Kyle I Aimee I Ava

Hello Everyone

2010-04-06T08:28:00.003-06:00

So... I haven't been minding the store very well these days. At this point, I only have two options for my blog, either delete it or go private. I plan to go private w/in the next couple of weeks. Please send me your email addy in my comments so I can give you access. I've got the comment moderation enable so no one else will get your email addy and I'll go ahead and delete them after I'm done. Loves to all....

OMG.... finally a new post!!!

2010-01-12T08:07:00.004-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts. I've been doing more stuff on facebook these days then updating my blog (sorry)! So if you're on there, send me a friend request I'm on there as Aimee Olson and I'll add you (if I know you)... LOL

All is well at our house. We made it through the holiday's but started off the New Year a little rocky. We thought that the little Jetta that could had finally went to its final resting place. However, she was able to be resurrected. I'm pretty happy as I love driving her to work! So then, our GMC got wrecked suckin' crap! It doesn't have a lot of cosmetic damage but the young man that hit Kyle, hit the truck in a really bad spot so it goes into the shop this week so we'll wait and see what they have to say. I'll keep you all posted! Our work is just plugging along for both of us. I applied for a new job with the state but we're on a hiring freeze right now so we'll wait and see what happens. I'll be happy if a I get it but I'm also content where I'm at right now. It's a win win situation for me either way.

Ok... don't have a lot of time this morning so I'll share a few new pics. Hope all is well with everyone. Loves....

Ava Funny

2009-12-04T20:03:00.001-07:00

So, Ava just told her dad that if he didn't start to be nice, that Santa was going to put him on the naughty list.... LMAO!!!!

Halloween

2009-11-03T17:27:00.003-07:00

So for Halloween, Ava dressed up as Pumpkin Minnie Mouse. She loved her costume and looked so cute. She got way too much candy that I'm afraid over half will get thrown out. Hope everyone had a great time trick or treating.... Loves!!!!

I think....

2009-10-27T15:05:00.002-06:00

my winter slump is back and tech, it's not even winter yet. I've just lost my blogging mojo lately.

Well, we had an exciting weekend in Vegas. We went down with my sister and her husband and my sister and I went to the U2 concert, it was FABULOUS. They just keep getting better and better in concert. We'd like to attend another next year, but we'll wait and see. So Vegas is no longer the home of the $4.99 breakfast, lunch and dinner. A beer in Planet Hollywood was $11.50, yes $11.50. You can buy a entire 12 pack for what that baby cost. Oh and I don't consider myself a cheapskate either. I'm good to spend money on things but this was just a bit too much if you ask me. However, we had a fabulous meal on our way home in Mesquite at the Chuck Wagon in the Virgin River, $3.99 ham steak and eggs. It was the greatest meal of the entire trip. I've got some pictures to post but my USB cable has decided it needed a vacation and I can't find it. It'll show up and when it does, I'll post.

We're getting ready for Halloween this week. I was going to dress Ava up as a kitty but that's now changed to Minnie Mouse since my friend Shanan has a costume that we can borrow. We'll also have our adult party later that night and that will be a blast. I'll have to let you all know how it goes... Loves to all!!!!

Sweet Ava...

2009-09-30T09:34:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone... I know its been awhile, but we've been busy with the end of the summer nearing. Well, this week has been an eventful one. Ava gave herself her very first "Ava" haircut. Needless to say, it's 6 inches shorter today then it was on Sunday. I've finally quit freaking and getting used to the shorter hair and "bangs". The last time that Ava's hair was this short, she was 2 years old and technically, it really isn't that short and the "Ava" cut could have been so much worse then it really was. Thank you Shanan for saving the day!

No big updates at this time. Kyle is liking his job with the city and mine is plugging right along as well. We're get excited for our Vegas trip in October. All I can say about that is look out U2 here we come. My sister and I are so excited to go and see them. We were supposed to go when they were in SLC in December 2005 but I had just had Ava like 2 days before the concert and Misty's daughter had influenza type A so we didn't get to go. I was home bound and she was home bound. So we are so looking forward to this one. Hope all is well with everyone. I hope to post again soon. Loves....

Remembering September 11th....

2009-09-11T09:42:00.002-06:00

We all knew where we were and what we were doing on this day and will never forget.

I flew for work on September 11th... in 2002, 2003 & 2004 and you know what, the eery feeling of flying on that day never went away!

NEVER FORGET!

Lil miss Ava....

2009-08-17T09:40:00.002-06:00

I love her piggy's!!!!

Lake Powell

2009-08-09T21:02:00.003-06:00

For our anniversary this year we went to Lake Powell. It was a FABULOUS trip!

A few new pics.....

2009-08-09T20:37:00.004-06:00

Here is my sweet Ava. Isn't she a doll!!!!

SUMMERTIME.....

2009-08-04T15:44:00.002-06:00

and the livings easy NOT! It's so freaking busy! We have a bunch of stuff coming up over the next several weekends and I honestly don't think we have a free weekend till after Labor Day. However, we do have some fun plans so it's all good.

Kyle started his city job on July 27th and I think he likes it. I know he liked the other a little more but this is a lot more stable and NO travel so that will be so nice. My job is plugging right along. I get to take a few days off this month and I'm so excited about that. My anniversary is also fast approaching. I can't believe that we've been married for a year already. This past year has really gone by fast. We're doing something next weekend so I'll post pictures when we get home. Ava starts dance and gymnastics classes on the 17th and is so excited she wants to wear her dance clothes and swimsuit everyday. I think I might have to hide them.

So other then just being super busy, we are all doing well. I'll try to get some pics posted this week before we leave next weekend. Hope all is well. Loves....

Quick update....

2009-07-13T16:58:00.004-06:00

since its been almost a month since my last post. WOW time goes by really fast these days. We've been REALLY busy over the last several weeks and don't have an open weekend to just "relax" until sometime next month. However, we love to play in the summer! I have TONS of pictures to post but don't have the time right now. I'll get them up soon though I PROMISE!

So... I have some good news. Kyle has excepted a full time permanent job back with the city where we live. When he left a couple of months ago I was a little torn although we needed the money and the other job well it paid more. However, you never know when a seasonal job could become permanent. Well an employee past away and they offered his position to Kyle. He starts on the 27th. We couldn't be more thrilled... no more travel, no more worry about construction jobs. Kyle loved his other job but needed to do what was best for our family and this is such a great thing for us. We finally finally caught a break. You can't get a better job in a rural area! Anyhow, that's my good news. I really hope that all is well with everyone. Will post again soon. Loves...

Weekend Update...

2009-06-15T13:54:00.007-06:00

Well... we didn't do much this weekend other then watch it rain. Does the sun shine in Utah anymore??? I'm starting to have my doubts. Ava said this weekend "mom, I don't think there's a sun anymore" LOL. I'm hoping that it's nice next weekend so we can go outside and play! My sister had a great big tree in her front yard that they had to get removed. We made the best of the "twigs" and the kids made some smores and roasted hot dogs so that was fun. Oh... and I got my haircut so that's always fun!

Kyle started his new job back on the 1st and LOVES it. This is such a good thing because he's getting easy to live with again. My job is also just plugging right along other then I've lost my mojo and really have no motivation whatsoever to be there. I think once we're able to do somethings outside, that will change. It seems like the only time we really get any decent weather is during the work week.

So, we're trying to get our house refinanced and I'm find that harder then I thought it would be. I think they want everything including my first and only born in the paperwork. I'm hoping to have this done by the end of the month... and then guess what? I get to buy a new car YIPPY!!!! I'll keep you all posted.

Anyhow, not much new at the abode other then I'm excited to do laundry. Hope all is well with everyone. Loves...

As promised....

2009-06-13T20:04:00.001-06:00

here are a few new pics.

My poor puppy....

2009-06-13T19:27:00.002-06:00

Here are a couple pictures of Jazz and her latest "accessory". She has stitches in her rear ride leg and a "fun" headpiece that she can't wait to get rid of. She had surgery last Wed and is starting the heal nicely. She's very happy to be home!

Update....

2009-06-09T15:42:00.007-06:00

I had my surgery and all went well, feeling much better. I don't really want to talk about the details on the blog because it's a little personal. If you're curious to what it was, jot me and email and I'll tell ya. You all know good ole Utah weather. We get like a week full of a little sunshine and then on the weekends it just pours. Well with all of the standing water, the Mosquito's are HORRIBLE and they love me and little Ava. I try to get bug spray on her before we go out but sometimes she escapes before I get it on her. Needless to say, she has a few bites. It wouldn't be such a big deal if they didn't swell. I do love the rain and the smell but I'd really like to go swimming at the pool sometime this summer. Who knows by next week we'll probably be back up to 90.

Well... when it rains, it pours at my house LITERALLY! DIRECT TV decided it wanted to take a few extra months worth of payments out of my account in one month. This has not been so much fun... still working with them to figure things out! My dog is hurt and has to go to the vet tomorrow; cross your fingers that her leg isn't broken. Last but not least, my washing machine developed a small leak ok it wasn't so small but I still used it until the big gush of water came out. Anyhow, I had to have the washer repair man come over on Sat and he tells me that it needs a new tub, transmission and barrings. The cost of the parts plus his labor was close to $400.00 + $35.00 more for him to tell me what needed to be fixed so obviously we aren't going to pay that much to fix it. After all, I only paid $125.00 for it on KSL.com almost 2 years ago. I think I got my monies worth. I'm now in the pity party depression stage trying to figure out what to do as I really didn't want to buy another used one. So I talked with my mom ok, bawled while talking to my mom. So after I get off the phone with my mom, Kyle calls and said that he just talked with my step-dad (papa) and that I needed to go up to Beck's (this is our local appliance store) and he had already talked with them and they had a new set for me. I am now the proud owner of my VERY first brand new front load Washer and Dryer... yes, this is my very first NEW set. The other two I've had were both used sets. These are the coolest things since sliced bread. I can't believe how efficient they are and the minimal water that is used. I've never been so excited to do laundry in all my life. Thank you so much mom and papa for the help xoxoxoxo!!!!!

I know I've been promising pictures but haven't done it yet. I promise this week sometime or next weekend I will get them on. Hope all is well with everyone. Loves....

Has it really been a month.....

2009-05-20T08:14:00.002-06:00

since my last post? When I started this blog I promised myself I would update at least 2xs per month. However, I've just not had the time to do it. Anyhow, a lot has happened over the past month. I had a birthday and it was a rough one. I really thought I was a year younger then I really am. Thanks sister for breaking the news to me! It was like that episode of friends where Phoebe thought she was a certain age and then found out she was a year older. It was like I'd gained a whole new year in a matter of minutes. I really kinda sucked! However, I did new a new camera from my mom and have been taking pictures. I need to get them downloaded off of the camera and get them posted. I have a goal to do that sometime this weekend!

Kyle started a new job back on April 20th for the city where we live. He's so funny. He told me the other night "you know when you drive by a city worker and there's 4 leaning on a shovel and one working" that's really how it is working for the city. Needless to say, he's the one that's working. My dad always told me when I was younger that it's easier to find a job when you already have a job. Well, I think he was right. Kyle put in his resume with a local company a few months back and we never heard back from them. Well, they called yesterday and offered him a job. The hourly pay is $6.00 more per hour then what he's making for the city and it was only a part-time job that went until Oct. This is like almost a $1000 per month pay increase WOO HOO (maybe we can get me that new car now)! He couldn't really turn it down. He starts on June 1st. He really feels bad that he's leaving the city job but he needs to do what's best for our family. He said that the city was very good with him and even told him that if the have a permanent job come available, they give him a call to see if he's interested in working for them full-time.

Little Ava has been better. She was so sick this past weekend. I don't think she's ever been that sick. She's still not 100%. I hope she peps back up soon. It makes me so sad to see her when she's sick. We did her testing for preschool a couple of weeks ago and the average score is 85-115, Ava scored a 127. I knew she was a smart cookie!

The summer months are fast approaching and I'm so excited. I can't wait to get out in the sun, BBQ, boating, camping, riding 4-wheelers and hanging out with good friends. The last few days here have been so nice... but, we do live in Utah so it could technically be 90 degrees today and snow tomorrow. I'm so totally not kidding!

I have to have a minor... well not so minor surgery on the 29th for some female problems that I'm having. I'll let everyone know how it goes. I promise I will post some pictures soon! Loves....

Easter....

2009-04-14T15:58:00.003-06:00

Yes, I've been neglecting my blog AGAIN... just haven't felt up to blogging very much lately. The weather is still very gloomy and cold and I feel like I'm still in a winter slump. I'm also cameraless again. The one my dad sent me finally broke. It gave him several good years and me a good month but its now gone off to camera heaven. I'll get a new one someday, I just don't know when. Oh well! Anyhow, a few good things have happened over the last few weeks though. Kyle finally found a job and starts on the 20th with the city. It's only a 6 month position but could work into something more permanent and full time at a later date. It scares me that it's only temporary but temporary is better then nothing right now.

Easter, oh how I love the holiday's.... NOT!!!! I have no cute pictures to post. I'm hoping either my mom or Stanton got a few good ones and if so, I'll post them. Well, I got to have Easter at my house this year. The weather cooperated so we could be outside which was good since my house is a little small. We planned an Easter Egg hunt for the kids and had a great lunch. The hunt was a little disappointing but oh well, I won't go into that. I'd like to though!!!! I was a little on the peeved side and still am but nothing I can do about it and if I say anything, I'll just get in trouble **SIGH**! Other then that, it turned out to be a great day! Ava and my niece had to dress up in the same dresses and it was so cute. Kyden is such a girlie girl and Ava isn't too far behind. However, Kyden likes her dress shoes and Ava likes her flip flops. When it's time for flip flop season, she's just like her mommy and that's all she likes to wear. However, I don't think the dresses will ever come clean from them rolling around on the grass... if grass is what you could call it. It was really wet and semi muddy.

My work is plugging along. I work for an agency of the state that took some pretty hefty budget cuts but nothing like our sister agencies have taken. We lost a few people but I'm worried about some of the programs that they want to cut. They're so vital to our vulnerable citizen's. It's a waiting game now to see what is going to happen. I'm just hoping for the best. Well... better get back to regular life. I hope to post again soon. Loves....

Dearest Blog....

2009-03-22T16:08:00.008-06:00

how I have neglected thee... and so many other things these past few months including, myself! However, I hope that's all changing. I'm even posting some new pictures. We've done a few things this past weekend. We took a trip to Capitol Reef and went hiking for Kyle's birthday. We came home and had a couple of beautiful warms days so we took our first Jeep ride of the year with friends. Needless to say, it's dang cold today. That's how Utah is... warm one minute, cold the next! I've also starting walking every night with my friend Ann. I do a lot better at going when I have someone to go with me. It's hard to get to the gym because I have to be to work so early that I don't have time to go in the mornings. I try to go a lunch but that doesn't work and then if I go at night, I feel guilty for leaving Ava because I'm gone all day as it is. It feels like this is such a catch 22, no right answer. So needless to say, I've been trying to do some different things at home and then just walk at night. It must be starting to work because I've lost 10 pounds already YIPPY!!!!!

Things at work are much better. We won't be doing any furloughs our benefits are supposed to go up a little but that's the least of my worries. I've worked in the private sector before and I'll tell you what, I listen to some of the older people that I work with complain about the benefits going up a few dollars and all I think to myself is they have no idea how good they really have it. I'm just glad and so thankful that we have health insurance. Kyle also finally has a job offer. It doesn't start until sometime in April. We don't have all of the details yet so I'll let you know once I know more. I still have some leery feelings about him going to work with an old business associate. He's going to talk with the company this week and see if he could get on a different shift then him. If he can, I think it will be all good. If not, I'd almost rather have him unemployed... how sad is that! I wish I could go into details about the previous business associate but it just makes me a bitch when I think about what happened so I won't do that tonight.

Anyhow... here's some new pictures. The first couple of pictures are from my dad. I love the big trees in the Redwood's.

Jeep Ride

Urs & Franki

Shanan

So tired

Shanan & Franki

Capitol Reef

Blooming Trees

Petroglyphs

Well....

2009-03-06T22:24:00.002-07:00

I am battling some new challenges this week. I just feel like I keep getting kicked harder when I'm already down. It doesn't feel like it is ever going to end or we're ever going to catch a little break. I know that there are a lot of other people out there who are in the same boat that we're in right now and I empathize with them. So, I'm thinking of getting another job. It hurts so bad to think that I might have to do this. I'm already away from Ava more then I should be. There are a lot of adolescent group homes where I live and since I already work with troubled youth, I pretty much have the job if I want it. I just need to get back to them and let them know. I'm really really struggling with this right now. If I do take the job, it will put me back a year or so on my graduate degree as well as a lot more time away from the home... and at my job with the state, it's possible that I might have to take a mandatory furlough of 8 hours per month for a year and that my insurance premiums will go up as well. If that is the case, I really have no other choice but to take a second job. I've also went back on my birth control pills... so no baby right now either! I'm also really struggling with that one. There are just so many things I'd like to post right now but it would be from emotions and not logically thinking so I'm not going to post some of those things. So.. how's that for a pity party???

There are some positives though. Ava can sing her ABC's, count to 20 in both English and Spanish and she's only 3 years old! I'm so proud of her. She's such a smart little cookie. She loves to sing songs, dance and play. She's my little sunshine and the light of my life. She's has such a cute personality and a very creative imagination. She drew me a picture on her closet doors. So instead of being the big bad mommy and getting mad, I joined her and we drew a picture together. I told her that tomorrow we were going to paint and once painted, she couldn't draw anymore and she said "okay mommy". I just think with all of the stressors in my house right now, she can feel the stress as well and I think it relieved a lot of stress for both of us. I really don't think she'll ever do it again. If she does, I'll probably have to get mad next time. She's just growing up so fast. Mommy loves you sweet Ava!

So... there's my life in a nutshell right now. I'm hoping for some good weather in the next few days so we can go outside to play and take some pictures. I'll post pictures once I get some. Hope all is well. I'm going to bed! Loves...

Hello Everyone....

2009-03-02T20:28:00.003-07:00

I know I promised pictures awhile ago but I haven't had time to hardly even sleep let alone post pictures. However, I will try to get to it very soon.

The abode is still the same. However, I did finally get part of my kitchen painted. This has been a work in progress since I moved into the home. I didn't realize how bad the walls were until I started trying to prep them to paint. Needless to say, we're still mudding trying to fix some of the walls so they'll look good once painted. I forgot how much work older homes were to remodel, even something just as simple as painting is a royal pain in a home where the walls are totally crooked. Oh well... I'm finally getting it! I'd post more about the home life but it really hasn't changed and is just getting more frustrating day by day. We're working through things but again, I'm just frustrated so I'll leave it at that for tonight. The work life is the same, totally busy. This is very good because of job security but also very bad because it means there are a lot more families that are in dysfunction right now.

I finished another class and pretty happy about that especially since I got an "A". Oh... for those of you who need college text books, go to http://www.cheapesttextbooks.com/ you'll seriously save TONS! Well... better go hang with the family. Hope all is well with everyone. I'm hoping that I'm back to myself very soon and once I'm back to myself, that means I'll blog more again. Loves to all....

So............

2009-02-21T22:52:00.001-07:00

my cute, nice, sweet dad sent me a camera... that means I'll soon have some new pictures to post. Thanks Dad!!!!!

Happy Valentines Day!!!

2009-02-14T14:15:00.004-07:00

So, I'm really not a fan of good ole Valentines Day. If' you're single, it's known as singles awareness day and even if you have a significant other, the day can still pretty much suck! Kyle and I decided that we weren't going to get each other anything this year. I'm more a fan of bring me flowers on some random day, not a day that he's expected to bring flowers. Anyhow, we decided no gifts this year. Well... that still means that you need to get something as I can't be known as the wife who didn't give her hubby anything for this gift expecting day. So I go shopping and find a cute little something and the cute little something is about $100 so I decide that maybe, just maybe I'll go with the agreement of no gift giving this year. Needless to say, I found the cute little something when I got home online for only $30 so I decide to order it. Well, it was supposed to be delivered yesterday and when I checked my email yesterday morning, it said it was out of stock and my card would be credited back for the amount of the purchase. I'm now back to no gift. I really just figured that it's ok at this point. We agreed on no gifts and when I tried to get something, it didn't come anyway. So I go to the local Walmart and just buy a cute card and me and Ava sign it. So I get up this morning and Kyle gives me a card. I'm thinking it's just a card since he really can't stand this special day. So I open the card and guess what's in it?!? a gift.... Well the nice hubby that he is went and bought me a gift card for a massage and some speciality foot bath. He said that I've been really stressed out with work and things at home and that I need to just do something for myself! WOW... what a sweet guy! So now, here I sit at the computer feeling totally guilty that all he got was a card! Oh well... I guess it's the thought that counts!!!!

So tonight we're going out with my friends Ann & Brett. I think we're going bowling and the somewhere to have a few cocktails. I hope you all have a great day!!! Loves....

Hello Everyone...

2009-02-03T14:38:00.003-07:00

Again, I know I suck at blogging right now. I apologize but I just haven't been in the mood to do much of anything lately. I'm overly swamped at work which is good but it totally wears me out and then when I get home at night, I have no energy to do anything. I also have a very hard time in the winter. I used to ski when I lived in SLC and would like to take it up again but no moola to do that right now. I have some friends that I can go and play volleyball with on Tues and Wed nights but then I feel bad because I leave Ava all day to go to work and then have to leave her again when I get home if I want to go and play. It's like a no win situation. I'm so ready for warm weather or even just spring weather for that matter. Ava wants to go outside and play and we go but she's cold in like 5 minutes so then back in the house we go. Lets just say that I'm really looking forward to this Spring!

The home situation is still the same and I don't even like posting about it because I feel like a broken record. Kyle is still looking for work and put it one way, we don't really have anyone knocking down our door trying to offer him a job. I just feel so bad and to be honest, I'm sick and tired of having to defend him to everyone... family, friends, co-workers etc. I promise he's really sending out resumes and looking. There's just not much out there right now for a construction superintendent. Oh I promise... it's more frustrating for me and him then it is anyone else!

All in all things are ok. I still can't post any pictures though. I still can't get that camera to work right. I am trying though as it doesn' t look like I'll be getting another one anytime soon. The picture will not download off of the camera onto the computer and it won't switch over from external memory to my SD card.... here again, is a no win situation. Oh well..... it's all good!!! Loves...

I know I know.....

2009-01-19T11:02:00.004-07:00

I so suck at blogging right now. Sorry I haven't updated for a while but I've been very busy at work the past couple of weeks.... and I think I'm totally depressed with the cold. I'm so ready for warm weather. I want to go outside and play. I'm so sick and tired of being in the house! Ava wants to go outside too but we get out there and she gets cold in like 5 minutes and then is miserable and wants to come back in the house. SIGH.... Oh well!!! There's my pity party!

I've had a decent four day weekend now and finally out of those days, have one at home. Things are really the same at my house. Kyle has a pretty good job lead and we're hoping to know something very soon, hopefully within the next week. I'd like to post some pictures but I'm REALLY disappointed in this camera. It takes the worst pictures I've ever seen. I get teary eyed when I think about it. I'm just hoping that maybe I can get a new one sometime soon. I'll cross my fingers on that one. Mom and dad if you're reading... I LOVE YOU!!! hint hint.... J/K. Oh, there's my second pity party on this post!

I've got back into my school work in the last week and will have another class finished next week. I'm on track to graduate in June 2010; 18 more months! The school was gracious enough to give me a grievance on my student loan payment and dropped it in half because Kyle is not working. I was so very grateful they were able to do that for me.

Ava is her usually self. My little stinker and I wouldn't have it any other way. We want to take her sledding later and I will really try to see if I can get some pictures and post them.

Well... I'm off to do laundry and clean house. Hope all is well with everyone. I PROMISE I will post again very SOON!!!! Loves...

Biggest Looser

2009-01-05T08:36:00.003-07:00

Hi Everyone.... I was reading the news this morning and came across this blog http://utahtib.blogspot.com/2008/12/biggest-loser-6.html they're offering a "biggest looser" contest starting this Friday. Check out the blog, it sounds like it might be fun!!!!

Silly Ava....

2009-01-03T09:46:00.003-07:00

So when Ava woke up this morning she was doing her morning snuggling with mommy. When mommy's not home, she'll snuggle with daddy. Well I've been home since Christmas and I have to go back to work on Monday and we've snuggled every morning for the past 10 days. So I tell Ava this morning that mommy has to go back to work in two days and Ava says no mommy, you can just stay home with me. So mommy tells her well... mommy's got to bring home the bacon. This is where it gets good. Ava looks up at me and says "but mommy, we already have bacon"! What a silly little girl! I just thought I'd post about my morning funny.

I should have some pictures from our New Year's party soon. I don't have any myself because I forgot my camera :( so I have to wait to get the pictures from my friend before I can post. I sure hope that everyone had a safe and happy New Year. Talk to you all soon. Loves....

Goodbye 2008.... Hello 2009!!!

2008-12-31T13:55:00.003-07:00

I thought I'd just take a moment to remember this past year... its not been the greatest year for our family but there were some very good things that happened in 2008. We got married, Ava turned 3, had several fun camping trips with friends and a fabulous Lake Powell trip. I'm so very close with my family and I'm very thankful for that. I have some of the greatest friends in the world. I've also met some great new friends through blogging. We've overcome some very significant trials this past year and Kyle and I are still close and probably closer then ever. Although there are still days I could tell him to go live in the trailer out back. However, I did get one more kick in the teeth for 2008 in the mail yesterday. I guess the trail of bad luck needed to go out with a bang as well. I won't post about it right now but I will later.

So... goodbye 2008, bring on 2009. I have a feeling that 2009 is going to be a great year for us! We are going to welcome in the New Year with friends. We're having dinner at Shanan's house then going to the local pub. It's going to be a blast! I hope you all have a safe and Happy New Year. See you all next year!!!! Loves....

Shopping

2008-12-30T20:35:00.003-07:00

So I went shopping with my sister today to see if we could find any good deals. We did not succeed. First of all, we took our kids with us BIG MISTAKE!!!!! Ava was the instigator today, not Kyden and she was a full on stinker. She'll either stay home or Kyden will stay home next time. It seems like we can take one of them and they're perfect little angels but when you take both, it's a recipe for disaster.

We started at Old Navy and from there, made our way over to the mall. Once we got to the mall, there was a great big sign in Victoria Secret that said SALE.... so of course we needed to browse. We both found us a really cute pair of PINK sweats that we both wanted. We tried to order them online but they were out of stock so we were both like SWEET, they have our size. In the mean time, I had to take Ava and Kyden out of the store to spare the other shoppers with their behavior. So I'm sitting out on a bench waiting for my sister to come out with our cute pants and I've finally got the girls calmed down when the cleaning lady who doesn't speak very much English comes over to our bench to clean. We were sitting by some semi dead poinsettia's and the girls were playing with the leaves that had fallen on the ground. The lady looks at me and comes uncorked that that girls "picked" the leaves. She was seriously freaking out and then started pointing at Ava telling her bad girl, bad... I then come completely uncorked as they hadn't picked anything. I won't tell you exactly what I told her but I wasn't very nice and I speak just enough Spanish that she knew exactly what I said. I'm not that type of a parent that lets my child pick flower or plant leaves in a mall or for that matter anywhere to keep them entertained. She could have asked me before she yelled and pointed at my child. I'm really surprised that I didn't get kicked out of the mall today! So then out comes my sister with NO pants... I'm floored! I ask her why? Well she gets told that they don't have the same sales in stores that they do online so if we were to buy them in the store, they would be $40 instead of $18 if we ordered them online. SPARE ME!!!! No wonders stores are going out of business when they can't even compete with their own online stores!

We now venture over to The Buckle and I decided that I was finally going to suck it up and buy me new pants since I haven't bought a new pair in over a year. I was going to wait until I lost a little more weight but I really needed some now. They'll just be a little looser here in a month! We go in and I get the BKE Wendi Jeans and pay for them. Well when we get to the car, I realize that I bought the wrong size. I bought the extra long length instead of the regular length. I'm really not that tall and the extra long ones were probably the length of my entire body. At this point, my sister and I are going to the Provo Mall to meet my dad who took my nephew to his house to stay for a few days. I just figured I change the pants at the other store.... FIRST NOTE TO SELF don't ever try on the Jean's the sales lady thinks you will like better ever ever ever again. I now do not like the BKE Wendi's as much as the Big Star Maddie's and well... there's $30 difference in price between the two and yes, the Big Star's were more but I LOVE THEM!!!!! SECOND NOTE TO SELF don't tell husband how much you paid for them or he will choke you! THIRD NOTE TO SELF remember just how cute they look before you think about the price! FORTH NOTE TO SELF never take children shopping with you again! As of this point, Ava will not have any siblings. I might change my mind tomorrow but right now I'm pretty set on Ava being an only child.

So tomorrow is New Year's Eve. My grandma is taking Ava for the night so we can go out and do something. We are going up to my really good friend Shanan's house for dinner then most likely the local pub. We have a good time there. So I'll post some picture of our little get together on Thursday. Does anyone have any fun plans this year????

Well that pretty much sums up my day and our New Year's plans. I'm ready for a big glass of wine or might just skip the wine and dive right into the Crown tonight. I've got this week off of work so if I want, I can go on a week long party. I probably won't but it sounds fun.... Loves

Happy Holiday's....

2008-12-28T20:53:00.007-07:00

Hi everyone... sorry I haven't posted anything for the holiday's but I've been sick for a few days. Here are a few pictures from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Ava had so much fun and got WAY too much stuff. She's had so much fun playing with her new toys. I've been working on the new camera and not very happy or impressed with it right now. It didn't come with an instruction book and it won't switch over from internal memory to my SD card so I can only get a few pictures before it's full. It doesn't have some of the features that my other camera had and so I'm kinda sad that one is broke. This one would be great for Kyle, just not great for what I want it for. Maybe I'll get lucky and get my "wish" camera for Mother's Day. It's a Nikon and kinda pricey so I'm sure that I won't be getting one anytime soon. Oh well... a girl can wish though can't she?????

Also, my friend Kaci over at My Three Sons needs some words of wisdom and prayers right now. Her youngest Carson who's 2 is very sick and could possibly be having some heart problems as well. I'm crossing my fingers that's not the case. Anyhow, please visit her blog you can get to it from my side bar and leave her a little message. She loves meeting new people especially her fellow bloggers and needs all the support she can get right now.

Guess who finally has a new camera.....

2008-12-23T20:07:00.002-07:00

I do and couldn't be more excited! It's not the nicest camera in the world but will do exactly what I need it to do. Here are a few pictures that I took before the other one died.... oh and for those that asked, I found my other camera at my mom's and have no idea how it got there!

For sale....

2008-12-22T20:08:00.003-07:00

or free! husband and three year old.... any takers? Must be willing to return at a later date!

I know I know....

2008-12-16T07:49:00.003-07:00

I'm WAY overdue for a post. First I found my camera but it's caputs. The batteries go dead after one picture so it's pretty much gone. What that means is that the camera that I bought Kyle for Christmas, is officially now mine. However, it's at my aunts house so I have no pictures to post right now. I tried to get them off of the SD card last night but I did something wrong and they didn't save. Oh well... they're still on there so I'll post them later! However, that means I need to find something else for Kyle for Christmas and have no idea what to get him or really any extra moola either but I'll come up with something. He might just get a homemade card and a picture colored by Ava. That will probably be the best gift anyway.

Ava is doing so good and is so excited for Christmas this year. I can't put any presents under the tree because she keeps opening them. It's pretty funny. We put lights up on our house and every time we leave the house, she tells the lights "by Christmas lights, I love you" and then blows them a kiss... so dang cute. She also does the same thing with the tree and everything else in the house for that matter.

Kyle is still looking for a job and we are still just plugging along and hoping for the best. We really never thought that I'd be the bread winner of the home but that's okay. I deal with it better then he does. He's become a pretty good "stay at home daddy" in the mornings. Ava has only been going to daycare for a few hours each day so she can still have the interaction with the other children and so we don't loose her spot at daycare... and Ava LOVES daycare and we really like Marcia, our daycare provider.

Well that pretty much sums up what's going on a my house right now... not much and I know, boring! Hope all is well with everyone. I promise I will post again very soon! Loves....

Weekend Update...

2008-12-08T07:53:00.002-07:00

So we had a pretty good weekend at my house. My dad came down on Friday and took me and Ava to lunch for Ava's birthday. On Saturday, I went to SLC to see all of my old friends that I used to work with; it was so nice to see and visit with all of them. We are all now married and have children. Santa was at the party and by protest, Ava sat on his lap. She didn't scream though so that was good. We had a little birthday party with Kyle's family for Ava yesterday and she had so much fun. We're going to have one with my family tonight. I'd love to post some pictures right now but it's just not possible since my camera is missing! I've looked everywhere for it and can't find it. I'm sure it will turn up sooner or later. I have Kyle a "Christmas" present that I could open now that is for him that might become mine but I won't do that just yet.. wink wink!!!

I'm going to have my mom take some pictures tonight of Ava's little party so I will get those from her and post them soon. Hope everyone had a great weekend. I will post again very soon. Loves....

Happy Birthday Princess Ava....

2008-12-04T21:38:00.008-07:00

Three years ago today I was laying on the couch looking at my toes wondering if the "vienna sausage" toes would ever go away. The week prior, I was diagnosed with Toxemia so my feet were pretty swelled. Little did I know that night while looking at my toes that in less then 24 hours my life would change forever! I woke up the next morning thinking to myself just how good I felt that day and got ready for my doctor's appointment. When I got into the exam room, the nurse took my blood pressure twice and then immediately left the room. She came back with my ob/gyn and my family doctor who both also took my blood pressure. I laughed at them that it was wrong because I felt great. Within several minutes, I was on the table getting a stress test. However, I was apparently already having some contractions. The nurse kept asking me if I could feel any contractions and I couldn't feel anything (lucky me I guess). They then took me in for an ultrasound and once it was over, decided they weren't going to wait until my due date which was December 23rd, they were going to induce labor that day. The doctor told me to call Kyle to let him know. However, he didn't think she'd come before 2:00am the next day so I figured I'd tell him that he didn't need to hurry since he hates hospitals. I told him to just finish what he was doing at work, go home and grab the bag and just be there by 5:00pm so he would know what it was like for me to be in labor but he was there long before 5:00pm. The next thing was the epidural which I was so excited for however, within 30 minutes of the epidural, I went in for an emergency c-section. They think that I was allergic to something that was in the epidural. All I can remember from the delivery room was her little cry and the doctor that said look at those cheeks and look at that hair. I only vaguely remember seeing Ava.

Ava was born on December 5, 2005 at 5:38pm she weighed 6 pounds, 2 ounces and was 19 inches long. She didn't need any medical attention and was a healthy baby. Ava had very unique hair, it was platinum blond and she had TONS of it. During my hospital stay, I had tons of hospital staff that just "came" to my room to see this baby with hair they'd never seen on a newborn before. I graciously welcomed the company to show off my new little bundle of joy, for the most part.

Happy Birthday Ava Diane... you're mommy's sunshine and daddy's princess. We love you!!

Happy December..

2008-12-01T07:35:00.003-07:00

Happy December!!! Yes, it's in fact December already. We had a pretty good holiday weekend. Went to my grandma's house for Thanksgiving dinner and it was a disaster LOL.... It didn't matter what grandma touched, it went to crap. It was so funny and at least we can laugh about it. It started with she used the wrong yeast for the rolls, then she almost burned down the house... yes, the turkey started on fire in the oven (it was salvageable). It just went downhill from there but we did have a good dinner though.

The day after, I went with my sister and her husband on our annual "Black Friday" shopping extravaganza. We always go to American Fork because Walmart, Target and Kohl's are in the same shopping area. We started at Walmart at 3:45 am and there were 3xs as many people there this year as there was in past years. We found what we needed and each of us waited patiently by our items for 5:00am. By about 4:50am, people went completely NUTS and started grabbing their items, some out of other peoples carts! We looked down towards the toys and could see them flying up in the air and people trying to grab them so I grab my two items went to the front of the store and was checked out in record breaking time, 4:54am. I checked out before the sale was even supposed to start! We then made our way over to Kohl's and then onto Target. We did get all of the items that we went for and had a lot of fun shopping. Even though Kyle is not working, I had saved some money special for Christmas.... and let me tell you, we got some great deals! and I only made one "want" purchase.

We put up our tree on Saturday night and I'll be honest with you, I'm not much into the Christmas spirit. I don't know if I'll do much more decorating then the tree and the lights on the house. Last week, I was so excited to put up the tree but now that it's up, it just doesn't seem like it should be up already. Did I maybe put it up too soon??? Who knows! Ava was very excited though. She wanted blue ornaments so blue ornaments it was. She loves the lights. She just looks at them and tells people how beautiful they are. After we put up the tree, me and Ava then went to the town lighting ceremony. They had a bunch of activities for the kids and Mr. & Mrs. Claus were there. However, you couldn't get to them. Ava played some games and we put her name into a toy drawing and guess what? Ava won a toy! There were like 400 kids there and maybe 50 names were drawn and she was one of them. She won a Dora toy and she LOVES Dora. It was fun!

I'm still battling a cold or something like a cold. It's horrible and Kyle has it as well. Ava hasn't gotten it yet and we're just crossing her fingers that she doesn't get it. I think I might suck it up and finally go to the doctor today.

I hope everyone is doing well. I will post again soon. Loves....

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-27T09:25:00.002-07:00

I know the wife bought a turkey but where on earth did she put the bird?

Happy Thanskgiving to everyone. I hope you all have a great day!

Uneventful Weekend....

2008-11-24T10:17:00.003-07:00

So we had a very uneventful weekend at my house. Friday I had a bit of a cold so I took some medicine and went to bed WAY early. I told Kyle we were just like an old married couple falling asleep on separate couches LOL! It was pretty funny to see when I woke up a midnight and went to bed. Saturday was also very mellow, just did a little housework and not much else. Yesterday we got the Christmas lights up on the house.... and I am so excited to turn them on! However, Kyle told me I can't turn them on until next weekend SUCK! We did turn them on for Ava for a minute last night and she just looked at them and said "my Christmas lights on my house are so beautiful". It was so cute. We've been talking with her about Christmas and why we have Christmas. She is understanding the gift thing but nothing else but that will come when she gets a little bit older. Grandma Janet asked her yesterday what Santa Claus was going to bring her. She told her pink lips, purple lips, orange lips, more pink lips and a puppy! Ok the "lips" are lipstick but I had no idea that she was throwing in a puppy too. So grandma asks her what kind of puppy she wants since she already has two. She tells her one that can swim with her. Ok so I now realize that she wants the puppy from TV that swims and walks. Thank goodness... the last thing I need right now is another dog!

I am pretty much done Christmas shopping. I'm going on Friday with my sister and can't wait! and yes, I know I'm crazy for going on Black Friday but I LOVE IT! However, I will officially be done shopping on Friday as well. Hope all is well with everyone. Loves.....

Thankful....

2008-11-18T10:08:00.003-07:00

I'm going to jump on the "thankful" bandwagon! I don't have any fun pictures to post but I'm going to tell you ten things that I am thankful for right now.

1. My family & friends... especially Kyle and Ava. I would be nothing without them!
2. The dishwasher... when I first moved into my home, there wasn't one and Kyle gave me one for Christmas two years ago. It was the greatest gift ever, it just keeps on giving!
3. My job... I may not like it at times but they are really good to me and it's a very stable job.
4. My dogs... they give us all unconditional love.
5. The roof over my head and food on our table. We might not have steak & lobster for dinner every night... wait who am I kidding we never have lobster, I'm allergic to it! but we always have something good to eat.
6. My 1997 Volkswagen Jetta... even with 200k miles on it, it just keeps on ticking and hopefully will for another year or maybe even two!
7. The Internet... where would we be without it?
8. My blogging friends.
9. Satellite television... the Nogin channel can be my best friend at times!
10. Water... yes, water! Any kind of water especially drinking water and the water in Lake Powell for boating!

Shots!!!

2008-11-13T16:05:00.002-07:00

So Ava got her very first flu shot this morning. Mommy tried very hard to prepare her for it before we got to the health department. I'm a firm believer that you should tell your kids before they get one to prepare them. So I tell Ava that she is getting a shot so she doesn't get sick this winter. Ava looks at me and says.... you only get shots when you get sick mommy! I again tell her that his is a different kind of shot. Kyle was supposed to take Ava but I ended up taking her since my car broke down on my way to work... this is two days in a row now that I blew a radiator hose on my way to work. Ava tells me that if she has to get a shot, she's going to wear her pajamas and take her Dora doll. I told her that was fine so off we went. I fill out all of the paperwork and she's telling the lady that she's getting a shot today so she won't get sick. The lady in disbelief asks me why I would ever tell my child they were getting a shot? I then have to explain my logic to her. So the nurse takes us back and I give Ava a sucker. The nurse looks at me and asks me why I would give her a sucker before the shot as the sucker is usually used as a reward for being so brave. I tell her just to give her the shot and she'll see why. Ava sucks on her sucker the entire time and only took it out to say "it's not nice to poke people"! She did great! She didn't even let out a whimper. The nurse then tells me that was the greatest idea she's ever heard or seen... and asks if it's ok to use it on other kids throughout the day!! I kind of laughed when she asked me.

Things at my house are a little bit better this week. We've figured out some things with the insurance companies and needless to say, Kyle's old insurance company is finally paying out on a few claims. There are more bills in collections right now then are being paid but we'll just work through it. I'm pretty frustrated with one though... so it got paid but they won't write off what they call "additional charges". I can't seem to get a straight answer on what these charges are though. I'm currently working on those and hoping for the best. This pretty much sums up my week. My sister and I are going "window" Christmas shopping tomorrow and I am pretty excited for that... probably because we don't have to take our kids! Hope all is well with everyone.... Loves!

"8's" tag....

2008-11-12T13:59:00.002-07:00

My sister in law Emmalee tagged me to do this.

8 shows I love to watch... (when I have time)
1. CSI - Las Vegas & Miami
2. The Biggest Looser (this show really motivates me)
3. Without a Trace
4. The Amazing Race
5. Cold Case
6. Two and a half men
7. ??
8. ??
Em... I think we really like a lot of the same shows :)

8 favorite restaurants
1. PF Changs
2. Olive Garden
3. Los Amigo's
4. Mimi's
5. Subway
6. Gandolfo's
7. Cafe Rio
8. Macaroni Grill

8 things that happened yesterday
1. I had the day off of work (Veteran's Day)
2. Went to the grocery store
3. Got in the shower and got ready for the day
4. Did a little homework
5. Went to my sister's house
6. Cleaned out part of my China Hutch... it's a bigger job then what I thought it would be.
7. Did a couple loads of laundry
8. Watched the movie "Juno".... it was really a good movie!

8 things I look forward to....
1. Having "one" more child... after the next one, we are totally done!
2. Being done with school
3. Living my life and experiencing new things with Kyle
4. Having a new car someday
5. Being debt free... lol like that will ever happen!!
6. Watching Ava... she's growing up so fast!
7. Being able to spend more time with my dad... we don't get to see him very often :(
8. Kyle finding a job!

8 things I love about fall
1. The leaves!
2. Thanksgiving dinner... mmm turkey!
3. Fresh baked rolls... I don't do much baking in the summer.
4. Grandma's house cause she always has goodies
5. Making home maid soups
6. Black Friday Shopping!!!!!
7. Spending time with family and friends
8. Hot Chocolate.... with peppermint schnapps (you can't drink the stuff straight).

8 things on my wish list
1. Kyle finding a job!
2. Buying a new car... I want a new one that's never been driven by ANYONE else before!
3. Going back to somewhere warm: Hawaii, Mexico, Grand Cayman's, ANYWHERE!!!!
4. Loosing weight! We've finally figured out what is wrong with me so I can actually start to loose weight now.
5. Taking Ava somewhere fun when she gets a little bit older.
6. Going back to Lake Powell... I can't wait till next summer!
7. Building onto our house... we only have 2 bedrooms and need one more so we can have another child.
8. Being filthy rich or lets just say debt free!!! I'm either going to win the World Series of Poker next year or the Megabucks. I think I have a better chance at the Poker table. I'm a pretty good player!

I'm supposed to tag 8 people now. However, I'm just going to tag anyone who wants to do this fun tag!!!

Well....

2008-11-11T16:20:00.005-07:00

I don't think that I'm officially the worlds worst blogger but I sure haven't been a very good one for a couple of weeks. Not much is new with me same crap; different week. Kyle found out last week that the coal mine that was supposed to be hiring 20 people this month wasn't going to hire until April of next year SUCK! I sure hope that something comes up pretty soon, more for his sake then anyone else's. The lovely economy hit home again with my sister getting laid off from her job. She and I have a joke that we are all going to end up bankrupt and living in one house with me taking care of everyone since my job is very stable. Oh and I don't make that much money so that would totally SUCK! I seriously hope that people don't take us serious about that... I know we shouldn't joke around about things like that but we still need to smile once in a while and try to make light of a bad situation. This is actually something that reminds us that things can always be a lot worse. Her husbands shop also isn't doing very well. So we're really hoping that he is not the next to loose his job. Misty has a strong medical background so we think she'll find something very soon. I'm really trying to talk her into going back to school and finishing her RN. Hopefully she'll agree with me on that :)...

So I officially feel old! I went to the liquor store in Ephraim this week and it was the first time I've never been carded when someone is working that doesn't know me! I usually get the look from the sales clerk like are you sure you're that old... not to toot my own horn but I have good genes!! I really don't look as old as I am. You wouldn't know by looking at my mom that she's 50 and my dad's 58. They both look very good for their age too.

We had a lot of fun at our adult Halloween Party. I had a hard time coming up with a costume. I knew I should have kept all of those jelly shoes! I decided to make something. I think it was a cross between Cindy Lauper and Madonna. It actually looked really cute. We found Kyle a flowing mullet (LOL). I really think that he had one of those years ago when I didn't know him yet. This isn't a very good picture but it's the only one that we got.

Hope all is well with everyone I will post again very soon! Loves to all....

Happy Halloween....

2008-11-01T09:24:00.008-06:00

Ava and her cousin, Kyden went trick or treating last night and had a blast! They were both so cute... they'd say trick-or-treat and then thank you every time they were given something. Ava's costume originally started as a bumble bee. She thought it was a butterfly and then decided that it was a fairy princess instead. If you asked her what she was, she'd tell you something different every time you asked her. Mommy didn't really want to put the flower on the costume but what princess Ava wanted for Halloween, she got it! My sister and I had so much fun making the girl's costumes this year and it was such a nice night for trick or treating. Mommy and Daddy's adult Halloween party is tonight and I'm still trying to come up with a costume to wear. The theme is "80's prom" however, I'm struggling. I will find something though and post pictures tomorrow. If anyone has any ideas on a fun 80's prom costume, let me know!

We have a diagnosis...

2008-10-28T19:47:00.004-06:00

it wasn't a spider or anything like that after all. I have Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA, often pronounced "mersa") also known as the "superbug". My sister who's a nurse explained it to me as a strain of Staph infection that is immune to any antibiotic that has a penicillin base. I had a follow up appointment today and the doctor told me that it was a very good thing that I went to the ER when I did. He said that if I had waited even another day, I probably would have been admitted to the hospital. He said that I am taking the right meds and need bi-daily follow up for about a week. They drained the wound and it feels and looks much better now.

Things are still pretty much the same at my house this week (other then the infection). We are just plugging along. I can't wait to post pictures of Ava in her Halloween costume. She is going to be a bumble bee this year. She will be so cute! Hope all is well for everyone. Loves....

Mommy's been bitten by ummm....

2008-10-26T16:08:00.004-06:00

SOMETHING... ok so all of the things that I wanted to get done this weekend, none of them got done! We think that I got bit sometime Friday night. Whatever it was that bit me, put me in the ER and on two HEAVY antibiotics for infection. The doctor's aren't even sure exactly what bit me. By the time I finally sucked it up and went to the hospital (I thought I would just take care of it on my own), it was so inflamed, swollen and infected the doctor just had to take a biopsy of it to find to exactly what it was that bit me. So I have to go back to the doctor later to find out what it was. Needless to say, I didn't get any before pictures but my entire eye was swollen shut and black, blue and red in color. We took this picture about 8 hours after I got home from the doctor and it looks great compared to what it looked like before. I'm still pretty swollen and it's getting red again as I type but nothing like early this morning.

ok ok....

2008-10-25T16:51:00.005-06:00

So I am WAY overdue for a post. Sorry I haven't posted for a while but a lot has been going on. I've finished two classes in the last week and plan to finish another before the end of the month. If I kick it in drive, I'll be done with school in 10 months. However, I'm going to give myself 18 months just in case ;). Kyle is still looking for a job and I am still arguing with insurance companies. I'm hoping for the best regarding both circumstances. Here are a few pictures that I took this morning. Ava decided that she wanted to "pose" with Gus. My poor puppy... it's a good thing that he's a good dog. I'm also posting a few from the last week as well. It's been so nice here the last few days. I'm not very looking forward to it getting cold. I think tomorrow that I'll take Ava somewhere and take some pictures in the leaves. I'll post them when we get home. Hope all is well. Loves to everyone....

This was taken a couple of weeks ago. I just thought that it was cute!

These pictures are of Ava making "soup" out of a dozen raw eggs. Mommy was just so thrilled when she saw her. We talked about how to make soup and ingredients that are supposed to be used and the fact that you only make soup in the kitchen from now on!

Please help Kaden

2008-10-16T19:21:00.008-06:00

My friend Amy at over at Kaden & Angel Ava's blog needs all of our help. Kaden is a finalist in a competition his mommy put him in for sleeping babies. If he wins, he'll win a brand new bedroom set which he desparetly needs. The picture is so sweet. If you pop over to her blog and look at the post on October 15th, you'll find Kaden's picture. I'll tell you a little bit about it. Amy and her family were staying in the Ronald McDonald house while their sweet Angel Ava was fighting for her life. When Ava was born, they wouldn't let Kaden in to see his baby sister because of illness. One night when she and her husband got back to the Ronald McDonald house, they found Kaden asleep with a picture of his sweet baby sister.

So here's how you vote... go to http://www.5minutesformom.com/ Kaden's is picture #18 and it says Kaden & Angel Ava under the picture. You'll need to scroll down a bit on the page to the post dated October 15, 2008 titled Sleeping Angel Photo Contest Finalists.

Please everyone friends, lurkers, anyone... vote for Kaden!!!!

Update

2008-10-16T08:52:00.004-06:00

Just a quick update from my last post. I'm still fighting with insurance companies. Kyle's old company won't pay out anything old on Ava until they had a letter from my insurance company stating they "denied" the claim. However, the claims were never denied, they were paid and now my insurance company is requesting the money back... which, the doctor's and hospitals are doing! Right now I'm just going keep on top of things and hope for the best.

Still nothing on the job front for Kyle yet. I'm feeling more hopeful this week then last so again, everyone keep your fingers crossed for us! Loves....

Frustration.....

2008-10-11T13:27:00.008-06:00

Ok this post is out of pure frustration... I'm going to talk about somethings that I have never posted before. I'll start with back on May 27th, a day that we will NEVER forget. We went to SLC for Kyle's grandpa's funeral. I actually rode up with Kyle in the company truck because he was going to go to work for a while after the funeral and I was just going to go over and see my dad. Well our day went from funeral, to worse. My dad came and picked me up from the shop and I was going to his house to borrow one of his cars so we could take that to the funeral instead of the company truck. On my way to my dad's house, my mom who had Ava, called and told me that I needed to call the sitter to see if she could take Ava because her little brother, my uncle had passed away that morning. I called the sitter and she graciously took Ava. As soon as I got of the phone with the sitter, Kyle called to tell me that he had just gotten layed off. Could this day get any worse!!!! The part about him getting layed off really upset us for more then one reason. He had talked with his boss the day before about this "meeting" and he reassured Kyle that the meeting didn't affect him in any way shape or form. He could have just been honest with Kyle and told him that layoffs were possible so I could have followed him in my car so we had a ride home. I'm glad that my dad has more then one car/truck so we could use one of his to get home.

Ok, now to why I'm frustrated today and it has to do with Kyle's old job. When I added Kyle to my medical insurance back in August, I got a letter in the mail that they had "deemed" that Kyle's insurance was Ava's primary insurer and my was secondary... me totally confused calls the insurance company because he doesn't even have this insurance anyone. She tells me that insurance law states that since Kyle's birthday is in March and mine is in April his comes first therefore his would be the primary on Ava. Ok... I'm still trying to understand this... so we call his OLD insurance company and they tell us NO, they've paid as the secondary on the old claims for Ava and they tell me that they are the secondary... so I call my insurance company back AGAIN and the rude... I mean very nice lady on the phone gives me the exact same story so I ask her if she can call the other insurance company so we can get this settled. Guess what she tells me??? She can't make any outgoing calls that I am going to need to take care of this problem myself. I tell her that how can we resolve an issue like this if we can't talk to the other company, she now puts me on hold. So I'm now on hold for 48 minutes waiting for someone to get back with me. A supervisor at least he claimed to be a supervisor gets on the phone with me and tells me that he'll call the other insurance company. About 4 hours later I get a call stating that the problem has been resolved. Kyle's insurance company had his birth date wrong on their system and they've acknowledged the mistake.....

Now here's where it gets fun. I get a call yesterday morning from good ole Bonneville Collections. If you're from Utah, you know who I'm talking about! A very very ignorant bitch -- sorry, that's the nicest word I can call her right now... calls and demands that I give her $100.00 today. I am really at a disbelief right now because I honestly have no idea what she's talking about. After I get her to quit talking for a minute, I ask her what in the world she's calling about. She tells me, you already know why I'm calling and me eating a cracker which is now lodged in the back of my throat tells her again, I really don't know. Well she finally tells me that I owe them like $1800.00 in medical bills which, I've never paid. I proceed to tell her that is just not possible, I am insured and she must be calling the wrong person. Again, she starts basically calling me a low life and telling me that I'm just trying to get out of my financial obligation. I now have a complete come apart and told her not to call my f-ing house again and make demands. She then tells me that I can't talk to her like that. I then proceeded to tell her that if she'd call and use some "customer service" instead of a demanding attitude, I might be more willing to listed to what she has to say! She again started to yell at me so I just hung up at that point. Ok... they called my house 36 times yesterday.... and I am NOT over exaggerating about that!

So I go to my mail and what do I find... a hole bunch of bills demanding payment in full right now! I call Kyle's insurance company and they tell me that they paid on the claims as the secondary therefore, they're not responsible for any additional payment since its been more then 45 days since the services were rendered. I am getting bills that go back to 2006 that I thought were paid long ago. My insurance company is now demanding a "refund" from any medical payment they paid out on Ava since April 2006. That means that there's still more bills to come that I don't even know about yet!

I'm really ready to just throw in the towel today! Kyle had an interview at one of the local Coal Mines last Monday and said it was one of the best interviews he'd ever had. They told him that they would let him know yesterday either way about the job. We never heard from them so we're just assuming that he didn't get the job. It's more frustrating for Kyle then anyone else. He's sent out over 100 resumes and not one offer... he keeps getting told that he has "too" much experience and they can't pay him for that experience. Even though he knows how much the jobs pay when he has applied. For now, he'll just keep on looking and hope for the best. No wonders I can't loose any weight.. my stress level on 1-10 scale is at a 15 right now and I'm only averaging like 4 hours or sleep a night. However, things could be a lot worse though. We could be loosing our home like a lot of other people, or we could be without any medical insurance at all.... and we're all healthy and happy! and come tomorrow, I'll probably feel like an idiot for even posting this and delete it!

On a lighter note..... my sister is coming down to watch the SNL presidential "spoof" from Thursday night with me. We've decided that every time the actor that plays Senator McCain says "my friends", we're going to take a shot of crown and make a fun drinking game out of it! LOL we probably won't do that because it's only like 2:00 in the afternoon but it still sounds like fun. Maybe we should wait and watch it tonight instead!!!!

Mascara anyone!!!!

2008-10-10T11:27:00.006-06:00

Sorry for the lack of picture posts lately but I've been having problems with my computer. Friday's offically start mommy's weekend (yes, I like the 4 10's). On Friday's, I usually try to get the house cleaned and laundry done so I don't have to do it the rest of the weekend. Today I was in rotating laundry when I thought to myself "it sure is quiet". Anyone who has a 2 year old knows when it's quiet, it can be a bad thing unless you know they're sleeping. So I walk back towards Ava's bedroom and can hear her just giggling. When I went in, this is what I found..... She had found mommy's makeup bag and was making herself "pretty". I tried so hard to be mad at her because we all know how expensive makeup is but I couldn't bring myself to get mad so I grabbed the camera instead! She looked at me and said "mommy I'm so beautiful, I'm as pretty as a princess"! Of course mommy reminded her that she was much prettier then any other princess!

Then after I got done giggling with her, it was off to the bath tub she went!

Lagoon

2008-10-10T11:10:00.004-06:00

A couple of weeks ago we took a family trip with Ava's grandpa Kent to Lagoon. However, mommy didn't realize that the batteries in the camer were dead so we didn't get very many pictures. Here are a few we got though.

Isn't Ava's "leash" so cute!

Riding with aunt Misty

Ladybug ride with aunt Misty.

Biggest girl, she knows how to have fun on a ride!

Another fun tag....

2008-10-07T08:43:00.004-06:00

I'll be honest, this one is going to be a little hard for me. I got this tag from my blogging friends Kaci at my three sons and Amy at Kaden & Angel Ava. Here are the rules:
1. Link your tagger and email these rules.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.

Facts about myself:

1. I never touch ANYTHING when I leave ANY bathroom. I always open the door with a paper towel!
2. I play Texas Holdem every Wednesday night with a group of friends. This is my weekly therapy.
3. I LOVE to blog! It's so much fun... I've met some amazing people that I now consider friends!
4. I am an Amazing Race junkie... I never miss an episode! Someday I will go on that show!
5. I have a very close family and talk to my mom and sister everyday!
6. I am petrified of ANY bird... big or small, I am full on petrified!
7. I have two tattoo's, a butterfly on my foot and daisy on my lower back.

Okay, I know that it says that I am supposed to tag 7 of you. However, I am just going to tag anyone on my buddy list who hasn't done this fun tag yet!

Tag

2008-10-06T15:23:00.004-06:00

I got this off of the Harwood Family blog and thought it sounded like fun!

I am... a wife, mother, full time employee and full time student.
I want... to have another child (maybe someday) oh... a little extra money would be nice too :)
I wish... Kyle could find a job. He had an interview today so cross your fingers for us everyone!
I hear... Ava's voice even when she's not around.
I search... for ways to simplify our lives.
I wonder... why people abuse their children (I work for DCFS).
I always... put my family before myself.
I usually... eat chicken at least once a day. It might be for dinner or it might be for lunch but it's a daily thing!
I am not... excited for winter. I don't want it to get cold!
I dance... when Ava and I hear music. She's a pretty good dancing partner!
I sing... in the car where no one but Ava can hear me :)
I never... drink coffee.
I rarely... spend money (we don't have any right now to spend... LOL)!
I cry... when I am sad or frustrated.
I am not always... as happy as I seem.
I lose... "stuff" you name it, I loose it! keys, purse, lipstick etc.
I'm confused... by how smart Ava really is. I had no idea that a 2 1/2 year old could be so smart!
I need... to be more confident in myself.
I should... go back to work but think I'll take off the afternoon.
I dream... of life long happiness.
I TAG... anyone on my buddy list who wants to share a little about themselves.

Picture Tag!

2008-10-04T19:39:00.004-06:00

PICTURE Tag! My cute friend Katrina tagged me and so I guess it's my turn to do this. Here's what you have to do. Go to your pictures file, pick the 4th file, and the 4th picture. Post the picture and tag more people. So here is my picture. It was actually a lot of fun to do this because I started looking at all of my pictures when Ava was just a baby. Ava was about 4 months old in this picture, isn't she cute! I can't believe how fast she's grown up!

Now it's my turn to tag 4 more people.
Kaci @ my three sons
Amy @ Kaden & Angel Ava
Sheila @ Porter Family
Mandy @ Cosper Family

Blogging Award!!!

2008-09-29T11:29:00.003-06:00

This is my very first blogging award!!! It is my honor to accept this from Kaci at mythreesons. Kaci was one of my first blogging buddies that I didn't actually already know yet. She's a very strong person and has three very cute boys and all of their names start with the letter "C". If you haven't been by Kaci's blog, please stop by and visit any time www.mythreesons9506@blogspot.com Thank you Kaci for this award!

Here are the rules for this award
1. The winner should put the logo on their blog
2.The winner must link the person who gave them the award
3.The winner must nominate 7 other of their favorite blogs
4.The winner must post a link to these blogs on their own blogs
5.The winner must leave a message on the winners blogs
My nominations are:

Mandy
Jen
Katrina
Andrea
Jessica
Carmen
Mary

There are more that I enjoy following so this decision was pretty hard to come up with only 7!

Wedding Pictures!!!

2008-09-15T12:15:00.010-06:00

Finally some wedding pictures... Enjoy!

My two best girls... my sister Misty & Shanan

My mom & Stanton

My dad & Jolynne

Kyle's parents

My grandparents

Let it rain!

Adam, Aaron, Kyle, Aimee, Misty & Shanan

My dad

My step-dad

Save the best for last... Isn't she beautiful!!

Remembering September 11th

2008-09-10T22:10:00.008-06:00

It has been 7 years since the attack on the Twin Towers September 11, 2001. I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing when I found out that a plane had hit the 1st tower. I had just sat down to turn my computer on at work when another co-worker came in and told us one of the buildings had been hit by an airplane. Those of us that were working were all in disbelief. We all thought to ourselves how could a plane hit the building? We thought maybe a small plane that had crashed. Then a short time later after turning on the radio and trying to access the internet we found out the 2nd tower had been hit as well. After a few hours at work, they let us go home. I remember that Jen was supposed to fly to New York the very next day. I was living with my dad at the time of the attack. His home is located about 15 or so miles South of the Salt Lake City airport so there were always planes flying right over the house. I remember going home that night and sitting on the front porch and there was a creepy silence, no airplanes in the sky they had all been grounded. It was at that point I really realized what had happened on that day!

Please remember the victims and their families on this day!

Never forget!

Bad Week!!

2008-09-09T14:35:00.002-06:00

Well can you say bad week! It's either that or I am having one heck of a pitty party this week. Lets see, both my dryer and vacuum broke on Sunday and the repair guy for the dryer can't come until Friday of this week. I hope it won't cost too much to fix my dryer. When I get paid again, I'll go by a new vacuum but until then, I'll just have to borrow my moms SUCK! My laptop keeps shutting itself down and I have no idea why. I really think I need a new one maybe I'll get lucky and Santa will bring me one for Christmas LOL.... It wouldn't be such a big deal if I only needed to use it occasionally but I need it for school. Oh and for those of you who don't know, I work for the State of Utah which has recently mandated us working 4 10's and it's kicking my butt this week. It's really nice to have a 3 day weekend but so hard to work the 10 hour days sometimes. I guess the hours really don't bother me, what bothers me is being away from Ava from 6:30am to 6:00pm. So by the time I get home from work, I only get to see her for maybe 2 or 3 hours before she goes to bed. I'm really struggling with the hours this week because it prevented one of my very good friends from coming back to work off of maternity leave. So I guess work just really sucks this week.

I'm sorry that I posted a "pitty" post but just needed somewhere to type my frustrations!

Halloween Tutu Costumes...

2008-09-05T19:04:00.002-06:00

So I've said in the past that I don't have the "crafty" gene. Well with the help of my sister, I do have it a little bit. Anyway, my sister and I make Halloween tutu costumes. We make flower fairies, pumpkins, bumble bees, cats, witches, little devils, etc. So, if anyone is interest, email me aimee1944@yahoo.com. The cost is $35.00 without a leotard which comes with the very full tutu made with over 100 yards of tulle with the colors of your choice and head piece, wings, etc. If you do want the leotard, there would be an additional cost but only what the leotard actually costs us to buy. We can ship anywhere in the United States via USPS flat rate box $12.95. We can make sizes that go from baby sizes to little girls sizes of a 6. Please email and let me know if you're interested. The costume that Ava is wearing is hers from last year and the ones we make are similar to this one. Thanks everyone!!!

Rub a dub "puppy"!

2008-09-02T17:38:00.004-06:00

We ended up going camping for Labor Day weekend. When you get home from camping EVERYTHING needs to be washed and scrubbed including the dogs. I was bathing the dogs when we got home and usually bath them after Ava goes to bed because she thinks that she needs to bath with them. Needeless to say she got in the tub before I was done so here is Ava and Jazz in the tub, poor Jazz LOL! I was just so excited when she got in NOT! However, it was still pretty cute. Hope everyone had a good holiday weekend. Loves to all....

Aimee & Shanan

2008-08-26T21:00:00.002-06:00

Here is a picture of me and one of my very best friends, Shanan. I just want her to know how much I love her and appreciate everything she does for me and my family!!

Ear piercing anyone???

2008-08-23T18:24:00.006-06:00

From the day that Ava was born, I've been asked when I was going to pierce her ears. My answer was always the same; when Ava tells me she wants to wear earings, we'll pierce her ears. Well the day finally came that Ava told mommy she wanted earings! We also had Kyden's ears pierced as well. She didn't do as well as Ava did. It was so funny. Ava just looked at the lady and told her "don't poke me, that's not nice"!

Rainbow Bridge

2008-08-23T09:08:00.002-06:00

This is a picture of the famous Rainbow Bridge at Lake Powell. Isn't it beautiful! This picture was actually taken with Shanan's camera phone since we both forgot our camera's back in the room. Unfortunately, this is one of the only pictures we have of this last trip to Powell.

Random Pictures

2008-08-22T21:08:00.005-06:00

Here are some random pictures that I've taken this summer. The little girl in the pictures with Ava is her cousin, Kyden. I just love random posts!

We are still alive.......

2008-08-19T07:47:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone.... we are still alive! Sorry I haven't posted for a while but I've been super busy with the wedding, honeymoon/powell trip etc. Kyle and I finally tied the knot back on August 8th. It was a beautiful ceremony followed by a down pour of rain between the ceremony and reception. I thought it was funny, my mom didn't as the wedding was outside in her yard! However, after the rain lifted, it was a gorgeous night! I've posted some pictures below of my bridals that were taken prior to the wedding. My hair is a bit longer because we put in some extensions for the photographs. We didn't use the extensions for the wedding though. I will post some pictures of the wedding once I get them back from the photographer.

I had to officially return back to work today and wasn't so excited about that. It was so nice to be able to take some time off. I needed a break! Now, it's back to regular life and I'm sure glad to be back and not have the stress I've haded the past couple of months. I'm excited to be a parent again and just love on my little one. I missed her so much when we were on our trip! I have so much more to update you all on but just don't have the time right now. I will post again soon! Loves to all......

Hello Everyone

2008-07-28T15:29:00.002-06:00

Hello, we're still alive! I appologize that I haven't posted anything lately but I've had NO time to do anything but final wedding preparations. We had a minor problem with bridesmaid dresses but got that quickly fixed (had to buy two new dresses; don't tell my mom) LOL. However, unless it's an absolute dire emergency, I will NEVER EVER spend another dime in David's Bridal again!!!! We bought my wedding dress there and the original two bridesmaid dresses there. Well, one bridesmaid lost some weight and the other gained a little and neither dress fits anymore. We looked at the dresses and you couldn't alter them. Anyways, I went up to the Orem store and asked if I could possibly return the others for store credit as the tags were still attached, of course not... they don't take returns. I asked the lady if she was kidding nope, they DO NOT take returns! We found a dress that fit my sister well, they didn't have one in my other bridesmaids size in that color. The lady at the store wouldn't even call any of the other stores to see if they had that dress in her size. She gave me a list of phone numbers that showed in the stupid computer they had the dress in that size; wasn't that just so nice of her! I should have told her to remove the board from her ass and she might get a higher commission if she learned some customer service but I decided just to smile and nod. I ended up getting one out of California and they charged me $25 for two day shipping! I suggested that they start using the USPS flat rate large box of $13.95 for future purposes and of course, that didn't go anywhere but between me and that sales lady but come on, even if foot locker doesn't have your size they'll find it and ship it to your home for free! I couldn't even pay for the new dress at the Orem store, they had to "call me back" to see if it was ok to do an over the phone payment.... JERKS! I could say something worse but I'll try to keep this a PG-13 rated post afterall, I did say ass earlier... LOL what a week!!! So, I looked for a corporate number for complaints in their website and guess what??? I couldn't find one, imagine that!

I got all of the invitations mailed but now we're remembering people that should have been mailed and invite and of course, we ran out of invitations. I will be so glad when this wedding is over! I told Kyle last night we were just going to take off and come back and tell everyone we were already married but I think my mom and especially my step-dad might take me for a drive and not bring me back if you get my point!!

Now for the wedding decorations. I was not born with the "crafty" gene, that's my mommy's department. Well, my sister and I have to "help" make 50 or 75 bows for decorations, she doesn't have the "crafty" gene either... I have a hard time making a bow on Ava's dress look good let alone one for wedding decorations! Does anyone have any suggestions or something you could suggest I buy to assist me with this project???

So, there's my drama for the last week. The only thing that went smoothly was it was easy to apply for a marriage certificate. Now, I am just looking forward to my parties next Saturday! after that, the next weekend is the wedding and the next is our annual "adult" trip to Lake Powell which is going to double as our honeymoon this year and I really can't wait to just leave for a weekend and get some much needed rest, sunshine and "adult" beverages!

and the winner is????

2008-07-21T20:14:00.002-06:00

Here is the winner, we went with the black and white. This is the one Kyle liked best and really the only thing that he's had ANY input on and since it's his wedding too, I thought I'd let him make the final decision!

Things are going pretty good this week. I've got almost all of my address labels made and we are on target to get everything mailed by the 23rd. WOW... maybe I can get some much needed rest after the invites go out... LOL, what is rest anyhow and who needs it??? I don't even remember what rest is... and then I am very looking forward to a couple of bridal showers on the 2nd. It's getting so close and the closer it gets, we wish we would have eloped and went to Vegas!!! There's no turning back now LOL.... Loves to all!!!!

Engagement Photos are here......

2008-07-15T20:41:00.007-06:00

We got our engagement photos back tonight and I'm having a hard time deciding which one do use. I can't decide which one I like best. Maybe you can all help me out.... which one to you like? full coloring, light coloring or black and white????

We also did bridal portraits tonight and the photographer said that they were one of the easiest settings he's ever done. I guess that's a good thing?!? The planning is going pretty good this week. I went to Provo with my mom and sister yesterday and I think we got all of the "finishing touches" taken care of... LOL probably not. I'm sure something else will come up! Seriously, let me know what you think about the pictures... Loves to all!!!

Everything comes together....

2008-07-07T20:15:00.006-06:00

So I woke up this morning stressed and freaked about the wedding: no cake, men's clothes, flowers, blah blah blah.... I looked online all last Thursday to find clothing that would fit all of the men in the bridal party. It wasn't as easy as I thought it would be. Kyle's brother needs big & tall, my step-dad needs tall and the rest are just regular sizes. I couldn't find ANYTHING that all of them could wear in the color that I wanted. I had also left numerous messages to see about wedding cakes and the calls that I got back they were either already booked or didn't want to make a "simple" cake. Needless to say when I left work last Thursday, I had a really bad attitude about things. Well, I had the same attitude this morning. I talked with my sister and we decided that we would go shopping again next week and just hope that we can find something since we're getting so close to the wedding date.

I went with my sister to lunch today still freaked out and worried. We went to a local grocery store to get a cake for my nephews birthday. We got there and couldn't find anything for Garrett but guess what???? they make wedding cakes! They actually had the exact cake that I wanted in their brochure for cakes so we ordered the cake why we were there! I then went back to work and thought maybe I will just look online one more time. I got back on and found EVERYTHING that I needed for my men and got free shipping too. We also be ordering the flowers tomorrow and they're about $150 less then expected WOO HOO! I feel a lot better now that these things are done. I talked with the photographer today and we are going to do bridal portraits next Tuesday and I'll have the disc back with all of the engagement photos this week. I am so happy tonight!

I hope everyone had a good 4th. We went to the local parade and then went camping with friends. It was a good weekend. I have some pictures to post and will post them when I get my computer back sometime this week. I was so bummed out though. I had bought Ava this really cute outfit for the 4th. Well when I put it on her that morning, it was about 2 sizes to big and she wasn't able to wear it. Oh well, she still looked cute. She LOVED the parade. The local parade still throws candy and she thought that was so fun. She looked at me like... mommy, you mean they throw candy at me and I get to pick it up put it in a bag and it's all mine!!!! It was so much fun! Hope all is well... Loves to everyone!

Engagement Photos

2008-07-01T20:44:00.005-06:00

Well, I have one less thing to worry about. We did our engagement photos and the photographer said that they turned out great and Ava was even cooperative for them! He said that he just needed to photo shop a little and would get them to me next week. That means that I am right on target to get invites mailed YIPPY!!!! I also got my final grade for my Cultural Anthropology class today and it was an overall "B".... I am very happy about that in fact, I would have been happy with a "C". I struggled with that class! My next class will be Educational Psychology and I'm not really looking forward to that one either. Hope all is well with everyone... Loves

Wedding, School, Troubles and Camping oh my.....

2008-06-30T09:08:00.005-06:00

So, when it rains it pours at my house. Sorry I haven't blogged for a while but my computer is on the brink. I borrowed one from a friend until I can get mine fixed so in the mean time, no pictures to post because I don't want to put them on the other computer. Oh... and my washing machine also took a sh!t. It's fixed now but everything came at once.

Wedding Planning is getting a bit stressful right now. It's only 6-weeks away and starting to get to me. There is still so much to be done and I am having a hard time right now getting motivated to do it. We have all of these plans and I only have ONE weekend between now and the wedding where we don't have plans. I did however, get the invitations printed last week and we'll get our pictures done sometime next week. I plan to have all of the invitations mailed by the 18th. The plan for this week is to get addresses together to get them all mailed. I still need to find something for the men in the bridal party to wear as well as get flowers ordered and put in the food order with my caterer. LOL.... I am so behind!

The 4th of July is coming up and we'll go on our annual camping trip with friends. It will be fun but I am too stressed out right now to enjoy myself. Hopefully come next weekend, I'll have a few things done that I can just sit back and enjoy a weekend with friends.

I just finished another class.... well, I am still waiting on my grade but other then that, it's done. I think I'll wait to start my next class after the wedding is over. In fact, I think that's the best idea I've had all day!

Hope all is well with everyone... Loves to all!!!!!

So much like her dad....

2008-06-17T20:59:00.003-06:00

Sometimes Ava is so much like her dad that it scares mommy. This morning when Ava woke up, she looked so cute that mommy thought she'd snap a couple of pictures before she went to work. Well, when I pointed the camera at her she stuck her tongue out at me. Her dad does this almost every time you point the camera at him trying to be funny!

LOL little stinker

Surprise

Cute girl

Sleeping baby

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-16T22:07:00.002-06:00

For Father's Day we did exactly what Kyle wanted to do, go boating! It was a very warm day and we had a great time with friends. However, turns out the sunscreen that was on the boat from last year was no good. We both have holy cow say bad words sunburns! We did have new children's sunscreen so Ava didn't get burned though.

Fishing with daddy

Don't kiss me mommy

Lounging in the boat

Too cute of Ava and daddy

Ava and mommy in the boat

Swimming anyone???

2008-06-07T09:57:00.007-06:00

Last weekend Ava decided that she wanted to swim in her pool. The water didn't get very warm so she didn't swim for very long but mommy did get a few pictures of her.

Just when you think....

2008-06-03T21:11:00.006-06:00

Just when you think things are going in the right direction with the wedding. Well I came home tonight, turned on my computer and what do I find???? An email from my photographer that she's canceled my wedding.... come on! She doesn't have the guts to call and tell me. I know that this is a venting post but I needed to vent somewhere. She could have atleast picked up the phone and called to tell me what's going on. I mean we were supposed to do engagements photos this Saturday!

I guess I am now back to the beginning. I've called a couple of photographers and left messages hoping that one, just one will be available to do the photo's at my wedding...

GGGGGRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR.........

UPDATE: I have found a new photographer! He actually does a lot better work and is less money!

Another Update!

2008-06-03T00:26:00.003-06:00

Well, I went wedding shopping with my mom, grandma and sister and needless to say, I picked out a different dress. We went through probably 15 or so dresses before we narrowed it down to two dresses. Once that was done, the task of picking between the two was VERY hard. However, I did have the opportunity to get my grandmother's advice and I thinked I picked the one that she like best. It's a very plain simple gorgeous gown. I'd post a picture but my mom threatened me that Kyle couldn't see this dress before the wedding. So... now that is done, no more dress shopping! I had no idea that picking out a dress was so exhausting!

We are still on for pictures this Saturday and I still need to decide what the men in my bridal party are going to wear. Kyle keeps threatening to wear his shorts and flipflops but I just don't think that is going to happen!

I am well on my way with planning this week. Lets see what happens next week when I decide to get lazy again!!! LOL... like my mom will let that happen with wedding being only two months away!

Wedding Update

2008-05-25T21:14:00.003-06:00

So, I've had a lot of requests on how the wedding planning is going and the reason that I've not posted about it yet is because its been at a stand still for a month or so now. I've been slacking off and then today, I got reminded that I only have just over 2 months left to go and I started freaking out that I had slacked off. So, this is what we have planned for the next couple of weeks:

Invitation printing, more dress shopping on June 2nd. I have a dress but my mom and sister thinks I need to look one more time to see if I like something better. Then on June 7th, we are doing engagement photos and yes.... Ava is going to be in the photo with us on our invites. I wouldn't have it any other way! Now... I really need to start thinking about what everyone else in my wedding party is going to wear. Since it's a garden wedding, I've axed the tuxedo's for something less formal but just don't know what yet.

I'll keep you all updated on how the next couple of weeks go...

Grandpa Eugene Funk

2008-05-25T11:13:00.004-06:00

Just a quick post to remember Kyle's Papa Gene. Papa Gene passed away on Thursday, May 22, 2008. Papa Gene was such a kind loving wonderful man and we will miss him dearly. We love you!

Eugene Funk
December 3, 1937 - May 22, 2008

Flowers

2008-05-25T10:47:00.004-06:00

For those of you who know Aimee and those that don't, just a quick reminder that I LOVE flowers. Last Saturday, May 17th and Monday, May 19th I spent a few hours planting flower pots and hanging baskets. Well, come Thursday, they were all covered with a sheet because it got cold again. The weather went from 85 for high to about 50 for a high.

Summer Days....

2008-05-20T21:13:00.005-06:00

These pictures were taken last Sunday, May 18th. It was such a nice warm day. We spent most of the day outside just hanging out as a family. We love these nice warm days but don't like all of the pollen that is in the air right now. It brings out Ava's allergies and asthma and that is not so much fun!

Little Princess

Ava and Jazz

Daddy

Ava and Daddy

My special little puppy, Gus!

Flowers.....

2008-05-20T20:44:00.005-06:00

So, why mommy was planting some flower pots, Ava thought it would be fun to play in the dirt. Ava was wearing her "brand new" Hanna Andersson dress and mommy didn't think it was so cute when she first saw her in the dirt. Needless to say, mommy laughed about it a minute later and had to take some pictures!

"50" things you may not know about Aimee.....

2008-05-09T19:30:00.004-06:00

So a friend that I work with challenged me to "100" things you may not know about me. However, I've decided to do "50" things you may not know about me instead!

1. I am in school AGAIN!
2. My natural hair color is blonde
3. I love Lake Powell
4. I could go to Hawaii hundreds of times and never get sick of it
5. I love the sun
6. Ava is my little sunshine
7. My best friends' names are Shanan, Misty and of course Kyle!
8. I work for the State of Utah
9. I am getting married on August 8, 2008
10. I miss my friends from AIB (you know who you are)!
11. I am petrified of ANY bird
12. My mom & dad are divorced; both are remarried
13. I have one sister (Misty)
14. I love to go on walks with my daughter and dogs
15. I like snow but don't really like the cold that come with it
16. I still drive my 1997 Jetta
17. I love Gerbera Daisies
18. I like to sit by a campfire but don't really like to camp
19. Someday I want another child (like maybe a year from now)
20. I miss my dad who lives in SLC, I don't get to see him as often as I used too :(
21. My house I live in was once my grandma's home
22. I am claustrophobic
23. I love to plant flowers in my yard
24. I love strawberry cheesecake
25. I really don't like to do laundry
26. I miss my friend Shelly who past away in 1997
27. I am scared of another emergency c-section, just the thought gives me PTSD
28. I love turkey sandwiches
29. I miss the city (sometimes)
30. I am trying to paint every room in my house before the wedding
31. I like bubblegum ice cream (the kid in me)
32. I like beer, bud light that is... yes kids, it's true I can't hide it any longer LOL
33. I once stole my grandma's car why she was asleep; ok ok it was more then once (bad Aimee)
34. I have a butterfly tattoo on my foot and a daisy tattoo on my lower back
35. I like to watch the Utah Jazz
36. I love the Rolling Stones
37. I also love U2
38. I play Texas Holdem' every Wednesday with a group of friends
39. I really don't like basements
40. I like to mow the lawn
41. I LOVE water... ocean, lake, rain -- especially drinking water
42. I LOVE my soon to be husband and little girl, Ava (as if you didn't already know that)
43. I like my "scentsy" candle melter -- no more hot candle wax
44. My favorite movie of all time is Independence Day
45. I don't have a favorite color, I like them all!
46. I don't like to play video games
47. I LOVE reef flip flops
48. My favorite TV show is CSI
49. I sometimes say bad words but try hard not too
50. I am getting married in my mom's yard and it will be beautiful!

Sweet Ava

2008-05-07T22:24:00.002-06:00

Here's a few pictures that I took a few days ago. Isn't she just so sweet!

Baby Baby!

2008-05-07T22:06:00.002-06:00

This is Ava and her cousin, Gratia. We kept Gratia for a few hours a couple of Sunday's ago and Ava LOVED all of the baby stuff that we brought out for Gratia to play with.

Furry Friends

2008-04-13T15:11:00.005-06:00

Ava decided that she wanted to take Gus for a walk today or better said, Gus took Ava for a walk! She had so much fun and it was such a nice day. We are so excited for these nice warm days to continue.

Cruising.....

2008-04-13T14:35:00.004-06:00

Since it was such a nice day, Ava thought she'd take a cruise in her car. She had so much fun!

Planning

2008-04-11T13:53:00.003-06:00

So, the planning continues and I am well on my way. I have already done or there is a plan in place for: invitations, wedding dress, bridesmaid’s dresses, men’s clothing, photographer, rings, location, flowers, band and the caterer. I have the caterer booked but haven't decided on the food yet.

My question is this? What am I missing because I know I'm missing tons and just not thinking and have probably overlooked some important things. Help!!!

My Week in Numbers....

2008-04-05T08:53:00.002-06:00

So, I got this from Jen and it sounded like fun!

1. The number of children I have as well as a psychology test due this week and the number of times I gave blood this week (that was a first for me).
2. The number of dogs I have and also the number of bridesmaid dresses I bought this week.
3. The number of people in my household who need a haircut.
4. The minimum number of times I've been to the grocery store this week.
5. The number of days I worked this week including, working out!
6. The minimum loads of laundry done in a week - not including weekends.
7. The number of times I cleaned Ava's bedroom.
8. The number of meetings I attended this week.
9. How many times I've watched or listened from the other room to "Max & Ruby" since last night!
10. Last but not least.... the MINIMUM number of baths Ava takes in a week. She thinks she needs a bath everytime her hands get dirty.

Loves to everyone.....

Change of Plans....

2008-03-24T10:47:00.003-06:00

So, we have a minor change of plans with the wedding. The date has been changed from August 9th to August 8th, one day sooner. There are a number of reasons for the change and we are just glad that we put two and two together when we did. Hope everyone is doing well. I'd love to see everyone sometime soon... As always, Loves to all!

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T21:56:00.003-06:00

Happy Easter.... The Easter Bunny left some eggs in our yard this morning for Ava and her cousins. Although she did get to go on an egg hunt last year, she really didn't understand it. This year was much more fun!

Coloring Easter Eggs!

2008-03-21T21:40:00.004-06:00

Ava colored Easter Eggs tonight and had a blast! She colored them with her cousins, Garrett & Kyden. She didn't know quite what to think about putting an egg in a cup and when you took it out; she said oh mama, pretty each time!

HMMM which color should I use?

You mean my mom will actually let me play with this?

I think I'll use pink!

Wow, look at all the eggs I colored!

Bathtime Baby!

2008-03-16T11:09:00.005-06:00

Well, Ava won the battle this morning to bath in her clothes. We have a battle almost daily but this morning, Ava finally won! She is such a little stinker at times but she's always mommy's blue eyed princess!

Viva Mesquite!!!

2008-03-10T21:18:00.002-06:00

We went away with friends over the weekend to Mesquite, NV. Played a little golf, bingo and blackjack, hung out with friends and just had a great time! The weather was about 72 and just beautiful. I really needed a weekend to rejuvenate and just let any stress I had go. It was a well needed weekend getaway!

Now, it's back to the grind.... work, school, Ava, home and continue to plan the wedding. So, I need to know; does anyone know a good place to get invitations?

The planning begins!

2008-03-06T10:13:00.007-07:00

WOW... I had no idea that wedding planning was so stressful! I did however; find the most important part of a wedding, a dress. It is so pretty when you see it. The picture doesn't do it any justice. I went with an ivory color and the shorter tea length since we are having the wedding outside in my parents' yard. I now have to worry about everything else; invitations, bridesmaids dresses, flowers, etc. So... my question is this? Does anyone know how to plan a wedding without all of the stress that comes with it??? HELP!!!!!!

Fun Pictures

2008-02-24T13:43:00.004-07:00

Since we haven't really done much over the past couple of weeks, I thought I'd just post some random pictures that I've taken.

Ava and her new furry friend, Mia!

Playing in the snow with my friend Kelby.

Lounging in my chair that I am too big for. Ava calls this chair her TV chair and won't let mommy get rid of it.

Lil' miss attitude!

Ava loves to play in the dryer. Mommy has to keep the door to the laundry room shut or she gets right in.

Announcement!!!

2008-02-03T21:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I have a bit of an announcement to make. Since we have been together for five long years (Kyle says it's more like an eternity), Kyle and I have decided that we are finally going to get married. The date is August 9th and we're going to have it at my mom and step-dad's home here in Mt. Pleasant. They have a beautiful yard and Stanton is excited to plant flowers for the occasion. I'll give you an update on the details once I start the planning. We only decided a couple of days ago on the date and my sister, Misty, is already hard at work finding things that I need to do. Loves to all.... Aimee

Winter Wonderland.......

2008-02-03T14:07:00.001-07:00

We have been pounded with snow over the past couple of days. Ava said to her dad this morning, what happened to the road? We have probably got about 13 inches since last night. This is the most snow I've seen in years!

Picture taken 03Feb2008

This picture was taken on 26Jan2008. It was the first day we had seen the sun in days.

Sleepy Time???

2008-02-03T13:24:00.000-07:00

Ava's daddy built her some new shelves in her closet. Ava decided that it was more fun to play and try to sleep on them then to put her shoes and other things on them.

Merry Christmas

2008-02-03T12:45:00.000-07:00

Family Photo Day!

2007-12-17T18:38:00.000-07:00

We did family photographs this weekend and that was an interesting experience. Ava didn't want to smile for any of the pictures. The photographer took over 75 pictures of just Ava and only about 3 or 4 of them turned out. The ones that did turn out were good pictures though. Enjoy!