A Quick Look at Our Day

- Actually got to work out today...AND go for a walk!!

-Banana bread for breakfast

- Longest time ever at playgroup today! 2 hours, outside at the park. We loved EVERY minute of it!

- Made dinner for a family in the ward. Tortellini casserole, bread sticks, and spinach & strawberry salad.

- The BEST tortellini casserole AND bread sticks I've ever made! Ever! (Sorry Gary!)

- Ate WAY too much of my yummy, unhealthy dinner :)

- During nap time Graysen managed to get a bloody nose, which got ALL over his pillow, sheets, blanket, oh and his hands, face AND wall. How? I asked. From picking his nose!!

- Gray's nose bled the rest of the afternoon!

- Tanzi got her first haircut today......from Kyri!

- I got pretty mad that Kyri cut Tanzi's hair!! (a first cutting of the hair by a child in this house)

- After Kyri sat in time out for a while I went to talk to her. The following is the conversation we had:

Me; "Why are you in time out?"

Kyri: "For cutting Tanzi's hair."

Me: "Yeah, does that make mommy happy?"

Kyri: "No."

Me: "Does it make YOU happy?"

Kyri: "No."

Me: "Does it make Heavenly Father and Jesus happy?"

Kyri: "No......but it makes Satan happy!!" (smile)

Me: "Yeah, it does, but why would you want to make him happy?" (disappointed)

Kyri: "Because he wants to be nice and happy!!"

Me: "No, Kyri, he does NOT want to be nice!! So, don't do things that will make him happy!!"

Me: "So, why did you cut Tanzi's hair?"

Kyri: "Because you weren't looking!"

Me: "I wasn't looking so you decided to do something naughty?!"

Kyri: "Yep!"

Me: "Why?!"

Kyri: "Because when you're not looking I always do naughty things!"

Oh dear.

Memorial Day

Today after Tanzi's morning nap we went to Kent's (yep, again!). I had to pick up a couple things for a dinner I'm taking to a family in the ward tomorrow. While we were there we picked up some flowers to take to Grandpa Jim's grave. They had little pinwheels there. I really liked them and decided to get one to put by the grave as well. Kyri and Graysen asked if they could also get a pinwheel....and I gave in, of course!! They thought they were the COOLEST things! And showed everyone in the store :)

Since the Clearfield Cemetery is close to Kent's it was very convenient to stop there on our way home.

Now, for those of you who do not know, Grandpa Jim was married to my Grandma Dora. They were only married for a short time before he passed away in 2000, but he was the only grandpa I knew on that side. He was oh SO good to Grandma, and he was also so very sweet to all of us!! Together they were able to serve a mission in Adam-Ondi-Ahman. Grandpa Jim touched our lives more than I think he ever knew.

I hate to admit it, but I have not visited Jim's grave since his funeral. I was worried that I wouldn't remember exactly where it was. It was super busy at the cemetery and I could just imagine what all these people would think watching me walk around with 3 little kids, carrying a pot of flowers, with absolutely no clue where to go. Some might call it luck (I call it guidance....probably from Grandma Dora.....although she has always enjoyed a great laugh), but I walked RIGHT to Jim's grave! I was SO glad we went. There was only one other thing of flowers on the headstone and it was on Kaye's side (Jim's first wife). Kyri and Graysen were so incredibly sweet. They both wanted to leave their pinwheels by Grandpa Jim's grave!! This is a man they not only never knew, but really haven't even heard a whole lot about.

I was so touched!

Memorial Day has always been a special day for me. I hope to one day instill in my kids what my parents have instilled in me. I have SO many wonderful memories of Memorial Day from growing up!! It makes me sad that this day has turned into just another day. An extra day off work. An extra day to get stuff done. An extra day to do yard work. Or to just be lazy. 

Growing up we always looked forward to going to Bear Lake for the day. EVERY year. We would always go visit the cemeteries. Paris, Bloomington, and St. Charles. It was a great time to talk about relatives. Learn about both my parent's fathers. Hear stories about my parents growing up. We would always wonder who we would run into at the cemeteries. There was usually some sort of relative, even if distant, that would be there at the same time. Sometimes, if the weather was nice we would spend a little time at the beach. The water was always too cold still too get into, but sometimes it was nice to just soak up the sun. One of my favorite memories from Memorial Day is going to my Great Aunt and Uncle's house. Uncle Lloyd was such a big, burly man, yet he was so funny and gentle with all us kids. And he would always give us treats :) Aunt Gwen, who is blind, always amazed me. I liked going up to her and having her grab my arm and feel all the way up to my head to feel how tall I was. She would feel my hair and pat my cheeks. And she knew which child I was. 

She could see me with her hands....and that was always a true inspiration!!

I guess, for my parents, it was always easy because the graves they wanted to both visit were so close to each other. This is not the case for Gary and I. However, I don't necessarily want to go to the same place every single year for Memorial Day. I do, however, want to instill in my children the importance of honoring those that have passed on before us. I want it to be a time to tell stories of ancestors. A time to recognize that the reason we are who we are is because of these wonderful people who have so bravely and honorably led the way!! 

I LOVE Memorial Day and always want it to be a special day for those that serve/served in the military as well as those that simply served their family and community.

Thinking of Grandma Dora and many others today!!

After visiting Grandpa Jim's grave, we went to Quiznos to get lunch.

We got 2 lunch combos (that includes the sandwich, chips, and drink) for only $8!! I don't coupon much anymore, but I won't pass up a good one like that!! :) The kids were happy to pick out their own chips. And they spilled their drink as soon as we got home. It was a pretty big drink. They were super sad! 

After naps I made more banana bread and then we went outside to ride bikes. Kyri is so SO scared to ride her "big" bike (witht raining wheels) She got on it once. I held onto her arm AND handle bar the ENTIRE time. She cried the ENTIRE time. We went to the corner and back. That was it. I hope Gary can instill some confidence in her!! Kyri's friend, Kolton, was practicing riding his bike down the sidewalk WITHOUT training wheels! She was impressed, but didn't care enough to try hers out. One day....

The kids all went to bed really good tonight, but Tanzi has been crying ALL day....AGAIN! I finally realized it's because she's a bit constipated :( Poor baby!! Looks like we will be making a trip to the store tomorrow....yet again! Baby prunes, pears, peaches....I think I'll stock up! Plus, I think she's a little dehydrated after being sick, and she's not drinking much. She LOVES milk but she's not even drinking much of that. I can't get her to drink juice or powerade, only a little water. Oh the joys!!

I didn't work out at all today. I feel fine, my tummy has just been a little unsettled still. I will try to get back into my routine tomorrow. Kyri even asked me today why we haven't gone on a walk "in a REALLY long time!!" 

Here's to a happy and healthy tomorrow!!

Sunday

Well, I started the LAST post last night, but couldn't finish it.

Why?

Because I got the stomach bug that my kids had!

BOO :(

SO not fun!!

The good thing was that I did not puke until after all my kids were in bed. One thing I prefer not to have an audience for.

But, boy, I tell ya, this is NOT a fun bug to have!!

I'm actually feeling quite a bit better now, but it has not been a fun day!

I just wish Gary was here to help with the kids. Kyri and Gray were pretty good today, but Tanzi has been crying non stop for the last 2 days! In fact, she cried a lot in the night last night, but I was so sick that I never went into her room to get her. I had to just let her cry herself back to sleep! It was sad, but I couldn't do anything from the bathroom!

Then she woke up at 5:30! Ugh!! Why is she SO grumpy lately?!

And Kyri and Gray woke up at 6!! Of course I can't even get a break on a day I'm sick!

Well, needless to say, we stayed home from church. The plus side of that is that I didn't have to deal with all 3 kids at church by myself. The down side is that I had to listen to them fussing and crying at home all day and didn't get a break during Primary. I felt bad, too, because our President is out of town this week, so that left the 1st counselor and the secretary to do everything! Good thing they are so awesome and I didn't have to worry too much about it!!

I am just mostly sad because we were going to go down to Tammy's tonight and have dinner with them. Gary's parents are there too. Then we were going to stay the night and do something fun with them tomorrow. It seems like we are ALWAYS sick during FUN family events! But I know people would not be too pleased if we showed up and gave this to everyone. Nobody I know likes throwing up or likes cleaning up their kids throw up!

So, we're stuck at home for yet another holiday without Gary.

Anybody feeling sorry for me yet?

I do!!

Can you tell? :)

I least I have all the fixings for a super yummy salad!

being silly

All evening Kyri wanted to give Graysen a horsey ride. She even made him carry the baby bed on her! All the way from the toy closet to their room. It was hilarious!!

I am SO glad that they are the best of friends...even if it means they fight like the worst of enemies :)

Friday and Saturday

Well, Graysen finally stopped throwing up around midnight. He was still in my room, on his bed I made for him on the floor. He suddenly became VERY chatty! And then he got scared. He wanted a nightlight by his bed, even though their room is pitch black at night. He also wanted me to close the door to the bedroom, but I told him I had to leave it open so I could hear Tanzi if she cried. He asked if I locked all the doors downstairs. I finally asked if we could say a prayer so he wouldn't be scared and we could go to sleep. After I said the prayer Graysen was asking me all kinds of questions about Heavenly Father and Jesus. It was actually a very touching teaching moment! We talked about how They will watch over us, protest us, help us feel better, and help us sleep. We also talked about how we will be able to see Them, after we die, in Heaven. In the morning one of the first things Gray said to Kyri was, "Mama said we can see Jesus at His house!!"  :)  

But Gray tossed and turned ALL night. He kept rubbing his fingers on the wall. I had a sippy cup with water in it for him and he would wake up in the night, drink ALL that was in it, come over to my bed and ask for more water. If I told him no he would throw a HUGE fit!! This happened a few times in the night. I think we both got only about 3 hours of sleep! 

Tanzi woke up crying around 6am. When I went into her room to get her her room WREAKED of puke :( She had thrown up sometime in the night. It was ALL over her bed and crusted into her hair! SO gross! And SO sad!! :( I immediately put her in the bath. 

Kyri actually slept in until 7! And Graysen had gone back to sleep at some point and slept in until sometime after 7.

Tanzi threw up several times through out the day.

She kept signing "milk" and I wouldn't give it to her, but she wouldn't eat or drink anything...she just kept crying. So, I would give in and give her milk, she would drink it, throw up shortly after, and I would put her back to bed. The hard thing with Tanzi is that I never knew when she was about to throw up....so we had a LOT of clean-ups!!

It was a sad day!

But not completely!

I was tired of doing laundry and cleaning carpet, so I made Banana Bread

DELICIOUS!

(and this is not a "healthy" recipe, but I turned it into one!)

Our garden.

This picture is mostly for Gary to see how much it's grown in the past week.

Look at all those tomatoes!!

SATURDAY

Well, no one threw up this morning. That's a plus! It was actually a pretty good day.

We went to the church to get some things in order for the new nursery that will be starting tomorrow. That makes 3 nurseries!! And I can't complain because Tanzi is one reason we needed a new nursery, along with the 1st counselor's baby AND the Primary President's baby. :) We are excited, though, because we have some FANTASTIC leaders in there! (Shay Salmond and Stefani Garcia - YEA!!!)

The kids all had fun playing with the toys while I put things together.

Then we went to Kent's. I had to get a couple things for a salad to take to Tammy's tomorrow. Then I spent a bunch of money stocking up on cereal!! No more treats, though, so that was good. 

It rained in the afternoon, so we stayed inside and tried to stay warm.

Her very first ponytail!

(thanks for the encouragement, Nichole)

I think it makes her look older :(

One of Tanzi's favorite new things is to go into our bathroom and get mine and Gary's toothbrushes out. She ALWAYS gets both. We try to keep the bathroom door closed, but if it ever gets left open she is sure to know!! Today she brought the toothbrushes all the way downstairs by herself!

Glad that's Gary's toothbrush in her mouth and not mine :)

But the real question is, if that's Gary's toothbrush how is he brushing his teeth in Virginia?!

He probably isn't :)

We have an entire cupboard dedicated to plastic bags.....but today I realized we have WAY too many!

When It Rains It Pours

Today started off really pretty great!

Graysen woke up at 6:00 (not so great), but Kyri slept until 6:45 and Tanzi til 7!

The kids were all happy to eat some new cereal we bought at the store yesterday while I worked out.

We met my friend, Rachel, for lunch today at Zupas.

Not only do we all LOVE Zupas, but it's always good to catch up with friends. Rachel has been such a good friend for a long time, it's sad she'll be moving far away this summer. But, let's be honest, we don't really see each other all that often now and we only live 30 minutes away. But I have already decided that when Gary gets back from his trip, then on a day he works swing (wjich is pretty much ALL summer) then he is going to watch the kids while Rachel and I have lunch without any kids. Then we can chat more. I do have to say, though, that my kids REALLY love Rachel. And I know what she's saying to herself as she reads this, "Of, course they do!!!! I am the coolest. All kids love me!" :) Which is true. 

After lunch we went to Kent's to pick up a couple things. I really only needed a couple. I spent $50!! And I got a lot of cookies and crackers. Why? You ask. When we are on a diet? Because they were on sale. And now I can take them to family gatherings, reunions, parties, etc.

YEA!!

And I bought a few more random treats for me and the kids, of course. One of which was a "banana dipping kit". That was a big hit this afternoon. I mean, chocolate dipped anything is always better than just plain!!

And then it started raining.

Not literally.

The sun is actually still shining outside.

Just inside the home.

After Graysen's nap he kept telling me that his tummy hurt. This usually means he needs to go stinky. He insisted he did not need to. Then he made "the sound" and I asked if he needed to throw up. He told me no, started crying, and insisted he did NOT need to. Then, just seconds later he started throwing up ALL over the carpet in the play room. I ran over to him, but what am I to do? Carry him into the bathroom so there is a stream of puke ALL down the hall? Instead I just grabbed his shirt and he puked into that. I got him into the tub and started cleaning up. Kyri was a SUPER big help and was trying to keep Tanzi entertained and out of the puke. All the while Tanzi is screaming and throwing a fit. After getting Graysen out of the bath we went downstairs to have dinner.Graysen was just eating soda crackers and drinking some powerade. Kyri also wanted crackers AND some yogurt, so that's what she and Tanzi were eating. (I sort of lost my appetite, so no dinner for me) Then Gray got down from his chair and started throwing up again. I grabbed a cup that was on the table (and mostly full of water) to have him throw up in it. Then I was yelling to Kyri to grab her cup for me. She was fussing about it because there was also water in hers, but I needed something else. Well, apparently Gray didn't want to throw up in a cup because he started turning in circles, projecting puke ALL over himself, me, and the entire kitchen! So, I cleaned that up the best I could. And am thankful we recently bought a steam mop that I will be putting to use tonight. Then I put Gray in the tub....once again. Kyri was so good to stay downstairs with Tanzi and feed her yogurt :) That was also fun to clean. BUT I truly am grateful for Kyri! After getting Gray out of the tub this time I had him lay on a bed I set up for him in my room RIGHT by the bathroom door. And I begged him to go into the bathroom to throw up. AND I put a bowl right by his bed, in case he didn't think he could make it to the bathroom. 

Then I got the bath ready for Kyri and Tanzi. 

As soon as I took Tanzi's diaper off she peed ALL over ME!! 

Yep, it's POURING now!!

Then, while the girls were in the tub Graysen threw up ALL over himself (again) and ALL over his bed.

Back into the bath....for the 3rd time!!

I started crying!

I mean, seriously?!?!

While the 3 kids were in the tub I quickly cleaned up Gray's bed and got new sheets and blankets. I then got all the kids out and quickly got jammies on. Kyri was SO sweet! As soon as she had her pajamas on she said, "Good night, Gray! I hope you feel better soon!" And went into her room. She did ask me to read her one story, which I couldn't turn down since she had been such a HUGE helper and went to bed without any fussing. 

Since the girls have been in bed it has been slightly easier. Gray is in the room with me and I am able to make it to him with a bowl before he pukes all over everything. Plus, there is not much coming up anymore. I have, however, had to stop with this post SEVERAL times to help him. The poor guy can not stop throwing up!!

It looks like Gray is about asleep now. Let's hope he can get some good sleep!!

Instead of working out tonight it looks like I'll be doing laundry and a LOT of deep cleaning!
Oh, and did I mention that I have a pinched nerve in my lower back?
Raining cats and dogs around here!

Last Day

Today was a really great day!! (finally)

The kids ALL slept until 6:30!! And they were all happy when they woke up! And so was I :)

I think Kyri and Gray were scared after yesterday morning because they stayed in their room for a while after they woke up, before coming out and into my room.

Today was Kyri's last day of preschool. 

Here she is during their program.

They did a really cute program and then their were lots of snacks and a DVD with pictures and videos of all the preschool kids. It was a lot of fun!! We really missed Daddy, but we recorded the program for him (although, I don't think I got Kyri's part on there. She was very first, saying "Welcome to our Preschool Celebration!!"  and I didn't have my camera on yet) :(

Kyri wanted to Skype Daddy again tonight so she could tell him all about her fun day!

She will have to wait until tomorrow morning.

Kyri has REALLY loved preschool! She learned so much and made some good friends. She will miss it, but is already looking forward to it next year!

Kyri with Ms Kate 

The kids ate treats at Kyri's party for lunch.

Yep, that kind of mom.

So, tonight when the kids asked for dessert after dinner you can guess what I said.

No.

Sugar for lunch and snack is enough sugar to last us for a few days :)

After naps I took all 3 kids to Walmart.

Kyri threw a fit in the parking lot because I was going to let them be in a shopping cart that had the little seats in the front, but then I realized there was nowhere for Tanzi to sit. Kyri offered to stand or walk with me, but the straps were broken so I couldn't strap Tanzi in.

BIG fit!

We stood outside in the parking lot until she was done.

The cart gathering dude was laughing at us.

I can't wait until he has kids of his own!

Kyri threw another fit because she was freezing cold and I wouldn't go into the store!

We kept waiting.

Finally, she stopped and we went into the store and everyone was happy!!

I even splurged and bought some yummy things for the kids (and me....if I can control myself and not eat too much :) )

I made ham fried rice for dinner.

It wasn't quite as good as when Gary makes it, but the kids all LOVE it!!

Dinner was a huge success!

The kids all went to bed SO good!

I'm glad we could have such a nice, happy, fun day.

I'm watching American Idol as I update the blog, and I watched it while I cleaned the kitchen.

Our house is surprisingly clean.

I was able to work out this morning, but no walk. 

I will work out again tonight.

Then off to bed!

Hoping for another great day tomorrow!!

Better Than Expected

Well, today turned out to be better than I expected it to....after such a rough start.

Kyri and Graysen (mostly Kyri) not only made their beds and cleaned their room while I was in the shower today, but they also cleaned all other toys off the floor in the entire upstairs! (except Tanzi's room, since she was sleeping, but they DID later help me clean her room too)

You would think that a morning that started off looking like this would end up happy.

We went to playgroup at the park today at 10:00. I thought about not letting them go after all that happened this morning, but then I realized that we could all use a little time outside. Mostly me. I was having a harder day than them and staying home would be the worst thing I could do....to all of us.

So, away we went.

Then we went to Smith's to pick up some milk, along with a few other random items.

The kids were really good at the store, thank goodness.

I let Kyri and Gray each pick out their very own yogurt. They LOVE doing this when we go to the store because I usually just buy a big thing of yogurt...and I choose the flavor. At first, when Kyri asked if they could pick out yogurt I hesitated. Then I realized, "Easiest lunch EVER!"

And it was.

And they were happy.

And I ate peanut butter pie for lunch 

:)

While Graysen and Tanzi napped I read Kyri some library books and then I let her watch PBS so I could take a nap.

Yep, that kind of mom too!

BUT....I do have to say that I felt SO much better after my nap.

And was MUCH happier!!

And, just so you know, our kids do not get to watch TV every day.

So, then I don't feel too bad for allowing it for an hour once in a while...even if it's so I can take a nap :)

After naps my kids really wanted to go ride bikes. The front of our house is SO hot in the afternoon/evening, so we weren't out long, but, again, everyone is happier outside.

Kyri thinks she needs "help" riding her bike with training wheels. She wants me to hold onto her arm the ENTIRE time, especially when she's trying to turn around.

I think the accident which caused stitches has left more than just the one scar upon her forehead!

I never rode an actual bicycle, without training wheels, until I was 9.....maybe she is just following in my footsteps :)

While I was getting dinner ready the kids played in the backyard, where there is shade at that time of day.

Kyri and Graysen are obsessed with getting their chalk wet and THEN drawing/playing with it.

Tanzi could not resist the fun!

Pink chalk face!!

I couldn't decide which picture to post....so I posted all of them :)

Too much FUN!!

I have started a new bedtime routine, which I LOVE!

We used to always watch Wheel of Fortune after baths. Then we would proceed to brush teeth, read Book of Mormon Stories, go potty, say prayers. There was nothing wrong with this routine.

But, now, after baths we brush teeth and read Book of Mormon Stories...and then we read books!!

I LOVE reading to my kids and lately I have felt like I didn't do that enough. I often read to Kyri during the other kids nap times, but then that left me with never reading to Tanzi and Gray. Kyri and Gray each pick 2 or 3 (depending on what time it is) books or stories out of the Friend.

Sometimes, by this time, Tanzi is in bed. And if she's not she is usually just playing on the floor. I have learned that Tanzi does not love to sit on your lap and read a book. She wants to be the one holding the book and she wants to turn the pages at her own pace and then throw the book when she is done. I will let her read as many books as she wants that way - and she does, which is why the books in her room are usually on the floor instead of the bookshelf - but when it's "story time" she has to let me hold the books and she has to listen from afar. :)

I feel bad that I had such a rough morning.

Not that it was rough, because I think everyone is entitled to a bad day. I just feel bad with how I reacted to my kids. And I KNOW that the reason they make me SO upset is because they are simply reacting to me and my bad mood! I know that I am the one that sets the tone in my home....and I am failing miserably.

I will try extra hard tomorrow!

 Thank goodness for tomorrows!!

Here's a video of Tanzi walking. I got a better video on our other video camera, but I don't know how to get that onto the computer. 

I don't think Tanzi will be doing much crawling by time Gary gets home.

You really only need to watch the first 20 seconds or so, since I couldn't get her to walk again after that :)

This one's for you, Daddy!!

Off to a Not-So-Great Start

Well, this morning has been anything but good.

Graysen woke up at 5am, Kyri at 5:30, and Tanzi at 6!

Why?

I wish I knew.

Or, better yet, I wish they would have gone back to sleep.

Yesterday was the hottest day of the year, which meant my bedroom last night was the hottest it's been all year too. Which means I didn't sleep well.

And now I am oh SO grumpy!!

I have already yelled at my kids WAY too much today. I don't like raising my voice at them, but I had NO control this morning.

I lost it.

So, I yelled. 

I have made all my kids cry this morning.

They have yelled, screamed, hit, kicked, pinched, and every other mean thing you can think of to each other this morning.

I didn't work out.

I didn't go for a walk.

Oh, but I did get puked on.

ALL over.

That's right.

Tanzi threw up ALL over me, ALL over the carpet, ALL over the bathroom.

I can't get the smell out of my nose.

I wish I had someone to complain to.

This is the best I got.

So, here ya go!

I know not every day will be awful while Gary's gone, but we're sure off to a rough start!!

A Definite Monday

I knew it was going to be a rough day when both Kyri and Graysen woke up before 6:00am.

I listened to a lot of crying and fussing.

At least we had one thing to look forward to. We were going to meet my sister-in-law and her kids at the Treehouse Museum in Ogden. We have never been before and it was a discount day! 

Perfect.

Right?

Well, not only did my kids throw HUGE fits all morning long, but I asked them to make their beds and clean their room while I was in the shower getting ready. I told them that if it wasn't done by the time I got out, then we would NOT be going to the museum.

Kyri insisted she REALLY wanted to go! 

Since this is a daily routine I figured it would be done rather quickly.

Boy, was I wrong.

Not only was it not done, but my bedroom was a disaster with toys, books, blankets, and pillows!

I had had it!

And yet, I, too, really wanted to go to the museum. 

So, I gave them one last chance to quickly do as I had asked.

It did not happen.

Needless to say, we did not go to the museum.

Kyri was sad she couldn't see her cousins. And Graysen even said, "But I LOVE Zane!!"

Well, kiddos, believe me, I wish you would have listened too. 

I really do.

Instead we stayed home.

Yes, I am that kind of mom.

I listened to more crying and fussing.

The kids eventually made their beds and cleaned their room. They even cleaned my room! Too bad they didn't do it a few hours sooner!

The rest of the day was okay. I cut my friend, Keri's hair. It was nice to have some adult conversation. Graysen and Tanzi both took really good, long naps during that time, which was much needed.

I made Pumpkin Bread. We'll have it for breakfast tomorrow.

And I made Cuban Picadillo for dinner.

One funny thing from today:

When we were Skyping Gary this morning (we Skype in the morning because he's working the swing shift in Virginia), then the kids and Gary were telling knock knock jokes. 

Let's be honest, they are all lame....BUT we all get a kick out of them. Gary kept doing ones about "gus". Gus who? Fuss gus!

And then there was this joke:

Graysen: "Knock knock"

Gary: "Who's there?"

Graysen: "Gus"

Gary: "Gus who?"

Graysen: "Daddy throws a fit!!"

Haha!

Oh, that kid kills me!!

The kids went to bed really good. They told me they were thirsty and I told them I was going to work out and then I'd bring them a drink. They were actually asleep by time I brought it to them, though.....and I never even heard a peep out of them!

Tanzi has been walking a LOT today. I think it really wore her out. Plus, she's still working on breaking a couple teeth through. I'm not sure if her cold symptoms are due to the teething or are just a cold. Either way she's been kind of grumpy. So, I'm glad she's sleeping good. 

A sleeping baby is a happy baby!

Just like a sleeping mama is a happy mama!

Good night!!

What a Day!!

Well, Gary left at 5:00am. And I have a very good feeling that any sanity that was in this house left with him.

Right after waking up I was snuggling the kids in my bed. Graysen decided he wanted to jump off my bed. Our bed is kind of high, but Gray has jumped off our bed a bunch of times, including just last night. So, I didn't think anything of it.....until I saw him jump. It wasn't really a jump, actually. His feet never came up off the bed. He simply leaned forward and did a face plant right onto the floor! His nose started bleeding. Gushing, really. He cried and cried (surprise surprise) for his daddy!!

Aahhh....what a great start to the day!!

Then, while I was making lunch (another green smoothie, in case you're wondering), Kyri slipped on the stool she was standing on, but was supposed to be sitting on, and hit her lip on the counter. I was really worried because not only was it bleeding on the inside, but on the outside as well. It cut all the way through!! I thought we were going to be taking another trip to the ER. When it finally stopped bleeding, however, I could see that it did not need stitches, but it was a really nasty cut. It started bruising and swelling immediately, but by tonight some of the swelling had gone down.

When I was talking to Kyri about taking her to the doctor she said, "Can we finish making our smoothie first?" When I told her no she said, "I just want it to be okay! I don't want it to be bad when we get back!" That's when I knew that maybe the cut wasn't as bad as I initially thought 

Gary asked when Tanzi was going to show some blood. Well, she showed me something else instead.

I heard Kyri say, "Uh oh"

I asked if Tanzi was in the bathroom.

She nodded to confirm my germy thoughts.

Then, as I'm walking toward the bathroom I asked if she was in the toilet (which has become a constant for Tanzi lately)

Kyri said, "No, she has a MUCH better surprise!!"

And this is what I found:

Surprise....the entire roll is on the floor!!

I have a feeling it's gonna be a LONG 3 weeks while Gary is gone.

Tanzi has been trying to walk more

And how can you stay mad at a face as so stinkin' cute as this?

I can't.

The Past Week

Last weekend we took a quick trip up to Idaho. We stayed the night at my parents empty house with Tawn and her kids. It was a lot of fun, but really quite strange to be there without Grammy and Grampy! Then, on Saturday, we went to Blackfoot. First, we went to my nephew, Brock's, baptism. I even got to give a little talk on the Holy Ghost. I love seeing these young kids making such huge, life changing choices!! We are SO proud of him!! Afterward we got to hang out with my sister, Andrea (Brock's mom) and her family for the afternoon. It was so much fun to just relax, chat, and eat delicious food (and WAY too much of it!!)!

The kids had a TON of fun playing in the dirt!

Yes, still in their dress clothes.

But I'm not sure which they loved more, the dirt or taking a bath at Andrea's. They still talk about that bath :)

While the kids were playing in the dirt, under Gary's supervision, I got to do my nieces hair for her Junior Prom!!

I will be the first to admit that I'm not a pro and formal hairstyles. However, Miraya reassured me that it was very simple. However, she wanted a "waterfall braid", which I had never heard of. After watching a how-to video on you-tube it still took me FOREVER to figure it out!!

Eventually we got it, though.....and just in time, before her date showed up!

Pretty hair

The back

My "little" niece is not so little any more....she has grown into a VERY beautiful young lady!!

Love you, Raya!!

Last week we were outside and Graysen fell and smacked his head on the cement! It was a really HUGE, bruised goose egg. Here's what it looked like when it started healing.

You know we love good food! This is a really simple chicken salad. And we liked the idea of eating it in a tomato instead of eating all the calories that come in a slice of bread. I think it would also be yummy to eat it in half an avocado. We just used canned chicken, which made it even easier!

YUM!!

I really liked this, but I think it was a little spicy for the kids. Next time I think we'll just make some with and some without the jalapenos.

Cheesy Jalapeño Popper Baked Stuffed Chicken 

Before leaving for Idaho I was trying to pack and get ready to go. Gary took Kyri and Gray to the store with him, so I just had Tanzi. You would think I would be able to keep her out of trouble for 20 minutes. Oh, no! Quite the contrary.

I walked into her room to find this:

She was taking all her clothes out of her drawers, leaving a trail....

...and putting them into this suitcase.

I guess she wasn't really trying to get into trouble, she was just trying to be helpful.....RIGHT?!

Finally Caught Up

There's about 7 or 8 recent posts...make sure you check them all to see what our lives have been like the last few months...that may mean that you have to hit the "older posts" button at the bottom of the page :)

MORE of What We've Been Up To

Once it started warming up we started going for walks. Most days it consists of me pushing the kids in the triple stroller, and, hence, getting my workout in at the same time.

But every once in a while we change things up a bit.

Like something like this:

Although, the last couple days the kids have wanted to ride their bikes/scooters, so I put Tanzi in the single stroller and Gray has been on Kyri's "little bike" (aka tricycle) He realized that he can reach the pedals, but when he pedals for some strange reason he can't steer!! We need to work on the coordination, apparently. And after about 1/2 a block he's done. So, I put the front wheel in the back of the stroller, he sits on it at an angle , and gets a free ride!! No, not safe. He fell off, but was too lazy to walk the block home and got back on!! :)

What happens at your house when your kids wake up at 6am?

Here, at this house, our kids say they are going to go "play".

I then find this mess

This would be the ENTIRE contents of Kyri's and Graysen's dresser drawers!

Why? You ask?

Well, I happened to ask the same question.

They were going on Noah's Ark.

And, apparently, there is a good chance you'll be sailing naked if you don't bring every last one of your belongings!!

Tanzi got a little worried that her head might get sunburned while catching some rays on the top deck of the Ark, so she found the perfect hat. (yep, it would be Kyri's panties!)

And this is what happens when a baby gets into the garbage after leftover birthday frosting has been thrown away.

Delicious!!

Our very first food garden!

We are pretty excited about it! In this picture the only thing we have planted is strawberries, but the rest of the garden is now full of yumminess!!

(guess we better get a picture of the finished product)

And since Gary is SO amazing he even set up a drip system, which is connected to our already existing sprinkler system! Like I said, AMAZING :)

We got this little zebra for $3 at the DI

And we soon realized we would definitely get our money's worth

Ride 'em, cowgirl!!

YEEEE-HAAAAAW!

Tanzi LOVES putting these necklaces on, but sometimes she seems to get a bit tangled.

We have been super busy and having lots of fun!

Gary's going to be gone for 3 weeks and so I decided I better get caught up on the blog before he leaves, so I can stay caught up while he's gone :)

What We've Been Up To

Shortly before my parent's left for their mission we met up with them at a park in Brigham City. Tawn and I had planned to meet up to let the kids play and so we could just hang out. And it just so happened that my parents were meeting my grandparents and aunts and uncles in Brigham for dinner. So, they just came early so they could spend time with us too!!

Everyone was pleased to be there...even though it was kind of cold and windy

Those look like 2 happy grandparents to me :)

This is how Tanzi spent most of her time

Grampy helped the kids find "porcupine eggs"

Remember when Kyri had to get stitches?

Well, this was the night after Kyri got her stitches out (a week later, mind you, and I'm just barely getting around to posting it....Oops!!)

BFFs!!

Waiting in the ER

Silly girl

And she will still tell you that "the last one hurt! Cuz' it was stuck...and it hurt BAD!!"

But not nearly as bad as when she had to get the stitches

Kyri took this picture to prove that Grammy and I were there :)

And then my camera battery died, so I didn't actually get any pictures of them taking the stitches out.

Now, whenever Kyri gets hurt we will ask if it hurts as bad as when she had to get stitches. She always says no, so we tell her she's going to be okay and she can stop crying :) However, many-a-time when Graysen gets hurt he will say, "It hurts as bad as Kyri's stitches!!" Haha...as if he knows how that felt!! Silly boy!!

Tanzi giving "the evil eye"

 I'm pretty sure this is the last picture we have of Tanzi drinking from a bottle. I always thought it would be hard to ween a baby from a bottle, but it was so SO easy!! Here's to hoping that I will say the same after potty training her :)

Green Smoothie face!!

(yes, my kids LOVE green smoothies....I haven't yet convinced Gary to try one, but how can you resist when you look like this afterward?)

Waiting for Daddy to come home from work

Play-dough hat that Kyri's friend, Aubrey, put on her. I asked if she (Aubrey) would put it on so I could take a picture. She said, "No, because my mom did my hair today."

Well, although it's rare, I also did Kyri's hair this day. Funny girls!!

Nothin' like a good ol' chalk nose

Graysen came in one night after bath wearing this.

A tank top on backwards with pants that are to small and, therefore, look like capris.

And Kyri's hair looks like a rat's nest.

Our kids are the COOLEST!!

LOVE them :)

She got herself stuck and was kinda ticked that we were all laughing at her and she could not get herself unstuck