.:sweet ASSURANCE:.

.:the certainty that comes when you know life's truths:.

There is a certain confidence with the sweet assurance of what I KNOW to be true!

The weekend consisted of our attendance at Time Out For Women. It was a magical event. Being able to feel the spirit while sitting next to the one's I love the most in life, the combination brought tears to my eyes many times.

So many things have made incredible impressions on me. I feel like I have a new and better way of thinking and the strength to endure. But I need more than strength, I need the faith to endure and my fears will depart.

One of my favorite lessons was about Abundance. The story in John 6 about the loaves and fishes will never be the same for me again. There were 7 principles to be learned before the miracle of feeding the 5000 occurred and even then Christ's presence was a complete necessity.

The first principle is to make the most of what you have to offer. We each have been placed in our circle of family, friends, and community for a reason. There is ALWAYS something we can offer those around us.

The second is the principle of giving our all or the "Be There" principle. We are always on the Lord's errond. It's not what we say every time, it may just be that we were there for those that just needed us to be.

The third principle is learning to be content. Endure throughout the day, night will come when you can pour your heart out to the Lord in prayer and he will lift you.

I want all to know what I know for sure... I am a daughter of God. I feel his passionate love for me. I know and have a great appreciation for Christ's atonement for me in my life. I know of the blessings I have been given throughout my life, and of all the blessings the gospel has boyd me up and sustained me. I want my kids to know what I know for sure, why should they wonder? I love to be a wife and mother and all the responsibilities and blessings that come from both.

:Family Photos:

It feels so good to have FINALLY updated our family portrait. The last time was before Kyler was born. We had a great night out together. After the work of takin the pictures we were out to eat and lovin every minute together!

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my family!!

Yee Haw!! Brett's Birthday Roundup

Tonight was the night... Brett has been so jealous of all those in our family that have had birthdays in the last few months. He has wanted it to be his birthday... and now it finally was! I bet tomorrow he will still call it his special day!!

Gotta have a photo of the table scape, this one is " Gluten-Free CoWbOy Style".

These CoWbOy's & CoWgIrL's were tryin' out there "roppin" skills. It is such a joy to listen to kids laugh and have fun. I wish I could bottle it up!

Bobbin' for apples was a hit!! Brett went for the stem and everyone else went for a swim to come up with their apples!

Here we are the proud parents... I think I was just HaPpY to be number one, sitting and second, sitting next to Lorin... bonus!!

Isn't this "little" family super cute?!?!! The party was so fun!! We have such great friends and family. I love getting together to celebrate or spend any kind of time with them.

Happy Birthday Brett-ly!! We sure love ya lots and lots!!

+:Happy Birthday Brett:+

Brett came to our family to make it whole. Ben became a BiG BrOtHeR, which he has always enjoyed. Brett has given us so much in 4 short years.

We all admire his "dramatic" personality. Everything is done with EXCITEMENT and INTRIGUE!! He could play any part you could throw at him... even the one's you wish he wouldn't play. He is very kind and loving. Thanks for bein such a blessing buddy!!

Lots of Halloween Fun

What do ya think of the monster down our street?

I love...love this holiday!! The kids had a great time!

It all started on Friday with the school parade and class party. (photos to come) Ben wasn't to sure about the make-up involved to become a VaMpIrE... but it he worked it out. I thought he looked fantastic!!

We played games and had LoTs of treats. Doughnuts on a String, Pin the Face on a Pumpkin, and makin' Monster Hands. I love being in Ben and Jen's class.

Brett dressed up for Pre-school on Thursday as a CoWbOy. It was his first experience wearing cowboy boots. I have to say that he didn't quite know how to walk in them... but it did look authentic, slow and bull legged! It was very laughable!!

Brett with Auntie Jen-Jen and Auntie Amy @ the Halloween Carnival

Brett and Kyler wore the cowboy costumes that Auntie Amy and Uncle Mike wore when they were that little. Kyler loved his gUnS and not the cowboy boots!!

Here they are TrIcK or TrEaTiN! They were both getting in to it. Brett took care of all the doorbells and Kyler would say his version of Trick or Treat 10 times before the door could even be answered. It was such a wonderful night to be out... Thank you good weather!! Wouldn't have been the same without ya!

Hope your holiday was SuPeR FaNtAsTic!! The next one is just around the corner. My thankful heart is already beginning the list of blessings. Again what a GrEaT time of year!

= Our WeEkEnD in AZ =

CuTe BoYs Pickin' Cotton in front of the Farm House... What a blessing to have the Temple being built in Central. What a VieW from the Farm House!!

We have talked and talked of traveling to Lorin's "home" town of Pima, Arizona for-e-v-e-r!! Uncle Clay passed away and much of the family arrived in Central to support. Not the best of circumstances to travel down for, but what a family reunion. Well worth the one way 12 hour car ride. Thank goodness for the DVD player and some good snacks packed!

Well these are the Smith Boys and their Boys... not all shown, but as many as we could find.

We love Grandmother!

Uncle Clay's son, Ammon and Lorin... with cute Grechin in the back!

It has been at least 15 years or more since Lorin has been back. VeRy FeW things were recognizable at first sight. Streets, houses, landscapes, and people have changed and matured.

The "Red Brick House" on Norton Road

The "Farm House and Barn" on Webster Road

The newest addition to the valley... we will be back for the Open House!

Grand Mountain, aka "The Sleeping Giant"
Some things didn't change. It was so fun to see Lorin's face light up when he looked up at the mountain that reminds him of the past, his home and family.

I was so happy to have been able to meet the Smith Family. They were all so kind and open to us. It was as if it wasn't the first introduction. I can't wait to get to know them better. Sounds like I am going to have to get better at Facebook.

The Cousins... not all of course.

We spent some time Saturday driving around. We had to go out to the "trailer house" and Uncle James' farm. The boys were in HeAvEn!!! This is a farm like NO other. Geese, dogs, chickens, turkeys, emu's, birds, ducks and DEER. Probably excluding the chickens... they all have names. The deer even respond to there given name. Uncle James takes such good care of them, you can tell they are loved animals. My boys were doing their share of LoViN on them as well.

Kyler chasing the geese.

Lorin taught the boys how to "talk like a turkey"... Kyler was hilarious!!

The sweetest Austrian Shepherd puppies. Ben had a hard time saying goodbye.

"Go get the goats!"

It was so fun for the Boys to feed their friend Georgia the deer.

WoW Ben... that is OnE BiG CacTus!!

We went to Ash Creek Acres to see our lot. It is in between Vera Street and Melanie Street on Clay Avenue.

So much of this weekend I thought of and missed Melanie's attendance. I do know for sure that she was having a reunion of her own, as well as watchin' over ours. It was so fun to have so many people remember her and what she meant to them. We are truly proud of our Mom. I am so grateful for families and the plan that is place to keep us tied together at this time and in the next.

Here Is An Update...

I hope everyone has been enjoying this time of year, and all that goes with it... Busy, Busy, Busy!! The last few months have been a blur...

I feel greatful for all the moments with family, friends, and never ending projects. I am in awe of those that can do all of the above and blog about it as well. I have not been as lucky.

I love being a Mom and a part of each of my boys lives. They are so unique and impressive. They never leave me bored or bothered. We are spending time and making memories as much as possible. This is our most favorite time of the year!!

We are counting down to the arrival of baby number 4! He will be arriving in 10 weeks!!

Well of Course...

It's yet another BABY BOY!!

We are all getting more and more excited. We are blessed he is happy and healthy! They have moved up my due date so he will be arriving before Christmas now.

We are going to need some help with names starting with a K.

[[Our CaLiFoRnIa Adventure]]

We arrived in LA Friday afternoon. The drive and company were great! It was such a treat to have my Mom and Jen along with us. We checked in to the hotel and went and grabbed something to eat before the event. We had a humungus, nummy pizza and salad. The boys were lovin the "outdoors". They were waving to all the hurried people in the streets.

Mom stopped by a local drug store and picked up anything she could find to try and make Kyler more comfortable, long lasting cough syrup, vicks, and vapor plug ins. By the time we got back to the hotel he was making whistling sounds while breathing. Mom was so great to reassure us that she would take super care of him while we went to the event.

It was so great to be with our team at the Builders Summit. We are so proud of all who went. They saw there future and so did we.

Kyler kept progressivly getting worse. He was misserable all night, sadly that meant that EVERYONE was misserable as well. We felt so bad for our sick baby Kyler. By morning we were looking for oil for a blessing (Thanks, Cameron!) and then off to the hospital at 8:30.

They ran tests all day, not telling us much of what was going on. He responded best to the breathing treatments. They were writing discharge papers at 4:00 when I asked them to check his chest again. They were shocked to see he had gotten worse, it was pnamonia. He was then taken and addmitted to a Children's Hospital.

Grandma went with him on the ambulance ride and overnight at the hospital. She was so great to help us both out with our adventure. She said that the children's hospital ooed and ahhed as Kyler was wheeled in with his Buzz Shirt, Buzz Blanket, and Buzz Toy.

More tests were done all night long. He cried and screamed as soon as anyone came into his room. It is the hardest thing to see your baby so upset and hurting. They came to the conclusion that he didn't have pnamonia. He did have a virus in his lungs that was keeping him from breathing normally. The treatments were helping every 4 hours. Then we had to get his tempature down from 102, which is where it wanted to be without Motrin.

By 5:00 on Sunday they had discharge papers filled out waiting for his Rx to be filled. Kyler was waving, blowing kisses and saying bye to all the nurses as we left. He was SO happy to be leaving. Here is ALL of us in the car on our way to our VACATION... finally!

We were on our way to Santa Monica Beach!!

I didn't even pack a suit for Ky... I never would have thought we would feel like running for the ocean. Boy, was I ever wrong!!Brett fell asleep on the way there. We woke him up and he said it was "to told" to play in the water. The sand was is favorite. We all had a really great time... anything is better than the hospital!! What a "Beach Bod"!! Ben had the greatest time on the boogy board. It was so fun to see him enjoy himself!

I am so greatful for the help we recieved all along the way, Cameron and the blessing, the Dr.'s and RN's, and for family and the power of prayer. It is so great to be all together and dreaming of our next adventure in Disneyland. I love my boys!!

Disneyland

It feels like a dream come true to be in our families FAVORITE place ever!! Ben said, "Now we can take Disneyland off our dream board!" I said that would be fine if this is the last time he wants to come... "No way!!"

Our first priority was to go on The Pirate's of the Caribean. We love to sing along to our favorite "Yo Ho" song. This is Brett and Jen-Jen's scared face.

Gotta love a picture of a picture... here's us on Splash!!

We love the little bit they added to one of our favorite rides, It's A Small World. We were all singing along. Happiness is...

Toon Town was fun. We have been telling the kids for months that we were going to go to Mickey, Donald and Goofy's house. I think now they believe us. What a CraZZy CreW!!

The first character we saw was Goofy. Can you see Brett and Kyler's apprehension??

Kyler has got his arm around Mickey... ahhhh!

Minnie was so sweet to us. The kids LOVED her house, well Kyler just wanted to sign the autograph book.

Brett is having a fit. Had to capture the moment.

The long awaited, much anticipated... BUZZ ride!! I wish i could explain how excited ALL the boys were... especially Kyler. Thank you, Thank you Disney for creating the bestest movie EVER! We are TS fans!!

The only LINE we ever really stood in was to so on the Finding Nemo ride. It was worth it!! This is Kyler while waiting in line. He kinda looks like he is jumping, funny!

Had to capture a first for Ben. This is the first time he has been able to ride Indiana Jone's. I don't think he like it very much. He walked out all curled up in a ball. After talking about it and relizing that it was not real... he will go on it again. For his prize he picked out 2 toy Mickey's as Indiana Jone's. It was a fun moment!

Who doesn't love Pooh and Tigger too?

(more to come from here on... to be continued!)

The camera died early. :( I wasn't able to get pics of Brett and Kyler with their Mickey Ears on. They loved them! The fireworks in Disneyland are nothing but MAGICAL!! We were able to watch them 3 nights in a row. But being there to see them over the castle with music was breath taking. We all had a moment when they played "Baby of Mine" from Dumbo. I love being with my family and kids, but to be with them here... HEAVEN (next to the temple)!!

.:Our Dream Come True:.

Whoo Hoo!! We are going to "our favorite place"... DISNEYLAND!!!

5 Days and Counting

We have not been for 3 years. Brett was 7 months old, so it will basically be the first time for him and Kyler. They are all but caught up on all the Disney Movies. It is going to be so much fun... We can harder wait!!

So Blessed...

How GrEaTfUl I am to love and live in this country. I am so honored by the sacrifices of so many in our behalf. I want to make a better effort to recognize the freedoms that are mine because of battles that have and are being fought. My heart is full of thanks!

My family and I have opportunities in this country that others do not. We were able to attend church today and bare testimony as individuals. What a blessing to be able to believe what I believe... but to also have the gospel of Jesus Christ to believe in.

WOW! Where did June Go!!

No NEW news... No NEW pictures

(camera is missing)!

It has been a VERY busy month. Ben has been busy with his mentoring group, swimming lessons, a new bike, and dog sitting for Aunt Jen-Jen. Brett and Kyler have filled all their down time with Toy Story 1 and 2... over and over again. They also had swimming lessons.

As a family we have been to a reunion, the cabin, and the lake. Lorin is always got work on his mind and doing his best to take care of us all. We are excited to be in the middle of summer, enjoying all it has to offer. The HEAT has finally arrived... why did I question where it was?

I hope you all are enjoying your summer season...

{ Big BBQ Announcement }

Had a few friends over and of course my beautiful family for a barbecue. It was a great night. I love get togethers...

especially when no one know's WhY?

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Announcing... Well... Number 4 is on the way!!!

Lorin had NO CLUE for the longest time. Amber asked what brand my shirt was... I told her it is my own. Shawn and Chelsy figured it out first and Lorin still wasn't following... Funniest moment EvEr!!

I need you all to "ThInK pInK"!

No doubters out there :)

Three Billy Goats Gruff

Ben played the part of Mr. Rabbit in his class play.

"You can't go over the bridge."

and this is ThE eNd of our "tail"!! (Shake, Shake)

Ben's First Grade Field Trip to... ZION!!

I was a lucky mom to be able to go with Ben and his class to Zion. We had the *CuTeSt* group out of the all the first grade classes.

-Kinley, Mady, Joseph, Ben-

I am pretty sure that we had the most fun out of anyone. We enjoyed every minute of our time in that bEaUtIfUl canyon.

.:Mother's Day:.

Lorin and I raced home to be with our kids and go to church. Can you imagine not being all together for such a day? The meetings were great. I went with Kyler to Nursery... he loved it... except getting his hair yanked on! :( The kids wrote really nice Mother's Day cards and sang a song to me. Ben made a book at school... super cute... lots of laughs!!

For dinner we had a picnic at Red Cliffs as a family. We were even lucky to have Grandma Beverly there. Thanks Mom, Amy, and Jen, the food was excellent. Jenny made a big deal over Mom and I... you are so special to us... thanks for your love!! Lorin splurged, as always, and gave me some GC's for a massage and whatever else I am in need of! Your the Best hon...

I was touched all day by the love and appreciation being spread to so many moms, grandmas, and sisters! I hope all of mine know the love I have for them... I am truly blessed for each of them in my life!

Exciting Times...

What A Weekend!!

The Big Event was FABULOUS! We love being with our WHOLE team! Bubba and Tia received their DIVISION LEADER PROMOTION and Tracy and Bonnie were recognized for becoming FULLY LICENSED!!

I wish I would have been able to capture more of the fun on film... just know it was the BEST!! To our BEST-EST friends... our team... WE LOVE YA!! :0)

Happy Birthday BUBBA!! It was just one BIG party... but when you are with this group of friends, it usually always is!

They are MoViE MaKeRs...

HeRe iT iS... Movie number two!! I am the proudest mamma... "I would like to thank the academy..." Oh, sorry... No I would like to thank, AuNtIe ShEr and AuNtIe JeN for all the help they have been to Benner and Bee-cca, as well as all the kids involved. They spent hours and hours putting the DVD's together, and other fun activities. It was such a thrill to watch each movie and the smiles on the kids faces.

I love the music on his video, the message is so GrEaT! It is one of his most favorite songs. We all need to Live Out Loud! The pictures are such a great description of BeN. I'm sure that you will be able to smile, as I did, all the way through... even if you aren't his mother, as I am!! Watch out, I have warned you before... the loVe for him is vErY contagious. But it is funner to catch then swine flu!

BeCcA is such a B-E-A-UTIFUL LaDy! I am tremendously lucky to have such a great sister, aka, my only daughter!! She is such a simple, fun girl who has a BiG hEaRt for others. This is also shown in her movie. The stars of the show hope that you will enjoy more of their movie makin' skills!

P.S. There is more to come... The next production is set to release by the end of the month. So stay tuned for more details! You aren't going to want to miss it!

[FuN at the ToWn SqUaRe]

What A Night...

It was so fun playin with my boys! (Thanks, Dad!) We went to an Ice Cream Party for the after school program that Ben and Becca have been a part of. We listened to a book being read, did clay animation, painted faces, took family pictures, made bookmarks and watched the movies that the kids made. (Ben's will be posted...stat!) THEN...

I followed Brett and Kyler as they walked around the park. They were headed toward the funnest, little water park eVeR. They were lovin it... even without their suits. Soon, Ben and Becca joined. **I love this pic with all four of them... doesn't it look like mamma duck with her babies following behind!! Or... large, medium, small, and extra small!!**

Lots of smiles! :)

The end result... they were soaked!! :)

WhooHoo... He Lost Teeth!!

Ben has been waiting and waiting since Kindergarten to loose a tooth. Lots of kids last year and most this year already have, so he has been wondering when it would be his turn. The first came out on Friday and another just tonight!! He is never up for things that "might" hurt like... trimming finger and toe nails... but pulling his own tooth... he was not holding back!! Way to be brave!

.:Ever Had A Dream:.

"A dream is a wish your heart makes..." Dreams are not just for us to have while we sleep. Some don't happen when and where we had envisioned, but they do come true, in one way or another. "If we keep believing, our dreams really will come true."

I have to make an effort each day to stay positive and keep believing. (Not always accomplished, but I know it would make all the difference.) I hope that you all will do the same. I love, love, love this clip. I have watched it many times and still get the chills. I am proud of Susan for doing what she knew she could do. I have done a check from my neck up, and made a new committment to not judge the inside of a person with such little information. I also really enjoy Simon's sincere, genuine smile and compliments. Enjoy!

Counting Down...Going Private!

It's gonna happen here and now.

Please, please leave your email address so I can send my best-est friends and family

(which if I know you, you are the best-est) invitations back.

We are going private in... T-minus 3 days!

Best Friends

Boys to men... Best Friends for YEARS and counting!!!

These two are just startin out. They are followin in their daddy's footsteps! What a silly picture!

So proud of the girls! Taylor and MacKenzie have been waiting for this day. They were baptized by their dad. What a happy moment!

Words don't explain my feelings of love and appreciation enough for this lady. I look up to you so much. Thank you, thank you for being the friend that I can call a sister. Yes, I do need another! Your the best!

Now these two are the best of friends...they are mother and son. I treasure your relationship and will look to your example as I raise my boys as my best friends. Love ya!!

{HaPpY eAsTeR!}

The weekend was FULL of FUN... minus Benner! Saturday started early with a hunt @ the baseball fields. Both fields were COVERED with eggs, it was all picked up in less than 2 mins. Man, I wish the house could be picked up that fast!

Next we were off the the Annual PFS Egg Hunt. It was great...minus the good weather! Brett was loving the playground more than the eggs, so that meant more for Kyler. Everyone got GREAT prizes... Kyler got a iPod shuffle!! I will be "borrowing" it often. After that we had a Birthday party for Mike and Sherrel. Good stuff!! Then we decorated eggs, that was really fun. I love being with my family. It is so fun to just sit and be among each other.

Easter Sunday was BeAuTiFuL! The E. Bunny came and left "lots a candy". Sacrament was wonderful. The room was filled with the Spirit. We then went to Cedar to be with friends, Andy and Melissa, as they blessed their baby boy, Austin. We love you guys!! When we got home we helped with dinner and filled eggs for the yet another hunt. Kyler was SUPER good at this point. He was running all over the yard.

This year we started something new, a LOA wall. During the week of Easter we put up a banner that said, Love One Another. We were all to write complimentary things to one another through out the week. It was a lot of fun!

Conference Weekend

I knew it... I knew it would be for me! The messages were so clear and touching. How thankful I am for a prophet, to lead and guide me. We were reminded quite often to be filled with hope and faith through our adversity. It is all for our good and "shall be yet a moment". I took special notice to the music selected during each session. Of my favorites was, Behold the Lilies of the Field. It said, "He will feed those that trust Him." When we are "humble and trust him we will be better equipped to hear." -Henry B. Eyring

Looking forward to this Easter Holiday, I will see it through new eyes. Jeffrey R. Holland's re-telling of the last days in Christ's life was life changing for me. I don't think I have ever been so involved and touched by the story and description. I have such a greater knowledge and appreciation of Christ's efforts for me. Each day this week I will have a greater remembrance of all that He went through and endured. I will never be able to be alone because of His sacrifice for me.

I was lead to this inspirational clip by a true example of faith in my life. Thanks Nie, for all you do for me... PLEASE click here. What a great weekend... right?

It's Soccer Season... Ben's Favorite!

New shoes and a new jersey. Ben was ready to meet his team and play. I love listening to him as he expresses how much he loves to play the game. When he shows his belief in himself, he always succeeds... even when they loose. He is starting to understand the lesson, you can still do well without winning. He did his best... what else can you ask?

This year the field is 10 times bigger than last. I don't think he would have noticed had he not over heard me talking to another Soccer Mom. Not that I was trying to discourage, but I need to take special care with what I say that just might. I love you Ben and I am so PLEASED with all that you do. Enjoy each game...especially the game called LIFE!

My baby is getting so big...

Sunday Thought

I have had a lot of things going through my head today, so many, that tears fell without intention. I am so grateful for my day of rest, my day of worship, and day of reflection. Without this day, I don't know how I would get through a regular week. I enjoyed each meeting today, Sacrament (testimonies), Sunday School (parenting class), and Relief Society.

I am part of one of the GREATEST wards in all the world. They are a continuation of my family. So many bore their testimonies of their faith through trails and triumphs. Some spoke of the tremendous gratitude for our living prophet, Thomas S. Monson. For the opportunity to hear him speak to each of us, as individuals next Saturday and Sunday during General Conference. I know that he will be speaking to me as clearly as I heard all the advice and counsel today.

Sunday School, parenting class was so helpful. I have so many questions to reflect on like, why did I want to become a parent? What do I have to offer my children? How can I improve myself and be the example for them to follow? It's up to me. I am so grateful for my kids and for the trust Heavenly Father has in me to raise them. I am also very grateful to not have to raise them alone, Lorin is such a companion.

I was so overcome with emotions by this point in the meeting that Relief Society was either going to help or be an overload... of course when you are where you are supposed to be, it will only help. I am going to stand and be a valiant servant to my Heavenly Father. Throughout our churches history there have been individuals that chose to take a stand, even when there lives were threatened. I don't know if my life will ever be threatened, but I feel the need to take a stronger stand for what I know to be right and true.

I know that if I will stop acting like I have it all together and make sure that I take advantage of the opportunities and blessings of just the few things that we are asked to do within the home, all else will take care of itself... possibly even the endless laundry and dishes. I will each week, without fail, make the time to have Family Home Evening. I will daily, without fail, practice my right to pray. I will daily, without fail read the words that were protected and given to me through the sacrifice and trials of so many. It will be my guide, cause ya know... history repeats itself.

I have such a true desire to do what is right and to be doing all that I can for my family and those around me. (disclosure...I am no where near where I need to be) The gospel is such a help for me to continue my growth and knowledge. I am thankful for my testimony of the importance of attending church. These thoughts were placed in me, because I was where I needed to be, for me.

**Just for fun, click here to... sing or read the words to the song, I'm Trying To Be Like Jesus. There wasn't enough tissue for me while singing it in RS.**

Building In Progress...

We are UNDER CONSTRUCTION!

I am so proud to be apart of this company. To help provide an opportunity for more, for so many, some don't even know it. Tremendously PROUD of our team... they are doing all that it takes for their family & friends. We are so grateful for the continual growth of ourselves. I have really learned a new and great way to think and treat others. The future is BRIGHT and GREATNESS is right around the corner. Building is a BLAST!

Picnic At The Cracks

It's so hard to post about outings that you didn't attend. My family took my family (kids) to the cracks for fun in the sun and on the 4 wheelers. Everyone had a great time... well except Lorin and I. We will be able to join you all soon, we are gettin the work out of the way!

Ben and Becca playin.

What a beautiful place we live in!!

Big Shoes To Fill

(Kyler is still happy with his sad awie on his nose.)

Do you ever feel like your resposibities are larger than your abilities?
Of course, there are days we feel this is true. But we are all able to accomplish what is ahead of us.

More "Great" Taggin'

Here are the Rules:

1)Post rules on your blog

2)Answer the six "8" items

8 Favorite TV Shows:
1. Is it ok to not have a favorite tv show?!?!?
2. I don't even watch American Idol, I am startin to think that is bad!

8 Things I did Yesterday:
1. Ate breakfast
2. Dressed everyone for the day
3. Went to tour the Draper Temple
4. Changed out of our church clothes
5. Ate at Noodles & Co. (yum)
6. Went to Target
7. Drove home from Salt Lake (alone with the kids!)
8. Jammies and stories (It really was a good day, it doesn't really sound that great when you read it.)

8 Things I'm Looking Forward To:
(Now this I won't have a problem makin a list for!)
1. RVP!! It's where it all starts!
2. My own home... no offense mom!
3. Our debt freedom date!
4. My baby GIRL! (Still a ways out!)
5. Warm Weather!
6. Disneyland!
7. Every Sunday!
8. Promoting our first RVP!! (That sounds even better than going RVP ourselves!)

8 Favorite Restaurants:
1. Dave's Kitchen (Nothing beats it!)
2. Cafe Rio
3. Noodles & Co.
4. Olive Garden
5. Texas Roadhouse
6. Cheesecake Factory
7. P.F. Chang's
8. Pasta/Pizza Factory

8 Things on My Wish/Goal List:
(Sorta the same as the "looking forward list". I will continue on then.)
1. Get in shape!
2. Vacation, like never before!
3. Shop, like never, ever before!
4. Spoiling my Mom and Dad!
5. Vehicles that don't Break!
6. Date night with my honey each week!
7. Putting Lorin through Helicopter School!
8. Did I mention... RVP!

8 People I Tag:
1. Jena
2. Magen
3. Hillary
4. Sidnee
5. Mareesa
6. Andrea
7. Kelly
8. Heather

Our Tour of the Temple

Over the weekend we went to Salt Lake (again) for Gavin's blessing. It was so great to be there. Denny did a wonderful job. We are still so excited and proud of you guys, you are such great examples. Thanks for your beautiful testimonies.

I was going to head back home after the blessing, but decided to spend the night at Uncle Rob's. I mentioned that I would let Ben miss a day of school... only if the temple was still doing tours. Ben was super excited to hear that they were. Ashley was able to stay home from school as well, so she came with us. It was so great to be with her. (Thanks, for all your help... love ya lots!) The kids enjoyed themselves. Ben recognized a lot of things that were the same as the St. George Temple. In the sealing room he stood up to look in the mirrors and said, "I can't see past my head." I chuckled and hugged him. Brett loved the "bath tub", the pictures of Jesus, and told grandma that he "got tickets to go to the castle". Kyler... well he was so little and cute to see walking through the halls. I couldn't help but smile and take the moment in. Someday I will see him as a man walking through those same halls. He did look for a while up at the ceiling and chandelier in the celestial room, both he and the room were beautiful!

A couple spoke to us in the sealing room for a minute about what temples are for and what happens in them. It was so beautiful to hear their testimonies. He mentioned something that I had never thought of, in this way. The mirrors go on in one direction, signifying our heritage, and the other direction is the generation to come. I stand in the middle with the responsibility to honor those before me and to develop myself each day to be an example to those to come. I love and respect the privilege to be a member of this church.

To all who have not been able to attend the tour... please do... you will be glad you did!

Pay It Forward

The first 3 people to leave a comment on this post will receive a hand made gift from me during this year. When and what will be a surprise. There's a small catch though...Post this same thing on your own blog and then come back and leave a comment telling me you're in. Fun, huh? Remember, only the first 3 comments receive the gift!! (Idea: courtesy of Hillary)

Happy "Heart" Day!

I wish you all a very Happy Valentine's Day!

So today is the day we show those we love and care for just how much we love and care for them. There are so many special people in my life. Family, friends, neighbors, etc. (Hopefully you know who you are!) But truly it's a sweetheart day...

LORIN...has stole my heart!! (and I am so glad that he won't give it back.) He is such a genuine person, good hearted, and very sincere. I appreciate so much all that you are and for being that example to me. I Love you very much. We have a lot to look back on and much to look forward to. You are such a great father to our three boys, and a brother to ten, and brother-in-law to five. And I know that your parents and mine, adore you. You are the leader in our home, and in our business. Thanks for all your efforts to provide and help while raising our family.

Ben's First Movie

Ben has been going to an afterschool program with my mom on Mondays. Last week he made his "first movie". He is so excited about it. He asked that I put it on the blog for all to see his work. Please let him know what your favorite part is.

Mommy Tag

Here you go mommies - a different kind of survey for a change - it's all about your first born! Just copy and paste it in a new note for yourself! Don't forget to tag me back, so I can see your answers!

Let's see how much you remember!

1. WAS YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY PLANNED? Yes
2. WERE YOU MARRIED AT THE TIME? Yes
3. WHAT WERE YOUR REACTIONS? Nervous, but very excited!!
4. WAS ABORTION AN OPTION FOR YOU? No way!
5. HOW OLD WERE YOU? 22
6. HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU WERE PREGNANT? I thought something was different. Kristin came over one night for dinner. I told her I thought I might be... she immedatly made me go with her to the store to buy a test. We saw Bubba and went through Tia's checkout line, and the whole time I was trying to hide the purchase. That was my nerves in action, I guess. We came home I took it... and it was positive. Ryan wasn't as excited as I was, but our Benner was on his way.
7. WHO DID YOU TELL FIRST? Ryan, Kristin was there, then our parents.
8. DID YOU WANT TO FIND OUT THE SEX? Oh of course, I couldn't wait to know.
9. WHAT WAS YOUR DUE DATE? January 22, 2002
10. DID YOU HAVE MORNING SICKNESS? No, I never have...
11. WHAT DID YOU CRAVE? I am sure there was something... but I can't really remember.
12. WHO/WHAT IRRITATED YOU THE MOST? Nothing really comes to mind, other than it was a very difficult time.
13. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CHILD'S SEX? BOY
14. DID YOU WISH YOU HAD THE OPPOSITE SEX OF WHAT YOU WERE GETTING? Yes, I thought and was wanting a girl, but of course I fell head over heals for my boy!
15. HOW MANY POUNDS DID YOU GAIN THROUGHOUT THE PREGNANCY? 15-17 lbs.
16. DID YOU HAVE A BABY SHOWER? Yes
17. WAS IT A SURPRISE OR DID YOU KNOW? I knew about it.
18. DID YOU HAVE ANY COMPLICATIONS DURING YOUR PREGNANCY? I went into preterm labor. They tried to stop my contractions, but there was no way he was gonna sit tight anymore, he wanted out. Then we found out he was breach, so they took him by c-section.
19. WHERE DID YOU GIVE BIRTH? Utah Valley Regional Medical Center
20. HOW MANY HOURS WERE YOU IN LABOR? My contractions started the day after Christmas, after we ate at Outback. We arrived at the hospital @ 4:00 am with contractions 2 mins apart. The surgery was @ 4:00 pm. So just over 12 hours.
21. WHO DROVE YOU TO THE HOSPITAL? Ryan
22. WHO WATCHED YOU GIVE BIRTH? Ryan, Liz, and lots of doctors...
23. WAS IT NATURAL OR C-SECTION? C-Section
24. DID YOU TAKE MEDICINE TO EASE THE PAIN? You betcha!
25. HOW MUCH DID YOUR CHILD WEIGH? 6 lbs 3 oz
26. WHEN WAS YOUR CHILD ACTUALLY BORN? December 27, 2001 4:17 pm

27. WHAT DID YOU NAME HIM/HER? Benjamin Clark Van Buren
28. HOW OLD IS YOUR FIRST BORN TODAY? 7 years old

Boise Here We Come!

You have got to hear about our surprise weekend. Lorin has been in Salt Lake for almost a week, only to come home and hear that I have decided to drive to Boise only 10 minutes before. Lorin: "Sure, let's go, because you are being spontanious!" I felt like I was trying to accomplish something that seemed unreasonable. Luckly I had a lot of support from Lorin and my parents (who took my kids without hesitation.) Still I felt I had to put that feeling away because I KNEW we had to go.

Leavin home at 6:00 pm, we were so excited to be there that the drive was a breeze. Lorin and I were able spend time together and catch up on a lot. We pulled into Brett and Casey's at 4:00 am. Wakin up at 8:00 wasn't even a problem. We couldn't wait to find all that we were lookin for at training. Cherie made sure to introduce us to as many people as she could, and the rest introduced themselves. We truely felt we were surrounded by family. Here are other things that felt like "home". They call the front office, the living room and have a kitchen where the whole team is welcome to. Now that doesn't sound like an "office" does it!

Training was fun before it even started. There is something there I have never felt before. To hard to explain in words... ya gotta just be there! The time FLEW... each break out group was perfect. After it was over, not many people left. It was a great time to sit and soak up some more of that personal, one on one, with many members of their team. What a winning atmosphere. If I could have put it in my pocket, I would have. We did take what we could through our notes, and their great ideas. They are truly interested in helping us build what they have built, and that gives me the belief that I need to get it done for my team here at home.

We are putting all that we know to work for us now. Also very anxious to learn more. We are 100% ready to sprint to RVP at the Dome (which is 133 days from now). We love where we are at, and the place we need to be going. Our team means so much to us. Some of them we have known for a long time, others we are just getting to know. Each are our friends and we appreciate that blessing. We are movin forward towards our dreams!! What a rush!

Photo Tag

Baby Brett (2 weeks old)

Gotta love a sleeping newborn! I can't believe how much he has grown... or how small he use to be. It all happens to fast! I love my babies!!

Its photo tag, here are the rules: 1. Choose the 4th folder where you store your pictures on your computer. 2. Select the 4th picture in the folder. 3. Explain the picture. 4. Tag 4 people to do the same I tag: Mareesa, Andrea, Sidnee, and Kelly

Ben's Big Fish

ICE FISHIN on NAVAJO LAKE

Ben went with Grandma and Grandpa to the cabin over the weekend. It has not snowed since we were there over Christmas. The lake road was groomed and perfect for the "old" snowmobiles. The weather was warm and beautiful, and the fishin... it was good.

Ben: "The smallest kid caught the biggest fish!"

It's "Pottie" Time!

"I did it!" I don't think there is a more excited "big boy" to ever sit on the pottie. Good job, Brett!

Keep it up!

09 is our year to shine!

Each year we begin again to "renew" ourselves and our families. Goals must be set, written, and looked upon often. I have felt the joys of accomplishing goals as well as the disappointments of not. This year I begin the process again with the same desire to achieve and accomplish. I will get uncomfortable in order to achieve what I have set for myself and my family. I have only to gain in 2009 and be the help to others, as they have been a help to me. We are truly movin forward!

Benner is Seven!!

Happy Birthday! I can't believe that my number one baby is SEVEN! We had all the invitations sent out and ready for us to come home from the cabin for his party on Saturday... but the snow put us behind. Luckily Ben was able to spend his birthday with his dad and Caitlin. They had a cousin sleepover, spagetti dinner, and sledding party!

His party with friends was rescheduled for Monday. It was a lot of fun. We played games, opened presents and had cake and ice cream.

Second Party of the Day... Stevo!!

My baby brother turned 16! We pulled together a surprise party for him while he was snowboarding with friends at Brian Head. There were 20+ of his friends, so we ordered 10 pizza's. ONLY 5 were eaten... what's the matter with kids these days? Love ya TeeTee!!

Our White Christmas

Merry Christmas! We have been looking forward to this day for months. Our plans were to have our first ever Cabin Christmas. Two weeks before our special day we worried if there was going to be enough snow, are prayers were answered with almost four feet by the end of the week. It was beautiful!

We had lots of food and homemade candies, music playing, a fresh cut tree with hand strung popcorn chains and ornaments. Having everyone there was the "bestest part". Mom, Dad and kids. Of course Me and My Family. Amy, James & Dexter (the dog). Mike and Erica. Jenny, Jed and Izzy (the dog). Ryan and Caitlin. Mimi and Pops. Uncle Rob, Samara, and Sam.

We went sleding, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. There was always something to do, even during the storms. We even got Mimi and Pops to play the wii.

Christmas Eve was a fun night! We have a wonderful turkey dinner. We played games, read stories and talks about "being one". As we were taking family pictures, we sung carols as the snow was coming down on us. We all enjoyed celebrating our "homemade" christmas. It was sure different than years before, but I found myself enjoying the giving and the receiving so much more.

Everyday was perfect... until we tried going home... the mountain wouldn't let us out without a fight! We were snowed in. Two of the five cars were parked by the ranger station which is 100 yards off the highway. The road was groomed when we parked there, but not when we came back just two days later. The cleared road that you see Amy and Jenny standing by was all dug by hand. I just can't figure out how they were still smiling. They were a great, positive help! Mike, Erica and others found and cleared the other three cars and two trailers, which is another HUGE accomplishment. My contribution was in the form of babysitting. I SAT in the car with the kids and dogs for the five hours while everyone else was digging. I wish I could have done more to help.

Family Pictures - Take Two!

So we did it again, two nights in a row. It is tough stuff gettin this family dressed and happy all at the same time. Brett kept sayin, "No want pic-ture of me!"