It Get's Better Every Day

Worst Blogger Ever!!!

2011-09-11T21:51:00.001-07:00

Yes I will openly admit that I am officially the worst blogger ever.

None the less I am going to attempt to catch up. So I have 9 months to catch up on. Wow. So much has happened. But I will just attempt to touch on the bigger events.

Well the new year began with Trent comping home off his mission. We were so happy to have him back. The kids all think that he is the coolest person ever. Which is great because whenever he is around I know that the kids are wherever he is. They just love him so much.

It also began with Chad and I deciding to starting looking into buying our first home. We hadn't really done this before seriously so we had a lot to learn but we began. During the process I began working out of the home again. In March I started at Taco Bell. How glamorous am I? Lol, not at all. It was honest work. But not for me. The environment was HORRIBLE!!! So for more than one reason I decided that it wasn't worth the stress so I moved on. In June I began working with my mom again as a trade director. I am good at it so it was easy to start up again. Though the transition required me to work days so part of me going back to work for them was that they help cover my childcare. It was only for 2 1/2 days a week and the day care is an awesome place. So both me and the kids began the transition.

During the first few weeks of me going back to work with my mom we found out that we in fact weren't quite ready to purchase a home for a few reasons and needed more time to prepare. But our landlord needed us to be out by mid June because their daughter was getting married and she wanted to rent out the apartment. So in the interest of saving and trying to get ahead we decided to move in with parents until we are ready to start the process of buying our first home again. Now it is September. We moved in with my folks back on June 15th. We are hoping to start the hunt for our home next month. Hopefully it doesn't take to long.

The kids also began preschool again back at Sage Creek Elementary just last week. Tennis goes Monday, Wednesday and Friday and Penny goes Monday and Wednesday. I am so happy we were able to keep them going there. Tennis loves all the teachers and aids and with all the changes that have been going on the past few months it is super important that we keep the kids at Sage Creek for as long as possible. They both love it. I will post pictures of their first day hopefully in the morning.

On top of starting Preschool Tennis began soccer for the first time. It is quite funny to see the little mass of kids running around after the ball haphazardly. There is almost always one kid pouting because the ball got stolen from them or someone getting pushed on the ground. Tennis has scored a few goals and has had 4 games so far. He is doing better each game. He still tends to get distracted and doesn't really like being in the middle of the mass of kids. But if he gets a chance with the ball he takes it and runs with it. I am thinking that he will be a good forward or keep. He has enjoyed it but I think that he will more so next year. Penny is a little bit put out each game because she wants to play. I don't think she will have the same timid personality on the field that Tennis does. Watch out next year. Our fireball will be playing!!!

I am also in the process of hopefully getting a new job. Yes another job. But this one is a career change. No more sales!!!! Yes!!!! It is a police dispatch position working for Springville city. It is part time for starters but with the possibility of becoming full time. Great benefits, working swing shift so mostly nights and weekends and a good professional work environment where I hopefully get to help people. City jobs are life time jobs and I am really hoping that it works out for me. It would be so nice to not have to put the kids in day care anymore and be home during the day with them. Even it means a few long nights and missing a weekend or two. I have had to put up with much worse. All around it would be good for me and my family. So I am keeping my fingers crossed and saying lots of prayers. They have narrowed it down from 20ish to 2. So it is just between me and one other. They are going through an extensive background check right now. So I am hopeful that I will hear something this next week.

We were able to go on a few more camping trips this summer which the kiddos loved. Moon lake was nice since there weren't as many people up there. But at the same time we missed hanging out with everyone. We don't really get to do that any other time of the year. So yes we did miss everyone that wasn't there.

Diane and Alan had another litter of puppies. They had 12, I think that is right. But Sammie accidentally killed one that first week. So they ended up finding homes for 11 of them. They had yellow, brown and black pups in the litter. The blacks were SO cute. Millie and Seth both took one pup. We were sad that we weren't in a house because we really wanted one of the litter but that is okay because we will just have to get one when we get into a house and have somewhere to keep it. They sure were fun though. Tennis named a few of them. His favorite was a black one that had white pads on its feet. He named it Indie for Indian Jones. He is so obsessed. Gotta love that little boy!

The hunting season is in full swing and Chad's dad drew out a big bull tag this year. He is super excited and so are the boys. They have been up almost every weekend trying to spot the big bulls and narrow it down to one or two for Alan to try to track down. Trent got his first cow elk this past weekend on the archery hunt. Chad is over at his parents house right now helping them to process the meat. We were so excited for Trent because it is his first year back from his mission hunting and he got one.

Both Seth and Amanda and Annie and Jordan has their third babies. Annie and Jordan had another little boy. He is tiny and so cute just like their other two were. Amanda and Seth had another little girl. Her name is Hadlee and she isn't so tiny. Lol. She is like a baby sumo. But she is beautiful, she looks a lot like Cambree did as a baby. Both mommies look great and have recovered well. It is fun to see their families grow.

I can't think of to much else that has happened the past few months. Lots of changes for my little family what with moving, going back to work, school, and many other things. We are here and kicking still, that is all that matters. So that is the past 9 months in a nut shell. More pictures to come later.

Our Snow Day

2010-12-28T09:55:00.000-08:00

Building a fort

Throwing a snowball at mommy.

Our cherry tree in the back yard. I swear it was creaking all day. I half expected it to split.

Yummy. I love this picture.

Our snowman family

We woke one morning to tons of snow. The kids were so excited. Chad and Tennis had just made a little family of snow men the night before and when we woke up they looked more like spiral decorative trees. Tennis played with our neighbor girls in the deep snow. Then we all went out and played once it got a little warmer.

More Christmas Pics 2010

2010-12-28T09:50:00.000-08:00

Papa Dahl did an awesome job with Tennis's name!

Tennis's treasure chest that daddy made for him.

Penny's dollhouse. I will not do this again. It was ridiculously time consuming and I still have a few things to do on it.

Mostly all of the decorations on the walls are scrapbooking things that have adhesive on the backs of them. Even the wall paper is scrapbooking paper modge podged on the wall. It turned out cute. They both love it and she loves her little dolls that she got for it.

We had someone leave a little set of princesses on our front porch for Penny for Christmas. I am not sure who it was but she loves them. She had a few from before so the few extra she got made it all that much better.

"Santa came to our house!"

2010-12-28T09:16:00.001-08:00

We had an AWESOME CHRISTMAS!!!!

Penny opening her Madame Alexander dolls for her dollhouse.

When we visited Santa this year Tennis told him that he wanted jiggly bugs and a red dragon. He was a good enough boy to be able to get both from Santa. When he came out christmas morning and saw all the presents it was so funny. He said, "Santa came to our house! Wow!" It was so cute. He seriously so excited about all the presents and the fact that Santa came.

Paper flying everywhere. Penny got a little dollhouse that Chad and I made from a kit. Chad made Tennis a chest and finished a treasure chest for Tennis. My dad used a dremel tool to put Tennis's name on the chest. He loved it but honestly he likes Penny's dollhouse better. It is funny that he likes a little dollhouse so much.

Tennis's chest.

Penny's dollhouse and the table and chairs Chad finished for the kiddos.

Family night at Trafalga

2010-08-01T18:51:00.001-07:00

Penny's favorite game.

They loved the dancing machine.

One guess why Tennis loved this game most of all.

They both sat through the XD movie. They both loved it. They put their arms out in front of themselves like they were flying.

We LOVE Camping!!!

2010-08-01T18:28:00.001-07:00

Penny enjoying the beach.

Tennis and Colin after some time at the beach.

Tennis will fill any container you give him.

Our pretty butterfly princess. She wouldn't sit still for very long while painted it.

"Spiderman, Spiderman."

It wouldn't be a camping trip without an afternoon rain and thunderstorm.

Tennis braking in his fishing pole.

Helping carry fire wood down to the firepit.

"Cookies, mmmmmm."

Tennis helping mommy.

On our way there.

Tennis loves sleeping in a tent

We are so lucky we got to go camping as a family. It was a lot of fun and it was a lot easier this year as opposed to other years with the kids. They are easier to camp with now that they understand more. Even though I feel like Monster Mom all the time because I am constantly scolding someone.

Fun Work.

2010-06-21T15:17:00.001-07:00

I love my job. I am fortunate enough to be able to work from home and do something that I love. The company that I work for is awesome and the product is even better. If you are in the market for a modest super cute bathing suit head over to the store. It is on University Avenue in Provo at around 250 north. There is a huge yellow banner in the window that say swimwear. It is called Billiejo Dancewear.

Growing up can be hard on a parent

2010-05-20T12:31:00.000-07:00

Tennis and his preschool certificate

Our craft for the day

A hug amongst friends. Tennis and Hayden

Tennis and his teacher Marianne Maine

Tennis and his aid Cindy Richins

Tennis and his bestest preschool friend Suka

All the children swarming John Wald the speech therapist. He brought a horny toad to class.

Listening to John read a story about a giant squid

Tennis holding the horny toad

Tennis and Suka playing together.

Minnie mouse ears.

He loved this blue hat and the blocks. They built a castle.

Tennis had his first Preschool graduation party today. He wasn't graduating but some of the kids were. It made me sad for him because he isn't going to be able to go all summer and he will miss his new friends and teachers. He was so proud when he showed me around the room. I got a little teary eyed for him and the other kids. He has learned so much and grown up a lot in the past 4 1/2 months since he started. I am so grateful for the opportunity he had to go.

Grandpa Neil's Birthday Bash in Idaho

2010-05-18T22:32:00.000-07:00

Me and my all time favorite Grandpa and Spud STUD!!! Atleast one of us has aged well, by that I mean he looks better than I do.

Penny posing at the birthday party in Idaho.

Blogs

2010-05-05T10:35:00.000-07:00

I have just realized that I don't have a large majority of my friends and families blogs anymore. If you would be so kind as to add your blog address as a comment I would greatly appreciate it.

Fun and Firsts

2010-05-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

My raga muffins!

Happy even with a diaper wedgy

Tennis is an aspiring photographer. He took this picture of his first private jet. I'm sure it is the first of many.

She had to have them all in her hair. Why does that not surprise me.

Tennis deciding where the prime worm digging locations are.

Our water baby!

Something I haven't seen many babies do is to lay flat in a tub or pool and let the water cover most of her face. She loves it so much.

We had to carry some buckets of warm water out because the hose water was so freezing.

First bonfire

First attempt at a smore

Such a handsome little helper

Tennis has three campout nights with daddy this month. He is so lucky!

On Top of Eachother

2010-05-05T09:33:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like you are at the bottom of a pile of life? Well I do this week. Between kids, toys, cramped spaces, spiders, sewing, cleaning, making summer plans and trying to please everyone I feel a lot like this picture.

But busy is good. Really I am always a lot happier when I am busy. Well for the most part I am. Happier but crankier at the same time. Is that even possible? The sense of accomplishment is what makes me happy I suppose.

If anyone has ever lived in a small space with small children you know what I mean when I say on top of each other. Between the toys being everywhere, the kids always being under my feet and the lack of personal space "on top of each other" is the only way to describe home life right now.

I will be so happy when the weather decides to be warm enough again for my little ones to go out and run the risk of catching the cold or the flu every time. I love it when they get out. I stand at my kitchen sink and watch them decorate their little swing/slide set with sidewalk chalk and dig for worms and other creepy crawlies in the garden. I especially love it when my little man Tennis comes in with a hand full of earthworms and wants a kerr jar to put them in. Even though he ends up killing them by accident I can't help but love his fixation with all animals and bugs. He has had that intense fixation every since he was big enough to focus on them. More so than any other kid I have been around. It makes me wonder if he will grow up to be a marine biologist, vet or some other type of person that helps, studies and takes care of animals. I could totally see him becoming a marine biologist more than anything. I can't wait to take him to the zoo and even the beach for the first time.

Life as a Worker Bee

2010-04-26T14:14:00.000-07:00

Life is pretty busy right now. It seems like I can almost see the end of the tunnel but it turns out that it is just a overhead light. I am not trying to complain though. I am happy when I am busy as long as I am on top of things.

For starters Chad's finals are this week. So he is super busy with work and studying and completing online stuff. We are also busy getting all the proper forms filled out and sent in for the next semester that is just right around the bend. I am so proud of Chad for getting through another semester and working at the same time. I know lots of people do it but it doesn't mean that it is an easy task.

My list of to dos are most self imposed. First I just got a second calling to be a camp director assistant or whatever the title is. It basically means that I am going to be helping, planning, organizing whatever needs to be taken care of for girls camp. It started for me yesterday at a YCL meeting that took roughly 4 hours. We got a lot figured out and now everyone has jobs that they have to take care of including myself. I am excited about it though. I love girls camp. I am not looking forward to leaving my little family at home but it will be nice to get to know the girls and work with them for a week. But it is going to be work.

Second, I got a job as a Seamstress Contractor. I think that that is what it is called. I sew swimming suits, swimming shorts, dance tops and bottoms, dance costumes and anything else they need me to do. I am working with just swimming shorts and suits for right now but once summer is over the dance gear is going to be in high demand so I will be busy doing that. It is fun because I love to sew and I get paid for it. I am not taking to much on until I get the whole sewing schedule figured out with the kids and everything but I am hoping to be able to help out quite a bit with home finances.

My favorite part about this time of year is the garden. Penny and Tennis have been digging out in the garden for almost a month now catching worms, ants, potato bugs and anything that crawls. It has been nice for them but those days are almost over. Well they will be over until my plants come up and are strong enough for the kids to be in the garden with them. I always get so excited when I get my seeds in. We should have another awesome garden this year. Thank you big back yard!!!!

That is all for now. We are busy, busy equals productive, productivity equals a sense of accomplishment which equals happiness. So we are happy.

Our Talented Young Women

2010-04-13T12:37:00.000-07:00

Every year our young womens in the ward hold a cake auction to raise money for girls camp. We do a big ward dinner and then auction off the cakes that each young woman and leader makes. Last year they made enough money to cover most of the activities and girls camp. They are hoping to have an equally rewarding year this year. I taught a cake decorating class two weeks ago for the young women and last night I had a few girls come over to my house to have me help them with their cakes. This one is the cutest one I think. I was so excited when it turned out this super cute for Cassidy. There is a spongebob cake and many others that I will post pics of once the girls have them done. But I thought this was so cute and she did such a good job frosting it.

April Fools

2010-04-01T08:46:00.000-07:00

To be honest I had completely forgotten it is April Fools day. Well until one of the kids morning cartoon shows had an April Fools Day episode. After it was over we played hide and seek until Tennis's bus came. He was saying Api Foos as we left the house. Tennis's bus driver told me that she couldn't drive him home today and wanted to make sure it was okay so I of course said I would figure it out, thinking can't they just call a sub driver like they have in the past? I was a little worried about finding someone or having to walk down there in the wet cold to get him, not a big deal just caught me off guard. Then she laughs and says April Fools. She got me. They started to pull away and then they stopped and she opened the door and says, "Tennis hid in the back of the bus and when Debbie got close, she is the bus aid, he jumped out and said Api Foos and scared her. I guess he got her back." He is such a funny boy.

Chad

2010-02-24T14:31:00.001-08:00

Today is Chad's birthday. A day to celebrate him, the life he has had and the effect that he has had on others. He of course has changed my life for forever. Most that know him know he is truly a good person. I couldn't be more blessed and grateful for him. Yes, I do take him for granted most days but today I am not! He is my best friend and I wouldn't be complete without him. So thank you from the bottom of my heart Chad. Thank you for being you and allowing us all to be a part of your life. Thank you for making the decision to come here to this earth. You are stronger than us all and more capable than anyone I have ever known. I love you to pieces. You are the person that I see when I look at our two beautiful children and the voice in my head. You are my all, without you I wouldn't be me. Mahal na mahal kita!!! I wish I could do just with words how I feel about you but I can't so this will have to do for now.

Bad Guy VS. Good Guy

2010-01-29T07:37:00.000-08:00

This morning at about 8am I was lying in bed and I heard one of our neighbor boys to the north of us fighting with his dad by their back yard gate that is super close to our window. As I laid there trying to ignore it I remembered back to when I was a young kid and my big brothers would get their testosterone pumping and would fight or argue. It made me wonder if Tennis would ever have moment like that when he gets to big a teenager. Tennis broke my train of thought by knocking on his door to let me know he was up and wanting out of his room. So I went and got him. He still seemed tired and he went into my room and climbed on my bed then laid down. I followed suit. The boy was still fighting with his dad and so I went to close our window so Tennis wouldn't be able to hear it. When I got up to close the window Tennis said the cutest thing.

Tennis: "Mommy, bad guy fight good guy."

Mommy: "That's right buddy. Our neighbor boy is fighting with his daddy. Fighting is bad isn't it?"

Tennis: "Ya, fighting bad. Good guy sad? Bad guy say sorry?"

Mommy: " Yes, the neighbor boy should say sorry to his daddy. It isn't nice to yell, especially at daddies."

Tennis started to cry at this point. He is so sensitive.

Mommy: "It's okay sweetie. They'll be okay. They will stop fighting. They are just mad at each other."

Tennis crying: "Daddy sad? Love daddy. Where is daddy?"

I explained where his daddy is and he has been asking me all morning when daddy is going to be home.

He is so sweet and sensitive.

January Outings

2010-01-28T10:46:00.000-08:00

Our last outing with Kaylee and Riley before they left for Seattly. We went to the movie theatre to see The Princess and the Frog. It was Tennis and Penny's first time in a movie theatre and they did so well. Tennis cried at the end when the prince and the girl didn't get turned back into people. They both sat through the whole thing and were laughing and smiling.

New Years Eve snuggling

Snow fun in December

2010-01-28T10:44:00.000-08:00

Christmas, Better late than never.

2010-01-28T08:34:00.001-08:00

Pretty pretty princess.

She doesn't know what to do with all her jewelry. Which one first?

Chad's brothers family had our kids for christmas. They gave them this sesame street kitchen. Tennis loves to pretend to cook and serve food and he couldn't be happier with any of his presents.

Grandma and Grandpa Dahl gave this doll to Penny. She loves it. Tinkerbell is her favorite Disney character and movie so this was a huge hit.

Tennis and Penny had an awesome Christmas. We all did. It was so much fun. Christmas morning came and we got both the kids up at the same time. We came out and Penny of course goes for the only toys that aren't unwrapped and basically forgets about everything else. Tennis opened his littlest present first. It was the best ever. He unwrapped the bottom of the long skinny box and pulled back the paper to see an emblem. It was some mini transformer figurines. He see the emblem and freaks out. He screams "BAD GUYS!" I couldn't have asked for a better reaction and he totally surprised us when he recognized that small emblem.

The 1st of Many

2010-01-28T08:11:00.000-08:00

I haven't been the best blogger. I have so much to post and this one will be the first of many today and tomorrow in an attempt to catch up.

For starters Tennis started Preschool this week down at Sage Creek. He gets to ride on a short bus in the morning and on the way home which he likes but it has been hard from him to leave each day. He also gets to spend time with a speech therapist, John Wald, who Tennis loves. On Tennis's first day John brought his turtle into class and they fed it, bathed it and learned about taking care of her. The class even got to watch John clip her toe nails. Then she went to sleep. Tennis came home telling me about how the "memo is seeping". Which means the turtle is sleeping. Memo is a general word for anything that lives in water or swims like a fish.

Here are some pictures I took before he got on the bus his first day. He loves his dino backpack. But he knows when he sees me pack his lunch into it that it is almost time and Tuesday and Wednesday once he remembered he went into his room, closed the door, climbed on his bed, covered himself with his blanket and cried. Today he hasn't done that yet but he is a little anxious none the less.

The Most Beautiful Girl in the Whole Wide World.

2009-12-14T14:10:00.001-08:00

Those eyes, my goodness.

Sad Eyes

I can't get over how much I love this little girl. I didn't know I had this much love inside of me. But she brings it out of me!

One of my Best Friends

2009-12-14T14:05:00.000-08:00

This is my favorite face!!!! Those eyes are so beautiful.

He is SO handsome!

Penny in my Pocket

2009-12-09T14:57:00.000-08:00

I just love my silly, expressive, dynamic little girl. On the days like today when I

hit a bit of a rut she is one of the main things that keeps a smile on my face and

my heart happy. I couldn't be more blessed.

Spiders

2009-11-18T15:43:00.001-08:00

Spiders are one of the phobias that I haven't ever been able to shake. This time of year we always see more in the house. This year we saw the biggest black widow yet. It was huge. It's body was about the same size of my thumbnail. Totally freaked me out. Tennis loved it.

Tennis is 3

2009-11-12T15:01:00.000-08:00

Three years ago today we met our Tennis. He was calm, alert and so snuggly and nothing has changed. He is more today than he was then but definitely not less. We couldn't be more blessed. This morning he woke up and we sang to him, he smiled shyly. As he walked around the room and checked out all the balloons that we had painted I was reminded of his 1st and 2nd birthdays. He was just as curious then as he is now. After he was done checking out bumblebee on a big blue balloon we offered him his first present. He opened it and saw a box of new train pieces and immediately forgot everything else in the room.

This week I have been sick and every time he hears me moan or I lay down he walks over and pats me on the head or strokes my head and says, "You okay?" or "It's okay." or even "Mommy tummy ouchee?" He is so sweet and perceptive. Love him so much.

God's House

2009-11-04T07:41:00.000-08:00

When life gets to be to much, as it often does there is one place that we should always go. A place where peace is always present and clarity comes to those that seek it. I have been having a hard time with some things recently and was able to go our ward's Young Women in Excellence program last night. The theme was Preparing to Enter the Temple. The matrons of the Bountiful Temple, newly released, came and spoke. It was uplifting, reassuring and filled me with a new drive to go to the temple more and to all around be a better person and mother. Some of my most peaceful memories come from my trips to the temple. There is an unmistakable sense of love and peace that I feel when I am in the temple. I am so grateful that we not only have one but 7 temples within driving distance. We are so blessed .

2009-11-02T10:53:00.000-08:00

I couldn't help but post this. She loves swings so much.

Halloween Fun

2009-11-02T07:39:00.000-08:00

It get's better every year. Tennis was so excited to be dressed as a Gladiator, or whatever he was. He couldn't have been happier with his costume. I am glad to because it did take a lot of sewing. Penny was the cutest little girl I had ever seen. Her little Red Riding hood cape turned out awesome and she didn't even pull on it or anything. Here are some pics.

Cornbelly and Heehaw outings

2009-10-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

Last week we were able to go to both Cornbelly's and Heehaws with the kids. It was so much fun. Tennis enjoyed the bouncy pillows at Cornbelly's I think the most. But Penny and Tennis both loved the duck races. Penny couldn't have been cuter at Heehaw though. We put her in the swing set there and thought she might be a little scared but she loved it so much. She was laughing the whole time and you could hear her as she went all the way around giggling. It was so adorable. But I think that all the kiddos loved the corn kernel box at Heehaw's. Instead of sand it was corn kernels and they were throwing them everywhere. I think everyone went home with a pound in their car seats.

Awesome Disney giveaway.

2009-10-21T09:19:00.000-07:00

If anyone is interested in entering a giveaway for a free disney trip for your family check these links out. This would be the only way we would be able to go for some time since Chad is in school and I am sure loads of people are in our same boat. I love giveaways.

http://www.sweetlifeinthevalley.com/

http://www.outandaboutwiththefamily.com/

Family fun

2009-10-19T13:47:00.001-07:00

Our recent family outings include some trips to the mall in Provo to see the train. Here are some pics of the kiddos playing on some of the play equipment there. We also have been able to go to Wingers for dinner once or twice, I love Wingers, and to pacify Penny until the food came we gave her a red sucker. Check out her tongue. The first picture is of her that night unwinding, I couldn't help but post it because of her big blue eyes.

Life As We Know It

2009-10-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy past few weeks. The things that has effected me the most recently has been our new ward. Our stake rearranged the ward boundaries two weeks ago and this past Sunday was our first time meeting as a new ward. I was pretty down about the whole thing when I found out how our old ward would be split up and how we weren't going to be with a large majority of them. But I just need to jump on in and loose myself in the new ward right? We also got released from our callings in our old ward since we aren't in that ward anymore. Which was nice in some ways for me because my old calling was pretty big and I am not sure I was ready for it. But since I was the primary chorister in the old ward for some time the new primary got wind of it and called me last week and asked me to do the music with the kids for the primary program which is going to be next Sunday. So it has been stressing me a little but it will work out. Well it will either sink and everyone will remember it as the program we struggled and just got by or it will be awesome. So either way I'm ready.

Penny went into nursery for the first time the past week too. She stayed the whole time and was great. She hasn't ever really been one to be afraid of anything. She is going to love it.

Moon Lake

2009-10-19T13:29:00.000-07:00

Yes this is late coming but none the less here are some pics from Moon Lake.

Chad's Hunts

2009-10-19T13:23:00.000-07:00

Chad was lucky enough to get a doe elk on the opening of the archery this year. Can I just say it has been super good meat. His brother was able to get 2 more elk this year too. Overall it has been a really good season for them. Granted they haven't seen much the past few times but that is okay the hunt is the best part anyway. Here are a few pics of my hunt'n man. And yes that is blood on the tree from his kill.

Catching Up 1

2009-10-19T12:58:00.000-07:00

We have been trying to get out more since the weather is awesome and the mountains are gorgeous. We took a trip to the petting zoo at Thanksgiving point with Mari Farr and her two kids a little bit ago. It was lots of fun. Tennis just loved the horse ride so much and Penny had no fear. She would've road it without me walking along side her if she wouldn't slide off the horse. It is funny to see how different they are even when it comes to things like their first pony ride. Love them to death!!!

Kiddos

2009-10-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

I love my kids so much. They are so fun, sweet and smart. I had to opportunity to go up to Ikea friday with our good friend Jenna. I of course took both the kids. Right when we got there Tennis told me he needed to go potty, he is doing so great with the whole big boy underwear thing. When I took him into the bathroom he said, "Mommy pee pee please." So I helped him with his underwear and when he was done he wiped then flushed and hugged my legs then said "Thank you, Luv you!" He is so sweet. Then after Ikea Jenna took us to Sweet Potatoes Buffet in Draper. Penny ate everything I put in front of her and Tennis wouldn't touch anything not even ice cream. Jenna got a front row seat to how it is taking kids out to eat. I felt really embarrased because I couldn't get him to sit still or eat anything but that is a 2 year for you. Smart and sweet one second then a walking tornado the next.

Then last night the kids and I headed up to JoAnn Fabirc to get stuff for Penny's little red riding hood costume and Colin's dino costume I am going to put together for them. I passed the Center Street exit and saw a desperate looking woman about my age standing next to her minivan Full of kids. I couldn't help myself. I pulled off the side of the road and offered my assistance. She was heading to Robert's to meet her sisters and had run out of gas. She had all her kids loaded in the car and didn't have a phone on her. I of course felt terrible for her so we loaded her kids in my car and drove to the University Pkwy exit and got some gas then drove her back to her car. I found out that her hubbie was at the Priesthood session like mine and that she didn't have a cell phone like me. I couldn't help but feel a strong connection to her and her situation. One of her boys was 3 1/2 and I found myself even more grateful for my little Tennis. Her son was so out of control and wouldn't listen to her at all. And her 5 year old little girl was the same. After I dropped her off I couldn't help but feel like I won the child lottery. Yes Tennis can be a pill and Penny screams so loud and high that I am sure dogs can hear her in neighboring states but other than that they both are easy kids. So thank you Heavenly Father for my two biggest blessings!!!!

Catching Up

2009-09-12T08:49:00.001-07:00

There always seems to be things that get away from me. One of which is blogging. Between trying to refill me food stores with canning the past month and a half, Chad going to school, working 30+ a week and hunting and everything else it seems like I don't have enough hours in the day most of the time. I'm sure I am not the best at organizing my time too. So to update all of you here you go.

Chad got an elk on the opening weekend of the archery this year along with his brother Seth. I am so proud of him for hunting so hard and providing meat for us. Not to mention doing all the meat processing this year. Saves us money big time.

I have been canning, canning, canning. I am happy with what I have done so far but I still have lots to do. Our pear tree in the backyard is ready and has enough pears for 3+ families.

Tennis and Penny are doing well. Tennis's speak is coming along more and more now. He is starting to catch up now. YEAH!! Penny is starting to get an attitude. She used to cuddle me and hug me all the time but now he doesn't want to be held unless if I am dancing with her, getting her food or she is crying. She has started singing and dancing so much too. She is most definitely a little girl.

I can't tell you how excited I am for the weather to start cooling off. It makes me want to get out everyday. That doesn't happen as much as I would like but I am still chomping at the bit for the cool weather.

For now that is all.

Missing Chad

2009-09-12T08:38:00.001-07:00

Chad has been gone so much lately. School, work and hunting have claimed him as thier spouse for now. I miss him when he goes in the morning before I am awake enough to say a proper goodbye. I stumbled on the song and it totally made me think of him this morning.

Canyon Views

2009-08-04T10:49:00.001-07:00

Chad went up the canyon last weekend with his brother Seth to get his trail camera. They saw something that you don't see or hear about seeing every day. A mama black bear and her 3 cubs. Yes I said 3. Chad was able to get a picture through a scope of them. He said that the mama bear seemed a little nervous so they kept their distance. Chad said that they were climbing trees, playing with each other and enjoying the watering hole they were at. It is so neat but at the same time a little nerve racking because Chad is going to be up there in a few weeks hunting and they have been seeing more bears the past few years. Granted Chad and his brother and dad are smart and cautious a mama bear of three cubs has got to be on guard all the time. So I hope all those men out there are careful while up in the hills this hunting season. I hope you always are!

24th of July

2009-07-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

Daddy and Penny watching the bulls.

Me and Tennis. My last night wearing glasses.

We were fortunate enough to go to the Spanish Fork Fiesta Days Rodeo on the 24th. It was so much fun. Tennis really loved it, thank heavens I didn't want to relive our first rodeo experience. Penny even stayed happy and interested the whole time. Tennis loved it most when they came out and roped the cows. The weather was perfect for it too. We even got a few drops of rain on us but with the heat it felt great!

Summer Days

2009-07-28T10:46:00.000-07:00

It has been crazy busy recently. Chad has had school and work. He has been studying tons for his Trig class. I'm sure he'll pass fine but it has proved a bit harder to remember everything especially in the condensed time that he has to do it. Tennis is wearing big boy underwear now all but night time when he wears pull-ups. Penny rules this roost most definitely. She has really come into her own. She has started saying "What's that" but it sounds more like "Whas Ta". She is a funny little girl. As for me, well, I got Lasik eye surgery over the weekend and I still have a hard time remembering I don't have contacts and that I don't have to adjust my glasses. It is so nice. Another highlight is our garden. Not only are the tomato plants so full of tomatoes that most of them have started to topple but they are the size of softballs. Canning is definitely on the way.

I am going to start sewing a lot more and trying to sale things to help out. I already do binding for people which is easy and enjoyable for me but I decided I would start making baby quilts, raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, table toppers and other things. We'll see how it goes. But for now I am going to just crank up the sewing so that I can get a good stock pile of items. Who knows maybe I'll get enough stuff that I could do a booth at the Beehive Bazaar or something fun like that. Anyway here's to ambition!

Sad Kiddos

2009-07-22T10:22:00.000-07:00

Both my kids have ear infections. Tennis always handles it wonderfully not letting it effect him to much but Penny isn't doing so well. She woke up several times last night and won't let me put her down or leave her alone for more than 5 seconds without braking down today. I hope this doesn't last to long especially because we have rodeo tickets for this Friday that I would rather not miss. I'll just keep Tylenol in her and hope she gets adequate sleep.

Our Garden

2009-07-19T08:08:00.000-07:00

This is my second year with a vegetable garden. I love having a garden so much. This year we worked out a few kinks. I'm sure we have tons more to go but our garden is double the size it was last year. We have been picking peppers, squash, strawberries, onions, carrots, cilantro, a few peas and even a handful of tomatoes already. We have 13 tomatoe plants this year and they are all so heavily laden with tomatoes that I am surprised they stand. They are all turning white and some are starting to turn red too. I have over 200 tomatoes right now. Yeah for canning!!! Other than grasshoppers and snails I haven't had to many problems with bugs. We even have had a bunch of regrowth from last year. Pumpkin plants have come back and two cucumber plants. The pumpkin plants have tried taking over several spots but I have cut them back a few times. Anyway we are so happy to be able to have a garden while we rent and even more blessed for it to be doing so well. Grandma Faun I told you I would post pictures so here you go!

Early Birthday Surprises

2009-07-19T07:55:00.001-07:00

My birthday is on the 20th, Monday, and I am turning 26. Yeah right? To be honest I haven't really cared to much to even think about it. As I am getting older the less attention on my birthday the better excluding a date night with Chad that is really all I wanted. But this past Thursday night my parents made a surprise visit at around 9pm. They were bringing me my birthday present early so I could enjoy it over the weekend. Yes I have already enjoyed it. They gave us a patio set for our back porch. I tried to find a picture of the same set but was unsuccessful. None the less it is perfect. The chairs even fold up so we can store it easier in the winter.

I got another early birthday present from Chad last night. I can't even begin to tell you how happy I am with it. He got me my very own Kitchenaid stand mixer. I have wanted one for several years now and was totally blown away and surprised by it. You know what a kitchenaid means? Lots and lots of cooking the next few weeks. :)

I also got to go and see the latest Harry Potter film last night with one of my best friends Jenna which was so fun. I think that they did a good job with the movie. Considering what they had to fit in from the book to make sure it made sense to those that haven't read the book I think it was awesome. But hey I love the Harry Potter series so regardless I am a little bit bias.

Needless to say my birthday has been so AWESOME this year and it hasn't even come yet. Thank you to all that have made it special already.

He's a big kid now!

2009-07-16T18:08:00.001-07:00

TENNIS WENT POTTY IN HIS BIG BOY POTTY TODAY!!!!!

I couldn't be more proud of my little guy. He hasn't freaked out or anything when I make him sit on the potty for anywhere from 5-15 minutes. When he finally did it he was just as excited as I was. He said there you go when he did it then he said bye bye when we flushed the potty. He is so big.

4th of July weekend

2009-07-13T11:14:00.000-07:00

The Tetons

Our first sighting of Bison. Tennis even said Bison as clear as day.

We stopped at a park to eat lunch and there were Geese everywhere. Tennis wanted to catch them so bad but feeding them small chunks of bun would have to do.

Downtown Jackson Hole

Coming up and over the peak there is an awesome lookout.

For the 4th of July we went up to Idaho to visit my grandparents and to drive through Yellowstone. It was a lot of fun and a lot of driving. We ended up getting there Thursday night and crashed at grandma and grandpa's. Friday we headed into Jackson Hole, Chad had never been there. It was a beautiful weekend. We saw loads of Bison, Elk and even saw two black bears run across the road right in front of us. We stayed at the cabin Friday night and then drove through the small loop in Yellowstone Saturday. We got to see even more Bison and Elk. Unfortunately we didn't get to see any bear or moose inside the park. It was fun none the less. We walked through West Yellowstone city for a little while after getting out of the park and got a few little souvenirs then headed home. I will post pictures as soon as the computer allows me to. There seems to be a little glitch this morning.

Seeing through the mist

2009-06-26T14:57:00.000-07:00

This week has been full of surprises. The biggest has been the loss of my grandpa Lee Dahl. He passed away peacefully in his bed Tuesday morning. I wasn't as close to him as I am my other grandpa but none the less he has always been a part of life. My grandmother is doing as well as she can when you loose your best friend. The funeral is Saturday and I am getting more and more sensitive as it gets closer. I know he is in a better place and that we will see him again. But sometimes things can feel so final.

The past few years grandpa has really softening up and taken on a sweeter disposition than he had when I was growing up. I always saw him as a strong, formidable rock in the family. He reminds me so much of my dad. Tall, broad, strong and masculine. But he was only human right?! None the less I loved him as any grandchild would love their grandpa and will miss having him around at family functions always hovering over grandma like a shield to any thing unpleasant. He loved her so much. They were a beautiful example of how a married couple should respect and love one another. I can only hope that me and Chad will be like that when we are their age.

I know he is still watching over us. So for now I would just like to say I love you Grandpa and I will miss your funny remarks, bear hugs, and you constantly telling me how beautiful I am in yours eyes whenever I am around you. You were always supportive of me and I couldn't have asked for a better grandpa. Till we meet again!

Our crazy little lives.

2009-06-19T11:18:00.000-07:00

Mommy and Tennis at the Art City days Kid's Festival

Penny loves swings

She thought these were so fun.

Tennis couldn't help putting on his shades when he saw Penny putting on mine.

This past week started out with pretty much nothing on the schedule. Which I was more than happy about after my busy weekend. But each day has brought more and more challenges.

For starters Tennis isn't napping which makes him super edgy and prone to terrible tantrums. He normally lays down at 12 or 1 but he hasn't had one normal nap this week. He has fallen asleep i his high chair, on the couch and in his little chair when he hits the point of exhaustion when he can't fight it. But that doesn't last more than 20 minutes.

Penny might be coming down with something because she has been super tender the past few days and now isn't wanting to take her normal naps too. She is easy for the most part but when Tennis is tired and taunting her she gets on edge too and it puts them both out of sorts and super needy.

Chad is super duper busy with everything it seems. I am so proud of him for jumping in his calling as the 11 year old scout leader but seeing as the ward leaders don't really seem to be organized at all when it comes to scouts he has had to do it all himself. He is having his first camp out tonight and he is excited.

I did get all my visiting teaching done this week which feels good but other than that I feel like I haven't done anything productive this week. I guess the summertime is supposed to be like that especially when you have kids.

Daddy's Girl

2009-06-01T11:19:00.001-07:00

Our first year together

What We've Been Up To

2009-06-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to update everyone on what we have been up to.

Chad started school at UVU this summer. He has a big class load and will continue to attend UVU in the Fall and Spring of next year while he builds his portfolio and prepares to apply for the Architectural program at the U. He is adjusting well to work and school. I have always said that he is smarter than most people I know and he is most definitely proving that to me everyday.

Penny Tennis is full of surprises. He had surgery 2 days before christmas to have new tubes put in his ears and to have his adnoids taken out. He hasn't had one ear infection since and his hearing is perfect now. We are still working on his speech everyday and have seen great improvements in just the past 2 weeks. He still is a little behind but he is smart and will catch up to his cousins soon I have no doubt of that.

Penny is walking, well taking baby steps is more like it. We know she can walk because we have seen it but she is very cautious and doesn't push herself to much. She is super fiesty when it comes to Tennis. She is constantly trying to get him into trouble and chews him out all the time. She loves to dance and loves music even more.

As for me, well I am doing my best to keep up with the kids. I am proud to say that this is the longest strecth of time that I haven't been pregnant through our whole marraige. I know that sounds silly but we are happy about it. We keep pretty busy during the week with daily walks to parks and anywhere else within a reasonable distance, seven peaks trips once a week and play groups.

Tennis and Daddy

2009-05-30T19:14:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time since I have posted anything. I have been lazy. But no more! So to begin here are some more recent pictures of Tennis, my favorite little man in the world.

Tennis enjoying the mud slide at Jolly's Park

Tennis and daddy in the tent after a long night of playing. Their first father son campout together.

Tennis enjoying a well earned drink.

OH MY GOSH...

2009-05-21T16:19:00.000-07:00

where did april go?

I really don't have much to say, but just wanted to jump in quickly grab a hold of may before I lost it to the great blogger depression too.

But on a lighter note Penelope (if ya can't remember, she's the cute one. no... she's the cutest one ever!) is celebrating her 1st birthday tomorrow. Oh I can't believe she's already a year. 5 bucks to anyone who can figure me out how to pause time. She's just such a cutie and gives me awesome hugs and kisses, i don't ever want that to change.

Love & Kisses to my little girl who's given me an awesome first year of her life!

Baggu Grosgrain Guest GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-03-10T16:27:00.000-07:00

Baggu Grosgrain Guest GIVEAWAY!!!!

Honestly if every household were to actually start by doing something small like this for the enviroment think about how much we would be helping. I am going to buy them and give them away as wedding presents and birthday presents for those friends I have that are aware of our enviroment.

I'm a Bookworm.

2009-01-14T15:36:00.000-08:00

I am a terrible blogger I know. I have spent my last few weeks juggling parties and holidays just like everyone else but this past weekend I was fortunate to have my loving husband purchase the Twilight series for me. I started to read the first book wednesday off and on and finished the last book Sunday night. I know I terrible. My kids are probably feeling so neglected. But can I say that I honestly didn't want to read the series because it was so trendy. I know that is no reason. But after my wonderful cousin Jandee took me to see the movie I have been wanting to read them. And now that I have read them once through I have already started to reread them. I was surprised at how well the characters were developed and that it wasn't just about the sappy teenage love story. I am for sure putting it in my top 5 book series. I am such a sucker for a good fantasy and they definitley satisfied my craving.

Our Little Peanuts

2008-11-19T21:38:00.001-08:00

Tennis loves his little sister

Tennis loves the outdoors and anything on wheels

Penny is almost 6 months old, WOW!

Tennis and our little neighbor Brooke, she is one of his best friends. He loves doing anything with her especially when girls from our ward come over for piano lessons and they all get to play.

Tennis is 2!

2008-11-19T21:25:00.000-08:00

Last Wednesday was Tennis's 2nd birthday. He is such an amazing little man. He is so full of love, curiousity, energy and laughs. Of course he has his little quirks too but what 2 year old doesn't. I love him with all my heart and am amazed by him every day. He makes me feel so loved and he makes me a better person. I can't wait to see what kind of man he will become but at the same time I don't want him to grow anymore because I already feel like he is growing to fast. Chad and I love him so much.

For his birthday Chad and I purchased a train set for him. We set it up the night before in the front room. It was hard not to go wake him up at midnight so he could play with it but when he got up in the morning and held my hand as we walked out into the front room his reaction was so priceless. He stopped and said, "Wow, What's that?" then he ran over to it and didn't leave it all day. He was such a lucky little guy to have so many friends and family come to see him that day. He got so many wonderful little gifts. Annie made him a beanie and scarf that are the cutest. He got a barn from papa and grandma Dahl, the coolest carrier for his toy cars and a super fun homemade crayon/sketchbook carrier from papa and grandma Poulson and much more. It was like Christmas for him. But he deserves the best because in my eyes he is.

Tennis at Gardner Village

2008-11-19T21:21:00.000-08:00

My best friend and I went to Gardner Village right before Halloween and Tennis just loved it. Well he loved the animal part and mostly everything else until we tried to sit down to eat. Penny of course did wonderfully. Here are some cute pics of Tennis and the animals at the petting zoo there.

Better Late Than Never Halloween Pictures

2008-11-19T20:56:00.000-08:00

Sorry it has taken me so long to put these up. Tennis loved picking and painting his pumpkin. He gets so serious whenever he uses paints or colors. Maybe he'll take after mommy with art. Chad and I carved our pumpkins. Chad did Jack Skeleton and I did Shrek. It was a little different but I think they turned out okay.

Tennis was the cutest little Peter Pan ever. Everyone thought he was Robin Hood. Penny was Tinkerbell. We had a hard time with the wings. But the dress was adorable and so was she. Here are some pics, we had a hard time getting one of Tennis holding still or facing us.

The Next and Greatest Depression?

2008-11-10T15:09:00.001-08:00

I was on the phone with my brother today talking about what may come. He mentioned something that stuck with me. What would we do if Chad lost his job because of economic downfall? What would we do if the grocery stores had such a high demand for some things, the essentials, that we weren't able to get it? So i pose these questions to you. Something is coming. We have been warned time and time again. It is on our door steps. Are we prepared as families? It is such a scary thing to think about. I really have no idea what we would do if Chad lost his job and or even the ability to put in overtime. What will I do for food for my children when we run out and can't afford to go to the store? Are we prepared, I don't feel comfortable saying yes. So please share with me some ways you have prepared you and yours for the hard times to come. I am looking for ideas and suggestions.

Mission Call

2008-11-06T08:56:00.001-08:00

Trent opened his mission call last night. He is called to serve in the Mexico, Hermosillo mission. He goes into the MTC on February 11th. It is pretty close to the northern border. He will be spanish speaking which is so exciting for him. We couldn't be more proud of Trent and happy that he is choosing to serve our lord on a mission. We are going to miss him very much.

Beautiful

2008-10-09T14:00:00.000-07:00

This time of year I always wish I were 10-20 lbs lighter and my hair was as blond as it used to be. It is all the gatherings that are around the corner that make me feel like this. I was thinking while I was getting ready this morning about how I wish I looked like this or that and I remembered something that my mom told me during one of our hour long phone calls. She told me that one of my brothers, Josh, had told her that I am one of the most beautiful women in the family. Well something like that. Chad tells me I look good all the time or he says something like hot mama and it makes me feel good too don't get me wrong I feel good every time he says it even if I laugh it off because I don't feel it I remember it. But to hear it coming from someone besides your mom or husband is so nice every once in a while. So if you are a husband, brother, father, sister, friend or even a mother and are reading this and you have someone that you think is beautiful in your life let them know today. And say beautiful not hot or cute or look good with a loving tone. It will lift their spirits and make them feel special for however long it lasts for them.

Here is a small list of some of the women that I think are the most beautiful women I know.

Amelia Torgersen
Jenna Holm
Cami Clement-who I'm sure won't ever see this
There are many many others and if I didn't mention you on my list I didn't mean to offend these were just three of the people that come to mind whenever I think of a physically beautiful woman.

I've been tagged

2008-10-07T13:24:00.000-07:00

Brittany even if I don't comment on your blog I check it out every time there is a new posting. So this is for you.

7 Randoms things most people don't know about me....

I hate putting product in my hair because I have always prided myself on having super soft hair. It almost always means that my hair is flat but hey at least it is soft.
I love love love alternative music.
I really hate my feet and my nose. My feet are flat which causes me to roll my ankles all the time and my toes are so short and squatty. They look like little sausages. Regarding my nose, I can remember when we were driving home from Aunt Jodee's house when I was probably 8 years old and Jake was looking at me. My face was turned sideways and he happened to notice my nose. He said, "Your nose is huge!" I hadn't ever noticed it before and Jake I'm sure didn't mean for it to hurt me but I noticed it from then on. I have a big nose and it is shaped like a witches nose. My dad has the same nose which is fine, it looks good and masculine on him but on me it looks like a witches nose.
I hate hot weather. Any place that gets over 100 degrees isn't for me. I do realize that Utah valley gets 100 degrees off and on in July and August. But Utah isn't my ideal place to live ultimately.
I love cooking but I HATE dishes. I am a messy chef and always have been and I have always hated cleaning it up. Sometimes on rare occasions I enjoy it but most of the time I just dread it.
I am super picky about deserts and don't like mostly everything. If anyone is reading this and we happen to eat dinner with you and you have made a desert but I don't eat any please don't be offended.
I love books. I love the smell of them. I love the feel of the covers and the pages. I especially love reading them. If I had more money and more room I would own tons of books. I read books over and over and over again if I really love them. Especially fantasy. My imagination just go rampid while I am in a good fantasy.

Brittany I hope you learned something about me. :) It was weird thinking about things that people might not know about me. I tag Millie, Annie, Becky, Jenna, Kelsie, Savanah, Meggie and Amanda. Wow that is a lot of people.

More pictures

2008-10-07T10:37:00.001-07:00

Here are some more pictures of my kids. I realize there are so many. I just have a hard time narrowing down my favorites because I think my kids are the cutest ever as I'm sure every mother does.

Blog update

2008-10-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

I have been so terrible at blogging lately. A lot has happened in the past few weeks. We have done mostly the same thing as everyone else about this time of the year such as canning, playing outside lots, going for little drives, family pictures etc.

There have been a few other things that have happened that are a little out of the norm. My cousin Shane Davis from Idaho passed away, we headed up to Idaho for the funeral and it was such a wonderful service. We made the trip up and back to St. Anthony in one day. Penny did wonderfully and so did Jen's Beckam and Bella. We were so happy to make it up there to pay our respects to his family and friends. He is survived by his lovely wife and son.

Grandma and Grandpa Bjarnson were involved in a car accident 2 weeks ago. Grandma is still in the ICU. She is in lots of pain and has several broken bones among other things. Grandpa is taking it hard because according to Diane he feels like it is his fault. Accidents happen though. We hope and pray that she makes it through this ordeal.

Penny hit her 4 month mark weighing in at 12lb 10oz and measuring 25 1/2 inches. She is right up there on the scale just like Tennis was. She is happy and oh so beautiful. It is so wonderful having her precious little spirit in our home. She truly is a sweet and well mannered baby.

What we caught of conference this past weekend was very inspiring and the few talks we got to

sit all the way through seemed to be just what I needed to hear. I am so grateful that we have a living prophet to receive revelation for us today. President Monson and his counselors are such great examples. My favorite talk was given by Elder Wirthlin during the afternoon session yesterday.
Well that is it for now. I hope you enjoy the pictures there is more to follow.

Fall is by far the best season

2008-09-08T13:50:00.000-07:00

Everyone is posting about how they love fall so this isn't that special of a post but I can't help it. Fall has always been my favorite time of year. My reasons have changed since I got married and have children but my love for the season hasn't changed. Here are just a few of the things that makes it the best season of the year for me.

1-The beautiful colors. I love driving up the canyon, looking at maple moutain and even driving down main street in springville and center street in provo. It feels like Heavenly Father loves to decorate just as much as I do.

2-The smells. I don't know why but fall air smells different. At night especially. It has a crisp and almost smokey smell, almost like a fire is burning in the distant.

3-Of course canning and reaping the benefits of planting a garden no matter how small. This year has been awesome because our squash, beans and even corn have been so yummy from our garden. We have more cucumbers than we know what to do with and our tomatoes have taken thier time but I picked a few this morning. We have canned white grape juice concentrate, salsa, spaghetti sauce, beans, and I have yet to can peppers, jam, applesauce and pears. Our trees in our yard are so laden with fruit it has been so nice to have it fresh when we want it without having to go to grocery store.

4-The stores are always so fun with all thier decorations and smells. I really have a hard time because I want to buy tons of crafts and paint things. Plus it always puts me in the sewing mood.

5-I LOVE LOVE LOVE the cooler weather. I am a pretty hot person by nature and have a hard time in the summer with the heat. But the fall is so nice because I get to wear sweaters, jackets and sweatshirts without sweating. Plus i love pulling out the flannel and fleece pj bottoms.

6-I get so excited even thinking about the holidays coming. I love halloween and this year Tennis is old enough to enjoy the candy, walk door to door (even if he can't say "trick or treat"), and seeing all the cute little costumed kids coming to our door.

7-Hunting season. I am happy Chad gets to look forward to this every year even if he is gone more than I would like and he gets to go up the canyon and me and the kids don't. But when the kids are old enough we might spend a night up there with him. Plus Chad looks really good in camo.

8-Bringing out the fall colored decorations in the house. We don't have much but it is SO much fun decorating. It is stupid to say but I feel so good being able to make the home feel cozy and smell spicy.

9-Pumpkins, pumpkins, pumpkins. I love them for eating, decorating, carving, anything you can think of when it comes to pumpkins.

Homecoming

2008-08-30T19:55:00.001-07:00

Chad got back yesterday and yes he did kill a cow elk. He got it with one clean shot through the ribs. We love our mountain man. He took it to the meat locker yesterday afternoon and they said it was 191 lbs of nothing but meat. Seeing as they had to cut it up and leave the majority of the bones on the mountain. He left this morning to take the truck back up there and to hunt for a deer. He gets home tonight. We are so proud of him. Persistance pays off.

Life without Daddy around

2008-08-28T21:47:00.001-07:00

Chad has been gone hunting this whole week. He left last Friday afternoon, came home late Saturday night and left again Sunday afternoon. We haven't seen him since. It has been really hard on us this time more than any other time he has been gone. I'm sure it has been missing us terribly also. He was able to go on the 50 miler which was a week long 3 weeks ago and it really felt like this week long crept up on us so quickly I really didn't have time mentally to prepare myself for it. Plus having two children instead of just one has made it seem so much harder not to have him here. Here are the top 10 things that I and Tennis seem to miss the most.

1. Having him around to talk to me. Don't get me wrong Tennis jibber jabber is fun but I really miss having adult conversations with him daily.
2. It is hard at night when he normally would be coming home because Tennis anticipates him arriving and gets wound up. Chad spends a lot of time playing with him when he gets home. Plus I am tired from the day so he is such a HUGE help with the kids even if he doesn't think he is.
3. He makes me and Tennis laugh. He gets the best belly laughs out of Tennis.
4. He helps me not to think to much on the hard things in life. He picks me up so much.
5. I really miss having him to sleep and snuggle with. It is so nice in the middle of the night if I wake up for one of thousands of reasons I scoot into him and it is easier to fall asleep.
6. Tennis and I both miss the kisses.
7. Chad sings a lot and I miss hearing him around the house singing.
8. Believe it or not I miss him riding me about stupid things like mating the socks. Him doing that kind of thing makes me work harder at being better.
9. I really miss the daily lunch time call that we have while he is at work.
10. I can't smell him in the house anymore. Normally I can smell his cologne in the bathroom from him in the morning or on the bed. But it has gone away now.

I hope and pray that he is able to get a kill so he can come home to us. We miss him so much. He is such a huge part of our lives. I feel like half of my head is gone not to mention my heart.

Tennis and Penny

2008-08-20T13:37:00.000-07:00

Mommy and her little girl. I just love her so much. She is always so cuddly.

My pretty baby girl.
Tennis trying to teach Penny to count and budget her money. lol.

Tennis is becoming more and more aware of Penny and visa versa. It is so fun. He is constantly bringing things to her for her to play with. Like this change the other day. Granted they are choking hazards I stayed very very close.

Penny's blessing day

2008-08-20T13:29:00.000-07:00

She was blessed in the same dress I was. It was so special. She is so beautiful. Thanks to all that participated in one of our most special days yet with her.

My adorable little man.

2008-08-20T13:26:00.000-07:00

These were taken while daddy was packing up for the 50 miler. Tennis wanted to share in the packing fun but he just ended up distracting daddy.

Sorry it's been so long

2008-08-20T13:16:00.000-07:00

Daddy and Tennis playing horse shoes.
Tennis trying out Cambree's ride and giving her a ride at the same time. They all loved this little four wheeler.

Amanda while she was still pregnant. She was brave to come up so close to her due date.

Tennis and Caleb sharing. They are getting so big.

Tennis fell off a camping chair and got a pretty good bump on his head.

I have been so lazy recently with my blogging. I'm sorry. There is a lot to cover so bear with me. First we had the Poulson family reunion up at Moon Lake the last weekend of July. It was so much fun. Granted we didn't get any sleep. Tennis loved being outside all day long. He is such a little wanderer. He is sneaky about it too. Here are some photos from the reunion.

50 Miler Stats

2008-07-28T19:15:00.000-07:00

	Miles	Trail Moving Time	Trail Stopped Time	MPH	Total Ascent
Day 1	12.1	5:34	5:00	2.2mph	2,800 ft.
Day 3	8.2	3.19	1:43	2.5mph	1,300 ft.
Day 4	7.3	2:58	1:30	2.5mph	1,600ft.
Day 5	14.4	5:15	3:30	2.5mph	1,950 ft.
Total	42	17:06	11:43	2.45mph	7,650 ft.

Here's some of the hiking stats from out 50 miler. I think most of them are correct. I got the paper wet that I wrote them all down on, so I couln't read them all. I had to go from memory. But anywho, Seth and I had our GPS's along with us, and we were monitoring the trip computer as we went. It was pretty cool to see the exact data of the trip. I was getting a little different numbers than he was, but not off by too far, and probably just the differnce in the accuracy of the satalites. It seemed that we were getting about 20 ft. of accuracy on a good part of the trail. In the end I think we both had around 42 miles. Tecnically people that havn't been along with us on this 50 miler would think. What? only 42 miles? Why would you call it a 50 miler. We'll I know it may be somewhat of a stretch and just a justification to many people, but with all the hiking we do around camp, and to and from the lakes, we for sure get close to 50 miles. So there... it's still a 50 miler. ;) Brian and I actually wen't on a little hike on tuesday when we didnt have anything better to do, and we visited Uintah Lake. It was a good 2 miles there and back. We also usually hike to Shamrock lake too which is a bit farther, and a good little fishing trip. It didn't work out for us this time.. I guess we just ran out of time.

The normal hike we would hike all 6 days, but we decided the first day to mash the second day into the hike, so we could have all tuesday to fish all we wanted, and the 5th day instead of stopping at our usuall Brown Duck location, we actually hiked all the way out to Moon Lake. That's the reason you only see 4 days of hiking up there. All in all it was a good and very tiring hike for us all. We were all (with the exception of Trent) burnt out at the end of every hike and often long before the end of every hike.

So there ya have it... some fun little stats.

50 Miler Fish Log

2008-07-28T17:54:00.000-07:00

	Margie Lake	Rosalie Lake	Uintah Lake	Phinney Lake	Squaw Lake	Total
Alan	21	15	-	14	-	50
Seth	7	22	-	13	5	57
Brian	5	6	1	12	1	25
Tysen	12	66	-	11	4	93
Chad	74	16	4	12	3	109
Trent	18	33	-	25	5	81
Total	147	158	5	87	18	415

Thought I'd post the fishing log. We all had a great time and as you can see, caught a lot of fish. 415 total to be exact. We only ended up cooking fish on Tuesday and Wednesday night, so out of the 415 fish we caught we let 411 go.

I can't remember if we've ever caught more fish out of Rosalie than Margie, but we did this year. We can blame that on Tysen, he was catching them there like crazy. We did end up spending a lot of time there though. They just fight a little better than the ones caught out of Margie.

Squaw lake was pretty slow again, but we love the lake cause of the size of fish. Both Trent and Seth caught really big fish. Seth has a good picture of his fish, but once Trent's fish hit the shore he flipped his way loose. :(

Homecoming

2008-07-27T10:39:00.000-07:00

Tennis at Moon Lake picking daddy up Saturday
Grandpa taking a much needing brake during the 50 miler

Day 1 hitting the trail

Chad caught 109 fish, he caught the most. He is such a good fisherman.

The boys at Rocky Sea Pass

Chad is home. Thank heavens. We missed him SO much!!! We went and picked him up yesterday at Moon Lake with Amanda, Cambree, Millie, Collin and Diane. The kids did great on the ride. The boys looked so good. I think that everyone looked a little leaner when we picked them up. Chad said that he did really well this year as far as energy and stamina. Brian and Tyson both said that they would do it again. I am so proud of all of them for doing it. Most people wouldn't do it more than once let alone enjoy it.

Day 3 of the 50 Miler

2008-07-23T17:15:00.000-07:00

Well today they starting hiking again. We haven't heard anything from them and most likely won't because they hardly ever get any service up there. We miss Chad terribly. Tennis has noticed he has been gone a lot more than I thought he would. I have tried to teach him that daddy is hiking. I ask him where is daddy and he will sometimes respond "hik'n". This morning he woke up and went into the spare room where the computer is and stood there with his hand on the computer chair saying dada. I came in and found him there and tried to remind him where daddy was and coax him out of the room. But he just stood there and shrugged his shoulders and pointed to the computer. I turned it on and he still wasn't passified. It makes me miss Chad even more when Tennis notices he is gone. We only have until Saturday. Yeah. I hope he isn't dying up there.

Day 2 of the 50 Miler

2008-07-22T09:23:00.001-07:00

Rocky Sea Pass
Rosalie Lake

Well they actually hiked two days in one yesterday so they have been at Rosalie and have already passed Rocky Sea Pass. But they are most likely fishing Rosalie today. We miss Chad so much. Last night Tennis wondered around the house at around 6ish saying "Dada" and looking for Chad. He misses daddy.

Tennis Helping/Distracting Daddy

2008-07-21T13:03:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Tennis helping/distracting daddy while he was finding stuff for the hike that they are on this week.

Yes this is the third posting for today.

Some new pics of Penny

2008-07-21T12:43:00.000-07:00

Here are some more recent pictures of our little Penelope. She is weighing in at around 10 lbs and is 21 inches long. The thrush is getting better and she is smiling more and more each day. She tries to talk back to us when we talk to her. It is so cute she coos and makes funny little grunts.

50 Miler

2008-07-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

Chad left his morning at around 6am to go on a 50 miler with his brothers, dad and a friend of the family. He will be gone until Saturday afternoon. We are going to miss him so much. He was so excited to go. Last night he couldn't focus on one thing for more than 5 minutes it was so cute. They started at Mirror Lake in the Uintahs today. This is a picture of Carolin Lake where they fish at first. This was taken a few years ago on one of their other 50 milers. If you can't tell the picture is of Trent. They hold a fishing competition every time they do this to see who catches the most fish. I believe that Chad holds the record at 111 fish. That is a lot of fish.

My Birthday

2008-07-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

Today is my 25th birthday and I love my family so much. Chad and his parents went in on a double jogger stroller for me. Can I just tell you how excited I am to use it. We went for a little walk yesterday with it and Penny wasn't a huge fan but she will get used to it. Thanks again Chad, Diane and Alan. Love love love you guys!!!!

Penny's First Illness

2008-07-17T08:47:00.000-07:00

Well it is true. Penny has thrush. I took her in yesterday to visit our family practitioner and he confirmed it. She is on yucky antibiotics that will most likely lead to another yeast infection. But needless to say she is now on the road to being 100% healthy again. She is coping beautifully with it. She is more clingy, not really sleeping that well and a little bit fussy but she really doesn't seem that different from normal. The only really bad thing is that she is contagious so I can't really go anywhere that I know there is going to be other children right now. So we get to miss out on another swimming play date with his cousins this week. :( I really can't complain about either of my children. They both cope wonderfully with sickness, they both are super cuddly, they are gorgeous (at least I think so) and very smart (I know Tennis is and I'm sure Penny will be too), they both are happy and neither seem to really be super needy. I am a very fortunate mommy.

Our busy weekend

2008-07-14T10:23:00.000-07:00

We had a very busy weekend. Friday night Chad went on a camp out with the 11 year old scouts in our ward along with two other leaders. They seemed to have enjoyed themselves. They only had 3 scouts come and one of the leaders older sons. But for our ward that apparently was a good turnout.

Saturday we had the Bjarnson family reunion at the Mapleton park. It was fun to meet some more of Chad's extended family and see some of the ones I knew again. The kids loved it too. There is some pretty cool playground equipment there now that they have redone it.

Saturday night I had Jandee's baby shower. It was fun and Penny was little trooper considering we had been out in the heat for several hours already. She is such a wonderful and sweet little girl. Might I add her little dress was the cutest ever, thanks Annie.

Sunday we went to Chad's parents house for dinner and got to see everyone again. It is so nice to get the kids together and let them play. There were trucks flying and thanks to grandpa balls too. It was a fun and eventful weekend and it is only the beginning for our July and August are super full of activities.

Jandee's Baby shower

2008-07-14T10:14:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all that came to the shower on Saturday. All the gifts were so cute. I am so excited for here. Here are just a few of the pictures we took at the shower.

My Husband

2008-07-11T11:18:00.001-07:00

My husband is so much fun. Last night he came home and on a whim he decided to make a custom blog page for us. So we sat down together for about an hour and experimented with different textures, colors, designs etc... to come up with our new page layout. I love it. I love the little people and the cute scrapbook letters.

Thanks babe.

Our Weekend in Idaho

2008-07-08T14:53:00.001-07:00

Last weekend Tennis, Penelope and I went to Idaho to visit Grandma and Grandpa Hughes with my parents. It was such a needed weekend getaway. To our dismay Chad wasn't able to make it because of work that needed to be done. But they do say that absence makes the heart grow fonder and it does.

I was so happy to have some time with both Grandparents without loads of other people there. Penny lived on Grandma's lap the whole weekend and Tennis loved wandering around the lake. We even took him swimming in it on Friday and after he got used to the cold he just went limp and enjoyed having me push him around in a little tube. Dad caught a bass Saturday morning and put it in a 5 gallon bucket so Tennis could see it. When we got there and showed the fish to Tennis he poked it and put his finger in it's mouth which caused it to jump and whip backwards. He thought it was so cool. He kept trying to put things in the bucket of water with it like rocks and leaves. He wasn't scared at all. It was so cute. It was so nice to allow Grandma to have some one on one time with the kids too. It was a wonderful way to spend the 4th. We were really happy to be home though. We all missed Daddy so much.

Saturday Baby Shower

2008-07-07T15:17:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder of all those that are planning on coming to Jandee's Baby shower. It is this Saturday 5pm-7:30pm, Openhouse. Come and enjoy seeing Jandee incredibly pregnant. She is registered at Babies R Us and Target.

Life with two

2008-07-02T21:05:00.000-07:00

Now that it has been a few weeks since we brought Penny home i feel like Tennis, Chad and I have gotten into our routine with Penny. Plus I feel like she is old enough now that we know if she is a fussy, needy or snuggly baby. She is a super snuggly, not fussy and a little needy. But man Tennis has started to change in the past two weeks. It is my thought that he knows now that Penny isn't going anywhere and he has to share mommy. He cries every time I leave a room and he can't see me, he cries at night if he happens to be up and he can hear with with Penny. Even when I am feeding her on the sofa he wants to be right on top of me too. It is flattering of course because I know that he loves me and still needs me but it is a little frustrating because it feels like sometimes I don't get any time for myself. Chad has been good about helping with the kids so that I can have time to myself. Even if it is when they are both sleeping and I am running to Walmart to get groceries and take my time roaming the isles. I am not quite sure how I am going to get by without him the week of the 21st-26th of this month when he takes off for his 50 miler. I will most likely be hanging out over at his mom's house and my mom's house every other night to give myself and Tennis a brake. Yes, Tennis seems to do lots better with me at home if he has had playtime somewhere else that day.

For the most part having two kids hasn't been that much more difficult. I am so lucky to have to pretty low maintenance children though. I'm sure it will get nothing but harder from here on out but for now two hasn't been that much more difficult, just more expensive and little noisier at nights.

Great News

2008-06-30T14:32:00.000-07:00

For those of you that have followed Cliff's progress and haven't checked Jenna and Cliff's blog we have great news. He is coming home. I don't have the exact date but I will update this once i find it out. Don't forget to still keep them in your prayers because he still has a long road of rehabilitation.

Fit to be tied

2008-06-25T14:10:00.001-07:00

Since I had Penny my post baby body has been driving me crazy. Not only does my tummy almost make up a whole other me but it looks like I was attacked by some animal with large claws. Everyday I avoid looking into the mirror which is no way to live. You should love yourself inside and out, right? Well since I really don't love myself on the outside right now I figured that needs to change. So I am going to set some goals and start working on them today. I figured if I list my goals on the blog it would motivate me to do something more about it than I have been because people will know I am working on it and I'll feel like I need to uphold them. So here they are.

Loose 20lbs (6month goal)

drop 2 pant sizes (6month goal)

be able to run 5 miles without (3month goal)

work out for atleast 45 minutes a day everyday except for sundays

eat much much healthier

participate in atleast 3 hours of physical activity with my kids everyday

So that seems like a lot but I know I can do it if I just start and get into a routine. So here's to goals.

My Two Angels

2008-06-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

Diane took these pictures last week when we came to visit. Tennis loves this caterpillar stuffed animal more than any other toy.

Thanks for all the Graveyard Shifts

2008-06-20T13:14:00.003-07:00

Okay so recently I have been so tender hearted. I am not sure why. I think that it has something to do with our sweet new little person in our home. It has made me think about a lot of things. I find myself listening to the radio on the way to clean Chad's office at night and balling over some country song. Yes, I am a complete sap. Back to my whole reason for this posting. With our new little one I have found myself up at all hours of the night. She hasn't gotten onto our night is for sleeping and day is the time to be alert schedule. Last night she was alert from around 12 to 3:30. Chad had gone to bed and Tennis was out cold so it was just me and my girl up in the family room. I had one of our many Disney movies in to distract me and keep me awake. As she finally dosed off I went to lay her down in the bassinet and of course the second she left my arms she was wide awake again. So I picked her up again and we ended up dosing off together in our bed. I love having her so near and dependant but it is hard with Tennis because he has needs too. So this morning as I was preparing Tennis's breakfast and probably looking like a zombie wandering around the house my mom came to mind. Not just my mom, many others but mainly mine. I can imagine all the sleepless nights she spent up with me and all my siblings. Whether if it was from some sickness, waiting up for me some Saturday night, or just with worry I'm sure there have been countless nights. My sleepless nights have just begun but hers have been going for decades. I can't express how grateful I am for mothers that sit up with their children and instill that love and trust in them that they take with them the rest of their lives. Being a mom is a lot of work but it is a joy greater than anything imaginable. I hope and pray that I can be as good of a mother to my children and be there for them like my mom and many others have been for me. Next time you are driving home late or if you see a neighbors light on in the wee hours of the morning and know that they have little children I hope you think of your mom like I do now. Love you mom.

My Friend

2008-06-19T13:07:00.000-07:00

I have this friend. We have known each other since high school. We were close then and even closer now. Even after I moved away for almost two whole years and came home things just picked up right where they left off no questions asked. She has always been wise beyond her years and has had a fabulous sense of humor. Plus she completely gets me which can be hard to do sometimes. We have had countless sleepovers, driven to Idaho, been to each others weddings and she still doesn't seem to be sick of me. Outside of my immediate and extended family members I don't have anyone like her in my life. All girls young and old need a friend like her in their life. Who is this friend? Her name is Jenna Holm. She is the one of the most genuine people I have ever known. So to Jenna, thank you for being my best friend through thick and thin these past years. It has meant more than you will ever know.

My One True Love

2008-06-11T08:13:00.002-07:00

When I think back about how I knew Chad through school and we were both just acquaintances and didn't really get to know each other to well it makes me wonder how it would have been if we had known that we would end up together. Chad would have probably laughed at the thought that we would be married and have two children just 5 short years after his mission. I would have never guessed. All I can say now is that Heavenly Father's plan is a wonder. I am married to someone I have known for quite some time. We have two beautiful children and he is a wonderful father. He was the man that took me through the temple my first time, the man that shared a perfect honeymoon with me, a man that knows me better than I feel I know myself sometimes. He was my first in a lot of ways and my last in every way. I am so grateful for all that he does for me and our children. I know it isn't easy for most men to work everyday in and out and never be able to do anything different because they are supporting their children and wife. But as one that is completely dependant upon my husband I am grateful for the life that he provides for us. It is humbling to be completely dependant upon someone. We might not have all the little things that one hopes for but someday we possibly will. But for now we have our health and each other. Who really could ask for more. So for now I'll just say for the thousandth time since we have been married that I am more grateful for my husband than anything else because without him I wouldn't have my two little miracles that we call Tennis and Penny, I wouldn't have the blessing of an eternal marriage with a strong and faithful husband and I wouldn't have the knowledge and wisdom that i do today. He has made me a stronger and better person. I love him so much and hope everyone can have such luck in life and love as I have had.

I thought that I might ask what everyone is doing for father's day. If you think your spouse might read your comment then don't leave one but if not then please do. I already know what I am doing for Chad but I thought that it might be fun to hear about what everyone else is doing.

The latest news on Cliff

2008-06-11T08:13:00.001-07:00

Cliff's surgery last Thursday went well - a portion of the ball of his right foot was removed, new grafts put on this foot, right hand, and left fingers, and it appears the grafts are taking. Cliff passed the swallow study yesterday - and he now can eat solid foods, although the feeding tube will remain for the time being. Cliff said food is very spicy, sweet, strong, and he told the nurse this morning he was a light eater! Cliff will probably be back in the rehab unit next Monday. Jenna is so grateful to all who are sending love, prayers, support their way. Keep praying for these two and those who are caring for Cliff. The stronger the wind the stronger the tree.

Penny's Announcement

2008-06-09T13:26:00.000-07:00

Well she had her 2 week check up and she grew almost another 2 full inches and is back to birth weight. Which puts her at 50% on height and 10% for weight. Chad made this announcement to send out to family members. I love it. Jandee took the pictures and if I may say so they turned out SO cute.

Cliff"s Progress

2008-06-03T08:54:00.000-07:00

After living from hour to hour, dawn to dusk, and day to day, Cliff andJenna now have a week's worth of goals - which is so thrilling.
Cliff is beginning to put thoughts and words together, and his body isbeginning to heal from the burns and the viral encephalitis. Thetherapists, doctors, and social workers Jenna and Cliff have been workingwith are great. They are giving these two high hopes for a full recovery -even though it may take a year or more for this to occur.
Cliff was moved from Intermediate Care to Rehab last Wednesday, May 28. Hewill be having physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy 3hours a day, working up to about 6 hours a day. The physiotrist (doctorspecializing in rehabilitation) is Dr. Speed - he is supposed to be one ofthe best in the Western US in dealing with Traumatic Brain Injuries.
Because of Cliff's injuries and illness and his need to stay focused on hismany therapies, the therapists, nurses, and Dr. Speed are continuing torecommend that there be no visitors. We're finding that after there aremultiple people in Cliff's room he gets agitated, anxious, and veryrestless. The doctor explained it to me this way - Cliff sees people,converses with them, but there is still a "skip" in making all of theconnections, and because his brain is still not healed, this skip causeshim to try and put the entire scene or conversation together correctly -but he can't, so he gets anxious, concerned, and irritated by this. Thisthen brings on restlessness - which brings on lack of sleep, which meansthe next day's therapy is difficult, etc. So the rehab center is requestinghe be kept as calm as possible so the therapists and doctors can go to workand speed up Cliff's recovery.
It will be a month on Wednesda since Cliff's accident, and although thishas been a horrible month for Cliff and Jenna, the blessings arenonetheless very apparent. Please continue to keep them in your thoughtsand prayers.
Best, Ronda

More photos of our little Penny

2008-05-27T09:57:00.002-07:00

Daddy and his little girl.

On our way home from the hospital

Mommy and her little girl

How Cliff are Jenna are.

2008-05-27T09:57:00.001-07:00

Whew - the past week has been so very scary, yet Cliff has rallied and isdoing great. He was moved from the burn unit to the intermediate care uniton Saturday - which is a step up from critical care but still needing oneon one care; he also still has a feeding tube, but no catheter! A simpleexplanation of what has happened came from the neurological team that isnow caring for Cliff: Cliff had 5 major "things" going on at once -electrical shock, heart stopping, being knocked to the ground and that headinjury, brain injury, burns. And then to top this off, a viral infectiontook hold of his already compromised body - from his spinal cord to hisskin, and just about grabbed him. But I am convinced - talk to me later,that prayers, fasting, good thoughts, well wishes, good doctors, greathospital care, and a loving wife pulled him through all of this. He ishealing, and this is such a blessing - talk to me later.
With all of this of course comes a longer stay in the hospital and still aneed for Cliff and Jenna to concentrate all of their energy on his healing.He is having physical therapy daily - he is walking a little, and hisgrafts and amputations are healing nicely. He will begin rehabilitationthis week, and hopefully by the end of the week or first of next, Cliffwill move into the rehabilitation area of the hospital.
No visitors, yet, but as always, thoughts, well-wishes, and e-mails aregreatly appreciated.
Cliff has 2 motivational sayings hanging in his room: Be Believing. BeHappy. Don't get discouraged. Things will work out. -Pres. Gordon B.Hinckley
In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity. -AlbertEinstein

Another update on Cliff and Jenna

2008-05-24T13:44:00.001-07:00

Ronda emailed this to me a few days ago.

This past week has been pretty tough. On top of Cliff's burns and headinjuries, he now has a serious viral infection. We have been told it istreatable, but that he needs at least a 14-21 day IV treatment of a stronganti-viral medication. The doctors are confident that this infection is thecause of the below related problems, including the seizures last week.
He has had a rough time sleeping the past several days, he's stilldisoriented, and he has some terrible sores on his body. Please keep himand Jenna in your prayers and thoughts. It is said it is the darkest justbefore dawn, and we are praying that dawn comes soon.