was Here!

2009-12-25T22:45:00.001-08:00

Heres a few pictures of our annual traditions of New Jammies for everyone! Red for the girls, spouses and black for me and dad! Shawneen and Ben have theres that match ours so at least, they are with us in spirit!. We also had a little program, we had Jessie in charge this year. Lauren and Phil sang for us, Lorraine played the piano for us, dad told a story, and then everyone mentioned they're favorite Christmas's! We had pizza and my green chile and tamales! We like traditional things around here! :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T22:15:00.000-08:00

Today was a great day! The sun was out and everyone enjoyed the day. We like to start our day with the annual hike to the Wind Caves and thankfully, nobody broke anything! Then everyone came home and we commenced to sitting down to eat the great BIRD! Yum, we ate lots and I forgot to take pictures of my table settings but we had plenty to eat and eat and eat!! I am really thankful for my family and all our friends and I hope everyone had an enjoyable day!

Dana's new form of TRANSPORTATION!

2009-11-16T19:24:00.000-08:00

CHECK THIS OUT! Dana and I went to Target and Walmart looking for wedding ideas and Dana now likes to use these little scooter things! She complained about them being a little slow, but I reminded her she wasn't allowed to mow down the customers! Isn't she so cute on it!!

Shawneen's move to Idaho Falls!

2009-11-16T19:12:00.000-08:00

Shawneen and Ben moved to Idaho Falls last weekend and I helped them drive there! I am so glad I went because it would have been a hard trip for Shawneen to do by herself in her minivan. We started out on a Sunday and spent the first night in Provo with Ben's relatives and then got into Idaho the next day. If I would have been thinking I would have taken a picture of Bens parents home. Its really big. Shawneen set themselves up on one end of the house, on the top floor. We spent the rest of the day unloading the car, putting things away and basically trying to get organized in the place. This is a good opportunity for her, I know she didn't really think it but with time she will be fine! They had their first snow this week too! I miss my babies though, because when Dana brought her babies over, I kept calling them Libby or Mia. The nice thing about all this is I will be able to visit them this summer and get out of our heat over here! Here are a few pictures I took. Enjoy!

More Pumpkins!

2009-10-31T22:24:00.001-07:00

Carving Pumpkins Night!

2009-10-31T22:18:00.001-07:00

I know my words do not get posted in order, but I hope by looking at this you realize that we carved our pumpkins before Halloween! It was fun, Dana and her family wasn't there this time because Taylor was still sick and you can tell by her pictures and Dana didn't didn't want to catch her bug...anyways, heres some pictures. Hope you like them!

More Halloween Pics!

2009-10-31T22:13:00.001-07:00

Halloween is HERE!!

2009-10-31T21:18:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to get my pictures in before the night ended. Halloween was so fun, with the annual Ward Carnival on our block again. My kids were all here except for Lauren and Phil (we missed you two!) Maybe next time! We also watched our movie and this year it was "Hocus, Pocus". What a fun show! I like to watch a movie while I hand out candy. I set it up outside my front door and can hand out the candy and watch a movie. Saves me from the dogs barking every time the door rings and going to the door to hand out the candy. Anyways, it was a nice night and here are some pictures... ENJOY!

October already!

2009-10-11T14:30:00.000-07:00

Haven't been to my site in ages as we all can tell. I totally spaced on Sept so I will skip it for now. And here we are, a few weeks into October now! Lets see Chica and Diego got together, so we will have puppies soon. Check out Dec. 10th. Went to Mitt Romneys luncheon, that was great..I post a picture, oh, and Jamie picked out my blouse:) I've put up my Halloween stuff. We are heading to Disneyland tomorrow for the kids Oct. break! Jamies boyfriend asked James if he could marry her!! Thats the big news for this month. And I am making gingerbread+pumpkin loafs and corn chowder soup for dinner this Sunday. Next Sunday its our Stake Conference. Enjoyed Gen. Conference alot! And now I've got to clean my kitchen....yikes! I promise to do better next time. My facebook page distracts me from this, thats why this is late... sorry!

Happy 21 years old Lauren!!

2009-08-14T21:26:00.000-07:00

Today daughter number 4, Lauren, turned 21!! It is normally a very big day in an average girl of the world to go through. Mainly, so that this girl could legally go through the right of passage on becoming a future drinker, lush, etc. But since we are not of that sort, I guess the only other thing that comes to mind, is the fact that if we were to go to Vegas together, she can now put her own quarter in the slot machine!! Yea....actually she is really a great kid and she likes to do goofy things especially with a camera in her hands. I think all her sisters like to do a certain pose everytime they get a camera in their hands. She is married to a great guy who doesn't mind this at all! :) Here we go Lauren, dad and I love you lots!

I went to the KEITH URBAN CONCERT!

2009-07-26T09:55:00.000-07:00

First, so that nobody's panties get in a twist, this event occurred LAST NIGHT!! I thought it was a great concert as it started to move along. He is such a talented person. It was for Dana's birthday and we had Marshall, Phil and Lauren, Taylor and Jessie, and me and Dad. Our seats were in an upper section but still do-able. Check out Dana's blog for pictures because my camera was dead.(it would!) Anyways, what a fun evening!!

Yesterday was Dana's BIRTHDAY!

2009-07-26T09:22:00.000-07:00

I know Dana..sorry..I gotta update my pictures of your family!!

Yes, it was Dana's Birthday yesterday and I really wanted this to post with the correct date! Sorry Dana :( Anyways, she is my numero dos baby (thats 2 for anyone who doesn't understand 'dos') Shes the one I remember the most when I delivered her because I kept on saying "get the toes out". It felt like her feet were dragging through my belly as she was coming out. Its hard to explain. She was my longest at 21 and 3/4 in length. It was like they were unrolling her as she came out. And then we would take pictures of her and she always gave us a scrowl, no smile! Thankfully that changed. Now she this grown up woman, all married with 2 cute daughters and twins on the way. She likes to surprise us! Dana, I love you, your sisters love you and all the rest of the relatives! What a great blessing you have been to dad and me! love ya, tu mom and dad

Back from the LA Market!

2009-07-19T21:50:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to post a note about the LA Market! What a fun trip! I went with Kathy King, Kerree Cannon and Sandra Biehl and it was fun. What a great bunch of women to know and work with. We did it for Desert Club and these ladies are on the Gala Committee this year. I am on the Tickets Committee so I didn't have to look for anything inparticular. What a relief, so I went to enjoy the company and see what was new and offer my 2 cents worth if they wanted it. I bought a few things and hopefully didn't go overboard on my own spending. I will know though when things start coming in. :) Now its time for laundry and getting into my routine here at home!

Shawneen's baby blanket!

2009-07-13T20:09:00.000-07:00

Just had to add that I finished binding this blanket while we were waiting for Shawneen to deliver her baby! Normally I would have been to my quilt group but this was a little more important! :) So this is for the ladies to say its done!!

Shawneens new BABY BOY!!

2009-07-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

Yea, we have us a boy! We are so proud of Shawneen, she was a real trooper and got the job done! He was born around 2:45 and weighed 7 lb 8 oz. Here's some pictures from my camera and I am sure you'll see some from her camera when she gets home! We love our new baby James!

4th of JULY!!

2009-07-05T19:01:00.000-07:00

Well, the 4th of July was very low key at our house. Oh, by the way, the Box Canyon trip was done the day before, Friday. And on Saturday, for the 4th, we did hamburgers with all the trimmings that go with the holiday! One of the high lights for us Smiths, is that Grampi Lloyd got in the pool too! Turns out he's been swimming with a neighbor and so it was all right to swim at our house too. Then later on Jim, Tate, Jessie and I went to see Transformers (which was way better the second time for me so I could understand the words better) Then when we got out the fireworks had started. And they had them at this church nearby and we watched them from our backyard. They weren't has great has Idaho Falls but they were okay for us. So heres a couple of pictures of the kids swimming and Lauren and Phill from the Box canyon trip that I couldn't figure out how to get on the other post. Enjoy!!

Lets go to BOX CANYON!

2009-07-05T18:45:00.000-07:00

What was I doing? Remember I just had a birthday...no, not smart!! But I did it. Jim and the rest of the gang decided to do a one day trip to Box Canyon and swim for awhile. Its some where before you get to Christopher Creek and after Payson. Anyways it was fun going down and even funner, swimming from pool to pool. It was the going back that I wasn't prepared for. You know the mind plays funny tricks cuz mine thought it was going to be easy, but the body was saying something else. Like STOP...no, my leg won't go that way...my butts too heavy...let me just lie here for a minute...etc. But I made it out and then everything was a-o-kay!! Heres some pics of our journey. :)

A long, long, longggg....time ago a little girl was born!

2009-07-02T22:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am not the best story book writer... So today's my birthday and I thought I'd just let the world know and my family. To thank everyone that wished me a Happy Birthday and for all my gifts from the family and friends. Today was a good day! I did basically wanted I wanted to do..I bought some church clothes, went to dinner with my hubby and Jessie and then right on to a movie "Ice Age". Which I thought was very cute!! Anyways love you all and now back to normal life. The End! :)

Happy Father's Day to my Dad!!

2009-06-20T22:37:00.001-07:00

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Just a few more pictures...

2009-06-01T23:02:00.001-07:00

This is where we got Jessica's name from :)

I took this picture for Chris, the moose reminded me of home!!

And Shawneen and Dana!

Taylor was here but my camera died by the next day and Jamie chose not to come this time. (she would have had a great time, but what do I know, I am just the mom)

Disneyland & CA ADA Conf.

2009-06-01T22:24:00.000-07:00

They pretended to be on this ride!

This May we had an opportunity to go to Disneyland! Jim had a dental convention there so while he was at that, the rest of us hit Disneyland!! To say the least, I think everyone had a great time! My pictures deal with the kids and then my battery died. So I didn't have alot of pictures. But if you check the girls blogs, they will have a whole lot more. Also Lauren and Phill were able to be here too. They drove straight from Beeville then got in our cars to get to Anaheim. Pretty good driving! Just so you know, Phill had never been to Disneyland!! I had to talk Lauren into going on some of the attractions, because she didn't really want to and I told her "do it for Phill!" Like the tea cup ride, who doesn't go on that one? You've got to and say you did... Oh, and the Tarzan tree! So here are the pictures...

Jamie had a Birthday!!

2009-06-01T22:00:00.000-07:00

I am such a terrible mom! My number 3 child had a birthday and I missed telling the world cuz I was at Girls Camp!! And to top it off, I don't have any recent photos of her except for me and her at a lunch last year and most recent, her birthday dinner at Olive Garden!! She was born on May 28th, we like to tell her story because her doctor was a little late getting to the hospital and between him and the emergency doctor, they caught her as she was scooting out!!! No stopping this child from coming into the world. And then I like to add, that the next morning I really got a good look at her and called my mom with my news that she was my blond baby with blue eyes. It was really a shock to me. Never really thought I would have a baby like her. What a wonderful blessing she has been in my life. We love you Jamie, with all my heart! tu mom :)

Okay, now Today!

2009-05-08T18:10:00.000-07:00

Not much going on, had to take a load of junk to the dump! Dad is off to our ward's Father's and Son's. I tried to talk Jim into taking Diego, but he didn't... anyways, the kids were here and went swimming, I know, the water is still to cold for me to go in. Jim and I also went to see STARTREK, gotta tell ya, one of my favorite movies to date! We saw WOLVERINE last weekend and that was great too! Now I am off to a reception and I will be done for the day, yea... see ya!

Off to TEXAS!

2009-05-08T18:02:00.000-07:00

You know everything is bigger in Texas...I know the state takes a while to cross. :) Anyways, Lauren had a wedding to attend here at home, so I flew over to help her drive one their vehicles home. They will be home for the summer so off I went. Just flew over, had dinner at one of their favorite Mexican restaurants and the next morning she showed me around her hygiene school and by 11 am, we were on our way home! 15 hours later (2 am) we pulled up to our house Friday morning. We probably could've cut out an hour, but I like to make a lot of little stops if you know what I mean. :) Heres a picture of ONE of our many stops, I am sure Lauren was the one that had to go at this spot! Hee, hee....

Taylor's Prom w/date Grayson!

2009-05-08T17:52:00.000-07:00

I know I am late in updating my blog, but I thought I'd try with Taylor's Prom! She went with her friend, Grayson. I don't remember the details, but I know they had a great time!! Here are some pictures that I took, plus if you go to my Facebook, she has some there...here goes. Taylor and Bailey, good buddies; Dad pinning on Grayson's boutinere, somewhat of a tradition at our house!; and then the cute couple themselves!!

Happy Birthday Shawneen!!

2009-04-24T21:23:00.000-07:00

Yes, today is the day my first born was born! All 8 lbs, "something" ounces. :) Remember, Bean, your mother is getting older. She was my "Michellen tire" baby. Just like I was, hee, hee! Anyways, she turned 28 today. Man, my kids are getting old on me. I just wanted the world to know that I love her dearly, and appreciate her words of wisdom when I need them and her continued growth with her own little family. Its wonderful to watch her raise her own children and take care of her husband! She is expecting her 3rd child and it is going to be a boy... I know,weird huh?! We are all looking forward to the new little critter to join herd and I've already got it from Shawneen's younger sisters, that they are not changing the baby's diapers! What a hoot, thats going to have to change. Anyways, sweetie, we love you lots!! tu mom and dad

Happy Birthday Mom and Chris!

2009-04-21T22:08:00.000-07:00

Today would have been my mom's 77th birthday! She has been gone from me for 10 years now. It didn't seem that long ago. Mother's day is my hardest day still. You'd think after all this time, feelings would ease. I've lost my mother-in-law too and my kids miss her also. I wish my younger kids would have gotten to know my mom better. The thing I miss the most is hearing my mom call my name. You should have heard her call me, sometimes the tone could scare me to death other times it would be softer and I'd wonder wrong. I also miss her playing the piano. She played by ear, so all her hymns would be played with different feeling to them. She was very good I thought. Today I didn't go to the cemetary, but I went to visit my aunt Lois, one her sister-in-laws, and I took my aunt Eva with me. My cousin Carolyn got us all lunch and it was a very pleasant afternoon. My aunt Eva and my mom were very close. I hope I did okay today. I love you mom.
And on a lighter note, today is my sister-inlaws birthday! I always remember Chris's birthday because it goes along with my mom's. My mom was very instrumental in setting my brother, Pete, up with Chris! They have the best story of their dating! I will let her blog about it and hope she tells about the movies and popcorn one. Its my favorite! Love you Chris :)

And the WINNER is...

2009-04-19T09:39:00.000-07:00

Of course we have a winner, but it wasn't without a struggle! :) When you have more kids we had to be creative. Lets face it, we didn't have the biggest backyard and the kids like to think they know where the best egg will be. But dad fooled them again! It was awesome, he had it hidden in an old orange that had fallen off the tree and was a little open because the bugs had gotten to it. One of the eggs had fallen in the pool too. Marshall fished that one out. ( I know, no swimming on Sunday) We made a decision on the spot that next year we are going to do this on a Saturday. And the lucky winner this year was BENJAMIN!! ... Then the next step, is everyone counts their loot and we see who got the most! I can't remember who got the most, but thats okay, everyone did fine. Ready for next year, oh and Jamie did share with her friend!

More Easter...

2009-04-19T09:25:00.000-07:00

Boy, I gotta get better at my picture taking! My grandbabies are the ones in the cute Easter dresses. Okay, in these photos the kids are still searching and us adults are relaxing and dad is guiding the kids to some more eggs with his eyes. We had Dana's in-laws visiting, Neil and Ginny, who we hope will someday settle here for the winter...hint, hint guys!! And then we had Grampi and Lorraine, and Ben's Grandma Pat! The only ones not here were Lauren and Phill... missed you guys! Oh, and Jamie invited her friend Thatcher to be partners with her. Of course, I had to make sure Jamie knew to share her winnings with Thatcher! Here goes with the pics....

After Easter Pictures!

2009-04-19T09:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I am not very current on my updates so thought I'd try today one week later. For my family, I love to have a big Easter dinner followed by our Easter egg hunt! I also make a big basket for the family to have all their Easter treats in one place. Learned this idea from Jim's sister Peggy, cuts down on pressure for individual baskets...yea! Anyways, we like to put money in our eggs and have a "special" egg for the kids to try for. We also have the older ones tie themselves to each other so its a little bit harder. Of course, their dad weak and lets them untie each other only after a few minutes and they are off...each on their own. Of course, we give the babies first dibs on the lawn then let the older ones take over. It is pretty funny to watch!! So heres some pictures and I'll try to add a comment in some if I can. :)

Going to the Temple in NYC!

2009-03-28T22:53:00.000-07:00

Okay, I forgot to talk of the temple in NYC. I didn't take pictures or anything, but it was a nice experience so I just wanted to add a few more thoughts... First of all, Kim and I went and we met up there. Our session started at 6:30 am. I was up and ready to go and heres the best part, I TOOK A TAXI BY MYSELF, AT 5:30 IN THE MORNING!!! I know that may not mean alot to you folks, but for me it was a milestone. It was dark, I didn't really know where I was going, plus my driver's english wasn't that great. All I know, is on the side of this one building, the words.."Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints" came into view and I told the cabbie, "We're here...stop!" It was a nice, quiet session and when we came out, the sun was up, wind was blowing, and I am the only one with no nylons or socks and I felt like I had the whitest legs in the world and everyone was looking at me. (not really) I didn't come prepared for my skirt and I only had my shoes that go with pants. Oh well, "Oh, how lovely was the morning...". Thanks for everyones comments, too. :)

NYC - Last of pics (Scroll dn to bottom of NYC posts)

2009-03-26T21:22:00.001-07:00

Okay, check out my watches!! The diamond one worth $150,000... the jewel-encrusted bee one, worth $250,000. Ya, those were amazing. They are in Bergdorf and Goodman Store. The lady actually draped them on my arm :). The next 2 are at the St. Patrick Cathedral, St. Patrick has green candles!, and lastly, the Apple Store, its actually downstairs under the glass blg.
All in all, this trip was amazing. Love to do it again! Does this trip count as Taylors senior trip? Thats the question of the day!

NYC - FAO Toy Store

2009-03-26T21:11:00.001-07:00

Wow! What a fun store...I have a video of the girls on this piano, and I will try to put on my facebook! So many ideas every where, had a hard time trying to find something for the grandbabies w/o breaking my wallet :) The dragon was huge, Chewbaca, Dart Vador and Batman were made out of leggo's. Very cool store!

NYC - More Pictures

2009-03-26T21:03:00.000-07:00

The dragon picture is from the Wicked! The blg with the lights below it is the Rockefellow blg. And I zoomed in to get the Statue of Liberty as close as it is!

NYC - the SUBWAY, etc.

2009-03-26T20:43:00.000-07:00

Okay we did subways and taxi's. Karen knew what she was doing so we followed her lead here. Actually, everyone but Tate and me, knew what they were doing. We were the sheep! So we got kinda goofy on the subway, by this time, we knew what to expect.. The girls liked to try to see how far they could lean w/o falling over. There were these homeless singers, singing for a handout. We went to Canal St to find $10 purses and cheap perfume and designer jeans. You had to be there to experience that place! It rained that day and we all bought $3 umbrellas. Oh, before I forget, the next morning, Karen turns on the TV to watch the Today Show and says that its funny that they would put up a fake snowy background! Then realizes its LIVE, so we rush to the window and look out to see its Snowing! The weather over there likes to change alot...hence the pictures of the girls and w/their new hats! We also went to the Statue of Liberty..not to the island as you can see in the pics. Went by that bull that they show in movies.. went to the 911 memorial, so sad there :...( , went to WICKED! Now that was awesome... would do that again in a heart beat! So the Rockefellor Blg... Went to Macy's and saw the new part and the original blg, with the wooden escalator! Sounded like an old roller coaster...very cool!

NYC - Rest of days ( Remember, scroll dn to 1st of NYC)

2009-03-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

Okay I am going to post some pictures and try to explain them and hopefully, you can tell whats what! Taylor looking out from the Empire State Blg.. The next 2 were taken at Times Square. Alot is happing on that street...We went up the Marriott elevator and about threw-up, I bought an I LOVE NY tee shirt for $3.oo... We would stand in line for tickets because they were 1/2 price if you could get them. Ate a hot dog from a stand there and bought NYC cheesecake to be able to say I had some (and it was good) Got interviewed by some young lady for Grandmas.com or something like it. Kim did too, the other moms got offended because they were asked, but weren't grandmas! Went to an off-broadway show called "Alter Boyz" It was cute and the girls loved the boys.

NYC - Day 1

2009-03-26T19:57:00.000-07:00

Okay, I was trying to remember the order of things, but on that first day my mind is kindv'e a blur. I do know we saw "Phantom of the Opera" . It was great but it was at the end of our day and remember, we had been flying in the night before, so we were really tired...gotta see it again someday! We ate at deli's in the mornings, usually had a late lunch or early dinner, then snacked after the shows. We hit "Serendippidy" and had their frozen hot chocolate ice cream. Very ymmy place! I didn't have a picture of that place for some reason. We saw the Empire State building! Found an H&M store and a Strawberry store. Didn't go in though, because we were on our way to Emp. St. Bld. We ate at a TGIF also. As I said, my memory of exact days we did this stuff is very limited. But we did do it! :)

NEW YORK CITY!! Start here for the story!

2009-03-26T19:30:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, I can't believe its been almost a month since I posted on my blog. Alots been going on and so for the latest, I thought I'd tell about Taylor's and I recent trip! We were invited to go to NYC during my kids spring break and it was a blast. I felt very fortunate to be able to spend this time with my daughter, uno y uno! There is so much to say so I will start with the plan. Karen Marsh has a tradition of taking their kids to NYC when they turned 16 so this time, they added friends to their trip. There were 4 moms and 4 daughters, me and Taylor, Kim R. and Reilly ( I don't know how she spells her name), Shelly R. and Bailey, and Karen and her daughter Mindy. I knew Karen and Kim already, so this a great opportunity to get to know Shelly better. Karen and I flew out Tuesday night, the 17th of March and met up with the rest of the group Wed. morning. The others had come in on Monday. We had the priviledge of staying at The Plaza, right by Central Park. I am going to try to insert a picture here, okay the pictures went to the top: 1. The Plaza at night!, 2. Resturant as you walked in abit, 3. Mindy and Tate when we first arrive!

I am going to try to add a Youtube video!

2009-02-21T23:31:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5VTZjWlGNDg Okay, this did not work!

New Giveaway!

2009-02-01T22:19:00.001-08:00

This is from www.greenfairyguilts.blogspot.com. She has a giveaway for a very nice quilt bag! If I knew how to forward her post to mine I would because the pictures are great! I need to be better at this blogging, but my sister-in-law doesn't live here and she knows what she is doing! :) So if you go to my sister-in-law's blog, Chris and Pete, on my list to the right, she has the pictures too! Good luck everyone!

Laniejane Fabric Store

2009-01-22T08:59:00.000-08:00

My sister-in-law, Chris, suggested this link to look at and it was really cute! They have a line called "Andalucia" fabric that is really cute. And there is a contest that she is having with this line. Just click on Laniejane and you should be able to pull up her store. Her site is www.laniejane.typepad.com, hope you enjoy it!

Rocky Point!!

2009-01-20T20:53:00.000-08:00

Okay, I really didn't have to go to Rocky Point but...I did anyways. If you go to Dana's blog, she explains it better, so here's the short version...I wanted to go for the fun of it! :) So I called my Aunt Eva and asked her if she wanted to go too and off we went, me, my aunt and Jessie. Took Marshall's birth certificate for our excuse and left Sunday morning. Dana found us because we were going passed them and then we met up with them at their condo. Here are some pictures, by the way, Rocky Point is in Mexico, about 4 hrs from Phoenix. Great place to go!! Enjoy...

My 30th Anniversary!

2008-12-30T15:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, on Dec.29, 1978, my husband and I were married in the Salt Lake City Temple. We've been married now for 30 years. Its amazing to me, that our number is so high. I always looked at it as something that belonged to my folks. But its us this time. We have 6 beautiful daughters and 3 are married now. Its been fun to have son-in-laws now! We have 4 granddaughters, with one on the way. Yes, we have been blessed. I should say I have been blessed! I love my girls, but most of all, I love my husband. He has been my best friend and I look forward to alot more years ahead of us. Maybe go on a mission together, who knows what the future will bring! Heres a few pictures, kinda a then and now look at the two of us. Enjoy!

Christmas Day

2008-12-26T01:06:00.000-08:00

When all the kids were gathered back at our house, we shot the traditional "everybody wait" picture first, then its dad passing out the gifts, the kids tearing through the wrapping paper, and Lauren with the girls, later in the day, while we prepare for the Christmas Feast! No one goes away hungry from our house! :)

Christmas 2008!

2008-12-26T00:32:00.001-08:00

My girls always like to do one goofy pose!

Christmas Eve at the Smith House!

2008-12-26T00:03:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve is a great time for the all of us to get together! We did it at our house and Lauren was the program director for this year. Taylor read a story, Marshall and Ben read about Samual the Lamanite and the birth of the Savior, Dad sang "Silent Night" in German with Jessie singing in English, Shawneen sang us a song with Lorraine playing the piano for us. And me and Dana took pictures. We ate alot and had our traditional Pizza, my green chili, Aunt Eva's tamale's, Serrano's great bean dip with chips and any other snack we could come up with. My diet went out the window from Thanksgiving on. Then we passed out the girls jammies and the boys jammie bottoms, so that we could get ready for Santa! Here is some pictures, hope you like them.

Jessie's Christmas Choir Concert!

2008-12-25T23:06:00.000-08:00

Jessie had her last Choir concert on Dec.15th, and they did a great job. Dana did her hair for her and she looked wonderful. I tried out the video on my camera, but as you can see, I need to do better. I did get one song- hope you like it. :)

Thanksgiving day!

2008-11-27T18:24:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving day has come and gone!! All the preparation, all the eating and all the visiting with the family. That's what a love about this day. We started our day by having dad put in the turkey nice and early. Then calling all the girls to go hiking at the Wind Caves. I hope someone took pictures. I didn't go, I was watching Dana's little girls and finishing up the cooking. Then everyone came over and we ate till we couldn't eat another bite! We had Shawneen and Ben and girls, Dana and Marshall and girls, Lauren and Phill, Jamie, Taylor, Jessie and also Paul and Margaret and their kids (Ben's Brother and family) So we had a housefull. Of course, my camera is dead and Jamie has the charger which she can't find. And I started with the Video camera, but got caught up with everything, that I didn't video past 2 minutes!! Oh well, we will do it all again next year. Hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving Day!!

My birthday girls!!

2008-11-21T17:53:00.000-08:00

Today we celebrated Jessie's and Taylor's birthday. Taylor turned 16 on the 19th and Jessica will turn 13 on the 22nd, tomorrow. We went out for our family dinner to Fuddrucker's, which makes a very good hamburger or chicken sandwich. I took pictures, but its on Dana's camera so I hope she will print them on her blog. Its hard to put into writing the thoughts going through my mind on these birthdays. Since Taylor is 16 now, its a whole new ballgame. She can get her license, scary, and she can date, hopefully with groups of friends. Jessie, on the other hand, will be 13 tomorrow. Bringing forth teenage attitude issues and "what are you looking at?" mentality. Hopefully it won't be too painful. I am getting older remember?! :) All I know is that I do love my girls. From the moment I brought them into this world and into the days ahead. Love you Girls!!

Halloween Pictures!

2008-11-02T21:37:00.000-08:00

We had our ward Halloween Party on our street again and it was fun having our kids there to enjoy it with us. Here is some pictures that may be the same as the girls cuz I forwarded them some of them but thats okay. Enjoy...

Okay, last two... I promise!

2008-10-27T22:54:00.000-07:00

Can you tell which one is puking? Marshall carved that one and the other is in memory of Lauren, who couldn't join us because her and Phill are in Beeville, TX.

The rest...

2008-10-27T20:45:00.001-07:00

Heres the rest of the pictures!

I lost my pictures....

2008-10-27T20:12:00.000-07:00

Trying again...

Carving Pumpkins!!

2008-10-27T20:06:00.001-07:00

Tonight for FHE we carved pumpkins! Of course, it wasn't quite complete with out Lauren and Phill, but Dad carved Lauren, so she would feel like she was here and now she is! You may find some repeats on Shawneen's and Dana's blogs but thats okay. In the picture of Mia, by herself, she was helping herself to all the seeds. And with Jamies pic, she's doing this with a bad foot :( , all the rest, well, you're on your own. :)

We got PUPPIES!!

2008-10-23T21:59:00.000-07:00

Of course, I am a little late with this news, but I wanted the puppies to be a little bit bigger. They are officially 10 days old as of this blog and the pictures were taken a couple of days ago. They are 2 females, with many a name, depending on who you talk to in the family. There eyes should start to open any day now. They are GOOD EATERS! :)

About the cake...

2008-10-20T22:43:00.000-07:00

I found this cake while googleing cottage magazines and came across this blog, that I can't remember who it was. But she had pictures of this cake and how to make it, then posted the recipe below it. It looked wonderful and I want to try it. I'll let you know how it is later. :)

Chocolalate Turtle Cake!

2008-10-20T22:42:00.000-07:00

1 Box German Chocolate Cake Mix

1 14 oz. Kraft Caramels

3/4 cups butter

1/2 cup evaporated milk

1 cup chocolate chips

1 cup chopped pecans

Mix cake mix according to directions on box. Pour 1/2 batter into greased and floured 9x13 cake pan. Bake 350 for 15 minutes.

In a saucepan cook butter, milk, and caramels until melted and smooth. Pour over baked cake, sprinkle with chocolate chips and pecans. Pour remaining cake batter on top of cake and bake 20*25 minutes loner.

Icing~

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup cocoa

1/2 cup Butter Flavored Crisco

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 cup white corn syrup

4 cups powder sugar.

If not stiff add a little more sugar and mix well in mixer.

Posted by Tina Smith on October 15, 2008 at 06:03 PM | Permalink

Jessie's 1st Concert Choir!

2008-10-06T21:20:00.001-07:00

Tonight Jessie had her first concert choir for 7th grade. She goes to Poston Jr. Hi. and they held their concert over at Mountain View High School. Her group did pretty good for being the youngest of all the groups. Her grampy, Lloyd and Lorraine were able to come see it too, along with me and her dad. She's the one behind the piano, you can barely see her, but thats okay! :)

Our Extra Truck

2008-10-05T21:49:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of what used to be Dana's and Marshall's truck and is now mine. And as we all know, I already have a truck. So this is the one I am trying to sell. As you can see, I should be trying harder but I am not because this thing is way more fun to drive than my white one. I am not the best picture taker I decided, but you see what it is! :) 2006, F-150 supercab, 4X4, 29,800 miles...

Bath time with my grandbabies!

2008-10-05T21:42:00.000-07:00

Thought I show my grandbabies off a little bit! My girls took their babies to the park after conference and then decided they needed a bath and then I took a goofy picture of my girls as they were watching over their kids in my bathroom. They like my tub for some reason. :)

Halloween apron!

2008-09-28T21:41:00.000-07:00

Here is the apron I was working on. The Relief Society did something similar for our "Christmas in September" meeting.

addition to my quilt one:

2008-09-23T21:23:00.000-07:00

Okay, I just click on my two pictures that I posted of my quilting and it makes them go bigger. So if you want to look closer at the pics be warned I am pretty scary looking as I am holding up my quilt! I think I could be a vampire with my red eyes!!

My finished Quilt!

2008-09-23T19:20:00.000-07:00

The other day I finally finished a quilt I have been working on for awhile. Its called a "Crazy Eight" quilt design. Its actually not that difficult to do, just finding the time to do it. Which is why my quilting takes so long. I am giving this one to my daughter Dana, because she has decorated her daughters room in the colors of the quilt. And she painted these cool two-tone diamonds on one of the walls and it just happens to match the green diamond fabric in the quilt. If I can get to the pictures, I will also show what I am working on right now. Its a Christmas quilt and I've got some done, 10 panels, and 20 more to go before I can put it together. This quilt has been fun to do and I am already picked out some fabric to do another one. I also just finished decorating an apron for the Halloween holiday. I've got to get a picture of that on next. Okay, here goes...