The Hill-Billies

The heat is beginning...

2011-05-03T07:40:00.001-07:00

...Time to turn on the sprinklers!

Hangin' Around

2011-05-03T07:39:00.000-07:00

Life has gotten the best of me. It is so hard to keep up on journaling. But I woke up extra early today so I could get started on the many months I have neglected. We have been one busy family, with plenty of hangin' around, enjoying the weather with family and friends.

These kids adore their uncle Dale. Look at their faces.Tate's new found obsession: Skateboarding.

Family bike rides are a fav. especially when Aunt Claire tote's around the babes.

Random #1. I found these shells strategically places on my bath pillow in my tub.

Lilly enjoying the snow on our trip to UT in March.

Taking a walk with Grandma K

Lilly lovin' G-K's jewelry. I love her hands.

Tate enjoying the dress up action

Lilly with her Great Grandma Carson -- "gg"

Playing Play-Dough

Whenever Lilly gets on the phone, no matter WHO she is talking too, the first thing out of her mouth will be, "You wanna come play play-dough wis me at my house?"

Their play-dough masterpieces

Random #2: I found one of the kids fake stawberries sitting on the shelf in my fridge one day when I opened it. Silly little rascals.

Enjoying that pudding!

Lilly is so stylish. Off the shoulder. Reading a magazine. Sitting on the counter.

Lovin' that yogurt. What can I say? the kid loves to eat.

... and so does this one!

I'm sure lil man will hate me one day for these photos. But it was too cute to pass up. He loves the high heels as much as we girls do! I really have committed to playing football with Taters atleast once a day. He needs a little bit of "man-hood" throughout his day.

Lilly loves to learn. I love this quality about her. I'm dreading teaching her piano, and am so hoping I can convince her Nana to teach her! But I know she will pick up on it fast.

Lovin' on Tio.

... and her Aunt Can!

I love these cute kids!

what does green and marriage have in common?

2011-03-17T16:31:00.000-07:00

Pretty much NOTHING!

Except that St. Patrick shares his holiday with our anniversary.

# 4. (should be 7...you get the picture).

We are celebrating this weekend.

My wonderful friend is coming to watch our kids for us so we can relax.

This is my new red hair.. what do you think? Kinda hard to tell i know.

Today was fun.

I asked Lilly if she wanted green eggs for breakfast. She said, "No, not geen, lellow eggs please."

I asked her if she wanted green milk. She said, "No, thats yucky."

So maybe in a few years she will be into it.

As for this guy, we made a green shamrock cake, and corned beef and cabbage for dinner.

Hoping dad makes it home to celebrate with us.

Its been a long week. AGAIN.

Sure love this little monkey.

These two....

2011-02-01T12:53:00.000-08:00

Melt my heart.

I am so blessed.

They are so good to each other.

I hope it always stays that way.

They learn and grow so fast, don't they? It really is within a blink of an eye that they grow out of sight. I only have a few precious years left where they think I am the best thing besides these fruit snacks. I am really trying to cherish every moment.

SNOW

2011-01-17T12:32:00.000-08:00

First trip to the snow was a complete success.

Snow was in Payson. A lovely hour drive from my house. The best part is, I came home to 70 degrees. Thank you Arizona.

Christmas Eve/Day 2010

2011-01-12T11:40:00.000-08:00

Does anyone else feel like Christmas time is getting busier and busier? It feels like with all the hustle and bustle and making everything just perfect that it flies by within the blink of an eye. I guess that is all the more reason to STOP, take time, and really remember and teach your children about the reason for the season. It is incredible to me how commercialized Christmas has become. And I fall victim to it just as much as everyone else. However, another wonderful and beautiful Christmas has come and gone, and it was so fabulous to celebrate and remember the birth of our Savior. It was wonderful to spend time with family and build stronger bonds and lasting relationships and friendships. It was wonderful for me to watch my siblings (one in particular) go out of his way to make sure everyone felt special by doing little things that could have gone by the wayside, but still, in the quietness of his character, he did a little more. I was touched this year by the twinkling of lights and how truly it FELT Merry and Bright. I enjoyed seeing the temple lights a couple of times, once with my mother in law, and another with a dear friend. It was special. It was magical to see my kids light up as they saw Santa. Lilly told me almost every hour of everyday that she had been a good girl this year and so Santa was bringing her presents, and to this very morning both of my kids sang Jingle Bells at the top of their lungs. Everyone tells me how cute it is, and usually my reply is "ya, in November it was cute!" But it really is cute. I have caught myself more than once in the past couple of weeks gazing at my kids thinking this is what the Savior meant when He told us to be like little children. Their innocence and simpleness is truly something to emmulate. They are pure and sweet and I am extremely blessed to be their mommy. As I have looked at everyone's blogs about their Christmas celebrations I am so happy to know everyone had such a wonderful time. We are all so blessed to be in this country to be surrounded by friends and family who love us so much! I love all of your traditions!

We started a new one this year. I wish the camara would have captured the magic this little girl had in her eyes when she saw the REAL Santa!

Ho Ho Ho, my dad was such a good sport! Dale found this santa suit and it is legit! Lilly questioned once "papa?" but I think she really believed!

Of course our reserved and hesitant little man was terrified

Christmas Eve: We act out a play my dad wrote 20 years ago, I feel like i have the same pictures of the same things every year, so I didn't take any. My family members all took random pics of things as we celebrated. These are those pictures.

Beatles Rock Band was a favorite.

Nate and Daisy, so long little pup! We told Lilly she had to go back with her mommy. She was totally ok with it. I was so relieved. I thought it was going to be one of the hardest things ever.

Our cute little house this year! Didn't Josh do such a good job?

Can't wait until next year!

P.S. I totally forgot to take pics of opening Christmas presents on Christmas morning! Can you believe it? However, Kathi, we have it all on video!!!! :)

Boat Parade 2010

2011-01-09T09:09:00.000-08:00

2nd Annual Tempe Town Lake boat parade was a success! We chose the Grinch and Who-ville as our theme this year. Dale put out all stops, with the help of Josh and my dad. It was a blast! All the boats looked really good this year. Of course ours was my favorite. The crowds were incredible, I would say 25,000 plus. The kids had a blast and it was so fun to carry on the tradition. We even rented a generator this year.... ha ha

Nate was in character as about the best grinch I have seen! He was hilarious and mimicked Jim Carrey perfectly. The crowds loved him!

Here's our boat, who-ville in the front, Mt. Crump-it in the back!
Lilly and that damn binky. BTW, it IS gone now. We are up to 2 weeks.

This kid lookin a little mischevious....

The lights were so tempting...

He just couldn't resist!

Me and my baby girl!

p.s. is that pregnancy mask EVER gonna come off my face? how ugly.

Auntie Claire and the Tatester

The whole gang!

P.S. We sold the dog.

The unthinkable happened.

2010-12-20T08:31:00.000-08:00

Meet Daisy.

And for those of you who know me, we know what a huge step this was. It was an impulse decision on my part. I think that is the only way a dog would have ever entered this family. I'm not sure what I think yet. However, there is something magical in my little nuggets' eyes when they play with her that makes my heart pitter patter.
Wish us all luck.
.... And Merry Christmas!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-29T11:07:00.000-08:00

The Thanksgiving season was wonderful this year. Josh took the financial part of the CPA exam last Tuesday. He has been getting up at 530 every morning, studying for a couple hours, getting ready for work and working sometimes 13 hour days, not getting home until 9 or 10 at night. With no lunch breaks to boot! We appreciate and love him so much for all he does for our family. I love that I am able to stay home and be with my kids. They are such a joy for me. I can't believe how big they are getting. They are so bright. They love to learn. They love to laugh. They love to have fun. I love being with them.

We have so much to be thankful for. We have good healthy bodies. We have wonderful family and friends. We have a warm house and cars that don't cause us any trouble. We have clothes on our backs and good food to eat. We have a religion that fulfills our needs and teaches us how to be happy and together. We have people who care about us and love us. I know there are many in this world who can't say they have these things, to them I wish I could make that difference in their lives, to me, I am tremendously grateful for what I have.

I hope as this season of caring, giving, and love continues on that my heart will be full of gratitude. That I won't forget those who are less fortunate. That I won't take my family and what WE have for granted. I love my Savior. I know He lives. And I am grateful for Him and what His life means to me. It is personal and it is deep.

This time of year really brings out the best in us all doesn't it? I pray this year, it lasts a little longer... that when all the decorations are down, gifts are unwrapped, and lights are put away that I can hold on to the Christmas spirit and of love, kindness, and service far into the coming year. I hope all of you, my friends and family have a wonderful Christmas Holiday. This family of four sure loves you!

Everything in OCTOBER, besides Halloween.

2010-11-20T12:13:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how fast this year is coming to an end. We had an awesome month of October since the weather is starting to cool down. I love fall decorations. I love fall smells. So I pretend inside my own house, since I don't get to experience it outside. It's time to pull out the BBQ and spend the next 8 months out doors!!!!

I took the kids to a railroad park in Scottsdale. They loved the train.

The One and Only vegetable I can get down Lilly...

And boy does she love it!

It seems to always be snack time at our house! Or maybe that's just when I think my kids are the cutest for pictures!

Lil always eats the cream filling and leaves the cookie part.

Tate making some music!

I often catch Lilly stiking this pose while watching TV.

I love it when she strikes this one!

A cute little Tate foot during an afternoon nap.

The boys for Priesthood session. Good lookin' bunch. I got a pedicure, it was glorious.

Cupcake time!

I just painted this cute little table for the tots! They love it!

Happy Birthday

2010-11-16T20:01:00.000-08:00

To this hunk of burnin' love!

He turned the big 3-0.

Never thought I'd be so lucky to marry someone so passionate about life.

So aggressive and driven.

So fun to be around.

Such a hard worker.

Such an amazing daddy.

Such a wonderful husband.

And SO MY BEST FREIND.

I love you babe, Happy 30th!

Here's to 30 more...

Halloweeniest Weekend Ever!

2010-11-13T08:28:00.000-08:00

Busy BUSY Halloween this year. It was fun, but I was SO ready for it to be over, in fact I'm ready for this post to be overwith! ha ha. We had fun carving pumpkins this year, even though the darn thing was covered in mold by day 3, gotta love the AZ heat!

A neighbor in my parents hood foot the bill for a GIGANTIC halloween party. It was really incredible. Atleast 3 bounce houses, a rock wall, mechanical bull, pony rides, a haunted house, games, and all the food one could ever dream of. Then a huge trick or treating extravaganza. We hope its an annual thing, it was awesome!

Gettin ready for the night!

Miss Raggedy Ann

Tate cracks me up!

Ninja turtle Steph and Claire... as herself!

The kids with their second parents!

Deloitte had a big picnik at a park in Scottsdale. They had contests, games, food, cotton candy, and a bounce house. It was fun, and my kids were too die for, and loved the cotton candy!

THEN, trick or treating on Halloween. I was so over the Ann and Andy costumes, so I pulled out the bee and my friend Kayleen let me borrow the lion costume for Tate. We had a yummy dinner at their house and then went trick or treating with the Theobald's. It was fun and Lilly was so into it!!!!

Of course Tate found the only old candy bar in a yard full of gravel. Ewwwww!

killer bee?

Lilly and Morgan hugging!

My roaring lion, and boy was he roaring this night!

The kids and their hero.

I can't definately wait til next year... Halloween was a lot of work this year!

Halloween Primary CTR4 Party

2010-11-09T07:21:00.000-08:00

We had a Halloween Party for our Primary Class combined with the Jensen's. All the kiddos were dressed up so cute! We had a lot of fun! Luke and Nate
Mackenzie

Maylee

Daniel

Toma

Luke

Nate

Catherine

Trevor

Fletcher

Nate and Jenn

Me and Josh (the lame teachers, cuz of our costumes) sorry I'm not a die hard halloweenest.

Our Class playing duck duck goose

Eating yummy pizza

We also bobbed for apples, jumped in the bounce house, colored scary pictures, and ate caramel apples and ghost cupcakes. It was fun!

Schnepf Farms 2010

2010-10-27T07:43:00.000-07:00

Schepf Farms. Fun Place. My kids love it, especially the petting zoo. WHY? We went with friends this year which was fun. One of their little girls hates the petting zoo. I'm jealous. I took a bunch of pictures. My kids wouldn't smile to save their lives. I think they might be sick of me and the camara in their faces! So I took lots of pics of our friends little girls. SO CUTE. Lilly and this little Sage play so cute together. We trade babysitting a couple times a week and I love it! They totally entertain themselves and I love seeing them together. Tate gets in on the action and pushes a baby stroller around as well. Anyway, Schnepf was fun, even if I was frustrated I didn't get the pics I wanted since we paid half our salary to get in. A few are priceless.

Like this one...

Clint, Marianne, Sage, and Charlotte

This pic shows the week I had with Tate.

Loves thos animals. Maybe she should have been raised on a farm. Maybe not.

Sweet Charlotte

My only family picture of the trip. LAME.

Oh I am obsessed with them!

And this is because I couldn't get one of my cuties together.

Like father, Like son... Don't ya think?

Picking out pumpkins for each other

Looking for a bee

What a beauty!

This is the closest to a smile I got. Not very close.

My little pumpkin. Man he has grown since our trip last year. Time flies.

Meet this yummy chunk!

2010-10-21T08:52:00.000-07:00

I have so much fun taking pics, I decided to post a couple. I should have a seperate blog or something. Anyway, isn't this the cutest little guy EVER? I want to eat him!!!!

They are almost done Karen!!!! :)

Our Family Pictures

2010-10-06T13:13:00.000-07:00

The busy-ness of September 2010

2010-10-04T12:20:00.000-07:00

September blew by. Josh was off the majority of the month before starting his new job so we thought we would have so much time to do many things. Of course, the time went by too fast, we did get a lot of the things done on our list, but it was a sad day for us all to see him leave us! We got used to having him around. So I think I am going to blog by month from now on, unless there are big events that call for their own post. I think if I have a realistic perspective on blogging, and that it is for journeling purposes I can handle a monthly post. Sometimes I feel so behind and overwhelmed that I just don't want to do it. So anyway, here are some cute things about September.

Lilly is obsessed with shoes. Like obsessed in that, if she sees a pair in a store and likes them, she won't take them off-- obsessed. OH NO. That's how I am and I am working on 100 pairs of shoes easy. Anyway, her Aunt Teppy took her to Scottsdale mall a few weeks ago and she was obsessed with a pair of shoes, so Tep bought them. Ever since, these are the ONLY shoes she will wear, and loves them so much that she even takes them into bed with her and kisses them like her teddy bear. This here is a pic of her on her way to bed, shoes and "pink blankie" in hand.

Lilly and Tate are going to be Raggedy Ann and Andy this year for Halloween. These are the socks that go with the costume. She loves them and wants to wear them all the time. She slip and slides down the kitchen tile. Its hilarious. Uh, is that the binki I STILL see in her mouth? Why yes it is. Awesome.
We made another trip to Utah in September and stayed with my grand parents in Kingmann the drive up. This is my grandpa and Tate! Cute!

My Grandma and Grandpa

Labor Day weekend we were in Hurricane for Peach Days and to visit Josh's family and friends. Didn't get a ton of pics, but the ones I did get are priceless. ha ha

Anthony is one seductive gamer. (we played Quelf).

Blake and Tayna, she was lucky enough to wear this on her head almost the entire game.

Blake and Bryce

The gang! Josh's Besties

Enjoying the HOT sun at Peach Days, thank you Anth for shading us.

Aunt Jann made a special trip over to see us. We loved her visit and Lilly love the brownies she made for her to frost! Great idea!

On our way to SL we stopped in Nephi to have a picnic lunch at the cemetery. For those who don't know I have a secret obsession with cemetery's. I love them and reading the headstones. Besides I'm sure they enjoy the visit every once in a while. Along with my kids trampling all over their graves and stealing their memorabilia, like this flag!

Once again, the obsessions Lilly takes on. ANIMALS. My least favorite, however it does do a little something to my heart when I see how happy she is when she is around them.

I had a Mission Reunion in Bountiful at my Mission Presidents home. It was nice to see them and visit.

After we got back, I went on a little girls weekend with my mom and sisters. It was fun, we got massages, gelato (3 times), Sprinkles cupcakes, pedicures, shopping, and movies. It was so fun and relaxing.

Tate got his first hair cut. After the "mullet" comments I was receiving I figured it was time to cut it off. I'm still sad about it, he doesn't seem like the same little boy. But we can grow it out again.

Bye Bye curls, that kinda weren't curling anymore.

Last but not least. Josh left for a couple weeks for training in LA. The night after we took him to the airport I went in to get on the computer (big mistake with a 2 and 1 yr. old.) Within 5 minutes they had spread popcorn throughout the whole kitchen and family room, and Lilly put my MAC lip gloss all over her face, hands, and countertop. Those aren't her natural pink brows in case you were wondering. AND I mention MAC just so you know it was 17 dollars..... wasted.

Here's to a great September!

Out with the old, On with the NEW!

2010-09-24T10:49:00.001-07:00

I have an amazing friend. Her name is Monica. She's the kind of gal that just makes you feel like a million bucks when you are around her. I hope everyone has a friend like her. Anyway, she has started taking some pics, she is hardly a beginner as you will see. For those of you who don't know, I had been planning on re-taking our "wedding pics" so to speak for a while. I wanted to lose a bunch of weight and have some new pics taken for various reasons. So I have been working my butt off since January and we finally had them done this summer up in Utah. Monica has a friend who does hair and make up that she has teamed up with to do "themed" photo shoots. Her and I have talked about doing them down here to where I would do the hair and make up and she would take the pics. It would be fun! Anyway, I was originally supposed to take these pics at the beginning of July. The night before our photo shoot my kids got really sick and so we ended up having to re-schedule this event, meanig we would need to make another trip to Utah. So we drove two times this summer to Utah for family pictures!!!!!! On the second trip up 4 days into the trip, the evening before my photo shoot with Monica I realized I had forgotten my dress for these pics. ARE YOU KIDDING ME NATALIE????????? So my little ticker got to thinking quickly and I called my incredible 2nd mother AnnMarie, (who works for the airlines) to see if there was any possible way to get this dress to me. With the help of so many, she got this dress on the first plane to Salt Lake on Labor Day morning, and I met someone in the lobby who hand carried my dress to me. HOW IS THAT FOR SERVICE???? I feel so blessed to have so many wonderful people in my life. I just hope I am as good to them as they are too me. Anyway, it was quite the ordeal, has been a long time in coming, but well worth it. I love the pictures, and will feel a lot better having these hanging on my walls then my FAT wedding pictures where I looked like Fiona from Shrek. (p.s. my photographer sucked too, and Josh and I only have 1 picture together.) weird I know! So, ENJOY!

Me and My Sweetheart

2010-09-15T15:15:00.000-07:00

My fabulous friend Jen did a photo shoot of Josh and I and then one for our little family. (pics to come.) I love her and think she is fabulous!

If you love her too, you can check her out, fausetphotography.com

San Diego 2010

2010-08-22T16:42:00.005-07:00

San Diego was amazing as always this year! We were able to spend 2 full weeks on the beach! We visited a lot of places and went to Disneyland. I read 2 books, ate lots of yummy food, had our delicious NY style pizza, went on many bike rides, and spent some wonderful quality time with my little family, and my extended's! It was fabulous! Yet again, can't wait until next year!

This is the awesome beach house we rent every year!

Its all just part of the experience!

My cutie pie

LOVE this girl!

Again, part of the experience

Lilly went jelly fish hunting almost everyday, she was so proud of them

"Hey Josh can you watch Lilly?" "SURE, No prob! She's in good hands."

Sun Bathing with Aunt Teppy

Tate started really walking on this trip, and had a few bumps and bruises

Love the bike rides!

LOVE this guy!

Fantastic way to snorkel

We love you beach! Until next year..... BYEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

Disneyland

2010-08-22T16:42:00.003-07:00

Taking your little ones to Disneyland for the first time is amazing! Actually I think it will be amazing everytime we go. For the couple days before we went we kept telling Lilly we were going to go to Mickey's house. She kept saying, "Mickey's house? OK!" When we arrived she was a little grouchy because she was hungry and tired but once she realized what was going on and got some food in her tummy she was all about it! I love that place as much as my kids do! And of course she had her entourage of her uncles and aunts, parents, and grandparents. It was truly magical! I wish I would have taken more pictures but the day just got away from me. Lilly of course loved the princess' the most, she told me Belle was her favorite! (Sure excited for that to come on DVD next month!)

Papa bought Lilly a bubble machine, this is what we looked like walking around Disney.

Watching some Disney characters! Tate is so intent!

Daddy and Lilly riding Dumbo!

Papa and Lilly riding the Merry Go Round, her favorite ride, go figure, we can just go to the mall for that one!

Our only family shot of the day on the Safari tour ride!

Balboa Park

2010-08-22T16:42:00.001-07:00

Balboa Park is such a beautiful place! Its right next to the San Diego zoo... While it was cloudy and cold on the beach, we just took a little drive inland and enjoyed the sun and some yummy nachos at the park while looking at beautiful plants, birds, and buildings.Lilly loves fish, unfortunately to my dismay, ALL animals!

I gave this umbrella to Lilly and said I wanted to see her pretty smile, in a matter of seconds I got all of these shots, showing ALL the parts of her personality! How symbolic...

She's sometimes curious

Her mouth always seems to be open, whether its singing, eating, or putting that dang binki in her mouth...

She can be very sweet and thoughtful....

She can be very bossy

This looks sweet, but really its mischevious!

La Jolla

2010-08-22T16:41:00.005-07:00

We had a grand ole' time at La Jolla one day catching crabs, enjoying the sun, playing frisbee, and looking at very expensive shops that none of us could afford! Being in San Diego for 2 weeks was just what the doctor ordered!

Tate really took to walking on this trip! He's a little runaway now!

Belmont Park

2010-08-22T16:41:00.003-07:00

One of our traditions is going to ride the roller coaster at Belmont Park. It is WAY more fun taking the kiddos and having them ride the rides! Lilly's favorite by far is the Merry-go-round! She would ride it all day if we had the money to do it! Tate really loved it to!

Sunsets

2010-08-22T16:41:00.001-07:00

So many of these I didn't even edit... they truly were this beautiful! Oh I love the ocean!!!! I hope to live here someday!

Taters ONE year pics!

2010-08-01T13:18:00.000-07:00

Photos taken by my cute friend Kayleen

My beautiful friend Jackie's shower and wedding!

2010-07-30T09:48:00.001-07:00

One of my dearest friends got married on July 17th in the San Diego temple. It was a beautiful ceremony and luncheon. Josh and I were so lucky to be able to attend. We left our kids with my awesome mom and Aunts and Uncles, who were so generous and sweet to watch our munchkins. Isn't she gorgeous? Another friend of Jackie's and I threw her a bridal shower in June up in Utah. What a privelage it is to be Jackie's friend. She has been such a loyal and wonderful friend to me. Here's to a happy life my sweet girl!

Lake Powell 2010

2010-07-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

Lake Powell this year was eventful as always. The first night we usually stay at a hotel in Page. While I was out shopping for groceries Josh was at the hotel getting the kids bathed and what not I got a frantic phone call from Josh that he needed to take Tate to the ER. Little man had flung himself off the bed and hit himself onto a table. There was A LOT more blood and it looked A LOT worse than what these pics portray, but Josh handled it well, Tate ended up getting a butterfly, and we enjoyed the lake anyway. This trip came at the end of an exhausting 2 week vaca to UT, so I'm sure it would have been better for all of us had we planned it another way. Needless to say, we had fun anyway and will do things different next year! Lake Powell never ceases to amaze me.

We celebrated Tate's actual birthday, yet again, with more cake! It was yummy! This kid is up to 3 cakes now! And Lilly finally has the song down and sings happy birthday to Tate almost everyday!

Until Next Year...

Ahoy Matey, its Tatey's 1st Birthday Party!

2010-07-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

Poor little Tater Tot was just not feeling good on his special day! We had been on vacation for over a week, he was out of his schedule, recovering from being sick or teething, and was ready to back in his own bed! So all the pics we have of him he is not a happy guy which is so unlike him! We celebrated his birth anyway and had such a nice time with family and friends. His fabulous Grandma put a lot of effort into to making his party so fun and we really appreciated it! It turned out just how I imagined! I sure love my little pirate...

Cousin Heidi, boyfriend Brian

Lilly and cousins Ady and Chloe, I don't know which ones which! :)

Bryce and Anthony

Aren't these cupcakes so cute? Made with love by Grandma K

Miss Hailey

Friends, Julie and Kason

Grandma K

Cousin Heidi

Friends, Bryce and Brooke

Great Aunt Jann

"Aunt" Chelsea

Awesome pirate cake made by cousin Aubrey

Happy birthday song!

Sweet Alyssa May...

My happy little guy!

Opening presents...

Not pictured, but certainly noticed, was Great Aunt Kristi and Great Grandma Carson and Ryan Sharich

Thank you so much to everyone who came far distances to celebrate Tate's special day and for those who brought things to make it so nice! We love you so so much!

4th of July in Utah

2010-07-21T15:59:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome time at the Evans place again this year! Can't wait til next year!

June 2010

2010-07-21T08:35:00.000-07:00

We had a busy June of going to the Lake, BBQ's with friends and family, traveling, and just trying to stay cool! I had one of my good friends fly down from Utah to hang with us for a couple days. We spent many hours in the water, it was fun! My kids are spoiled to grow up boating like this! Hopefully they will start wakeboarding really young and get a sponser... they can help pay for the gas it takes to fill this thing up! ha ha

White Coat Ceremony for...

2010-07-20T09:17:00.000-07:00

CANDICE!

Our sister in law is getting so close to graduating from Physical Therapy school.

She is such a hard worker and so determined and we absolutely love her!

Good Job Candice! Only another year to go!

my pretty princess!

2010-07-19T16:45:00.000-07:00

We have a family friend that works at a local boutique store who put on a pretty princess party and lunch. So I had my mom babysit Tatey while Lil and I had a girls day out! They had different booths set up for making wands and tiaras, glitters toes, and face painting. Lucky for me Lilly was in a terrible mood so she didn't really enjoy any of the activities, and refused to have her face painted, but we had fun making a wand, eating treats, and painting her toes.

Should I trade this in for her binki? ha ha

She holds on to it the same way!

She was pleased with her finished product!

A night out at Rockin R Ranch

2010-07-19T09:55:00.000-07:00

Haven't been for ages, but decided to take my kids and show the Hubs there really is a "small town" within this enormous metropolis! Ha ha! Anyway, took the kids to the ranch back in June. It was fun to see Lilly gold pan, eat yummy dutch oven biscuits, and watch the dinner show. Man I have a lot of catching up to do for this book! (my blog).

Mills Family Pics

2010-06-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

Memorial Weekend in Cali

2010-06-10T08:24:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome time in San Diego visiting some of our dear friends, the Exons. We spent the weekend going to the beach, eating delicious seafood, having a picnic at the park, and enjoying the GORGEOUS weather! Definately hoping and dreaming of living there someday... We'll see! :) Hoping a transfer from Deloitte will be in our future. We had a blast! Thank you Jamie and Elisha for such a fun weekend! We love you!

The questions begin

2010-06-09T16:24:00.000-07:00

My mom wrote in my journal that I asked her questions all day long, like "why is the sky up?" and "Why don't Heavenly Father and Jesus let us see them? Don't they have their clothes on?" ha ha, although she isn't talking that much the questions are beginning.

Where's Daddy?

Where's Dale?

Where's Tio?

Where's Papa?

Where's Nana?

Are the questions I am asked EVERY other HOUR from this cute little girl.

And when I reply, she says "Oh!" ... likes she understands every word.

Just because

2010-06-04T11:33:00.000-07:00

...I'm so in love with this kid!

Comparison

2010-06-03T08:50:00.000-07:00

The day Lilly was born

1st birthday

2nd Birthday

Man we love this girl so much. Can't wait for all her future birthdays!

Lilly's 2nd birthday party!

2010-06-01T13:41:00.000-07:00

Lilly and her fabulous uncle Dale share the same birthday, May 30th. I think they will probably celebrate together for the rest of their lives! She adores him and they have a special little bond. We had a lot of fun yesterday splashing around in the pool, eating yummy food, playing volleyball, opening presents, and having cake and ice cream. It was such a fun celebration! I LOVE BIRTHDAY'S!!!

This little one loves the water... she's a little tooooo comfortable for MY comfort!

She's so brave and goes down the slide all by herself!
Some of the gang
She could really get into this.... more than once a year!

She got lots of baby stuff

And her favorite: chapstick. Which is not my favorite.

Dale opening his presents, look at Tate just stare at him, hilarious!

Strolling around her new baby. She ended up doing it all afternoon.

Until we brought out her jeep!!!!! SHE WAS IN HEAVEN!

(look at Tate's hand, how cute!)

Fully equipped with stroller in back, and baby on lap! Lilly having the time of her life, Tate not so sure

Cake time!

Tate loved the cake

She was spoiled rotten with gifts and attention! It was a fabulous day and we loved remembering our little peanut's entrance into this world and celebrating her special day!!

For journeling purposes

2010-05-25T08:35:00.000-07:00

Josh took his first CPA exam last Saturday. We won't know the results for 6 weeks. He feels like he did well. It was down in Casa Grande because no seats were available up here. So we made a day trip out of it and there was nothing for me to do with the kiddies so I decided to brave myself and take them to a movie. YEP, an ALMOST 2 year old and an ALMOST 11 month old and I went to the movies and saw "SHEK" aka "Shrek". Lilly kept yelling Shek through the whole movie. It was cute. Tate fell asleep at the beginning, after many silent prayers for OK behavior. Suprisingly they actually did pretty good. Tate woke up half way through, and I only went to pack up to leave once, but we ended up staying. Pretty sure I wouldn't make this a frequent outing. Lilly got a little scared when the lights went out, but she sat in a big girl seat, had her very own bag of popcorn and a drink, and was in heaven. I just love her. AND, I'm pretty proud of myself. Cheers!

Gila pronounced "Hee-la" Valley Temple

2010-05-20T16:42:00.000-07:00

If you are LDS and live in AZ you probably know this beautiful temple will be dedicated to the Lord this Sunday, May 23rd. I feel so blessed to have attended another open house to one of these beautiful buildings. They truly are exquisite sanctuaries where one may feel peace and holiness. As I walked through this remarkable building I was once again reminded of the special feeling I feel when something is good. I was overwhelmed with love and peace and assurance that there is a God. He is aware this building has been built for the work of our ancestors to be done. He knows it is important, as do I. Though few may see its exceptional beauty inside, I hope I always remember how important it is for me to attend often. I was overwhelmed with love and admiration for the righteous and dedicated saints of the Gila Valley and surrounding areas in making it possible for this Holy House to be built. I am blessed to be a descendent of such strong, amazing people. My grandma Lilly and grandpa Ned are buried in Pima. I enjoyed paying tribute to their lives and visiting their grave. I love and miss them tremendously.
Those of us who were able to attend, am I really that much shorter than my mom? wowzer.

Doesn't it look so pretty against the Graham mountains? You'd think so if you are from here, mountains are a rareity!

Beautiful day and delicious mexican food, can't beat that!

My first Triatholon

2010-05-13T13:08:00.000-07:00

May 8th marks the date of my first Sprint Triatholon. We swam 750 meters, biked 13.5 miles, and ran 3.2 miles. It was challenging-- but totally worth it! I decided back in January that I wanted to train for it. From January til April our family was sick 4 times, had bronchitis 2x, made 2 trips to the ER, both kids had double ear infections - TWICE, and I fell and hit my shoulder. I really didn't think I was going to be able to do it! I didn't get to train the way I wanted to, but I worked hard, and I really gave my best on race day. I feel so great that I was able to do it, and as I have heard from others, triatholons are addicting, and I am excited for my next one. (Hopefully it will be in a pool, instead of the nasty lake).

This was the transition area

Me getting marked, my number was 221
Sara and I, the girl who got me to do it!

A couple other friends that I found out were doing it, Amber and Marianne

They wrote our ages on our calves, which turned out to be a bad thing for me because I got to see how many people were older than me zipping by. I'm not in that great of shape I guess!

My family came to support me!

My sweet hubs

Adjusting to the water temp

I finished! My time was 2 hrs. 7 min. I wasn't really going for a time so I have no idea if that is even good, but I didn't care, my goal was to make it.

Special Thanks to my sister and sister in law for getting up super early on a Saturday morning to help me out with my kids! you guys are the best!

Thirty, Flirty, and Thriving!!!

2010-05-02T19:48:00.001-07:00

My most amazing husband threw me a "suprise" birthday party on April 24th. Suprise in that I complained all week about how this was my 30th and it wasn't going to be a big deal and yada yada yada. So come Friday I decided to plan my own birthday since it didn't seem like he was because he has been so busy with work and school. (Which is no excuse) ( And yes, he started the Becker's program to take his CPA exam). So I started coming up with my own ideas and everything I said he told me didn't sound fun. I was apalled, afterall it is MY birthday. So he was coerced into telling me he had planned a "family bbq". Sounded fun to me. But what I didn't know (after swimming ALL DAY with my kids, and looking just lovely) people started showing up in my backyard. And yes, I was in my swim suit. I started to panic a little, but oh well. It was SO much fun and I love my brothers (including in-laws) and sisters who helped plan this party for me! It was such a special birthday! I love you so much Josh! Thank you!!!!!

About a month before I told him I wanted to throw myself a "thirty, flirty, and thriving" party

I wanted to end the night watching that movie... but I was pooped!

My handsome little man
My sassy little daughter, in her "teeny weeny, yellow polka dot bikini"

Steph planned a couple games, this was the egg toss. I lost, with the egg breaking all over my shoulder and hair... hey, atleast the egg is good for the hair!

Joel, Candice, Steph

Marie and Sara

Me and Jamie

Me and Kel

Jamie and Johnny
THE WINNERS OF THE EGG TOSS

Me and Katie and Tate

Me, my bro Dale, my sis Steph

Me and Shanda

My lovely face while everyone was singing to me, it was rather embarrassing

Me and my hot lover! Thanks so much babe! I love you!

P.S. Yes, that is remnants of my nasty bruise on my shoulder from Josh beating me the week before. JUST KIDDING! I had a little fall, with a nasty bruise.

LILLY JUNE meets lily june

2010-05-02T19:43:00.000-07:00

Some of our dear friends just had a baby girl and named her Lily June...

Here the big one meets the little one for the first time.

Easter 2010

2010-04-30T11:41:00.000-07:00

Easter was nice and relaxing this year. I loved having it conference weekend. (Even though Lilly didn't get to wear her darling easter dress). The festivities began Friday with a little hunt put on by some friends at a park by our house... she did an amazing job with the food and decorations. Lots of work!

Cute lil basket, courtesy of Lilly's fairy godmother, Taylor

All the kids getting ready for their hunt!

Lilly would get an egg, sit down, open it, eat it, and then move on to the next. I had to get her movin' before all the eggs were gone!

Tate wanted in on the loot

Lilly and I dyed eggs, it was quite the experience.

Then we had another hunt in my parents backyard with family

2 sets of lovebirds

Better late than never! Loved Easter this year, next year will be even funner!

Fun To-Do's/ March 2010

2010-04-21T15:15:00.000-07:00

This post is kinda boring.. well maybe not to the grandma's and grandpa's.. but its necessary for journaling purposes! This is just a collection of pictures through the month of March and the fun things we did.

We definately enjoy playing outside!!!!

My sweet little man in the morning waiting for breakfast...

Lilly, holding my phone, being mischievious

There really is never a day, this kid doesn't have this smile on his face!

Planting flowers

Quite shocked to see what happens when she shakes a bottle of baby powder.

We had some neighbor friends over for dinner, and the kids got to watch movies in our bed

One of my close friends came to visit from UT and our kids got to have a tubby together

The Aloha Festival, and Grandma K came to visit

Lilly always gets thrown way up high by her Uncles and Daddy

Grandma K, Tate, and Uncle Joel

We went to Vegas on a family vacation with my family. We got to shop, eat, and see The Beatles LOVE show at The Mirage, it was a blast! Thank you to Jax for babysitting the kiddies.

Love you!

Lilly and Daddy brushing teeth

Nana, Tate, and Daddy

The Aquariam at Mandalay Bay

March was a fun month!

Its that time of year...

2010-04-19T17:32:00.000-07:00

...FOR POPSICLES!! YUMMY!!!

Enjoying Nature

2010-04-06T13:45:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago we went fishing at the Salt River. The kids had a blast, and it was nice to be out in nature. Josh is really having a hard time being away from the mountains. I feel bad for him! I miss them too... (in the summer). We have so many memories from the mountains! I wish they weren't so far away from here... Does anyone know where in the US I could have the beach within an hour, the mountains within an hour, a pretty mild climate all year round, and live in a smaller town with the city close enough for Josh to commute to work? THAT'S where I'll end up! :) ... but its probably too good to be true...

Mama's Little Boy

2010-03-09T20:47:00.000-08:00

I LOVE THIS BOY!

Little Miss Mom

2010-03-02T11:32:00.000-08:00

About 5 minutes out from leaving to church, and putting the final outfit on Tate (so he would be clean) Lilly decided she would help mommy by feeding him.

Today, I'm glad I captured the moment.

Sunday I was not thrilled about the disaster.

Nonetheless, this little girl is growing up and mimics everything I do.

That's mostly a bad thing.

I need to change.

Lilly: 18, 19, and 20 months!

2010-02-04T14:22:00.000-08:00

I have been a slacker at getting pics of the kids on here! So we have 3 months combined! She hasn't changed a lot, but I captured a bunch of all the activities she is really into these days...

She is a beauty queen...

She went to her first birthday party and just HAD to carry the present!

Connor, her boyfriend next door. They just LOVE each other!

She had fun playing at his party!

He's sure a cutie!

So is she, even though she rarely smiles for me!

She rode her first horse with her daddy, Tatey, and by herself!

This little girl LOVES animals.

...and her brother, yes I DO do her hair, even though it doesn't look like it!

She loves helping mommy, ALL DAY, EVERYDAY

She loves to color

She loves to play in her sandbox

She loves to go to the park

She loves tubby time

One day I couldn't find her, but the back door was open. Don't worry she was just chillin in the bouncer that was on the table, thinking about life!

She LOVES to go shopping

and play on the slide her Grandma K got her

Sometimes she gets herself in risky predicaments

But all in all, this sassy little girl is the spoiled little lady of our family!

Lilly doesn't say much that makes sense, but she talks ALL day long.

Some of her favorite words are: bubbles, tatey, mommy, no, she mimics my "oh man" and "are you kidding me!", cookie, I can't think of anymore, but I know there are many!

She loves to play pretend

She loves to feed daddy

Her favorite foods are: chicken, rice, green beans, strawberries, oranges, noodles, yogurt, applesauce, pizza, cheese, fruit snacks, and just about anything she can get her paws on.

She loves her little brother to death.

She shows it by poking his eyes out, pulling his few hairs, and giving him kisses.

She loves her mommy and daddy, she used to be a daddy's girl, but she is definately turning into a mommy's girl.

She loves to play outside

She loves to sit with mommy and Tatey on the swing on our porch

She loves to go for wagon rides, bike rides, stroller rides

She definately has a mind of her own and is head strong but she is sweet and loving and we just absolutely adore her!

She is going to be an awesome big sister!

We took her into the doctor today and she is a little above average in weight and height!

Our little peanut is growing up!

We love you Lilly June!

Tate 6 Months

2010-01-27T11:48:00.000-08:00

My little boy is already 6 months, I'm sure every mom could say that it feels like just yesterday that you brought your little one home from the hospital. We have been so busy these last 6 months with moving and having a one year old, that I can't believe how fast time has gone! My little man is getting so big! Everyone says he looks exactly like his daddy! He sure is a cutie!

He is such a happy baby! I think he is going to have his daddy's disposition...

His sissy loves to play with him... even if it means he is her play horse!
They always watch their movies together!

He is always bright-eyed

He loves to cuddle up and sleep with his daddy

He LOVES my home made baby food!

You are always such a joy to be around Tatey

At 6 months you love:

Your mommy, daddy, and sissy
To sit up and see the world
Food
To stand in your exersaucer
To be outside
Your grandma's and grandpa's
Your aunts and uncles
To be on a schedule
To sleep
Sitting on the swing on our front porch
Standing in your walker
Going for walks whether in the stroller or your red wagon
Just being with anyone and everyone

You give out smiles to anyone who will take one, you absolutely adore your sister, You have your 2 bottom teeth, and you laugh, giggle, and shriek every moment you are awake!

You only cry if you are hungry or tired, and I just love being your mommy.

Tate you are the BEST addition to our family.

We LOVE you so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so MUCH!

It all started at 8:30 this morning...

2010-01-19T14:24:00.000-08:00

...which really isn't too early, except when its only 3:30p.m. on that same day and you have had a day like this! This is quite the chapter in our little story book of life.

So I get up and do the usual routine of getting the kids up, fed, cleaned, and dressed. Packing the diaper bag and into the car. It seriously takes 2 hours. WHY? It takes that long everyday, and it seems like I can never get out of the house. Will it ever get faster and easier? I imagine when the kids are older. (BTW, I wasn't even ready.) So tack on another hour for that. So as I am driving around the corner out of my neighborhood I hear Tate grunting. His morning poo. I think to myself: "You should probably turn around and get a change of clothes and change his diaper." Tate is famous (practically everyday) for the poops that go down his legs and up his back. I decide to for-go the turn around because of how long it took to get out of the house and I JUST WANT TO GO TO THE GYM! Is this too much to ask?

I get to the gym parking lot, and yep, its the worst ever. Up his back and down to his ankles. Luckily, my mom only lives a couple miles from the gym. So I pack him back in and get to my moms where I bathe Tate and throw his clothes in the wash. I got her to watch Tate while I took Lilly back to the kids club at the gym while I worked out. This was the first time (besides nursery last Sunday) that I have ever left her to be babysat by strangers with lots of other kids. YIKES! I just get all sorts of anxiety. I'm probably too protective of my kids but I don't care. So I'm running on the treadmill and they have tv's in front of them where I can turn it onto a certain channel and watch the kids club. I run as I watch these mean boys hit her with a toy car and she starts crying and walking over to all the workers with her arms up in the air saying if she could, "please pick me up!" It broke my heart so I hurried and got back in there, cutting my workout short.

I proceed to the car where I buckle Lilly in, throw my wallet, keys, and water bottle on the seat. I shut the door, and it LOCKS! It had never done that before. I try coaxing Lilly to pull up the lock and she keeps trying but she just can't do it. After about 5 minutes I start panicking and run into the gym to call a locksmith. The wait is over an hour so we call 911. So yes, firetrucks, policeman, the whole 9 shows up. I'm pretty panicky because its been about 20 minutes and Lilly is sweating and crying and she is trying so hard to open the door but can't.

Since our car is a 2010, they told me they didn't have the new equipment to get in easily and so there was a fire fighter on each door trying to get the doors open but nothing is budging. I'm thinking that I am about to break the window by now. After trying for what seemed like an hour one of the cops said to me, "too bad you don't have on-star" OH BUT I DO! Thanks to my wonderful husband, which is a whole other story because I got mad at him the day he was having it installed because it took so long, blah blah blah. Basically, this long explanation comes to an end because all they had to do was call on-star and they opened our doors. When we got Lilly out of the car she was very hot and pale, they were nervous for a little bit, but she cooled off quickly and was back to her chatty self. Thank goodness it wasn't 118 in the summer. What a stressful day. All just to go to the dang gym.

I now love On-Star. I think I might purchase it after our free year trial.

P.S. The cops were like "is your spare key close by?" Me: "ya, its pretty close, its in the glove box." I blamed it on my blonde hair.

Happy Birthday Mom! 01/18/19-- :)

2010-01-17T20:04:00.000-08:00

Today is my wonderful mother's birthday. I love this woman for so many reasons:

She lives what she says. She isn't fake in any way. She never has a mean thing to say about anyone. She always gives everyone the benefit of the doubt. She isn't judgemental. She is trustworthy. She is gentle. She is so kind. She has so many talents. She has a beautiful voice, she sews beautiful things for my kids, she draws, she plays the piano.

She is genuine.

She is virtuous. She is a good example.

She loves unconditionally.

She is the best grandma and my kids just love her.

She is the best mom, and has taught me so many things about life and love.

She is classy.

She is affectionate.

I have come to realize over the years of my life that God knows and loves us. He showed this to me the day He sent me to her.

And I will forever be thankful.

I love you so much mom. I am so greatful for who you are and who you continually teach me to be. I hope you have a special day and know how much your loved in this family.

Blog worthy

2010-01-17T18:59:00.000-08:00

Today Lilly went to nursery for the first time

and

we took down Tate's baby swing.

My babies are growing up wayyyyy to fast!

Maybe its time for another one.

Christmas and Temple Lights 09

2010-01-08T18:54:00.001-08:00

Christmas this year was merry and bright. We did many fun things together as a family and it was truly wonderful. I love having my kids. Even though Lilly didn't really get it, she went around saying ho ho ho, and singing "up on the housetop" HER RENDITION. Its still going...

We feel so blessed and grateful for the people we know, the things we have, and the life we live. It really couldn't get much better. I feel so grateful to my Savior. I love Him. And I need to rely on Him more. I love the time to reflect and to also feel the spirit of His birth and what that represents to the world and what it represents to me personally. I loved seeing the temple lights and walking on the special grounds this Christmas. There are a lot of pictures in this post. Hope you enjoy them!

Christmas Eve is a memorable time for me every year. For as long as I can remember we act out a play my dad narrates about Samuel the Lamanite (from the Book of Mormon) and how he prophecied that Christ would indeed come to the earth in a miraculous way. Nephi (also from the BOM) also prophecies of the signs of His coming. And then of course Luke's account of Joseph and Mary and the birth of our Savior. Each of us play a special part. Lilly was an angel, and Tate was baby Jesus. Josh was Nephi this year. And I was Mary. After the play, we have a talent show where everyone performs a song of some sort either by voice, piano, or guitar. We sing carols and eat yummy food. After the sentimental part we end the evening with Home Alone. I love these traditions. I hope they last forever and that we can always be apart of them.

Lilly was lovin the carrots with ranch dip

Uncle Nate and Lil

I couldn't pick which one was the cutest so I put all 3. I hate to say it but as of now, Dale is definately the absolute fav to lilly!

So everywhere we go its usually Josh, Dale and I with our kids. And time and time again everyone thinks these 2 are brothers and I married into the family. Not so much in this picture, but they look soo much alike, even the same outfits!

Josh as Nephi. Don't ask about the bou-font on top of his head.

The narrator himself, Jerry Leroy.

Aunt Steph and Tatey

Nate as Samuel

Lilly climbing all over the presents during the play, she as usual was on her best behavior.

The best present I received this year..

Where's Tatey?

Steph bought Lilly and I matching pajamas. Lilly was beside herself. I'm giving a creepy face.

Christmas Morning, gotta love that hair!

What a beauty

Lilly was spoiled... she got a bike

and a big girl potty...

and a wagon

and an Elmo phone that says "Good afternoon.... Lilly"

My sweet little present

Jer Bear in his usual position in the morning, even on Christmas, while everyone was slaving away making breakfast! ha ha

my mom enjoying her snuggie she got for Christmas, anyone else get one?

The breakfast Crew.

Last Christmas the family pic was Josh, Lil, and I.. this year its Josh, Lil, Tate and I..., next year its going to be Josh, Lil, Tate, and baby # 3!!!!!!!

JUST KIDDING! ha ha

New Tradition

2009-12-18T14:10:00.001-08:00

New traditions are the best, and I am most excited about this one! In Tempe, down by ASU, they have a park called Tempe Town Lake. There are no motorized boats allowed on the lake, HOWEVER, they do a boat parade once a year. So you can dazzle your boat up, enter it in the contest, and float the parade. IT IS SO FUN! We entered ours this year, the theme: The North Pole. We had so much fun getting it ready. It was a gorgeous day and such a fun thing to do as a family. There were probably close to 10,000 people there, which makes it all the more exciting. Santa came and there were tonz of festivities throughout the day. We all agreed it was a blast and that we want to start it as a new tradition...My sweet little guy

Yes, Lilly is EATING the bulbs

Dale and Claire

Tatey is always laughing at his silly sissy

My favorite thing about the night was this guy. He screamed to the crowd the whole night "Merry Christmas" and got everyone to participate and show Christmas Cheer!

Lilly was honking the horn and my dad kept jumping like it was scaring him, she thought it was hilarious

It started to get cold for this little bear

These were a lot of the boats that were there:

This "UP" boat won first prize, it was pretty incredible

Not too bad for our first time eh? We are gonna win next year!

My sweet little girl and her Papa

My darling little boy and his Gamma

Love this time of year!

HO HO HO, Merry Christmas!

2009-12-18T12:38:00.000-08:00

Gingerbread and Santa

2009-12-18T09:11:00.000-08:00

We had a couple friends over to make gingerbread houses the other night... it was very fun and creative!!! I guess while I was at the other end of the table Lilly was fisting candy... and after she finally fell asleep she kept waking up all night screaming.. hmmmm must have had a belly ache! Shanda and our Pueblo Ginger House, complete with a pool in the back
Dale and Marie hiding her face

Josh constructing his gingerbread in that accounting mind of his!

fisting.

The finished products

Marie made the front yard, skipped the house

Our munchkins and Santa

Lilly was like "uh, don't touch me, but I'll sit here because your interesting, and I know you say, HO, HO, HO" .... which she says by the way, and it is very cute!

Salt Lake City!

2009-12-07T14:33:00.001-08:00

The day after Thanksgiving we headed up to the bitterly cold temps of SLC for Josh's youngest brother Joel's wedding. We had a great time seeing the Salt Lake Temple lights and seeing lots of our close friends. But yet alas, we love living in Arizona because we came back to sunshine and 60's. I really don't know how I did it for 7 years...

Just relaxing one morning!
Cute little Tatey all bundled up!

The wee hours on the morning of the wedding.. doesn't Lilly's hair look so cute before the day got to her...

Aunt Jann and Taters

Aunt Jann, Tate, Lilly, Granny K

Granny K and Lilly

The Stunning Bride

All the brothers and their Dad

Jann and Kathi

Uncle Jar and Tate

Trying to sleep but my bright flash was disturbing him

Our cute little family

My gorgeous little girl...

* I have the cutest pic of Lilly and her Grandpa Hill, but I am saving it for Christmas, you'll get it soon!

**We just wanted to thank Sommer and Steve for letting us stay at their house.. it made it so comfortable and relaxing! You are the best!

2009-12-04T08:02:00.000-08:00

sorry for the neglected blog! the internet isn't working on my pc, therefore no pics! but i have the hubby working on it, and hopefully there will be pics come the weekend! xoxo.

Josh is the big 2-9!

2009-11-10T09:51:00.000-08:00

happy birthday babe!

you are my favorite pal, my sweets, and the best daddy and husband ever! i hope you have a wonderful day! and we can't wait to see you at lunch!