Moss Mayhem

Christmas Jammies

2011-12-04T18:04:00.000-07:00

Growing up we always got to open one present on Christmas Eve - every year that gift was Christmas jammies. We have changed the tradition up a bit. Instead of opening jammies on Christmas Eve we now open them on Thanksgiving. That way the kids can wear them all month long in anticipation of Christmas. Here are Stella and Max in their Christmas jammies!

Cascade Springs

2011-10-18T12:06:00.001-06:00

We took a Sunday drive up American Fork Canyon to see the stunning leaves on the Alpine Loop. We took a detour on our way back down and ended up at Cascade Springs.

They have nature paths to walk on. Stella was in Heaven. Max was awaken from his nap to join us -- he was not thrilled to be coming. But he survived.

Beautiful Girl

2011-10-18T12:03:00.001-06:00

Stella all dressed up and ready for church for her first Primary Program. She did great! She knew her part perfectly. She sang so loud that you could hear her over the other kids (not sure if that is good or not) and she waved to us 85% of the program.

It is so fun watching her grow up!!

Schmidts Pumpkin Patch 2011

2011-10-18T11:48:00.005-06:00

Every year during October we go to Schmidts Pumpkin Patch. Every year seems to be more fun than the last. Stella LOVED it and so did Max. Here are some of our pictures we took of our adventure. We look forward to going every year. This year the weather was beautiful!

Family Picture with Stella driving the Tractor.
Moss Family

Mama and the Kiddos

Stella Jane

Max standing up in the Wheel Barrow

Free Ride for Happy Kids!

Max thinks riding in the Wheel Barrow is pretty fun!

Holding up the cute baby pumpkin

Dad and Max

She was born with sass

Happy Boy

2011-10-18T11:40:00.001-06:00

Max is such a happy boy. You can almost always find a big grin on his face.

He smiles especially big when he is caught doing something naughty!

Like dumping an entire box of cereal on the floor :)

We love our happy boy!!

FIRST DAY OF PRESCHOOL!!!

2011-10-16T21:27:00.002-06:00

Stella started her second year of preschool at the begining of September. She is already learning so much! Her favorite thing to do is write her name. She has a full year of activites ahead of her. She's already been on a nature hike and is going to the pumpkin patch this week. Her teacher said she is a social butterfly (which does not surprise me one bit) and that she plays with everyone. Stella loves learning and she loves going to school!

{Happy Birthday Stella Jane}

2011-10-16T21:03:00.008-06:00

On September 8th Stella turned four. Do I really have a four year old!? I'm not sure where the time has gone. We love Stella so much! She is so happy and active. Every night when i'm putting her to bed her first question is "What are we going to do tomrorow?"... she loves to go go go!! Here are the picture from Stella's four year old pictures we had taken as well as the pictures form her Princess for a Day birthday party.

This picture captures her personality. She has so much "sass"

She looks so grown up! She's growing up too fast!

This year stella wanted a Princess Cake.. this is what i came up with.

looks like Barbie needs to head to the salon for a new hairdo!

On of the party games was "Princess, Princess, Frog" the winner (Zoe) ended up taking home a crown. The girls loved it! They were even runnign when it wasn't their turn :)

We played Pin the Kiss on the Frog

Joe drew this darling frog for the girls to pin the kisses on.

They had a princess tea party with Ribbon Sandwiches, Fruit and Veggies

All of the princesses who came to the party.Stella has so many friends and she loves all of them!

Blowing out the birthday candles is not as easy as it looks!

So she got a little help!

After her friends went home she opened her present from mom and dad... a trip to Disneyland!

She was so excited!!

Family photo with the Aurora... I mean the Birthday Girl Stella and Auntie Ash

Stella and Mimi (my mom)

My mom, Me, Stella and Ash (my sister)

Our Favorite Princess!!

{Happy Birthday Max}

2011-10-16T20:42:00.013-06:00

Our little man turned one in August! He loves crawling (and he is freakishly fast!), he climbs up and down the stairs, loves to play with his sister, is a great sleeper, smiles all of the time and rarely cries. He LOVES bath time and real food (he'll eat just about anything) -- he loves to rub his food in his hair so usually has to take a bath after he eats. He is such a happy boy and we feel so blessed to have him in our family. Here are some of our favorite pictures of Max over the last little while.

We had his one year pictures taken the week of his birthday and they turned out so cute!
They really captured his personality.

I brought some balloons and a "smash cake" to the photo shoot so he could dig in!

Don't you jsut want to kiss that messy face??!

We celebrated his birthday with family at our house. I made him a caterpillar cake since he crawls around everywhere. I think it turned out really good (even though the face looks a little creepy). I love making birthday cakes for my kids!

Joe's parents were in town for the celebration. We dont get to see them as often as we'd like. It was fun spending the weekend with them at our family reunion!

Max and Grandma Moss

Max and Grandpa Moss

24th of July Neighborhood Parade

2011-07-24T11:39:00.001-06:00

Every year we have a neighborhood 24th of July Bike parade.

Since neither of my kids have a bike we opted for Max in the stroller and Stella in her car.

Mom and dad took turns pushing Stella's car since she could not keep up with the bikes.

We ended at the park and had some breakfast. It was a success!

4th of July

2011-07-24T11:30:00.001-06:00

The 4th of July has always been my favorite holiday.

This year was no different! We had so much fun!

We went to see some fireworks. Stella loved them! Max was fine with them.

Daddy and the kiddos

Stella 'oooohhhing and aaahhhing' over the fireworks

She caught one in her arms and brought it over for mama to hold

Once we got home I made "Firework Floats" which consisted of vanilla ice cream, red soda and poprocks! They were a hit! Stella LOVED THEM!

Joe and I opted for Root Beer Floats.. still very delicious

Firework Floats will make an appearance at every 4th of July to come!

Kids in the Kitchen.... Day Camp

2011-07-24T11:24:00.001-06:00

Stella and Kaya have been going to different day camps with different themes.

The first week the theme was "Kids in the Kitchen"

They made cute little Aprons and Chef Hats.

Being silly girls!

Summer Family Party

2011-07-24T11:20:00.001-06:00

My niece and nephew who live in Arizona came to visit for six weeks this summer.
Stella LOVED having her cousins here to play with.

She especially loved having all the "girl" cousins together.

Stella, Kinzie and Kaya

Here is a shot of Ash and (a rare shot of Mimi) my Mom with all the kids.

Ayden, Ashley, Kinzie, Stella, Mimi, Max and Kaya

One more picture adding Linkin to the shot. Now ALL of the grandkids are together!!

Fathers Day Present!!

2011-07-24T11:11:00.001-06:00

For the past 4 Fathers Day's I've wanted to get Joe a grill

This year that is exactly what he got!

I think we grilled every night the week he got it!

Look at the tasty feast we enjoyed! Steaks, Corn and Kabobs!

Stell and Max played with each other on opposite sides of the glass

Me and the kids after dinner... stella's face proves she enjoyed it.

We even made Smores on the grill. Stella really enjoyed them...

and so did Mr Max

YUMMY!!!

Our Crawler

2011-07-24T11:05:00.001-06:00

Max started crawling a while back. One day I found him crawling up the stairs to his sister.

He made it all the way to the top with his sisters encouragement.

And boy was he ever proud of himself!

So he turned the corner and went up the second set of stairs.

With his sister telling him "Good Job Buddy" the entire way!

Swimming Lessons

2011-07-24T10:59:00.001-06:00

Stella went to two weeks of swimming lessons in June.

She LOVED them and she did an AMAZING job!!

They played lots of "games" that made learning to swim lots of fun!

Stella was always going under water and blowing her bubbles. She was a great student!

She learned how to float on her tummy and her back. She even jumped of the diving board and swam to the side of the pull. Her teachers called her the deep sea diver! She loved that title!

This is Stella and her teacher Grandma Raynee

And Stella with her favorite teacher Brittany!

She had so much fun at lessons! And she is doing so well at our pool!

A Fun Summer Day

2011-07-24T10:45:00.003-06:00

At the beginning of the summer we headed to the park to fly a kite.

But the winds were a little strong.. and the kite had a hard time flying high.

While daddy kept trying.. Stella kept busy rolling...

rolling...

and rolling down the hill... while Max and Mama took pictures.

Even though we never got the kite flying..... we still had a very fun time.

After our attempt of flying the kite we headed up the canyon for a picnic lunch.

We had fun.. though it was a bit chilly. We cuddled up in blankets.

Max wanted to be crawling around... but daddy kept him secure.

We had a very fun day!

Cowgirls

2011-04-05T20:41:00.002-06:00

Stella and Kaya had a Cowgirl Roundup at preschool.

They had so much fun!

Don't you think they were the cutest cowgirls in town!??

Luck Of The Irish

2011-03-17T21:38:00.001-06:00

We had the best St Patrick's Day EVER!!
At least that's what Stella thinks!

The Leprechauns visited our house in the night. The changed the color of the toilet water to green. Stella could not believe her eyes.
They left some stickers and treats for her as well.

She dressed in green for Preschool. I won the cute little clover on a giveaway at http://www.holidaysnobs.blogspot.com/ and also got the arm warmers for free in a giveaway. She looked darling!

I had to go to the dentist while Stella was at Preschool so my mom kept Max for me. She dressed him in some green attire so he didn't feel left out! He's such a sweet boy! He has not been feeling well the last few days (i think he may be teething), but he still managed to smile for the camera. He's obsessed with his tongue this week.. its always sticking out.

Here is a picture of Stella and Kaya just before they went to preschool. They are such good friends! I'm so happy they are so close in age.

Next year we may have to set a leprechaun trap to see if we can catch those sneaky leprechauns. Stella really wants to see a leprechaun!

{Max, my little charmer}

2011-03-09T08:39:00.001-07:00

Max is already 6 1/2 months old! I can't believe how fast time goes by! He is the best baby in the world. He is always so happy and smiles at everyone! He laughs at his sister, loves bath time, smiles at everyone and is an amazing sleeper! I don't know what we'd do without this boy, he charms everyone who looks in his eyes. Even strangers ask to hold him (thats a little weird I think). Thanks for bringing us so much joy Max - we love you so much!! xoxo

{Be Mine}

2011-02-25T20:58:00.000-07:00

Max's Blessing

2011-02-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

I did not get any family pictures on Max's Blessing day.Joe gave Max a beautiful blessing and we were surrounded by our family and friends.It was a very special day for us. We had a wonderful afternoon with friends and family.Here are some of the people who came to support us!We love you all!xoxoxo

Preschool Christmas Program

2011-02-13T10:50:00.000-07:00

The girls were in a Christmas Program at Preschool. They were so darling! They sang lots of songs that melted their mama's (and Mimi's) hearts! They were so adorable and the songs were so cute.

Stella and Kaya really are best friends! They love each other so much!

Their favorite Aunt Heather came to see them perform and of course brought gifts for the girls. We love you Aunt Heather!!! xoxo

Christmas Pictures

2011-02-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

I'm finally recovering from the holiday season. It was so busy for us!
We had a few pictures taken to send out Christmas cards.
We took the pictures, ordered the cards, picked them up.... and never mailed them.
It was just one of the things I never found time to mail!
Here are some pictures of our little family... we sure love our kids!
Merry Christmas Everyone!

Anyway

2011-01-23T16:57:00.004-07:00

The version found written on the wall in Mother Teresa's home for children in Calcutta:

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered.

Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.

Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies.

Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you.

Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight.

Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous.

Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten.

Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough.

Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God.

It was never between you and them anyway.

-this version is credited to Mother Teresa
____________________________

Christmas 2010

2010-12-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing Christmas! Here is a picture of Mary (kaya) and the Angel of the Lord (Stella - she refused to wear white) adoring baby Jesus in the annual Christmas Story Play. I'm too tired to post about Christmas tonight but wanted to share this sweet picture. More to follow...eventually :)

The Nutcracker Mice

2010-12-20T17:53:00.002-07:00

Stella and Kaya were little mice in The Nutcracker.

They stole the show and had so much fun!

We love you littl mice!

Getting kisses and presents from Daddy after the show!

Love this Girl

2010-12-13T17:13:00.000-07:00

Santa Clause is Coming to Town!

2010-12-13T16:08:00.000-07:00

We had taken them to the mall a few weeks ago but I refused to pay $30 for a picture. Luckily he came to Kneaders by our house on Saturday morning and we could snap a picture at no charge (he's coming back on Tuesday night at the Draper location off Bangeter if any one wants to go see him). After a short wait it was our turn and was Stella EVER SO HAPPY TO SEE HIM!! While we were waiting in line she leaned over and whispered in my ear "Please don't tell Santa that I was a little bit naughty mom". She cracks me up! She told Santa she's been very nice to her brother and that she wanted a doll house. Santa said he'd have the elves work on one for her! She can't stop talking about her visit with him.

Babies

2010-12-13T15:55:00.002-07:00

Me and two of my friends had babies this year.

We got them together for a little photo shoot.

They are all so cute!! Its fun to have babies with your friends!

Cutest Hat Ever!!

2010-12-03T17:03:00.000-07:00

My cousins, Ty and Myndi, gave Max this darling Monkey Hat! He looks adorable in it! Myndi's sister made it.. I told her she needs to start an Etsy store and sell these!! Thanks guys! We LOVE it!! xoxo

{A NEW TRADITION)

2010-11-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

Ever since I can remember we opened up pajamas on Christmas Eve.

This year we changed the tradition.

We decided to have the kids open up the pj's on Thanksgiving Day.

This way they can enjoy their Christmas jammies all month long!

I'm not going to lie... my kids have been in their pj's since Thursday

(with a few times in the washer already)

Stella, Kinzie holding Max and Link, Kaya and Ayden

Stella LOVED having all of her cousins here for a week!

Kinzie was such a big helper with Max!!

All the girls in their matching night gowns.

{We Blessed our Boy)

2010-11-29T17:11:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back we blessed our baby boy.
Maxwell Joseph Moss was given the sweetest blessing from his daddy.
Our family and friends were there to celebrate with us.

Are you as much in love with this blanket as I am? Can you believe it was a GIFT?! WOW

Max was an angel during his blessing (with only a little cry at the end)

We love you so much Max! We are so happy to have you in our family!
We are so blessed!
xoxoxo

{I AM THANKFUL FOR...}

2010-11-26T12:09:00.002-07:00

A wonderful husband who is so good to me, beautiful healthy children who are the joy of my life, amazing family and friends, my Savior Jesus Christ, my testimony, a roof over my head, a car to drive that both my kids fit in comfortably, a loving supportive mom and dad, my Chi that makes my curly hair straight, long baths, heat, seat heaters in my car, a vacuum (very much a necessity with a three year old), Christmas Season, Christmas music, mountains, fall weather, spring weather, flowers, baby smiles and giggles, the funny things stella says, a job, working from home (even though its really hard), living in a free country, soldiers, sunsets, hugs from my sweet Stella, coos from my sweet Max, knowledge that families are forever, music, laughing, memories oh the many amazing memories with family and friends, the scriptures, peace in my heart, sleep, a comfy bed, a washer and dryer that work, clothes from Banana Republic, Target, Christmas books, traditions, family time, game nights with friends, sisters, brothers, my comfy couch, happy kids, email, and my amazing friends and family who have shaped who I am! Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I hope we can all have an Attitude of Gratitude all year long! xoxo

{The One}

2010-11-18T07:00:00.001-07:00

Five years ago today I married my best friend

the one who can make me laugh even when i'm really grumpy

the one who takes care of me

the one who gave me two beautiful children

the one who cuddles with me every night

the one who laughs at my jokes

the one who calls me everyday just to check in

the one who watches reality tv because i like it

the one who kisses me everyday when he gets home from work

the one who parks outside so i can park in the garage

the one who brings the mail in

the one who gets up with the kids in the night so i can sleep

the one who loves me for being me

i love you so much!

thank you for picking me to be your wife!

if i had to do it over again... i'd pick you everytime!!

xoxo

go here to read my version of our love story

{A Veterans Day Celebration}

2010-11-12T10:11:00.005-07:00

This year I decided that Veterans Day needed to be celebrated to the fullest! Since Joe served on three active duty missions - one being over seas for eighteen months in Iraq he deserved to be honored by his family and friends. I secretly planned a Veterans Day Surprise Party for him.

We felt so loved to have so many of our friends and family come to support!

We went to dinner at McGraths and then I had to trick him into going to the clubhouse. I drove up and sent him in with a letter to drop in the box. We did not have the clubhouse key so he was skeptical about taking it... i told him I thought I saw someone in there and to knock on the door. All the lights were out... he opened the door.. the lights flipped on and a big SURPRISE was shouted....

...and boy was he ever surprised!!!

Stella giving daddy a big Veterans Day hug

A display of some of his medals and awards

Some of the desserts... i love the ones with the army guys on them! So cute!

Thanks to everyone who brought a dessert - yumm!!

Joe and two of his friends... Christian and Clark

Ash and Tyson.. thanks for coming early to set up! It looked GREAT!!

Whit (holding cute little Max) and Greg... thanks for the wonderful selection of patriotic tunes!!

Suz and baby William... William was a trooper but so ready for bed!

Uncle TyTy making Max SMILE!! So cute!

Suz, Les, Ash and Nat - some of my favorite girls!! Love you all!!

Christian, Shannon and Briley

Nat, Rob and darling Siena

My Dad giving a tribute to Joe and ALL Veterans!!

Aunt Jen loving up on sweet little Max

Thanks to all of you for your love and support!! May we all take a moment to truly think of the great sacrifice that all Veterans - past, present and future - have done for you and your country!

We love you Joe and appreciate your service!!

xoxox

Leslie, Stella, Max and all of your friends and family

Ballet Class

2010-11-03T14:20:00.000-06:00

Here are a few pictures of Stella in her Ballet outfit. She LOVES her class and is SO EXCITED to be a mouse in the Nutcracker!

{ALL SMILES}

2010-11-03T14:18:00.000-06:00

Max has started smiling and it is so adorable!
He never cries unless he is hungry, tired or dirty.
He has such a good temperament and is such and easy baby.
We love our Little Handsome.

{2 Months}

2010-11-03T14:15:00.000-06:00

Max had his two month well check with Dr Mumford.
He is growing like a champ!

13 lbs
22.5 inches

He gets cuter every single day!!
We love him so much!!

{BOO}

2010-11-03T14:11:00.000-06:00

Halloween was so much fun!! Stella was a little Witch and Max was Mr Funny Bones.
They both looked so adorable!

Max also started to smile during the past few weeks. It melts my heart!

Up until a few days before Halloween stella told everyone she was going to be a MEAN Witch. A few nights before Halloween she had a bad dream that a mean witch stole her and took her to space. After that dream she decided she wanted to be a nice witch.

Kaya (Cindy Loo Who), Max (Skeleton - Mr Funny Bones) and Stella (the NICE Witch)

Ballet Tap Halloween Party

2010-10-27T13:26:00.000-06:00

Stella and Kaya just started a new ballet/tap class. Today was their halloween party and they were able to wear their costumes. Stella was a witch and Kaya was Cindy Loo Hoo. They had so much fun! They will be in the performance of The Nutcracker in December. We'd love for you all to come and see them!! Save the date Dec 3 and 4th!!

4 generations

2010-10-19T15:58:00.000-06:00

We should have held Max up a little better... but this is the best picture we got. Max, Mama, my Dad and my Grandpa.

Good Morning Skeletons

2010-10-15T16:30:00.000-06:00

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-15T16:28:00.000-06:00

getting there...

2010-10-03T21:49:00.002-06:00

We have lived in our house for almost four years... and for almost four years we have not decorated. This weekend we decided to put some paint up on the walls and do some rearranging. We are far from done.. but we are getting there!

I'll post more pictures as we progress.

We are so happy with the paint color - Joe and my mom are amazing painters and I'm a pretty good taper :)

{He’s Sensational}

2010-09-26T18:49:00.002-06:00

Three Generations

2010-09-21T23:35:00.001-06:00

Grandparents are the BEST!!

2010-09-21T23:34:00.001-06:00

Max and Mimi (my mom)

Max and Papa (my dad)

Max and Grandma (Joe's Mom)

Max, Joe and Grandpa (Joe's Dad)

Three Generations of Moss Men!

Stella LOVES being a big sister!!

2010-09-21T23:31:00.001-06:00

Look at Me.... I am 3!

2010-09-21T23:24:00.001-06:00

Our little girl is growing up....

Stella turned three!!

She's been singing the song "Look at me, I am three three three" all week long.

Her party was very low key as I'm still trying to find energy to do anything

We had a few presents and some Hello Kitty cupcakes.

During the party she said "This is the BEST party EVER!!"

I'm glad she does not remember her ONE year birthday party or she would have been sorely disappointed this year!

Playing the Fishing Game with Kaya ... one of he favorite gifts

We love you Stella Boo! Next year I'll show you what a birthday party is supposed to be like!!

Thanks for thinking your party was great.. i needed to hear that this year!!

xoxo

Mom

Already Loved Beyond Measure

2010-08-29T21:39:00.004-06:00

Maxwell Joseph

08.24.10

7 lb 7 oz 19.5 inches

Already Loved Beyond Measure

After nearly four miserable weeks of pregnancy our baby Max arrived very easily. We checked into the hospital around 4:30 pm. An epidural and five hours later I pushed through two contractions and our little man was in my arms!!

We absolutely love Dr England - he is amazing.

My mom and sisters joined us for the delivery. And my dad was put on Stella Duty at home. As soon as Max arrived my dad brought Stella to the hospital to meet her baby brother... but she was too tired to wake up and meet him... but we did get in some quality cuddle time.

(I can't believe we have two kids!!)
Papa with Maxwell

Baby Max just minutes old

Father and Son

The final day I was in the hospital I was in a lot of pain. Max had already been discharged so he and daddy had some quality bonding time all day and night while mommy slept.

The next morning Stella came wide eyed to meet her little brother.

She absolutely LOVES him!! She calls him "my little baby" and always checks to make sure he is doing okay.

Bright eyed boy

Less than five minutes old

Mimi and Max

Daddy and Max

Proud Parents

2010-08-23T11:41:00.001-06:00

Its Official...... she is potty trianed!

(and we could not be more proud)

Good Job Stella Boo!!

xoxo

Thanks Mom

2010-08-17T23:02:00.004-06:00

I've been on bed rest for the past few weeks. Our baby boy was thinking he wanted to come into this world early and my doctor was thinking that was not a good idea. So I've been down for a few weeks... if you can call it that. I've been laying in my bed finishing up work (40-50 hrs a week from my laptop) so that when he does decide to arrive i would not be stressed with work.

Well work is nearly done and our sweet baby boy is still cookin inside of me. I'm officially 37 weeks now and the doctor is not as concerned with keeping the baby in. He'll likely be healthy and developed now when he decides to come. The past few week and a half we went to the hospital 3 times to be monitored and medicated to stop my contractions... and it worked every time!

I just wanted to thank my wonderful angel of a mother who has taken on way more than she deserves! She's taken Stella for me nearly everyday (while keeping my neice and nephew as well), kept my laundry clean, folded and put away (i don't even do that!), kept the dishes done, the floors swept, the bathrooms cleaned, and picked up the phone every time i wanted to talk to her. She's been over in the middle of the night so we can make hospital runs. I don't know what I would do without my mom.. she is an absolute angel. She's the ONLY person that Stella may love more than me! I love you mom - I don't know how you do it all!

Thank you also to everyone else who has taken Stella on the fly, brought us food and loved us.

We love you ALL!! We have the most amazing family and friends!

I'm officially dilated to a 4. Contracting, contracting and contracting more. Our baby boy will be here before we know it!

Standby for adorable pictures of our little man.... any day now!

{preschool}

2010-08-15T23:48:00.003-06:00

I can't believe that she's old enough for preschool!

They always say kids grow up too fast... I'm starting to believe it!

All smiles as she anticipates her first big day of school.

Daddy, Mama and Stella outside of the school

Playground fun.. everything is just her size.

Stella with her teacher Miss Charlotte

We love you so much Miss Stella! You are going to do amazing in preschool!!

xoxo

mom & dad

Family Pictures

2010-07-31T18:52:00.002-06:00

We had family pictures taken a few weeks ago at the Lehi Train Station.

I LOVED how they turned out!!

We actually got over 1300 photos... i only posted a few here.

We loved our photographer too!

www.beeskneesphotography.blogspot.com

Getting Ready...

2010-07-25T09:35:00.002-06:00

Baby Boy (whom Stella and I call Max) will be arriving in just six short weeks. I can't believe how quickly this pregnancy has gone by. I'm so nervous to be a mother of two kids - how do people do it? I guess I'll find out soon enough!

Over the next few weeks my mom and I are going to get the nursery ready and make Stella's room fit for a princess. My mom has been so kind in helping me clean my house (maybe I should say cleaning my house and not helping.. I'm not that great of a helper!)

One more thing I want to do before the baby arrives is make about 10 freezer meals so that we have food on hand when I/we are completely and utterly exhausted. Here are the meals I'm planning on making - I need a few more good ideas.. please let me know what you like to freeze!

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
Honey-Lime Chicken Enchiladas
Beef Stroganoff
Chicken Pot Pies
Sweet Pork (for nachos or burritos)

I hope the next six weeks I can stay focused so I can have everything ready when our little man arrives!!

xoxo

Leslie

Funny Stella

2010-07-18T22:10:00.004-06:00

Stella says the funniest things... I wanted to write some down here before I forget them.

Oh look mom.. its an ant. He's all alone and cant find his family (in a very sad voice)... I will just smash him! (she then kills the ant)

We were at the Bees Baseball game and sitting right near Frank Layton (former coach for the Utah Jazz). As we are leaving Stella looks at him and says "See ya, wouldn't wanna be ya!"

She was out at night with my mom and the moon was just a sliver. She said Look Mimi, someone took a bite out of the moon!

She dropped my clippie on the ground so I asked her to find it. She gets down on her hands and knees and says... I will find it with my sense of smell!

I love you Stella Jane.. thanks for always making your mama and daddy laugh!!

xoxo

Play Land Fun

2010-07-07T18:00:00.000-06:00

Stella sure is having fun while her cousins are in town!!

We love your Kinzie and Ayden (and Kaya and Linkin)...

Get ready for 2 more weeks of FUN!!

xoxo

The Hippo

2010-06-28T10:55:00.000-06:00

Pool Days

2010-06-25T10:05:00.001-06:00

We love having a pool!! The cousins have been having almost dailey pool adventures. It is going to be a fun summer!

The Many Faces of Stella Jane

2010-06-02T12:26:00.001-06:00

This girl is really, Really, REALLY cute!

(and its a good thing because she just dropped her pants and pee'd on my porch.)

Zoo Fun

2010-05-17T22:37:00.004-06:00

We headed to Hogle Zoo on Saturday. We figured it was about time that Stella enjoyed some Zoo fun since she has never been before... she more than LOVED it!! We decided to buy a season pass so we'll be back all year long!

Tea Party

2010-05-07T11:49:00.000-06:00

Stella got a new tea set from daddy last night.

She fell asleep in the car on the way home from the store so we did not get to open it until today.

She LOVES it!! We've been having lemonade all morning... its so yummy!!

New CAR!!!

2010-04-23T13:35:00.002-06:00

I wish i was saying I was getting a new car! But alas, I'm not the lucky girl today!

Miss Stella got her first car from her Aunt Heather.

She LOVES it!!

If any of your kids want to take a ride.. come on over!!

Thanks Aunt Heavy, we LOVE you!!

Absolutely love this girl!!!

2010-04-20T23:05:00.000-06:00

Snakes, Snails and Puppy Dog Tails...

2010-04-15T13:30:00.000-06:00

That's what little boys are made of!!

Baby Boy Moss
Arriving September 2010

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T15:12:00.000-06:00

The Easter Bunny showed up at our house and Stella was more than thrilled with what he left her!

She calls this "her cool thing"

she got a few eggs filled with candy, bubbles, new Tinkerbell socks, Bunny Pez, a book and more.

Where did March go?

2010-03-31T21:53:00.003-06:00

Where on earth did March go? Life has been crazy busy for us in the Moss household.

I picked up some extra work for 6 weeks and am so happy that its finally almost over and slowing down. Stella spent the month hanging out with my sister Ashley and my Mom and her best friend Kaya. Many trips were made to the Living Planet Aquarium, McDonalds Playland, Mimi's house and the playground. Sadly I missed out on it all! I have a few more busy weeks of work and then it will be back to hanging out with my sweet girl!

Joe is busy with work and school. He is more than half way through with his Masters Program and will graduate in September. He is an amazing student with straight A's. I don't know how he does it! I am married to one brilliant man! We are so lucky to have such a great daddy and husband around! We love you Joe!

We are expecting baby number two in September. We'll find out what the baby is in just a few more weeks. Stella is excited for her 'baby bruder' - shes determined its a boy and we'll soon find out if she is right. She always wants to kiss my belly and sing the baby songs. She already loves the baby. I have a feeling she'll have a little harder time once the baby arrives!

That is our life in a nutshell. I've lost my camera charger but am hoping to get a new one for my birthday (hint hint Joe!). I'll try to be a better blogger and update you all on our lives more!

Best Friends

2010-02-10T09:52:00.004-07:00

play with eachothers hair while drinking sippies and watching movies...

Best friends hug.... (stell just put baby powder in her hair)

best friends cry together...

best friends carry eachother around...

and play every single day.

WE DID IT!!

2010-01-23T17:41:00.005-07:00

We did it! We actually did it!! Thank you so much for your support and love! Becuase of YOU we more than tripled our original goal of 100 hygiene kits... 300+ kits!!! Thank you so much for helping us make this happen! We were amazed at the love and support that came from all over not only our immediate friends and family, but this spread like wildfire.. we even had a few random international donations from people who had heard about our project! Thank you for making a difference and for being proactive to make the world a better place! We love you all! May God bless the people of Haiti and may he help ease their suffering and unbelievable heartache... I thank my my father above everyday for the blessings in my life and I am thankful for the opportunity we had to share what we have with others! We love you so much and hope you count your blessings tonight!! xoxo

FINAL UPDATE ON WHAT WE NEED

2010-01-21T22:11:00.009-07:00

Hello Friends!! We did an inventory of the items we have received. We are going to make 250 kits! YES, the number keep going up because all of you have been SO GENEROUS!!! Thank you so much for all of your help!!

Please leave a comment, email, text or face book me if you are planning on getting any of the following items. I will try to keep the blog updated so that you all know exactly what we need! We have also received some generous cash donations - we will go to the store tomorrow with that money to fill in what we need! If we have extra money we'll just make MORE kits!

Thank you again for helping us to make this idea become a reality! Its so amazing to think that we are going to be helping 250 families who need help so desperately!!

Gallon Size Zip Lock Bags-------------------00
Toothpaste---------------------------------36
Toothbrush (brittney, mindy included)----- 56
Combs-------------------------------------146
Soap (shauni/ joce yours are included)------81
Towels (15x25(myndi your are included)---30

Thanks for your support! We love you!

xoxo
Leslie, Whitney and Ashley

STILL NEED!!

2010-01-19T16:58:00.005-07:00

248 Bars of Soap ====== (10 for $3 at smiths – ivory)
0 Combs=== WE HAVE ENOUGH
0 Toothbrushes===== WE HAVE ENOUGH
140 Toothpastes ======(2 for $1 at dollar tree)
255 towels=======(.49 cents at IKEA)

200 KITS - Lets DOUBLE our GOAL!!

2010-01-18T17:27:00.003-07:00

FRIENDS - This project is snowballing and we couldn't be MORE excited!! I just ran the numbers and just $200 (or more donations) will turn our 100 Hygiene Kits into 2oo!! That is DOUBLE what we originally planned for!!

Here is an updated list of what we need to complete 200 kits!! Keep donating!! And remember you are WELCOME to come help put them together on Saturday if you'd like to! Leave me a comment with your email addres and I will send you directions!

328 Bars of Soap ====== (10 for $3 at smiths – ivory)
200 Combs======(6 for $1 at Dollar Tree)
530 Toothbrushes===== (3 for $1 at dollar tree) - some say you can get 5 for $1 at some locations
170 Toothpastes ======(2 for $1 at dollar tree)
330 towels=======(.49 cents at IKEA)

Lets MAKE this happen!! Our hearts are HAPPY!! Service ROCKS!

UPDATE - Thanks for your continued support!!

2010-01-17T15:26:00.006-07:00

WOW!! Thank you to EVERYONE for being so GENEROUS!! Our hearts are full of love for all of you!!

We posted about this project Friday afternoon and we're already so close to getting what we need for 100 Hygiene Kits after only 48 hours. We feel so blessed to know so many giving people!

Here is what we still need for 100 Kits - if things keep going at the rate they have been maybe we can make 200 Kits!! Please feel free to give items that we already have - the donations will be put to good use by the Haitian people!

Soap - NEED 128 bars -(3 for $1 at Dollar Tree)

Toothbrushes - NEED 130 (Can buy for .15 cents each at amazon.com)

Toothpaste-NEED 70 (2 for $1 at Dollar Tree)

Towels (15x25) - NEED 130 (can get at IKEA for .49 cents each)

Combs - have all 200!! THANK YOU!

Gallon Ziplock bags - Have all 100! THANK YOU!!

Remember - we will take cash donations too if that is easier for you! Contact me or my sisters or you can send money through PayPay to leslieamoss@gmail.com!

Project Haiti

2010-01-16T22:39:00.002-07:00

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!

The support we have already received is overwhelming and we can't thank you enough! Keep the donations coming!! Our goal is to make 100 Hygiene Kits - but if we get more supplies or money we will make MORE!!

Here is an update on what we have and what we need!!

Ziplock Bags - 100 - enough donated to make 100 kits

Soap -200- Received 30 full size and 20 travel - STILL NEED 160 bars (3 for $1 at Dollar Tree)

Toothbrushes -Received 127 - STILL NEED 173

Combs - Received 144 - STILL NEED 56 (6 for $1 at Dollar Tree)

Toothpaste - Received 30 - STILL NEED 70 (2 for $1 at Dollar Tree)

Towels (15x25)- Received 10 - STILL NEED 190 (1 for $1 at Dollar Tree)

We've also received cash from some generous donations- THANK YOU!! We will take money received on Friday night to purchase any items we still need! So far we have $110!!

We can't thank you all enough for your generous support in this project! We could not do it without you!! If you want to help assemble the kits come to my house Saturday morning at 9:00 am... we'd love your help :)

We love you!!

xoxoxo
Leslie, Whitney and Ashley

Will YOU Help?!

2010-01-15T11:19:00.003-07:00

Friends, friends of friends.. of friends.. of friends (ask everyone you know to help!)

Our hearts are broken for those people in Haiti. We can't even begin to imagine the heart ache of the people devastated by this massive earthquake. Not being able to find your family, not being able to find food or shelter.

Did you know that 80% of the people in Haiti live off less than $2 per day? Most the people don't have electricity or running water. This country is poverty stricken and they need our help, TODAY!!

We have decided to organize a project that will directly help the people of Haiti. We have decided to assemble 100 Hygiene Kits - but we can't do it alone. Will YOU help?

This week we are asking for donations to put these kits together. Here is what wee need. (All items can be purchased at Dollar Stores)

100 Gallon Sized Ziplock Bags
200 Plastic Combs - no sharp edges
400 Toothbrushes - must be packaged
100 Tubes of Toothpaste
200 bars of soap
200 15x25 inch hand towels - can be purchased or made with terry cloth by zig zagging or surging the edges

Please help us reach our goal of 100 Hygiene Kits. If everyone would just provide ONE item we know we can make this happen!! (Or even better - rally everyone you know, family, friends coworkers and get lots of items to donate). NO DONATION IS TOO SMALL!

Donations can be dropped off at my house. Email leslieamoss(at)gmail(dot)com for address and directions.

If you would like to help assemble the kits please join us on Saturday January 23rd at 9 AM at Leslie's house.

If you would like to make a monetary donation to help buy supplies you can send a check to me or you can send money through PayPal (leslieamoss(at)gmail(dot)com).

100% of what is donated will go to making these kits.

Together we CAN make a difference!
Together we WILL make a difference!

Will YOU help? Please join us! (or start your own project!!)

Call Leslie at 801-755-5962 with questions.

xoxo
Leslie, Whitney and Ashley

Fridge Lock

2010-01-14T13:28:00.002-07:00

I need a lock for my fridge. Stella has figured out how to open it and she gets out what she wants when she wants. When she wants things like string cheese or an orange its no big deal - and actually helpful that she can do it herself. However this week we've had a few incidents that I feel grant the need for a lock on my refrigerator.

Thursday - I walked downstairs and the door to the fridge was wide opened. I could not see Stella anywhere. I called her name. And she responds "NO mom, don't find me!" I said Stella where are you? She yells back "Don't find the candy, mom!" I found her under the kitchen table with a bag full of chocolate candy unwrapped and stuffing her face full by the handfuls.

Friday - Joe walked in from work to find Stella on the kitchen floor with a half gallon of ice cream and a measuring cup. She was scooping ice cream into her mouth as fast as she could!

Tuesday -while I was working Stella slipped downstairs to play. She was being quiet for way too long and would respond to my calls. I go downstairs to find her in front of the fridge with an open box of eggs. She was breaking them on the floor and on her body. She was covered in head to toe in raw egg. I picked her up, stripped her down and put her in the tub. She cried the entire time she was in the tub because she did not want to be clean.

Wed - I asked Stella what she wanted for lunch. she went to the fridge and pulled out the sour cream. I told her that she cold not just have sour cream for lunch but that I'd make her a burrito so she could dip it into the sour cream. She got mad, ran to the stairs and threw the sour cream down to the landing. It exploded everywhere. Needless to say she got a long time out. And when her dad came home from work and asked her what she did she told him all about it with a huge smile on her face!

So... its not that i want a refrigerator lock, i actually NEED one! I've tried tying the handles together with a ribbon but she is too smart for that. Any suggestions? I just want a latch.. not an actual pad lock!

Christmas Morning

2009-12-25T10:32:00.002-07:00

I love Christmas! Having a little one makes it even better!

We had a wonderful quiet Christmas.

We decided to open our presents at our own house this year instead of at my moms with EVERYONE!

Mimi and Papa came over to watch Stella open her presents!

Christmas Morning after Santa delivered the gifts!

Mrs Clause was exhausted when we got home from my parents last night.

I went and laid down with Stella while she went to sleep and fell asleep with her.

When I woke up Santa had wrapped all the presents and cleaned the house. Oh how I love that man!! Then we assembled the Mini Kitchen for Stella - 2oo pieces and 3 hours later off to bed we went!

Oh was it ever worth it! She LOVED her Kitchen from Santa!!

We decided to get Stella a kitchen when my sister said she was going to Kaya one.

See Whitney's AWFUL experience here.

Its a family tradition to get your picture taken on the stairs before going to see what Santa brought.

Grandma and Grandpa Moss got Stella some PLAY FOOD to go with her Kitchen. Here she is "eating" some grapes. She LOVES to pretend and loves her food!

Mimi and Papa gave Stella this adorable Lion. Stella was taking her baby for a ride on it. She loves her Lion too! Stell is holding her BABY from Santa. She sat on his lap and told him she wanted it and has been talking about the baby Santa is bringing for a month! She was so excited for her baby - we've been changing diapers and clothes all morning long. She keeps saying "Baby so happy!"

We got Stella a Princess treasure box full of princess dresses and accessories. She still has this blue dress on. She looks ADORABLE!!

Mrs Potato Head did not disappoint!

Stella Boo had a wonderful Christmas - Joe and I did as well!

Joe scored two pair of shoes, some clothes and a few board games.

I was surprised with a new coat, make-up, perfume and a gift card to BR!!

We hope you all had a VERY Merry Christmas too!!

Love, The Moss'

Oh Christmas Tree

2009-12-07T12:29:00.000-07:00

We put up a Christmas Tree this weekend. Stella calls it her Christmas (she leaves the TREE part off). We have a few wrapped presents underneath but not of which are Stella's as she's already tried opening a few. We are so excited for Christmas this year as Stella is starting to understand whats going on. Its so fun!!

Santa, I love you!!

2009-12-01T21:08:00.002-07:00

We took Stella to Macy's to sit on Santa's lap. The REAL Santa from the Macy's Day Parade!! My sister Ashley works at Macy's and called and said we had to come to visit. Were we ever glad we did! He was so amazing! Stella could not have been happier to meet him. She asked for a baby and Santa said he would do his best to surprise her with a great present!! When we were leaving Stella said "Santa, I love you!". We loved him too!

4 Years!!

2009-11-18T13:15:00.003-07:00

Today is our FOUR YEAR ANNIVERSARY!! I can't believe its been four years. In honor of our anniversary I've written Our Love Story posted on my other blog.

We have a unique story... so if you have some time head on over to read it. Be warned that it is VERY LONG! I did not want to leave out many details as it is our story... from my point of view. I have a feeling Joe's version would be no longer than a paragraph or two!

I am so lucky to have Joe as my husband. He is absolutely perfect for me. He is the best husband and best dad I could have ever wanted!

Babe,

Thanks for giving me four wonderful years. We've grown so much and I love you more today than the day that I married you! I am so excited to see what the future has in store for us. I know together we can conquer anything! I absolutely love you to the core! Thanks for being so wonderful!! I love you so much!!

Love, your wifey

Land of the Free

2009-11-11T13:06:00.003-07:00

On this Veterans Day I can't help but think of those in my life who have dedicated part of their lives to serving our country.

This is a picture of my Grandma and Papa sometime around 1946. My Papa was a member of the Navy and fought in World War II. My grandma was just 16 when the love of her life (just a boy of 18 himself) left to fight for our country. For two years they faithfully wrote letters back and forth and expressed their love for eachother. The letters are now a family treasure. My Papa died when i was in high school, we flew to Illinoise to attend his funeral where his coffin was draped with an american flag and there was a 21 Gun Salute in his honor. I still have one of the casings of the bullets from that day. He left me me his railroad keys from his many years on the railroad and his bible which is one of my most prized possessions. He was such an amazing grandpa and I miss him dearly. I'm so happy that he is able to be with my grandma in heaven now. My grandma passed on before I was born. From the stories I hear she was an amazing woman too... she gave me my mom and for that alone I'll always love her!

Above is a picture of my amazing husband!! Oh how I love him so much!! Joe was a member of the Utah National Guard from 1999 to 2006. During that time he spend 2 years deployed, 1 year of that being in Ramadi, Iraq. Joe called me nearly EVERYDAY while he was away, my phone was glued to my hand and i would drop ANYTHING to hear his voice. It was such a stressful time having him over there, but we grew together so much becuase of it!

Since our 4 year anniversary is one week from today (Nov 18) I see it fitting to write our love story in the next post.

(brace yourself ... its going to be a long post :))

Halloween

2009-11-08T23:23:00.003-07:00

Kaya Lexi Stella Landon

So I've lost my camera cord and I have no way of taking pictures until I find it or get a new one... that explains my lack of posts. No one likes a post without pictures.. or at least I don't like posting without pictures.

Here is a picture of the Utah cousins on Halloween. They all looked darling and had lots of fun and got way too much candy!! (Link was a little Lion but was not in this picture, but looked adorable!)

Stella's face sums up how much she loved Halloween!! She was the cutest witch I've ever seen! More pictures to follow... one of these days!

Most AMAZING Halloween Party Ever!!

2009-10-25T14:56:00.000-06:00

We were invited to the most amazing halloween party EVER!!

There were hundreds of people, incredible food, dancing and decorations to die for!!

Even Anna Nicole and Michael Jackson's dead bones showed up!

The Hosts.... Anna Nicole and her grandpa... i mean husaband!

PART 2

2009-10-25T14:52:00.001-06:00

Part 3

2009-10-25T14:48:00.002-06:00

Leslie's Real Life

2009-10-12T16:40:00.002-06:00

Hello Friends.

I've added another funny story to my Painfully Shy blog.

Go take a look.. its worth reading if you're in the mood for a good laugh!

Become a follower and you'll be updated every time I post!

I have a few more stories I'm finishing up writing that will be posted in the coming weeks!

Enjoy!

Leslie

Tuesday Night

2009-10-06T21:22:00.002-06:00

It was a good night.

We went to the Miller's and enjoyed dinner and Joe got his hair cut from Heather.

Afterwards Joe surprised me and Stella by taking us to Jamba Juice. I LOVE that place and the only time I ever think about going it is late at night... we always drive there only to find it closed. It was a special treat. Caribbean Passion Goodness!!

Now Joe is putting Stella to bed. Reading her "special books" that I keeps in the top of her closet so she does not destroy them. They only come out at bed time.

They are singing made up songs and laughing.

I'm lucky to have such a good husband and Stella sure loves her daddy!!

October Fun!!

2009-10-04T12:51:00.001-06:00

October is such a fun month. Halloween is right around the corner so we headed to Gardner Village to see the witches. Stella was a little nervous to be around them but had a good time as long as she was holding moms hand.

The girls got to ride a pony and Stella absolutly LOVED it... she can't stop talking about in!

Afterwards we went to the pumpkin patch to pick out a pumpkin. Out of all the hundreds of pumpkins in the patch stella picked a tiny baby pumpkin - it was just the perfect size. When she puts it down and goes to play she comes looking for it asking "mommy, where is my pumpkin patch?". She is a cutie pie!!

A Party for a Princess

2009-09-30T09:38:00.003-06:00

Miss Kaya turned 3 Years Old yesterday and she threw a party for all the princesses in the castle! They all had a royal ball and looked oh so adorable!! Whitney even made Kaya a princess cake which turned out darling! Happy Birthday Kaya Starling we love you so much, especially your BFF Stella Boo!

Return To Yourself

2009-09-12T13:02:00.002-06:00

Your only constant is that you are you, that you have a core of truth within you and a path to walk, and if you allow your core of truth to tell you which fork in the road to take, if you allow that internal compass to tell you which mountain to climb, then you will do well indeed and have a fulfilling, interesting life. ........ You are everything you need to be, just as you are, right now. You are the center of your own life. You are the beacon that shines and shows the way. Be glad when others walk beside you, enjoy their company, connect as closely and deeply as you can, but always, always, shine your own light and walk your own path and allow them to do the same.

Shine out and show who you are, so that people who are looking for someone exactly like you can find you, do not allow setbacks or even major betrayals to dampen your shine and your being!

Happy Birthday Stella Jane!

2009-09-08T22:16:00.001-06:00

Miss Stella turned 2 years old today. I can hardly believe how fast she is growing. She was very excited about all of her presents and especially loved her baby from her mama and her book from her daddy. I decided that I wanted to make her birthday cake this year and I think it turned out great. A special thanks to my friend Natalie for coming over to help me out! I think it turned out so cute!!

Stella's Favorites:

Songs: ABC's, Row Row, Itsy Bitsy Spider, You are My Sunshine

Color: Greem (aka green) she thinks EVERYTHING is "greem"

Toys: Dolls (they are all named Stella), Balls, Books

Books: Do Princesses Wear Hiking Boots?, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, One Fish Two Fish

Best Friend: Kaya (hands down)

Food: Chicken Nuggets, broccoli, candy -(she calls it sugar)

Activities: Climbing on anything, going to the park, riding behind mom in the bike trailer, swimming, bath time, using the big girl potty (not totally potty trained yet), drawing

Movies/TV: Madagascar, anything Sesame Street, Horton Hears a Who

Stella Book you are such an angel. I love you so much and am so happy to get to play with you everyday! Thanks for being so silly and for making me laugh everyday! I love you my little lovey. xoxo Mom

2009-09-04T09:41:00.004-06:00

Its been a fun few weeks of canning! I'm not sure why i love it so much - but I do! Me and Natalie and Ashley have had our aprons on and water boiling. Here is what we've each canned so far.

10 jars Raspberry Jam
15 jars Apricot Jam
12 Quarts Salsa - 12 more to can on Saturday
10 Quarts Peaches - 16 more to can on Saturday

I'm hoping to find time to can a total of 40 quarts of peaches, and I'm going to try my hand at canning tomatoes next week. Any other suggestions on what I should be canning?

Fabulous!

2009-08-13T23:52:00.000-06:00

I love my girlfriends! Really love them! Tonight we got together to celebrate Paige's birthday. We had fondue (way too much fondue) and mocktails. We chatted and laughed.. and laughed.. and laughed!! Love you girls! See you next month! (Suz sacrificed not being in the picture to take it for us).

Naughty!

2009-08-12T20:21:00.000-06:00

23 Months

2009-08-11T11:00:00.000-06:00

My Angel baby,

You officially turned 23 months old on the 8th.

Where did time go?

It seems like just yesterday you were born.

You makes me laugh everyday.

I smile just simply thinking about you.

I love that I was picked to be your mom.

I adore you more each day!

I love you so so much my Stella Boo.

kisses and hugs.

xoxoxo

Mom

Apricot Jam

2009-08-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

My friend Natalie was given a huge bucket of apricots. She called me up and we knew exactly what to do... we had a JAM SESSION! Four batches of apricot jam was made. We will have more than enough apricot jam to last us 27 years.. maybe even longer! We love to can and its even better when the fruit is free!

Late Night Money Saving Madness!!!

2009-08-10T11:00:00.000-06:00

As you already know... I love COUPONS!! My neighbor Natalie got me into it about a year ago and its so addicting and fun! I love getting a good deal and it makes me so mad when i pay full price for anything!

Last week me and three girls from my neighborhood got together and planned a midnight shopping spree to Smiths... they were having Double Coupon Days and we did not want to miss out!! Double coupons means we save even more money!! and you know what they say... A penny saved is a penny earned. Couponing has made me believer in that statement!

We ended up getting our toothpaste for FREE! That's right - F-R-E-E!!

We made ourselves right at home counting our coupons on the floor.

What has become of us?!

A fully stocked car after a night of hard work. Boy was it ever worth it!!

I got home at 2:00 in the morning and I was wired! Saving so much money had my heart racing and I wanted to call and tell everyone! Good thing my mom is a night owl because I had to tell someone (and I did not want to awaken Joe from his slumber)- i called my mom who was of course thrilled for me! And then i had to wake up Joe anyway - he was also very impressed.

I paid $17.79 for everything pictured above!! It may have been my best shopping trip ever!

Natalie scored even bigger... check it out here... also note that i stole her pictures right off her blog!

Babies!!

2009-08-10T08:00:00.001-06:00

About a week ago I was one lucky Aunt!!

My niece Rachel was in from Chicago and needed a babysitter for her five week old baby. I jumped at the chance to spend some quality time with my GREAT niece Daphne!

What an angel she was!

(It still weirds me out that I'm only 28 and already a great aunt)

Later that evening we watched Joe's sister Julie's girls. 10 week old Ella Marie and 6 year old Erin.

Ella was a little doll and I was loving up on more baby cuddles.

Stella surprisingly did not care that I was holding Miss Ella. She was having the time of her life with her cousin Erin. When Erin left she just kept telling me "best friends Erin, where's Erin go?"

The "big" girls had so much fun. Playing on the slide, running at the park, playing hopscotch, reading books and just being girls!

We'll be up to visit in Duchesne soon!

Because its Fun

2009-08-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Stella has managed to break the child lock off of the pan cupboard.
I'm just happy she has not broken the lock on the door under the sink.
Her new favorite activity is to take all the pans out onto the back porch and "cook" things.
I get all sorts of pretend food from her. She cooks me ice cream and chocolate on a regular basis.
She has a sweet tooth just like her daddy.
You may ask why I let her take the pans outside and my response to you is Because Its FUN!
She absolutely loves it.. and I absolutely adore her!

All Horse Parade

2009-08-09T22:04:00.001-06:00

I am so behind on blogging... I'm going to try and catch up over the next few days.

I'll be awaiting your comments on our super exciting life... i mean whats more exciting that an

ALL HORSE PARADE?

Now that Joe is back in school he has a lot of homework to do. On Saturday mornings Stella and I try to find something fun to do so we can get out of the house and let dad have some quiet study time for a few hours. On this particular Saturday we headed to Sandy for the All Horse Parade.

Stella couldn't have been more thrilled!!! She is still talking about the "forseys" aka horseys for those of you who don't speak Stella.

Stella's cousin Kaya made it for the final round of horses and they had a blast cheering them on. They love horses!