Hess Family

Christmas Tree

2009-12-04T10:13:00.001-08:00

For family home evening we went and picked up a little tree for Kade, he loves it. We learned about the true meaning of the Christmas symbols. Here are a few I found interesting

The Star: A heavenly sign of prophecy fulfilled long, long ago- The shining hope of mankind.

The Color Red: The first color of Christmas, symbolizing that Savior's sacrifice for all.

Christmas Tree: Evergreen- the second color of Christmas shows everlasting light and life. The needles point up to heaven.

The Bell: Rings out to guide lost sheep back to the fold, signifying that all are precious in His eyes.

The Candle: A mirror of starlight, reflecting our thanks for the star of Bethlehem.

The Candy Cane: Represents the shape of the shepherd's crook, used to bring lost lambs back to the fold.

The Wreath: A symbol of the never ending eternal value of love… having no end

This little girl sure loves her DADDY, it warms my soul to see them together!

Kade dragging his tree to the car. Kade was so excited to pay his $2.00 for his very own Christmas tree. We went to Walmart and he picked out some lights, I let him get colored I had to tell myself "this is his tree, not mine!" I'm not a fan of colored lights. It was such a fun family home evening.

Angie is selling Christmas tress this year across from Zollingers Cold Storage. She has worked really hard to get everything ready. If your in need a beautiful Christmas tree stop by her little Stand from 2-9 pm. They have the best customer service in the valley, at least that is what she says.

Halloween Overload

2009-11-05T20:29:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, I have way to many pictures of Halloween posted! I haven't done any scrap booking or journaling in the past months or years so this it, this counts as both. My poor kids are so deprived of a mother who loves them and has their lives chronologically indexed. Get over it kids things aren't changing:).

We had a wonderful time trick-or-treating down in Ogden with Kyle's family. Kyle has the most wonderful brother in the world. My family thinks Kyle is nearly perfect in every way, I tell them they haven't met his brother Travis. The man cooks, gardens, cleans, serves, works hard and is dedicated, kind, genuine, and never stops serving! Those are just a few wonderful things he shares with those he meets. Kyle's father passed away the first year we were married so I often think of Travis as how Kyle's dad must have been.

Avery only cared about one thing, the candy bars in her bucket! Have I mentioned she is becoming so spoiled and might I say a brat. Love and Logic is not even working.

Halloween Night was gorgeous, it was perfect!

Kade and Tyler had a blast.

The Trick-or-treating crew. Justin was the Grim Reaper, Rachel was Hanna Montana, Tyler was Optimus Prime, Kade a Pirate.

Kyle and Avery, these two together warms my heart.

Carving Pumpkins

Avery was a Skunk again. Last year I bought two skunk costumes for $1.99 at Children's Place, She was using both! Plus I couldn't resist she is so stinking CUTE!

My delicious Skunk.

Kade at school with his teacher. He is loving preschool, I think he would go everyday if he could. I miss little man when he is gone.

Kade thinks pirates act like Ninjas. He was a Ninja last year so, I guess he thinks Halloween costumes are a progressive thing, why not?

Murder Mystery Party

2009-11-03T10:34:00.000-08:00

We actually had a successful organized Murder Mystery Party with the Thatcher family. It was a blast, everyone put a lot of time into their costumes, characters and food. Who wouldn't enjoy a Murder Mystery Dinner with a bunch loud people!

Linda was the arrogant witch. Her costume was perfect! She wanted to cast a spell on the vampire to kill him.

Brent had the lead role in the Murder Mystery, he was murdered! He did a fabulous job playing the role of the vampire. Melissa was an executioner, but she did not kill the vampire.
I had been working on my mummy costume for a few weeks. I changed it the night before the party. What I thought would be the winning costume was quite a disappointment. It took an hour to wrap just my arms, half my legs, and head. When I got done wrapping one leg I would start wrapping something else and half of what I wrapped had fallen off:(. The mummy in "This Is It" movie was much better. Kyle was the host he was funny, charming, and well organized. I thought he was so darn cute!

Lee was really funny all night, you just didn't want to get to close to him. I think he made up his own character. Kim was a crazy Alien, they got best costume of the night;).

Kolby was the swamp creature, he put a lot of time into his costume so I guess it is fitting that he got the most votes for best costume. He won an IHome. Angie was Frankenstein's Bride. She is preparing for a similar event in the future, I think.
Karen was Dr. Jeckle Hyde. I loved her costume and character she played the role perfect. What a fun sister!
Riley was Freddie Kruger. His face looked much better in real life. I think Riley should start a creative business called " The Perfect Costume." He can come up with several great ideas for everyone. Lindsey made a very scary clown. She spent two hours on Youtube learning how paint her face, she was the perfect scary clown.
We didn't really get any good pictures of the fun food and activities of the night. This was suppose to be ribs with a knife in the heart.

Kade's Long Awaited Halloween Party!!

2009-10-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

Kade has been waiting, and waiting for his special Halloween dinner party for all his buddies. We started planning and talking about it way to early. It was one solid month of getting asked everyday how many days until his party. Kade and all of his friends had a blast.

These are some of the fun treats they had to eat. The eyeballs are doughnut holes dipped in white chocolate stabbed with a fork, Carmel apples, and creature cupcakes.

My mom dressed up as a which. She was such a fantastic witch, the kids loved her.

Kade insisted I be a Pirate too, this is the best picture I have.

The Haunted Mansion Dinner party for all the boys. It turned out great we got black plastic table wrap and made a little room, lighted some candles, and turned on the fogger, I forgot the scary music:(!

They loved the fake bloody hand.

They each got their own mummy goblet. I went through three sets of goblets to find the perfect ones, I love them!

Eyeballs and spaghetti, they actually tasted really good too! You just put a green olive in the middle of the eye ball.

The pirate host, this little man was in heaven all day!

Megatron, played by Max.

The one and the only Mr. Incredible, played by Jack.

The deadly Dracula, played by Ryland. He was so worried that his face paint was just perfect.

Indiana Jones, played by Carson.

The famous Magician, played by James.

Optimus Prime, played by Tyler.

San Diego

2009-10-21T13:03:00.000-07:00

We took a quick Trip to San Diego last week. Angie had school off, Kyle was home sick, I was feeling sick, why not drive 13 hours to San Diego and stay for the week. That is what we did. I've heard you recover 10 times faster on the beach with the warm sun, that is just what I have heard! There were a few times Kyle and I looked at each other and said "What were we thinking." The drive was long at times, I hate driving! The sound of whining, screaming kids makes me want to end the trip all to soon. Actually they were really good, Avery cried or screamed for a few minutes then feel asleep. Once we got to San Diego it was worth all the driving!

The San Diego Temple is my new favorite. It is actually more impressive inside than out. If your in the area make some time to go, its amazing! We decided to take Kade and show him the temple, I think he liked it. When ever I ask him what we do in the temple he always says " Mommy's and Daddy's dance!" I don't know where he gets that, I didn't teach it to him. It must be the pretty dresses I where to attend the temple??

Avery never seems to care to look at the camera.

Me, Angie, and my mom. My mom is such a trooper she will go on any trip at the last minute and make the trip a blast. I think she likes us too:)!

Enjoying some beach time, you can always find time for the beach in San Diego!

Kyle, Kade, and Avery building a sand castle. Actually Avery just wrecked their castle every time. She is starting to do this dinosaur scream if she doesn't get what she wants. We don't know how to stop it, we don't want a spoiled princess who cries over everything. We need to change something, and change it fast!

Kade loved all the sand goodies we found at the house. Ashlee look, the purple sand castle is still alive, it was a great addition to toys. Thanks for spending all morning looking for the perfect one!

I thought this was so cute. Kyle tried to get Avery to smell the flowers. These flowers have no smell to them, very disappointing.

We found a great new Breakfast place to eat at, really Shari found it but we enjoyed it!

I wanted to get some family pictures on the beach, I had it all planned out perfect! There was this thick layer of fog covering the shore line. We tried to get a few cute pics, but failed due to the horrible fog! Maybe next time?

I look at this picture and think that's my boy, Kade's personality is that picture to a T.

We went down to the Lamp district to find a great place to eat.

Kyle taking some pictures of us eating at Pink Berry. It was the first time I had eaten Pink Berry, the place is way to overrated! It was good, but I wouldn't stand in line for an hour or even 10 min.

This chair was to cool at Pink Berry to not get a picture of it.

The lovely couple we went to chaperon, not really! Angie and her boyfriend, I know its weird to say it let alone hear it. They're a fun couple.

LEGOLAND

2009-10-13T17:47:00.000-07:00

This is a late post, better late than never! We had a great time in California Kade doesn't stop talking about San Diego, Max and his cousins. I don't know how many times I have heard " Mommy when can we go back to San Diego! I guess I don't blame him we might have to take a trip back soon.

Kade thought the ghost was "SO COOL"

This was Kade's Favorite part of Legoland, mini world! He couldn't get enough of all the small airplanes, people, buildings, cars, and lakes.

This Dragon and Volvo car were really cool. Everything is made 100% out of legos. Gives me a headache just thinking about the chore!

We didn't know that the kids needed swimming suits, so we stripped them to their underwear and let them loose. They had so much fun I could have cared less. Kade even had his underwear on backward, actually come to think of it they, were his 2 year old cousin Logan's underwear. I'm just glad he can dress himself.

We were so sad to have to leave Legoland. We could have stayed for another 8 hours playing. If you are ever in San Diego it is a must do, I like it better than Disneyland.

Playing on the beach as the sunset!

Funny!

2009-09-30T14:54:00.000-07:00

Since MaRea refuses to post pictures of Avery's first birthday I will embarrass/annoy her by putting this up. This is to remind the women out there that your husband/boyfriend could be a lot worse! Let's give thanks the 80's are over!

Kramer could forsee the future!

2009-09-11T07:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday on my drive home from work I was listening for KVNU's "For the People." The two morons on there were talking about health care and one guy said (paraphrasing) we shouldn't be making a profit on health care, or a large profit anyway. I'm pretty limited in my knowledge of this kind of stuff, but by the gift of common sense, I know that to remove profit from health care would absolutely destroy what makes our system great. Thanks to Mark (MaRea's brother) for posting this video, it will not only scare you on where we are heading, but it will also prove that Kramer was right!

2009-09-07T08:42:00.000-07:00

Sea World

The boys leaving Sea World

Shamu, Kade was calling him" Sampoo" Max would tell him" his name is not Shampoo, his name is Shamu!"

Before the Shamu show Believe.

Max and Kade

Kade and Max going through the shark tunnel. They could not believe that there were sharks swimming above them.

I think Avery was done at this point, she had seen enough of Shamu. She was such a good baby. She has been sick the past week. I have hauled her everywhere with few to no naps. And most the time she remains happy and content.

Cute little Logan playing with the starfish. He is such a happy fun little man.

We Have been in Palm Springs all last week. The heat was never ending, It was a record breaking 119 degrees. I guess global warming is real, Al Gore is so SMART? I still can't belive that idiot won The Nobel Peace Prize.

We are in San Diego for the week and the weather is so wonderful, I love it here. I think I could even live here. The kids are having so much fun. Kade takes Stew "The Dog" on several walks a day. The Beach is a 30 second walk from the house. Kade, Max, and Logan could play in the ocean all day.

"Beer Goggles"

2009-09-04T13:00:00.000-07:00

Do all parents have, "beer goggles"? People have been saying "Avery is getting so cute!" I think to myself, getting cute...... I can't think of a time that she has not been the most ediable, delicouse little bundle of joy. I think it's an OK thing to think that your kids are the cutest things alive, and they never go through an ugly stage, right? It made me think if I was "One of those parents". I opened the "Avery photo file". OK, I discovered that I have been wearing "beer goggles". It's true, Avery had a few months that could be questionable.

Avery is getting big, so fast! I'm having huge anxiety about her growing up in lightning speed. Kyle and I just can't get enough of this sweet little piece of heaven. From the day she was born we have been fighting over who gets to hold her, put her to bed, get her up, give her a bottle, we have even argued about who got to change her diaper, weird I know, but some day she will not wear diapers. Avery is the happiest little baby, always smiling, with the most pleasant disposition. We were flying out to California last week and the lady sitting next to us could not get over what a good baby she was. They wanted to give her some special award for being the best baby ever on any flight they have been on, thats my girl! We are so greatfull for this sweet little girl in our family. This last year we have had some difficult trials, but the lord blessed us with a little piece of heaven on earth, thanks Avery for always making us smile when time seemed rough.

Things you are doing right now Avery:

- When you get out of bed you kick your legs with excitment.

- When I make a bottle and shake it, you burst with joy!

- Can't get enough of your brother and Dad.

- You love cor.

- You hate a binky, it's all my fault.

- You love to be held, but not cuddled:(

- You love, love to pull folded clothes out of drawers.

- Love sucking on my cell phone, why, why! One day you will break it, I will not forgive you!

- You love pushing buttons.

- You hate getting dressed.

- For such a long time you had just one tooth on top, you would smile, my heart would melt into a puddle on the floor!

- You love watermelon, if someone takes it you scream like a raptor going after its prey.

- Avery you are the most spoiled baby, I promise I will change,...... someday?

- You love to army crawl.

- Masquitos don't bite you, you must have your moms sour blood.

- you love graham crackers.

- You could play in the pool all day.

-You love your Angie. You cuddle her more than your own MOTHER, I don't approve!

- Your can't decide if you like dogs.

Carmel, really?

2009-08-03T23:55:00.000-07:00

This was the day after, nasty!

I have grown a whole new level of compassion, understanding, and empathy for people who have suffered from any type of burn. How can such a small burn cause such exquisite pain!

Angie, Lindsey, and I decided to make Carmel corn. There is nothing better than filling the kitchen with laughter, love, stories, jokes, fighting and each other! While the desired treat of the week is on its count down to be devoured by the herds " Thatcher crew". These are the moments I want to freeze in time! This treat didn't quite make it to the feeding troff, we burned the carmel, ok I burned the carmel.

Lindsey and I were pouring out the carmel to make a new batch, as I saw a large piece fall, ever so slowly, to scorch several layers of skin off my foot. As I watched the carmel drop, I remember thinking, "this is going to burn, MOVE YOUR FOOT!!" I didn't move it, the pain set in! I was in idiot mode; of course the sink was full of dirty dishes. I couldn't relive the burning sensation with running my foot under the faucet. I grabbed as much water as I could hold in the cup of my hand and threw it on my foot, really what was I thinking, that was not going to stop the boiling carmel from continuing to cook my foot. Lindsey, Angie, and Melissa had potatoes peeled, and a bucket of ice before I got my 2nd tsp of water to stop the burning. They were amazing I had peeled potatoes on my foot in a matter of 20 seconds. They were peeling them so fast their knuckles were bleeding!

The best part of the night was a few minutes after the HUGE commotion, Brent and Kyle walk in wondering what was taking so long. After they accessed the situation, Brent says, " So, you burnt the carmel!" We never got around to making the 2nd batch, the night suddenly turned into a "potato rotation party." They all took turns peeling and rotating a new batch of raw potatoes every 5 minutes for my new-blistered foot. Lesson learned, move your foot when you see smoldering hot lava, descending to rest on your foot!

This is 11 days after, you would think that it would heal faster, not so! I always thought I had such cute feet..., I know a little vain. Feet are wonderful you can be 9 months pregnant, fat, and ugly but, your feet can always be cute! Now that me foot will be scared, maybe I will start to love my elbows?

Summer Updtae

2009-07-26T10:13:00.000-07:00

Boating at Lake Walcot

Kade and Kyle setting up the tent on the 4th of July in Idaho. It was great fun with the whole Thatcher crew. We went up to Lake Walcot in Idaho. It was a lot of fun, you don't get the Thatcher Family camping together very often.

Go karting with Kade and Kyle. Our last lap Kyle smashed the back of my go-kart and I was pinned. I sat there thinking someone would come and pull me out. I waited....., then decided to pull myself out.

We were lucky enough to get to watch Jack all week. They had so much fun, Kade would wake up and say " what fun thing are we going to do today?" We will miss our "Jackels".

Yesterday I went looking for the boys, in the sand box. I hear Kade saying " Jack you pull them out like this." I was a little mad that they pulled most the beets before the were ready, but really how could I be mad at these two cute faces. They filled Kade's wheelbarrow full of beets.

Avery in a pile of beets in the wheelbarrow, we believe in innoculating our baby girl at birth from the mosquitoes. They will soon learn her blood is very SOUR.

Last Saturday Kade pulled all the radishes out of the garden and put them in a cute little basket for grandma. Planting, weeding, watering, harvesting, and cooking the veggies are the highlight of Kades summer.

Kade and his basket of goodies.

Fishing with Max, they thought they had died and gone to heaven. The didn't catch a fish, but poked one with their fishing poles, they thought that was way cool!

Kade was begging Kyle to help him shovel concrete. He found his little shovel and boots all by himself, then just looked at Kyle and said "just let me daddy, please!" How could you say no to a boy who just wants to help his dad.

It was Angie's Birthday July 20th, we all went to to Hyrum Damn to go boating. The kids had more fun on the beach than in the boat.

Jack and Grandma

Brynlee eating her 3rd piece of watermelon, I don't think there is a cuter little girl!

Ok, mine is pretty cute TOO!

The Birthday girl and the kids.

Brynlee trying to give Avery, just ONE kiss!

Avery eating some dirt at Hyrum Dam.

We went and visited Grandma Hess a few weeks ago, well maybe we should have stayed home. Kaden got a hold of the Roundup and thought it would be fun to water the lawn. This is the great piece of art work that he created. It looks like a very creative alien.

Hawaii 2009

2009-05-23T21:28:00.000-07:00

This was a the top of a hike to see a lighthouse. We were told that this is the best place to whale watch. It was still whale season, but we didn't see a single whale.

It was such perfect day for a hike, the wind was blowing, the sun was hiding behind clouds, the tempature was perfect. Kade only makes it about ten steps and wants to be carried the whole way. I am hoping that he will soon realize that we can't go hiking if he wants to be carried the whole way.

This guy would do a back flip into the water.

I have such love for feet, every girl needs her toes done. You can be fat, pregnant and ugly. You can get your toes done and you feel like something is cute. I love Avery's little toes. She had a french Manicure within the first week that she was born.

The whole 2009 crew in front of the Hukilau Beach sign right next to our house. I think this is the only picture we got of us all.

New favorite place to eat in Haleiwa. It is tai food, that will make you wanting more, dreaming of it when you leave for weeks. If you are in Hawaii this is a must try place to eat on the North Shore.

Best burger I have ever eaten. On of the favorite places to eat when we are in Hawaii. All the great places to eat are in Haleiwa.

Swimming in fresh water is so refreshing. Don't worry Sid did NOT get in.

The only reason Kade smiled and looked at the camera....we bribed him with a sucker!

Avery at Sunset beach, right before the sunset. To bad it started raining so we didn't see the spectacular sunset.

Little miss Brynlee

The great debate: who has the best shaved ice, Aoki's or Matsumoto's ? I think they are just about the same. The tourisits like Matsumotos for the name and fame, the locals like Aoki's.

In front of Aoki's

This photo is random I know, we think she is going to be the next piano prodige.

Kyle and Kade at the Zoo in Waikiki.

Kenzie is so sweet with baby Avery, she is always the first one to ask to hold her, feed her, and love her. I think it is so darn cute!

Angie, Nichole, MaRea

The Dole Plantation is always a hit on a rainy day.

Grandma would take the kids on a walk on the beach every morning. The kids LOVED going, they would be gone for hours sometimes. They always brought home several treasures they found on their exersion. Thanks mom for being so wonderful to all of our kids!

Aunt Angie, had so much fun with the kids, crab hunting!! They loved it, I mean how could you not? All the kids had their own flash light, and run along the beach scavenging for their next victim. Kade came in so excited to to show us all that they caught.

Kade trying to find his perfect stick for the marshmellow roast.

It is an official tradition for the Thatcher family to have a camp fire, behind the house on the beach. The last two years it has started to rain on us it has always cleared up in a few minutes. This year we made tin foil dinners and roasted mallows. There is nothing better than a tin foil dinner, I could eat them every night, maybe it is just that we are outside with a campfire.

Kade trying on some snorkel gear at Hanuma Bay.

This picture was to funny to pass up, Really....who sits at the hot sunny beach in shoes and pants? A kid even asked dad " what are you doing on the beach with shoes and pants on?" Dad was such a sport, he just sat in the sand reading his book, I think he even made it for longer than an hour!!

Is there anything more sweet than this face!

Such a sweet little girl, we sure love her!!

Kade hanging out with some turtles on the North Shore.

Watching the kite sailers on the North Point. This is always a fun activity on Sundays. Kade has such a hard time understanding why we don't get to swim on sundays. There really is no easy explanation to a three year old.

This was her first time touching sand, I think she was a little perplexed.

It was so fun watching the boys chase the waves back and forth. The could have been out on the beach everyday all day. The had such a wonderful time toghether.

This picture does not do justice, to how adorable Brynlee looked in her cherry swimsuit!

Easter in Hawaii

2009-04-16T22:06:00.000-07:00

This Easter was a little different, we went on a Easter egg hunt at an LDS ranch a mile from our house. The ranch had plenty of farm animals for the kids to pet, free horse rides, Easter bunny, golden eggs worth $5.00 and 6,000 eggs. All the kids came home with plenty of eggs and candy. Ally even came home with one of the golden eggs worth some money. It wasa spectacular Easter. Mom even made and Easter dinner to die for, but then again every meal she puts together is amazing!

Tibbitts crew walking to the entrance of the Easter egg hunt.

Kade running, who knows where his family is?

We had been waiting for "The Hunt" to start, then the Easter bunny came riding in. All the children and adults cheered with pure joy! Really does life get any better than hunting for candy?

I do have an confession to make to my family. When we were young, "I admit it" I cheated at least three years. I would get up at like 4:00 AM and find half the candy around the house, then go to bed and find some more with everyone else in the morning. I always felt guilty but then again my Easter candy always outlasted the rest of the gang. The worst year was when Ginger our dog went through and licked all the candy, even before I got to it, that will go down in history as the worst Easter EVER!! So I am clean I will never feel bad again about the stealing of the Easter candy again.

I am sure some 4-H student thought this was the most cleaver spot on the whole ranch to put and Easter egg. Kaden didn't even think twice about the horse poo all around his egg.

Sweet Brynlee waiting for the cow bell to be heard, by all the children anticipating their new found pot, of golden candy.

HOUSE SOLD

2009-03-25T22:12:00.001-07:00

It has been a long and bumpy roller coaster. We ended up under contract for nearly SIX months, because we had signed two contracts previous to this one. Honestly, who does that happen to? The closing date was moved over Five times, yes you heard me five times. We were lucky to have buyers that were solid in every aspect of the loan and were dealings with some unforeseen circumstances which made it difficult on both of us. It was a relief when they agreed to move in early and begin making payments. That made our situation much easier.

To make a long story SHORT we CLOSED on our house today and, it feels so good. Kyle and I walked out of the title company thrilled, ecstatic, and feeling very blessed!

We had so many great and wonderful times in our home. We put a lot of sweat and blood into it. Installing, sanding and varnishing the hardwood floors, Kyle laying the tile in the bathroom with no running water in the WINTER, (thanks Justi for the water) Lindsey helping us paint 9 months pregnant, painting the walls over and over just to get the perfect amount of glaze on, building a mailbox in the middle of rain storm, digging the trenches in the yard, laying the sprinkler lines, filling the trenches, leveling the yard, planting and waiting, and waiting for the grass to grow, building a garden seeing Kaden so excited to watch the plants grow, building custom cabinets for the library and last but not least Kyle finishing the whole entire basement! It was wonderful to work so hard on something and have it turn out, just perfect.

We will miss our home and and all the great friendships we made in Eagle Mountain . It was a great stop for our family. There will always be a special place in our hearts for 2105 Shadow Dr. There are lessons to be learned for all phases of life and I think patience will be at the top of our list for this phase.

Random photos, random thoughts!

2009-03-09T15:47:00.000-07:00

This was funny, Mom and Jack feel asleep in Sacrament together. How she makes it through the Temple everyday at 5:00 AM is a mystery to me?

So I did it! Avery got her ears pierced. It has been a month and I think Kyle has excepted that his baby girl has holes in her ears. This was right before we made the plung.

Kade's favorite thing at Discovery Gateway. I don't know why he likes that horse so much?

Angie, Rach, Allie, and Avery

The boys getting ready to go skiing for the first time up the mountain. What was I thinking..... three boys, all at once! They did a great job, but man was I sore the next day!

Kade waiting for his turn

We took Kade bowling for the first time he loved it!

Avery just chilling at the bowling Ally

Last Three Months

2009-02-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

Avery before trying her first round of carrots.

Avery after trying carrots, I guess we will wait a bit longer!!

Kyle thinks this picture is so funny of her, I don't know why?

Avery's number one fan, her cousin Brynlee

Avery showing off her cute dress from Melissa C.

Kyle reading stories before bedtime. Carson and Brynlee always join in when they're around

Kade's first attempt at skiing. We tried a few small hills at the farm, then just went back and forth on the lane. He did great for his first time, but he was too distracted by his cousins feeding the fish in the pond.

Here's the gun we heard about for 2 months prior to Shristmas. He kept telling us that Santa was going to bring him a "little gun with something in it to shoot monsters and bad guys."

Grandma Thatcher passed out tiny trees for all the kids to decorate. He became very involved in this.

The burning of the tree this year was great. Though we only had one tree, the flames were spectacular and before going to bed around 2 am we noticed that the rest of the pile had caught on fire. Good thing it was foggy that night or someone would have call the fire department about the 25 foot flames.

Kade, Thatcher and Carson getting ready for a ride behind the four wheeler.

We think she's quite cute, don't you?

P90X

2009-01-24T11:58:00.001-08:00

If you have not heard of P90X it's time to join in. I'm sure if Oprah could get through the workouts she would have it on her show, it's that great! I'm giving a shout out to anyone and everyone who wants to join in on the fun. Starting Monday there is a group of us you are going to make it through the whole 90 days of P90X. Let me warn you this is not an easy program you would find at your local aerobics class, which I do love but, the results are not the same. It's a set of 12 DVD's of AMAZING workouts that will leave you sore like you have never been before. All you need is a set of weights, or bands and pull up bar. Discovery Health did a 30 minute special on the amazing results that you get from the program. IF YOU DARE JOIN IN ON THE FUN!!!! We can keep everyone motivated, let me know if you want in. And I am sure I could find a way to get you a cheap set of DVD's if you know what I mean.

Tag X 3

2009-01-08T09:15:00.000-08:00

What was the last 3 things you purchased?

1. My favorite purchase of the year, the green machine a sewing machine from the 1930. I could sew all day on it, why can’t they build sewing machines like they did in the olden days.
2. A little red camera for my purse.
3. Ski jacket

what were the last 3 songs you downloaded on your ipod?

1. What ever was on the computer at the farm? I need to visit Chelsey for more tunes.

What are your 3 favorite Movies?

1. Shawshank Redemption
2. Juno
3. Dan in real life

What are 3 things you have not done yet?

1. Pack to move, if our house falls through this time I guess I’m not living my life right??
2. Deliver Christmas presents
3. Return Christmas presents

what are your 3 favorite TV shows?

1. The Office
2. 24
3. Prison Break

What are 3 things you cannot live without?

1. My family
2. Be memory foam matters
3. Camera

what are your 3 favorite dishes?

1. Chicken Curry
2. Chicken tortilla soup
3. Brisket

what are your 3 favorite desserts?

1. Crème Brule
2. Sorbet
3. Cheesecake

what 3 things would you buy if money was not an issue?

1. Build my dream house on the farm
2. Brand new Natural Gas Escalade
3. New skis, new boobs what more could a girl want!!

If I could have 3 wishes what would they be?

1. To move to Hawaii, South America, or even Europe for a few years
2. Have a one year supply of food storage; oatmeal doesn’t count even though I think we could survive on our oatmeal supply
3. To be done packing and playing Rock Band!!!

I tag....

Everyone

Thanksgiving in Palm Springs

2008-12-11T09:11:00.001-08:00

I was a little skeptical driving with two kidos to California, but Avery and Kade were little angels. Avery slept the whole way their and back, it was a dream come true. Kade he was in Curious George heaven. We bought him the movie, well worth the $15.00 spent at Wal-Mart!!

We drove to Las Vegas and stayed the night and went shopping the next day. If you have not seen a Cirqu De Sole show in Vegas it is a must see event. They are a little $$$ pricey but well worth the experience. I think I know why I don't live close to an Indian reservation, Las Vegas, or any place that has a legal Black Jack table. Time for a little confession I played Black Jack from 10:00 pm until 6:00 am. I think it is my new favorite sin to commit, as I said it is a good thing I don't live close to the border of Utah.

We had a great Thanksgiving in Palm Springs this year with the gorgeous weather. Mark and Sharee are always such wonderful hosts, their fridge is always stocked with drinks, ice cream, fruit, and it’s well stocked with goodies. Sharee and Tara made such a delicious Thanksgiving feast. We ate late as you can see because Mark and Dave's families came and meet us in Vegas to see the show " The O" so we got back and had to get things put together for our "Thatcher feast"

I guess this is hype about our Redneck family. I don't see it as redneck just a little Thatcher fun. We went up behind Mark's house and tried out his own personal arson, holy cow I didn't know that one man needed so many guns. We shot clay pigeons always a good time; Angie was surprisingly good at the whole shotgun thing. She was way to proud of her well earned bruises on her shoulder.

Rachel getting ready to take off on the motorcycle!!! This is one thing I absolutely love about Dave. He wants everyone to have such a good time. He spent 10 minutes helping Rachel get on all her gear. Rachel’s first time in the mountains on a motorcycle, she did

Kade shot his first 22, he thought it was the greates thing ever. Zoom in and check out his face so funny.

We went to SeaWorld with the Thatcher crew. Kade absoultley loved everything about it. He couldn't get enough of the dolphines. There was nobody their so we had the park to ourselves. We didn't have to wait in line once for the rides. Kade got to go an the Atlantis ride, he thought ti was really fun but when we were done I asked him if he wanted to go again and he said no.

MaRea, Kyle, and Kade on the ride Atlantis

Avery just chilling out in the stroller, such a sweet baby!

Twilight Review

2008-11-22T16:55:00.000-08:00

I feel like I'm fifteen again with this post, oh-well. For those of you who have not seen the movie yet, don't wait any longer!! I loved the whole show. My expectations were set very low so, I wouldn't be disappointed, a I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Lindsey and I were sitting in between a friend of ours, Natasha. After the movie she said all she heard from both side were , “Jacobs hot",” Edward is so hot" “I even think Charley is hot." I think a lot of men will be getting a little extra love, thanks to Twilight!

My best COUPON day!!

2008-11-11T08:20:00.000-08:00

Last night I walked out of the grocery store felling elated with excitement for all my great finds. And Kyle says “You are so damn sexy!" I was a little confused because I was not looking all that hot, in my zip up hoodie, jeans, and flip flops. I looked at him and said what? He says “Your passion for life is beyond sexy!" I guess I will take that complement even if my outrageous passion explodes for making $3.50 for taking home some deli meat. Sorry I should post this stuff a little earlier so you all have time to catch in on these deals, but I don't go shopping until the end of the sale because I can't stand all the "crazy coupon ladies" Kim if I have to pick you up and take you to the grocery store, so you can feel the euphoric rush as you're getting all kinds of free groceries, I will, I know you need a little extra push.

I got 60 rice and pasta sides for .13 cents, normally $2.00

This was my favorite deal of the night. I was paid $3.50 for each deli meat I took. I only got 10, I felt a little stupid clearing out the deli meat section, and I guess getting paid $35.00 for taking home delicious meat works for me. Ok so how I got this deal is.... at Albertsons they a have the meat on sale for 2 for $5.00, On the package they have coupons that say save $1.00 off now peel those off. There is another peel coupon on top that says TRY ME FREE. Hillshire will pay you $4.99 to try their new deli meats. I'm not sure if all Albertsons have the peel coupons on their Hillshire deli meat. The sale ends today, at least the 2/$5 deal.

I got 60 shampoo and conditioner for a total of .13 cents each. If you do the math I didn't even pay what the sales tax would have been. The normal price is $5.33, just for tax I would have paid .27 cents. I am sure some of you are saying when will you ever use that much shampoo, I am sure I will still have some during the Millennium, if I am still around.

20 boxes of free toothpaste. And if you know me I need all 20 boxes so I don't look like this guy in a few years.

So in the end I got $580.00 worth of groceries for free. And will actually make $19.40 after I get my rebate back, not bad!! If you have any questions on how you can get the same deals leave a comment.

This should be on Oprah's favorite list!!!

2008-11-08T09:57:00.000-08:00

Just the other week I was cursing the blue painter’s tape, that is supposed to do an amazing job. Have you ever wondered how TLC they paint perfect stripes, how in the world do they look perfect? I really found something that does the job with perfection, and it's not because I am a professional painter. I painted three Olive stripes on my wall and they look perfect!!!! The tape is called Frog Tape. I have a new mission in life, and that is to let everyone know to never buy blue tape again, all of your painting projects will be fun again if you buy www.frogtape.com. Check out how well it works and let me know how wonderful you painting project have gone.

Avery has been blessed

2008-11-03T21:00:00.000-08:00

This is the look that Avery gets right as she is falling asleep. I think it is so darn cute, she gets those little smiles the whole time as she is drifting off to never never land.

Sunday was such a perfect day everything went just perfect. Why does blessing your baby have to be stressful? I guess all things worth doing need a little stress to add into the mix of things. Avery looked absolutely gorgeous, I didn't want the day to end, or my sweet baby girl to get one day older. She was exceptionaly good on Sunday, she slept all day. She has been having stomach issues so we got some drops to help with her stomach, I have a new baby.

My mom made Avery's dress 27 years ago; yes can you believe it something made it through the Thatcher household after 27 years. Lindsey washes Bridal gowns and said she could make it look new again. She did a wonderful job I couldn't have been more pleased. She washed and steamed the dress, it brought tears to my eyes when I saw it, thanks Linz!

These are the little girls enjoying themselves at the kids table, too cute!

Avery and Grandma Hess

After the blessing we all come over to our house to have brisket. There is no better meal than brisket. We figured if we had the family coming we had to make something really good to make up for the LONG drive, we know, we know we live in the middle of Delta.

Happy Halloween

2008-11-03T20:21:00.001-08:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I LOVE HALLOWEEN for more than one reason. As a kid Robbie and I would get our huge pillow cases and start trick-or-treating at 5:00 and go until 9:00 pm. We would run from house to house without a break by the end of the night our pillow cases were FULL. To this day I support kids of all ages trick-or-treating. Kyle and I had a debate on what age was too old to go trick-or-treating, I won there is no age limit, but you do have to dress up if you want candy. I love that the next few months there is family all around, there is nothing more enjoyable than getting all 10 siblings together and just sitting in our kitchen at the farm talking four hours. I love that the snow is coming, hot coco with cream. And did I mention SKI season, ok so it's a little different when you’re married with kids, but I can still dream of skiing at The Beav 4 times a week for free thanks to the ski school. Ok, Ok, so back to Halloween and the love of candy. I think my son Kade has that some love for candy, not a good thing! He loved running from house to house getting a new prize in his" bucket of junk." Here are a few pictures of our Halloween.

Avery was dressed up as a little skunk, there wasn't a cuter skunk around, ok Jack was a pretty cute skunk too. Last year after Halloween Children’s Place had there costumes for $1.99 how could I not buy every size of skunk they had in???