Happy Birthday to my Sunshine Girl!

(I know I said I wouldn't write for a while but, I didn't want to miss Hailey's Birthday)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY SWEET SUNSHINE GIRL!!

I call her my sunshine girl because when she is around it is if the sun is always shining!

Today she is 4!

Sorry

Sorry for this little note but, there is so much going on in my life right now that I feel I can't keep up with this blogging. I read back over my blogs and it's as if I should have been writing in my journal instead. I am really having a hard time with some things that are going on and feel I shouldn't share them here. I need to figure out some major life decisions - I am having such a tough time! I am grateful for all the friendships I have been able to reconnect. Please don't loose touch. Maybe in time I will be able to share more but, as for now, I just need to think things out! I am sorry but, thank you all again for being my friends!
-Ang

Random pictures of things going on.

Here's some random pictures since I haven't posted any for a while.

This is Tyler and Howard in the play they did back in Feb. Tyler is in the back on the stairs and Howard is in the front left. One of the guys came here from Sweeden to be in the play and as their good bye gifts he made every one a shirt. Tyler's says "cool breeze" and Howards says "old maid mail man". Part of it was inside jokes and part of it had to do with things they said in the play.

This is the boy Hailey is going to marry. (the one on the left) His name is Jaxon. Hailey's hair was pulled back so, that's why it looks like she doesn't have any hair. She had a sleep over with Jaxon because he's moving to Utah. Brenden said he needed to sleep with them and watch over his sister! Hailey was so funny - she said "don't worry we're not going to kiss!" I wasn't worried until that's what she said!!

This is the new shack we just bought. This is the before picture! It needed soooo much work!

This is the after picture! YAA! It looks so much better. Howard was so busy driving tractor and working at the post office. I had to paint it myself so it took 2 days - my poor back killed me when it was done! My friend Summer does vinyl letters and stuff so I had her make the stuff you see in the window. (if you need anything she is very inexpensive and good - just jump on her blog and talk to her) Anyway! Glad to have it finished it's just not going as good as we hoped. We still need to invest another $3000 into it before we will really start seeing money like we want. We are thinking about taking it to Reno for Hot August Nights but, it's like$2000 to just be a vendor! (for those who are not big car fans it's the biggest car "show off" in the U.S. My dad and bro James have been able to show off their cars in the "cruise". I think it takes like 3 or 4 years of waiting to even get picked to have you car picked to be in it. But, it's hot that week and could make tons - but, that's a ton to put out front to just hope you'll make it back!

Last night I wish I would have remembered my camera for the scout camp thing. We made dutch oven stuff. I found a fun recipe for "Pepsi Chicken", BBQ ribs, campout potatoes, and sticky buns. The Pepsi chicken was a hit with the boys! I thought it would be a great way to teach them that cooking could be fun. Funny thing - it worked! They all asked if I would give them the recipes so they could make it for their families.

FYI the chicken you just put the chicken in the dutch oven cover it with bbq sauce then put pepsi (or you could use rootbeer) in the dutch oven til it almost covers the chicken. Cook for about half and hour to and hour (depending on your heat).

Well, it's Saturday and finally stopped raining - I need to go so my garden is not taken over completely by weeds.

Always Running!

That's what I feel like that I am just running in circles half the time - so much is going on all summer long! We are booking events for the summer with the shaved ice shack (this is to pay for 8 kids school clothes, missions, colleges, and everything else these guys need!) I said 8 kids in school because Hailey is going to start preschool this year. She can't wait! Abby is not going to do well without her sidekick. or is it that she is the sidekick? They do everything together and if they notice they haven't seen the other after a few minutes they start asking where they are. I am glad to see them so close.
This year we will have so much going on even when school does start
Greg will be a senior - he doesn't do sports or anything but we are hoping starts making some life plans this year.
Ashley will be a sophmore- at least she listens to me- she knows where she needs to go to college because of what it offers for her major. She is on a spirit team - kind of like the kids who run around pumping everyone up for games - mostly football. The whole town literally shows up to the games. Stores even close so they can attend. Pretty fun!
Tyler will be a freshman- AHH! I can't believe he is going to be in high school! my how the years have ran by me! Tyler is going to summer school so he's not happy about that, as for him, he normally does something during the year with sports. Mostly just having a possy of girls follow him around. Not even kidding - everytime I see him at school or any school event he has between 3 and 10 girls trailing behind him. His best friend loves it because he loves the attention from the girls!
Heidi will be in 8th grade - she does track and cross county. She totally gets that from her dad! Her mom hated sports and as for me - I am not one who enjoys running at all!
Brenden will be in 6th grade which here is middle school. He can't wait it's all he can talk about. He is starting to finally feel like he's getting older. Tyler's not real happy about it. It's almost funny!
Melanie will be in 5th grade - she just reads and reads. No friends or sports just loves to be alone with a book. I guess that's how her mom was.
Natalie will be in 2nd grade- Natalie just likes to go to school. She hates doing the work and doesn't like sports. I think she just likes to play outside all day.
Hailey like I said will be starting preschool this summer she is also taking swimming lessons. She says she can't wait. She also wants to start golfing lessons. This of course makes Howard so proud! He will finally have a golfing buddy! Hailey already has a boyfriend who says he loves her and of course she loves him and is planning the wedding. She wants cake and flowers in her hair! It's so funny! We have a couple of weddings to attend in the next few months so I should put flowers in her hair.
Abby- she just cracks me up! All the kids want to be bigger than they are but her. If you ask her if she is a big girl or a baby she will tell you that she is mommy's baby! She is even working on potty training and she wants to still be my baby!

Well, I'd better run the kids are waking up and I have to run out to scout camp today and help them cook. I am a cooking merit badge leader.

What a weekend!

We took the kids out on Saturday night and went camping for the weekend. We went up by Sumpter Oregon (this was our second choice - our first one we drove all the way up there to find about 3 feet of snow!) We had a good time camping - I always feel so much better when I am out camping. Though I had some flash backs of girls camp- waking up to see Marian up in a tree (what a leader!) Then there was the time when I took some rope and wrapped it around the porta-potty when Tamara was in there. I was so afraid that I would get it done to me after- serves me right!

Well, we over all had a great time then to come home with a message from one of my sisters that she is getting married in the fall. And after a few of us showering our water pump went out - seeing as we don't use any water but, from our well. That sucks! We sent the older two to shower at the high school gym about an hour before school started (at least we got a couple more down) The guy is coming out today to fix it - PRAY IT WILL WORK!!!

AHHHH! Update!

Well, I finally have a spare second to update our lives ......... remember with 11 of us there's never a dull moment so...... there's a ton of updating.
Let's start with the bad news and work our way to positive.
Last weekend on Saturday we needed to make a dump run. Tyler and his friend were in town (hanging out with some GIRLS) Ashley was working our shaved ice shack. Brenden was sick. I loaded everyone else and went to the dump. Greg helped me unload the pick up bed trailer. We had some old metal roofing in there and we had to separate all of it at the dump. I stood at the side and took out a bike tire rim, Greg was at the back and I thought was taking off the tarp. I tried to get the bike tube off the rim but couldn't so, all knowing Angela, threw the rim to the pile of scrap metal. As I did I caught Greg out of the corner of my eye almost to the pile with some of the roofing. The bike tire rim turned to the right and was going pretty fast because I had thrown it pretty hard. I could see it and Greg were headed in the same direction. I yelled, "Watch Out Watch Out!!!" To late, it hit Greg right in the side of the head bringing him to his knees. I ran over to him and touched the back of his head to hold him still to check out any damage, sure enough, there was a TWO INCH cut above his ear on his head. I felt horrible!! Greg has never even had stitches (yes, at almost 18 a boy has made it this far) AHAHAH! my stomach ached in pain for him! I ran to the suburban to find something to put on it and found a clean diaper - turned it inside out and put it on his head. I then of course ran him to the hospital. The nurse and doctor gave him a hard time about being hurt and told him to be good so his mom wouldn't smack him again. (it didn't help me feel better, but, it made Greg laugh enough that he wasn't angry with me) They then teased him about wearing a shower cap around town that was pink with lace. Long story short, Greg now has 4 yes 4 staples in the side of his head. One of his best friends keeps telling him that "girls dig scares and now you can get a pity date!"

As for the rest of the kids - Heidi is finished with track. She did pretty good for her first time.
Tyler is graduating to high school (that is after summer school) (man am I feeling old.... sniff)
Brenden starts middle school next fall! He still seems like my baby boy (sniff)
All the rest are doing fine with no huge news to report. Oh' I almost forgot.... Howard and I almost divorced this last weekend. No it's not a joke, it's true. Natalie (his youngest from his first wife) is 7 1/2 and pees on the floor regularly. She did it again on Friday. It's been going on for 4 years and I can't take it anymore!! It's not because something is wrong with her or any logical reason that you might think. You can even tell her to go to the bathroom and she will walk right past the bathroom and go sit in front of the TV and pee on the floor! Just to get the attention. It drives me crazy not to mention I am really tired of renting a professional carpet cleaner. The room always stinks and it's just disgusting! So, I talked to Howard about maybe sending her to live with his sister for a while or something (counselling hasn't helped at all!) he doesn't want to, yet his solution is telling her "now you shouldn't be doing that" No consequences or anything. I am to the point with all of the problems with her that I just want out. I don't feel any love towards this child and can't make myself. I struggle with finding the positive with her when she continues to give you the negative. (this isn't the only regular behavior problem we have there are a lot) also, she isn't allowed to ride the bus anymore because she has been stealing things from other children's backpacks. Anyway, I told Howard that I felt it best for her (and me) that I remove myself from the relationship so that she doesn't feel the negative that I feel towards her. We stayed up until 2 am figuring out how to divide everything and what kind of visits he would have with our girls. Very odd and friendly division of things. By morning I started pulling wedding and other pictures of us off the wall. Then got on line to try to find a job again. Found one on the other side of Idaho. Then Howard came to me crying asking what would we need to do to stay together. I cried to and we talked about how much we really loved each other and how we promised when we got married that we wouldn't let the kids split us up. He asked if some day, when she moved out if we could remarry. I felt the issues would still be there just not daily like they are now. Long story short, we decided that maybe if we put the Lord more forward in our lives we would be able to get further faster. I guess one thing this showed me is how much Howard loves me and how deeply we feel for each other. Doesn't make stuff with the kids change, but what more do we do?

Changing the subject........
If you didn't know, we opened up a shaved ice business a couple of years ago and bought our first "shack" last year. This year we decided to expand and so we found a guy that would sell us his by taking payment (these things are pretty pricey!) So we bought it on Monday and I just finished painting it on Wednesday night. I spent some time cleaning and bleaching it all down yesterday and today I will have to finish so we can get it opened. I have been on my own with it because Howards been busy after work driving tractor. We are going to put it in Oregon. We will be the first Tropical Sno dealers in all of Oregon. We have been dealers for a year and they are a great company. We love dealing with them and the products are the best. We researched all the companies for about a year or more before going with this one. One of the other positives is that they are out of Draper, Utah so they are close enough to drive to pick up stuff. (or send my ex- too- Thanks David! I know you are reading this just waiting for the could you do me a favor call!)
Tyler and Heidi are going to work in shifts at the one we have in small town Idaho and Ashley will run the one in Oregon. Dumb thing is we pushed her to hurry and get her licence so she could drive herself, now we found out she can't drive in Oregon at all because she is only 15. In Idaho the kids can get their licence at 15. So, this we be a fun filled summer of driving kids every where.

Like Father Like Daughter (with lots of mom in there too!)

I have to share a funny story ......... now as for the lovely Abby........ she at 20 months loves to put on make up - mostly lip stick- and it's normally worn from check to check and nose to chin!

Yesterday I had to cater a branding for some friends - maybe that didn't make sense but, they were branding their cattle and they wanted me to cater lunch for them. I hate the smell of the branding so, I only came at the end with lunch. Abby saw all of this going on (with "baby cows"), she wanted to ride the calves. I was more ok with the horses but, she really wanted to ride to calves. The family that was doing it had some young children that they were letting so, Abby asked if she could. Now Abby won't go to anyone! Yet, she let the dad take her over the fence and help her ride. Maybe I need to explain a little of how the riding went down. They had guys on horses one with the front legs of the calf roped and one with the back roped. After the shots, branding, and tagging they would let the ropes loose and of course the calf would take off. As they were letting the calves take off they were letting the kids ride the calves. One guy would be on each side of the calf and each had an arm of whatever child was riding. When the calf took off they would help the child stay with the calf for a few seconds. Abby was a little nervous at first but she loved riding - she was very upset that the other calves were to big for her to ride because she wanted to keep doing it. I wish I had brought my camera! She is very much her father's daughter when it comes to the cattle!!


I just had to post this picture - this is what she does when you tell her to give you a cheesy smile!
Got to love the "morning" hair!

Karen...........my dear Karen..............

Ok this might seem odd but, hey I can handle it!

Karen I can't seem to post on your blog very well. Sometimes it just doesn't work with the slowwww dial upppppp!! County Life gotta love it!
Ok so with that I would like to cast my vote! I like the #3 I think it has light colors (maybe a little darker would stand out better) but, it's not over done and it makes the name of your company pop better.
For anyone who is scraching there head wondering what I am talking about, Karen has open an estore and you can find it at renegadetyke.com Happy Shopping!

Pine Wood Derby.....for scouts or leaders?

This was such a funny picture I had to post it! Poor Abby being "dressed up" by Tyler & Brenden with some beany. Brenden took this picture -to funny!This was such a cute shot that Brenden took of Hailey & Abby on the horse taking a ride. Hailey's giving Bren the "tumbs up"! The girls love riding!

Tuesday evening was the annual Pine Wood Derby. It was the last one for Brenden so I was pretty excited. Yet, it wasn't fun!! Not for the parents or the kids!! We have a new cub master, she was at the top of the track and her husband was at the bottom. They raced all the kids cars! The boys couldn't even hear if it was their car being raced. All the boys were pretty upset and so were the parents! I went and told the scout master that they couldn't hear their names- she made the guy who was saying what cars they were talk louder but it was still sad for the boys not to be able to race their own cars!! (Don't get me wrong - I love the scout master, just didn't like the way things were ran.) All the boys were so upset they just went a played - You can see Brenden off to the right just playing - Heidi is there too, they were playing with Hailey & Abby.

Having Hope during this time......

I don't know if anyone of you know who Dave Ramsey is but a few nights ago he held a town hall meeting and it was broadcast here at a church in Weiser (not LDS). It was christian based and I would like to share a few things with you.

Failure if it's chasing you makes you run to excellence.

Failure needs to happen it's part of life and being an adult

Success is standing on a pile of failures.

You need to learn to say NO! to yourself, your kids, and everything else.

During the depression the unemployment rate was 25% Right now it's only 8 1/2%

3 Things to help you regain hope:

#1- Get up and get busy! Take action! Be proactive. The best place to go when you are broke it to work.

#2- Don't participate in LOSER TALK! If you hang out with losers you will become one. Your 10 closest friends your income will be within 10% of theirs. Read the Bible and the Newspaper to see what both sides are doing. Be careful what you put into your mind. Read good books and have good friends.

#3- Learn to give again. Not just with your money but your time. You will regain hope as you sit in a nursing home reading to someone who can't. You will realize just how good off we are.

HOPE DOESN'T COME FROM WASHINGTON! HOPE COMES FROM THE NAIL SCARRED JESUS!



(if you want to get more about this go to townhallforhope.com)

Guilty or Not Guilty??

So, today I had jury duty. I am a huge fan of Law & Order and all those shows.....but ........ not the same! I have never had to go before! So at 35 I went. We listened to everything all day then we went to the jury room to talk and there were alot of us more outgoing than others. For what ever reason they said they wanted me to be foreman. I said no....... then they voted...and I was made foreman! Crazy! Well, the trial was over today and we found him not guilty on both counts. It makes you realize that sometimes you just need to step back in a heated situation. Crazy! but I am counting my blessings that I am where I am in my life.

Easter & Everything Else

Hailey & Abby got these "bunny glasses" at an Easter egg hunt we went to. I was in the kitchen and Hailey had put hers on then helped Abby with hers. They came around the corner of the kitchen yelling "hop .... hop .... hop" jumping up and down. It was so cute! I ran them out front to take their picture!

Hailey was totally into Easter! Abby was just trying to keep up with her.

Brenden was the only other one interested in Easter. Greg and Ashley were like "what ever!" Tyler was passed out in bed until 10am (due to a late night at a dance). Heidi just wasn't sure what to do about everything - it was that she wanted to be "to big" for Easter but, she didn't know quite how to go about it. (it was kind of funny) Melanie & Natalie just acted weird about the whole thing. They looked in their baskets after 45 min. of being up and only because I was upset that they weren't interested and said something to Howard. He finally told them that if they didn't want them he would take them back. They sat at the table looked through their baskets - put everything back and went to their rooms to read or play I'm not really sure. I was pretty upset. Howard finally went and lectured them for about 1/2 hour. Then they came in the living room with everyone else and just paced back and forth. Howard after a while of them doing that took them outside and lectured them - I don't know what he said but when they came back in they were both crying. After lunch they started to act fine. I don't know what was going on - but, it was disturbing! I finally had to ignore it and just concentrate on those that were interested in Easter and be focused on them. It wouldn't be fair for everyone to be upset over those two!

On to more pleasant things......... Here's Howard helping Hailey decorate eggs. I think he was more into it then her!

Ok this happened yesterday....

I decided to start potty training Abby (I know 20 months but, hey!) So, I brought her "potty" into the living room and told her to go potty. She went and got a cow magazine and a book then, sat down! I thought I was going to die laughing!

She is totally her fathers daughter!

This is Hailey and the new dog!

Hailey is not sharing very well and Abby keeps pulling her hair to let her know she is not happy.

It was really cold last night so we let the dog sleep in the house. I woke up this morning to it up on Hailey's bed cuddled up to her. I thought ohhhh how cute! Then as I got off my bed I stepped in a puddle of dog pee! After cleaning up myself I went to get the kids up and get the cleaner for the carpet and barely missed a pile of dog poop!

Great way to get up this morning!!

(I don't know Summer this dog might go back to your house!)

Thank Heaven for Temples!

Howard & I went to the temple again last night. This time we went with the Elders Quorum Pres. (Howard is the 2nd counselor) and his wife (who is my VT partner).

I had one of the most wonderful spiritual experiences of my life there last night. I was so grateful for the experience.

To loose yourself in service is what we took away from conference and I have to say, I am so grateful. I lost all my problems there and just went and felt like I was making a difference for others. Wow! What a great feeling to do something for someone that they could do on their own. It feels like you have a greater purpose and need to stop worrying about my little self doubt problems. It would be worse waiting for someone to help so that you could progress in the life after.

I did have a wonderful experience which I don't feel should be shared here. But, people need us to help them, so go and loose yourself in temple work!

I know 2 blogs - 1 day - new house-opinions wanted again!

This is what our new house will look like. The front pillars will not be white but, natural logs. I haven't picked out an outside color yet, I am thinking some kind of tan with black trim. (open to ideas)

This is the main level. The porch and screen porch will be pushed out and make the main bedroom and living room larger. The nook will become a full dining room. The dining area will be a formal room with built ins to be used as a bedroom. There will be a 4th bed and a shower in that main bath.

This is the upstairs (there will not be a basement because it would be over 3100 sq. feet and need a sprinkler system) As you see it the total is about 3000 sq. feet. As for the upstairs - there will be the gameroom. Then in that bathroom we will but a wall and sliding door between the sinks and toilet/tub area. This way more kids at a time getting ready. We had this when I was a kid and I love the idea.

If you notice - all the bedroom closets have windows to bring in the light and help reduce electricity. Also we will be putting up a solar system. Evenually we will and wind energy but it's all pretty pricey.

-So we are meeting with the contractors tomorrow for a final run through and final changes we want. Does anyone see anything they would change - I don't want to get done and wish we had done something else.

Thanks again! Angela (see it would be fun to just be shut up in the house all day! LOL)

In a Funk

I've kind of been in a bad funk for the last couple of days. Living in a small town with everyone voicing their opinions about you and what they think your life really is. It drives me CRAZY! I take everything sooooo personal that I honestly can't handle it. I have spent the last 2 days just crying. I got into this mood where I don't even want to leave my house. I don't take calls - nothing. I would like to shut out things but, I am just not very good at it. I've never heard so many negative things about myself, 99% aren't even close to the truth. I know it's not just me - everyone has an opinion about everyone else. It's amazing how in the church we are told to not gossip and to be uplifting in our speech and actions yet, for some it is so hard. Here I think that it's about making themselves look "good" so they say crap about others. The funny thing is that in the last 18 months plus - I only talk to people in my ward if I need to help them or if I am passing them in the hall. I don't hang out with any of them, I don't call and visit with them nothing. I just keep to myself! Yet, some can still make judgement and run with it. I just don't get it! Let me give you an example of what I am talking about- in a Bishop's meeting (with all the aux. leaders) someone (in all of their great wisdom!) said- you know what Angela doesn't show enough affection to Howards kids. Someone needs to talk to her and make her. It's just not right! ............ now of course I didn't know they were in a meeting or even who was is this gossip fest......... as they walked out there I was with my arm around Greg in the sacrament room because he was getting ready to pass sacrament for the first time and was so scared. I put my arm around him and gave him some advice and told him he would do fine. I heard that all of these ward "leaders" choked on their words as they walked in. Now, why would they even say that in the first place, they don't live in our home! And in public my poor Tyler won't get to close or he is afraid people will say he's a "mama's boy!" LOL So in public I don't even show Tyler affection (for fear that he will be embarrassed).

I am writing this so, I can get your "opinion" as my dear friends of how to pull out of this funk before I never leave our house again. (we have 5 acres so I could keep myself busy).







Howard's solution is to take me to the temple so we are going tonight. I know that will make me feel better but, I still have to be able to want to walk in the church doors.



Thanks for letting me vent - Love you all!

Happy Birthday to Jesus Christ - Our Savior!

I am so greatful for our Savior - today I have thought about making sure that my thoughts are on the birth of our Savior. I am so greatful for all that he has done for me personally. Summer & Bill and their kids are coming over for FHE and we are going to watch a movie about his birth and life then - have cake and ice cream. Hailey is pretty excited about the cake and ice cream and that it's a birthday party part. Though she is VERY upset that it's not her birthday. She has been looking forward to it since Christmas. (it's not til the end of June- poor girl!)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST!

Proud Big Sister

Ok I have to take a minute to brag about my "baby brother" James. He called me a couple of nights ago to tell me that he was just hired as a fire fighter for the National Forest Service. Way to go James! I am so proud at 21 yrs old he is fulfilling his dream job. So, James has it all now - dream job, caring & loving personality, and great looking. - I have even had some of my single friends (that are my age) meet him and want to date him!
(I will have to post a picture when I get one scanned - it was a long few last days with the RS b-day dinner!)

Also a shout out to SUMMER - HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRL! For my birthday she made me a nativity scene out of barn wood. It's so beautiful. So since December I have been trying to figure out what to do. She is my only really friend who lives in small town Idaho - I do have lots of friends here but not like Summer - I tease her that we were separated at birth because we would have been to much trouble together until this point in our lives. We have known each other for just over a year and finish each others sentences half the time. We are so much alike that it's scary! The funny thing is that we are so much the same - but our biggest difference is our husbands. Bill will talk up a storm -Howard you will hear crickets because he is so quiet. (until he gets to know you then he will be pretty friendly and tease you).

So to wrap this all up! Congratulations baby bro.! I love you and am so proud of you!
And Happy Birthday Summer!

So many places, so little time!

Howard & I took off 2 weeks ago and went to the Oregon Mail Handlers State Training. We took "our" girls with us. He goes to meetings all day for 2 days so, I take the girls and get to spend time with them (our whole trip is 4 days because of travel time needed). Plus I am not ready to leave the girls. We make 2 of these trips a year, it's been fun to see all these different parts of Oregon. It's Howards home state so he loves showing it off to me. He took me to Portland- country boy and traffic don't get along and SCARE ME!! So we didn't do much I was ready to turn back to go where we were going. We stayed in Warm Springs, OR on a reservation. Hailey and Abby got spoiled by the morning cook because he made them Mickey Mouse pancakes with chocolate chips and whipped cream. We had a great time! The other kids all stayed home with different friends. (we must have great friends because twice a year they take our kids- though it's about 5 different places they all spread out over) They even offer to take the younger two but, I wouldn't know what to do if I didn't have them with me. Plus I already missed the boys so much that if I wasn't with my babies I would just panic.

Since we got home we turned around last Thurs. and took off for SLC for 4 days. I am tired of being in the car!! So I might have to go to Cali soon but otherwise no more trips until June. (The trip to Cali is because Fern is not doing well! Things don't seem to be getting better)

Here's the girls having a blast in the warm spring water.

Here's the girls at the playground having the time of their lives. Hailey (above) is into the "push me to the sky" faze. Abby (below) on the other hand finally realized that she wasn't going to fall out so, then she had more fun. (she is usually in the "baby" swing but they didn't have one)

Here's a picture that Hailey took by her self! What a 3 yr old!!

Hailey and Abby were totally excited to see horse on "bacation"

It was funny because we have 3 at our house!

Here we are hitting sites. This is Mammoth Falls the 2nd largest waterfall in the U.S.

YW General Conference

I know I have a ton of updating maybe this week I can find some time. I have been swamped with being out of town so much and then this week I have to cook and do our RS Birthday Dinner. I will spend most of Thurs. & all day Friday doing food and setting up everything. I found this really neat skit online so we are going to do that (I like to have a skit for all our RS dinners). Then Friday I need to set up the building and cook the food. We are going to have an old buggy and some old turn of the century things. It will look great and the food will be awesome! Ok bragging time over. LOL

As for a little bit of an update we just got back from Salt Lake last night - Ashley, Heidi, and I went to the YW General Conference at the conference center. Howard & I took all the kids because we had to pick up the boys from David. Tyler advanced to a teacher last week so David had come here to pick them up. If any of you saw the YW conference you saw that the entire first presidency was there. Pres. Monson spoke. As the presidency walked into the room - you could just feel the room fill with a strong spirit. I have met Pres. Kimball and Elder Ashton I met a couple of times. (I even went to Elder Ashton's condo and got to ride in a golf cart with him and his wife - under the SLC temple to the tabernacle.) I still laugh about something he said. When we were in the elevator he turned to my date and said that this was the perfect place to propose. I turn to Elder Ashton and asked him if he was crazy how at all could that be romantic at all? He laughed and said that it was the perfect place because if she said no then you could just push stop until she said yes. I always loved listening to his talks and thought how great of a man he was.
Anyway, it was great to see President Monson and wave to him as he waved up at us. The spirit was so strong and such a wonderful message was given by all who spoke. The girls have just about talked about it non stop. Ashley is still walking around on cloud nine. Heidi doesn't seem to truly understand how much of a big deal it was - she looks at it as just another church meeting. It kind of bothers Howard and I - wishing she was more into it. As for me- I was grateful to be there in the presence of our prophet. I was so grateful for the spirit I felt and love every word. He talked about courage and a few things that struck me was that he talked about having the courage to always include people. I feel that I have always tried to live that way but, of course could feel my faults and need to work on them. I did love that he talked about that the Saviors commandments are commandments not suggestions! I also enjoyed the YW presidents talked about - reading the Book of Mormon for at least 5 min. everyday and ALWAYS SMILE!!
So keep smiling everyone!! Love you all!!

Newest Follower

I would like everyone to meet my newest "Follower" LOL that just sounds funny! sorry!!
Jennifer Pohl is a chick that lives in small town Idaho with us. She joined the LDS church this last Sept. and looks forward to going to the temple. Her husband doesn't want to join the church but I still give him crap a lot (who me??) I guess because of that he has nicknamed me his "favorite Mormon" I think it's pretty funny. Don't worry Don I'll still be dishing up the crap!
So, this great family is moving today to New Mexico because jobs are getting hard to find around here and will all the layoffs they needed to move.
I wanted to "introduce" all of you to them because Jenn is going to need tons of support moving to a new place and have just joined the church. We all have known each other forever and know we can depend on each other - I wanted to include her in our circle of love. Don't be afraid to add a comment to her blog - she would love to have new friends and she is very outgoing.
Thanks to all my chicks for including her! Jenn we love you and your family!

Easter Story Cookies

I want to pass this on my friend Summer gave this to me last year and she is teaching my ward to make them next week. This is a great FHE or new family tradition! ENJOY!

EASTER STORY COOKIES

1 cup whole pecans (or almonds)
1 tsp. vinegar
3 egg whites
pinch of salt
1 cup sugar

Ziploc baggie, wooden spoon, tape, bible, 2 cookie sheets, parchment paper

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Place pecans in baggie and let the children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested He was beaten by the Roman soldiers. Read John 19:1-3

Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 tsp. vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross he was given vinegar to drink. Read John 19:28-30

Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life. Read John 10: 10-11

Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin. Read Luke 23:27

So far the ingredients are not very appetizing, are they? Add 1 cup sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him. Read Psalms 34:8 and John 3:16

Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12-15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God's eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus. Read Isaiah 1:18 and John 3:1-3

Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheets. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was laid. Read Matthew 27:57-60

Put the cookies in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF. Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door closed. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed. Read Matthew 27:65-66

Go to bed! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight, however, Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed. Read John 16:20 & 22

On Easter morning open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Easter Jesus' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty. Read Matthew 28:1-9 (see below)

Matthew 28:1-9

1. After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.

2. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it.

3. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow.

4. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.

5. The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.

6. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.

7. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him. 'Now I have told you."

8. So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples.

9. Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, felt the wounds in his hands and feet and worshipped him.

I am on my soap box!!

I know for many people right now - we are all wondering what more could happen with the economy? How much worse could it be? How is all of this going to effect me?
Well, sorry to tell you all, I don't have a crystal ball but let me stand on my soap box and see if maybe anyone will listen- LOL
PLEASE!!!! take some of your tax return and buy food storage - not that you need to do this much but Howard & I spent $1000 of ours on food. The local store was having a case lot sale and we did up a whole cow (I know you all can't do that) but, do something!! We've been told forever by the prophets to have food storage and what a better time to listen when in the last 14 months 3.6 million Americans have lost their jobs. With Howard working at the post office we get a glimps of things before anyone else- the reason? Because as businesses start to go under they stop sending out so much mail. Before several of the major financial institutions collapsed in September 2008 the post office had already reported 7 consecutive quarters of decline in mail volume. At the end of the 2008 fiscal year, the Postal Service announced it had delivered a whopping 9.5 BILLION FEWER pieces of mail than the year before. While posting an annual deficit of $2.8 billion. In the first quarter of the new fiscal year (2009) mail volume is down by another 9.3 percent- THE LARGEST QUARTERLY DECLINE SINCE THE GREAT DEPRESSION OF THE 1930'S!!! Just in 2008 the post office layed off nearly 30,000 career jobs. The postal service feels that they will have another $6 billion or more loss for the balance of 2009.
This is a sign!!! Please prepare your family!!
Make your garden twice as big this year - if you don't can or garden- look up how on the internet and educate yourself! I would hate to loose the chance to make a difference in my families life because I am "to busy".

Ok - I will step off the soap box - but please work on your food storage and financial storage. We have people out here that are gathering food storage so they will be able to trade wheat for something else they will want when money doesn't effect people the way trading food will. Go back and read things that Brigham Young said. The price of wheat is the same as the price of Gold right now, but wheat was worth more that gold this last summer!

Alright now I really will get off this soap box and get the rest of my day going. I love you all and hope that you will be prepare like we have been commanded - the time is NOW!

Look Who's Talking

I just have to post this because I don't know I guess because I feel like it. I have by this blogging thing been able to reconnect with some great friends. I am grateful for all of you for keeping up with friendships. I want to brag on one right now though..... Tamra! We have talked in the last few days for I don't even know how many hours!? I already told this to Tam but I feel like part of my soul is back talking to her. Please no one be offended because it's with all of you that I feel part of me is back. I think I got caught up in the life of Pity Parties and was not able to be happy and open with the new friends in my life (Summer - not you - you have been a wonderful "new" BFF!) But, living somewhere new and with all my life changes it was hard to feel like ME and I have started to find me again in visiting with all of you.
So thank you to all of my wonderful true friends! I have lots of wonderful ones - they (you) each help me in your own way.
So, thanks for being my friend! (corny I know) but, hey!

Happy Birthday to my baby boy! Ok so he's big now!

Here's a quick trip down photo memory lane..........


This is Tyler last year at my parents house on his birthday
Tyler at 2 years old.

Tyler at 18 months old. ahhhhhhhhh so cute!

Tyler and mommy at his blessing. Cute boy in his tux.

Tyler (and mommy) what a happy boy! This was a trip to grandma & grandpa's in Cali.

I wanted to be a mom so badly. When I had Tyler it added something wonderful to my life. WOW now Tyler is 14 going to dances and all the other fun stuff. I can't believe that in 6 months he will be driving! (with a permit) Next year you'll all need to stay off the roads! (In Idaho the kids can drive at 14 1/2) I know scary! LOL

I love you son, Happy Birthday!!

Happy Birthday Ty!

Wow it's been almost a month since I last blogged. I ended up with a virus in my computer and just got it back. CRAZY!

Well, here's a quick update.

Tyler and Howard did the play "On Golden Pond" and it's finally over. They both were awesome! Tyler got offered a movie deal out of it!! He is going to be in a movie being produced in Boise in the Fall. He has a kissing scene, he's pretty excited. When the movie is done the company is submitting it to the Sundance Film Festival. WOW! What a great start.

Brenden got a part in the next play. It's a musical review. He has a solo in it.

For some harder news - most of you know Fern (my mom's mother) she had a major heart attack last week. She had surgery and it seems to be helping - we don't think she will live past this year. It's sad to see my mom go through it.



So life is still moving on here and Tyler is getting older by the day- ok by tomorrow! On the 7th he will be 14!! WOW again! He's pretty excited now he gets to go to dances. There is EFY and a dance next weekend and he can't wait to go. (mostly to see what girls are there)

Our Anniversary! Our Milestone!!

Here's a photo trip down memory lane. These pictures don't seem to transfer very well. Some of them are from our honeymoon the rest are of our wedding.

Its a big deal anniversary this year because we have hit 5 years! In second marriages the divorce rate is 85%. They say it's the first 5 years you have the hardest time, after that it gets easier. We have had more that our share of crap to go through so we have both been talking about how much things have gotten easier. Blending 7 children, adding 2 more has been the hardest thing. Ok adding the 2 more actually saved our marriage, it brought us closer and gave us a common bond. But, the other 7 have made things harder, from trying to break us up to all feeling like that if they learned to love (or even like) the step-parent they would be betraying their bio-parent that was not there. It's easier for Tyler & Bren than it is by far for the other 5 that lost their mom to death.

Soooooooooooo, with that I am grateful that we haven't killed each other yet! Howard said that he feels that one of the greatest things is that we trust the other person. When the other person says they are going to work on trying to make things better, they truly do. (ok he was the romantic in that conversation!!)

Happy Anniversary Babe!! Love you Always & Forever!!

Special Olympics

Many of you may know that the Special Olympics are going on in Boise, Idaho right now. The Japanese delegates stayed here in our little hick town. It was pretty funny to drive through town with everyone taking pictures of everything. I felt like we were at Disneyland! The delegates went to each of the kids schools and visited classes. They taught the kids a little more about their culture. It was a great experience and the kids have not stopped talking about it. A couple of them even keep walking around saying Japanese words to each other. I am grateful for good schools and teachers that care! So here's a few pictures of what the little girls and I did with the special Olympics this week. We went and watched the torch run. Abby & Hailey were cheering and yelling it was pretty funny!

The second picture is when we followed after the police escort to the high school. Hailey & Abby rolled down the windows and waved to everyone. Some of the kids that were along the way were yelling ......"Hey that's the ....(our last name)!" Hailey thought that was pretty cool that people knew who she was. In this small town not many don't know who we are. We are pretty active in our community. It was really cute to watch the girls so I had to jump out and get a picture- it didn't transfer very well.

I stole this from Tams blog because I loved reading hers. Everyone should copy & paste it to theirs- I would love to read them about everyone else! (Hope its ok I stole this Tam!! It says if you open it then you have to fill it out! :)

50 ODD Things about you! If you opened this, FILL IT OUT!
Learn 50things about your friends, and let them learn 50 things about you!

1. Do you like blue cheese? No Way!
2. Have you ever smoked heroin? Absolutely Not!
3. Do you own a gun? Yes, I have 3 registered in my name. Howard wants to get me one that is big enough so I can go hunting (deer & elk) with him. I don't mind the shooting it's the rest that grosses me out. For now I am sticking with targets and skeet shooting. We have a skeet thrower and take the kids out and once a year we take it up with all the elders quorum and have an adult potluck and shooting contest. Howard does really good. My first year I hit the skeet on the first time and set the bar to high to keep. At least I can keep up.
4. What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic? Cherry Ricky
5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? No, I always stress out that I am going to be late and then they won't see me. So I rush and rush then wait in the office FOREVER!
6. What do you think of hot dogs? I don't eat them often but, enjoy them only BBQ'd & burnt.
7. Favorite Christmas song? Heavenly Choirs by Cori Conners
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Hot Chocolate in the winter - Milk in the summer
9. Can you do push-ups? A couple but, girly ones heck ya!
10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? My wedding ring I also have some gold earrings & necklace with diamonds and my birthstone in the shape of a heart that Howard gave me for Christmas a couple of yrs ago.
11. Favorite hobby? I enjoy anything crafty or outdoors.
12. Do you have A.D.D.? No
13. What's one trait that you hate about yourself? With 9 children in a tiny home I have found that I stress out to fast.
14. Middle name? Sheree (plus I kept my maiden name)
15. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment. The kids are being very loud! Dinner smells great! I need to get off the computer and make some homemade rolls for dinner.
16. NAME THREE THINGS YOU LIKE TO DRINK I love Coke! It's been something Howard has tried to get me to stop drinking but, I only stop when I am pregnant (to much caffeine) I also enjoy hot chocolate and orange juice
17. Current worry right now? To build our new house or not to because of how stressful the economy is right now.
18. Current hate right now? The size of our house (wish it was bigger!)
19. Favorite place to be? Outside in the mountains camping or at the beach. I love places like Carmel CA because you have beautiful mountains right on top of the beach.
20. How did you bring in the New Year? My parents came up so we went to my sisters and all hung out. Then drove home, the kids went to bed. Howard & I stayed up watching movies & visiting. Then at midnight we made out and ................. ;)
21. Like to go camping? I love to go camping. We are already making plans with some friends. We are going to go to their cabin and get wood for the next winter & go 4wheeling. Then with the same group of friends we are going to go up around McCall to camp & maybe ski.
22. Name three people who will complete this? You will have to surprise me
23. Do you own slippers? Yes a couple pairs and I wear them all winter
24. What color shirt are you wearing? Black turtle neck thing
25. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? No I love sateen. It's a cotton - satin blend. So soft!
26. Can you whistle? Yes
27. Favorite color? Red - Howard & my friend Summer are always making fun of me because I like the browns, blacks, & whites. Red is about the only non earth tone that I wear. (Summer says she's going to "help me" get some color. I just bought a new purse the other day - sorry it's black! But, it does have silver too!
28. Would you be a pirate? I can't stand the whole stealing thing so, no
29. What songs do you sing in the shower? I like to crank up the radio when I am in there then just sing what ever is on
30. Favorite girl's name? Hailey & Abby
31. Favorite boy's name? Tyler & Brenden
32. Last thing that made you laugh? A couple of things- Howard is always giving me a hard time and makes me laugh. Hailey told me the other day as serious as she could "Mom, are you thinking what I'm thinking?" It was so funny because at 3 I was sure I wasn't thinking what she was- but I went with it. Also this morning Tyler was done at the dentist and he told Abby to say "What up" and tilt her head to the air. She did and I thought I was going to die laughing.
33. Best bed sheets as a kid? My mom & great grandma made me a yellow flowered bed spread. I had a canopy bed with yellow flowers all over.
34. Worst injury you've ever had? The after math of having kids! My body was in so much pain!
35. Do you love where you live? Yes, but the small hick town thing is just like in the movies - everyone knows everything about you, sometimes even before you do!
36. How many TV's do you have in your house? 5
37. Who is your longest friend? Alice James - I think I knew her from when I was born. I haven't seen her in a few years but love her still. We were always together in high school. I have tons of other great friends that I have grown up with and still love to death.
38. How many pets do you have? 2 cats - the white one is Salt the black one is Pepper
Hailey has a cat named Ammie that my sister gave her. I also have a duck, I get a few every year when they are babies. We sold my horse last year and we are looking to get me another one. I miss having one. Then of course there's the cows!
39. Does someone have a crush on you? Howard still does!
40. Favorite Book? Twilight all of them! I am reading 'Judge me Dear Reader' about Emma Smith. It's a very good book.
41. What is your favorite candy? Anything chocolate -though I've been cutting out the sugar so much
42. Favorite Sports Team? I enjoy watching BSU football - I went there and they are very good so it makes for a good time. Howard knows everything about every team on every sport I can't keep up. His favorite channel is ESPN. I am more of a Nascar fan.
43. What were you doing 12 AM last night? Passed out- I have been up pretty late the last few nights and was worn out.
44.What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up? AHAHAHAHHA!!! I had to get up early to get the kids off to school. Then two of them had dentist appts this morning.
45. Worst habit? Biting my nails when I get stressed. Also when I am tired I get cranky.
46. Do you play an instrument? No, I always sang
47. How long does it take you to get to work? How ever far it is from my bedroom to the kitchen
48. Plans for the weekend? Getting one of the kids hairs cut, watching Tyler & Howard at play practice, going to Howards Basketball game - I do a lot of yelling at the games. Then Sunday go to church and come home to watch the first race (Nascar starts!!) Make all the food the kids can eat and at some point clean & sleep.
49. If you could eat anything in the world right this second? Homemade rolls (that I still need to start) with Homemade raspberry jam (that I canned from our raspberries this summer)
50. Do you like the person who sent this to you? YES- I stole it from Tam but I truly love her and wish I could hang out with her more but, the phone and internet will have to work for now.

Wear Red this Friday! Love Your Heart!!

Here's an email I recieved from the American Heart Association that I wanted to pass on. I joined after I was told that I was having some major heart problems- ie needed a heart transplant soon! With a blessing from Howard, prayers, and temple prayers everything seems to be working better.


National Wear Red Day is Friday, February 6.
How will you Go Red For Women?

Dear Angela,

With the help of men and women like you, as well as companies and volunteers that support us, we have made a significant impact around the issue of women and heart disease. In fact, in the last six years we have raised awareness of the fact that heart disease is the number one killer of women and also raised over $153 million towards much needed research of cardiovascular disease. However, our work is not done. Heart disease is still the No. 1 killer, and there are too many women who are not aware of this disease and the actions they can take to reduce their risk, and as a result are dying at the rate of 1 per minute. It’s Our Hearts. Our Choice. Together we can beat heart disease.
That’s why this Friday, February 6, hundreds of thousands of people will celebrate National Wear Red Day. It's the day to wear your favorite red clothes or accessory — a red blouse, a red dress pin, a fabulous red handbag — put on red lipstick, or sport a red tie and red socks. Go red in your own fashion to show your support for women. Join us in our fight against heart disease and you’ll receive a free red dress pin to wear and go red any day of the year.
Help raise funds and look great in red!Macy's, a proud national sponsor of Go Red For Women, will help us celebrate National Wear Red Day. This Thursday-Sunday (Feb. 5-8), Macy's will offer an all-day savings for customers wearing red. For those who forget their red, Macy’s is offering a Red Dress pin and the all-day savings to those who make a $2 donation in the store to the American Heart Association. All contributions received will benefit the Go Red For Women movement. Learn more about Macy's support of Go Red.

Thank you to all for your support!

Sincerely,Your friends at the American Heart Association

P.S. — Going red is about finding your own way to take part in the fight against heart disease in women. Whether it's donating towards research and education, attending local events, visiting your healthcare provider, purchasing products that support the cause, or supporting National Wear Red Day, you can do something special to love your heart.

Who's The Best?

I just wanted to share the following emails. Howard has no idea that I nominated him but, I thought it would be fun. They will announce the winner in March. I am crossing my fingers!! I did edit this for my blog to protect some of our personal info. (I don't mind if my friends and family know, it's anyone else who doesn't need that info.)

To Whom it May Concern,
I would like to nominate my husband for Letter Carrier of the Year. His name is Howard ...............He is a carrier for the ........town.......... Post Office. Howard takes great pride in his job and his life as a whole. He started working for the USPS in the spring of 1998. He is active in the NALC and loves the people he works with. He is currently the shop steward and the VP for the union in his branch and has been for the last 3 years. Howard in his working for the post office has had some interesting experiences. He found an older man that had committed suicide shortly after starting. He has also sat in on several meetings between employees and the Post Master. Howard is perfect in those kinds of settings. He doesn't rattle easily and always thinks before he speaks. He is a great mediator.
I would like to share more of a personal side to this great man. In 2003 Howard's wife of almost 12 years passed away of cancer. Howard was 36 years old and had 5 small children to raise alone. His children ranged from 11 years to 18 months. The people around him at the post office and in his community were extremely supportive. I met Howard a short time later and we were engaged after meeting on-line then dating for 2 weeks. We married with a total of 7 children. In the 5 years we have been married we have had 2 more children. Yes, that equals 9! Some would say we are insane maybe even crazy but, we love it! Howard is a devoted father and husband. He is great to always make time for work, family, church, community, and his other love, Angus Cows.
Howard is very active with the community, serving as a 4-H leader for the last 10 years. He is also active with the youth of our church and helps them to learn to make right choices but, how to have a great out look on life. He loves to tease them and in return them back. The youth in our church seem to come to him for advice on everything before even their own parents. Currently Howard is in a play for our local theater group and is playing none other than, a mailman! (It just so happens there was part that someone needed to play a mailman, he tried out and got the part.) Howard is also currently on two basketball teams. At 6'3" they love him and he loves it. He plays once a week for our church and twice a week for the city team. He also enjoys football and plays in the local "Turkey Bowl" the morning of Thanksgiving. Howard enjoys many things but, all with the things he does he loves to include his family and those around him. He enjoys every thing from playing hide and seek in the dark outside to camping, hunting and everything in between. Howard also enjoys golfing he has taught our youngest 2 children to run after the ball if he misses. They then put it in the hole and start dancing around the green and yelling "Good job Dad! Way to go! You did it!!" It's so funny all the other golfers ask if they can borrow our little cheerleaders.
So with this I feel that Howard is truly all that the post office stands for. A great example and a proud American. I would ask that you make him the Letter Carrier of the Year.
Respectfully,
Angela ..........my full name.......

Here's the email I got back this morning---

Thanks Angela. We will consider your nomination.
- Jamie .......his full name.......

Happy Birthday Love!

Just a shout out to my dearest love, Howard -
Happy Birthday BABE!!
Love you Always & Forever!!

Hailey, Abby, and myself left after the kids went to school. We bought donuts and balloons for Howard and took them to him at work. It was funny, everyone in the post office was walking around going "Happy Birthday Howie! Now how old are you again?" Most of them are older than him so they were guessing younger than he is. I had to let them know that he was 42 and I was WAY younger. They all laughed and said "ya we know he robbed the cradle!!" It was pretty funny. Hailey really got into his birthday and kept running around telling everyone that it was HER dad's birthday. (I shoud mention that this is a 10 yr old picture, but it was a funny one)