The Scoffield Family

Utah State Cheer Camp

2012-01-29T20:00:00.001-08:00

Livvy and I traveled to Utah this weekend so she could participate in the Utah State Cheer Camp that her Uncle Shane helps run with one o her food friends from Tremonton. We had such a fun little girls trip together and she loved every minute of the cheer camp. That girl loves the spotlight.

Baby Sadie blessing day

2012-01-15T17:37:00.001-08:00

Steven and Nancy blessed their sweet baby Sadie today. Isn't she so adorable?

Vampire grin

2012-01-15T17:35:00.001-08:00

Livvy has now lost both of her front teeth in the last few weeks. She is very proud of her 'vampire girl' smile.

My little Tinkerbell

2012-01-15T17:33:00.001-08:00

Livvy dressed Ike ulama decked out his makeup. We took this picture to send to his daddy but Shelby didn't think it was nearly as funny as I did.

Baby lover

2012-01-08T14:33:00.001-08:00

Last weekend was spent with the Scoffield family and everyone is a bit in love with my new niece Sadie. Ike was getting over a cold so I wouldn't let him near her, so he found his own baby to wrap up and love on. He was so cute!

Livvy and her toothless grin

2012-01-08T14:29:00.001-08:00

Livvy finally lost her first tooth and is so proud of her big kid grin!

Idols

2012-01-08T14:28:00.001-08:00

Ike idolizes his big brother. He always wants to know where Wyatt is at all times and so everything just like him. I caught them lying in the floor watching Power Rangers and eating apples the other day and thought they looked so cute. Then Wyatt convinced Ike that he was old enough to wear big boy pants and go in the potty. He even lent him some of his superman underwear. It lasted about 10 minutes but I will still impressed.

New glasses

2012-01-08T14:24:00.001-08:00

Isn't he just so handsome and grown up?

A cowboy that loves to clean?

2012-01-08T14:22:00.001-08:00

This must be a figment of my imagination. There has been a little boy in big boots that keeps cleaning my house all day. He is so fun!

Christmas 2011

2012-01-08T14:16:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas and as always feel so blessed. Santa spoiled my kiddos with their wishlists:

Wyatt- a green laptop (a toy one!)
Livvy- an Easy Bake oven

Ike- a choo-choo and a truck

First Day of School: Wyatt- 1st Grade and Livvy Kindergarten

2011-12-19T20:04:00.000-08:00

Gingerbread love

2011-12-19T19:57:00.001-08:00

We sure had a blast on our annual Gingerbread house FHE. Ike was even serious about it this year. He loved it as much as the big kids.

Ikers is 2

2011-12-08T09:47:00.001-08:00

Ike turned 2 and went overnight from being my sweet baby to a holy terror. He likes to watch Baby Einstein sprawled out on the floor and wants everyone to do what he says NOW! But we sure have so much fun with him. We took him to Hop 2 it for his birthday and then had a family party as well. This kid is so fun!

Livvy is so cool

2011-12-08T09:40:00.001-08:00

She learned how to tie her shoes today and is so excited that she can't stand it. AND she has her first loose tooth. She is growing up so fast.

Halloween

2011-12-08T09:39:00.001-08:00

We had a super fun Halloween this year with a black Spiderman, a witch, and a giraffe ( but don't tell Ike that he was a giraffe. I only got him in the costume by telling him that he was a horse. What a stubborn stinker!)

First sentence

2011-09-04T20:01:00.000-07:00

It was opening weekend of Bow Hunting here so I was a hunting widow this weekend. I bought some Shasta on sale for the kids while Shelby was gone. Friday night- Ike said his first complete sentence:

'More Pop Please'

yep- You can award me the 'Mom of the Year' Award at any time.

Note: His second sentence was 'Love U Mommy'

Livvy Hearts Donuts

2011-08-29T21:00:00.000-07:00

Livvy loves to make cards. She made a beautiful one the other day with a large chocolate donut colored on the front. She asked me how to spell donut and then kept working on her card for several minutes. Finally she brought it to show to me and said 'Mom! Look what I wrote! I sounded it out all by myself!'

It read:

DONUTS R DELSHUS

OR:

Donuts are delicious

Love it.

Wyatt's Fashion Sense

2011-08-29T20:59:00.001-07:00

I came home from Afton's Bachelorette Party tonight (total blast!) to tuck my kiddos into bed. I was wearing a thick 'fashion' belt. Wyatt gave me a hug and said 'Night Mom' and started to walk away- then turned and said 'Wow Mom- nice Power Morpher you have on!' Apparently, my belt is all the rage amongst the Power Rangers. Who knew I was so cool?

My own personal anthem-

2011-08-29T13:55:00.000-07:00

The girl I'm going to marry

2011-07-03T10:11:00.000-07:00

I swear the best conversations in this house all happen while I'm flipping pancakes :). Shelby's little brother Shane is getting married this August- so there has been lots of wedding talk going on around here lately. Wyatt was telling me all about the girl that he is going to marry someday- She is going to be oh so nice. She is going to have blonde hair and blue eyes.....and I will really like her because she is going to be fun and beautiful.

Out of living room---Shelby says-'Wyatt! You don't want to marry those blonde girls with blue eyes.....they're crazy!'

Thanks a lot honey. :0)

Oh! That's what the monster wants....

2011-06-23T07:09:00.000-07:00

Ikers is learning to communicate- and it is GLORIOUS! It's so nice to start hearing bits and pieces of what he wants instead of screams.

He can sign:

Milk

Please

Full

Hungry

He can say:

Sissy (this is my favorite- He loves his sissy something fierce. And really she is responsible for all the words he can say because she is constantly 'teaching' him new words.)

Mommy

Daddy

Juice

Puppy

Shoes

Hat

RanMa (Grandma)

He is a master of sounds- he makes some realistic animal sounds- and is obsessed with motorcycles, 4-wheelers, and cars. We hear 'vrrrrroooom, vrooooom' around the house all day.

Sometimes I get busy with my 3 munchkins and forget to write down the little details. These are the things I will regret. So here is a snapshot of my little Ikers at 19 months.

What I hear from the kitchen

2011-06-12T07:21:00.000-07:00

While flipping pancakes this morning, I heard this from the living room:

Wyatt: Good morning Dad. What are you doing?

Shelby: Ssshhh...come here Wyatt. Livvy and I are watching My Little Ponies.

Love.

Livvy- Ballerina is her name

2011-05-28T14:44:00.000-07:00

Livvy had her very first dance recital last Saturday. She has been working so hard to learn her dances and is so proud of all of the dance steps she learns. I had so much fun curling her hair, glittering her up, makeup- you name it. Girls are fun. They had roses for sale at the recital and both Grandma's spoiled her to pieces. Here's a peak of our sweet ballerina:

Wicked

2011-05-28T14:15:00.000-07:00

I got to travel to Boise and see Wicked with Bridget, Ashlee and JayCee. We had such a fun girls' night- and I LOVED the show. I was glued to my binoculars the entire time. I highly recommend it if you get the chance to see it. The music was amazing, costume were so intricate and don't get me started on the scene changes......the thespian in me loved it.

Playin in the mud

2011-05-28T14:00:00.001-07:00

Grandma Turner gave Ikers his first pair of mud boots. He LOVES them. He especially loves being able to go outside with his Dad. Notice Wyatt's Power Ranger suit. He wears them constantly. And they are pretty good for the rainy weather- they are waterproof after all.

Rockets of Fun

2011-05-28T13:50:00.000-07:00

Remember the rocket Wyatt got for his birthday? We had a few more rocket motors (is that the right term?) to use up. Livvy was dying for her turn to blast it off. So one Sunday afternoon- we headed to the backyard for some 'blast-offs'. Please notice Livvy and Shelby's attire in the picture below. Now I know where she gets her fashion sense :) Don't you love the black socks with shorts and the mis-matched pink tights?

Easter

2011-05-28T13:35:00.001-07:00

Easter......yeah it was a while ago. Give me a break. I have no excuses. Just life!

We had the traditional Turner grandkid Easter Egg hunt- with enough eggs and candy for an army :). The weather wasn't really cooperating, so we hid all the eggs and candy under the big shed. Aren't all of these grandkids so dang cute?

They had so much fun- I'm pretty sure Livvy won. She is sooo darn competitive!

Ike found a sucker first- and that's all he wanted to do. Mama had to coax him to pick up some more eggs before I finally let him just eat it.

We also took the kids to the annual town Easter egg hunt. Ike couldn't get the eggs open fast enough.

We made cute rice krispie treat nests with Peeps in them with Grandma Wendy- the kiddos loved them.

Happy Easter 2011!

Scoffield Mini-Reunion

2011-05-28T13:30:00.001-07:00

The Scoffield family decided to have a little mini-reunion at our house this spring. Shelby's parents, brothers, and their spouses (fiance) came for the weekend. The boys had a blast going on 4-wheeler rides, shooting all the rock chucks they wanted, and eating lots of good food. We had a hot dog roast and explored some caves, went bowling, and played the Wii. The men in Shelby's family are not ones who normally get up and boogie- so I snuck a few pictures of them doing the Just Dance on the Wii. It was great laughs. Livvy loved to dance too- they all convinced her that she was winning every time. To this day- she thinks she slaughtered them all at dancing :). She was a dang good bowler though- as you can see from the video below. She is a competitive little turkey.

Thanks guys for coming to visit! We loved having you come--hopefully we can do it again soon.

Wy-guy

2011-04-21T14:34:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted a real update on Wyatt for quite a while and I keep having so many of you ask me how he is doing- thanks for the concern- I seriously have the best friends and family! So I decided that I'd let you all know the changes that we have been doing in the last 6-8 months or so.

This year Wyatt started kindergarten. I was a wreck all summer and the first month or so as I was so worried about how he would cope, how the other kids would accept him, if he would be able to keep up, on and on...... Just thinking about it very nearly gave me an anxiety attack. '''Deeep Breaths''' :) Right around that time we started taking Wyatt to have an extra hour of Occupational Therapy once a week in Twin- on Fridays when he is out of school. He LOVES it. He loves the swings, the therapists, the fun activities, the zip line- yeah- this place rocks. They recommended all types of therapy activities that I could do at home with Wyatt to help with homework, settling him down when needed- so helpful! They recommended that we start- The Listening Program with Wyatt to help not only with his auditory sensitivities, but also many of his other sensory issues. He listens to this special classical music for 15 minutes every weekday on a strict schedule. It has helped his auditory sensitivities a ton and I've seen a big difference in his ability to calm himself as well.

In January we also started seeing a Chiropractic Neurologist in Burley that is doing 'Brain Balance Therapy' on Wyatt. He does various muscle and coordination tests to see which side of Wyatt's brain needs to be stimulated and then each time we go- weekly or bi-weekly- he gives us a new activity to do. A few of these are- we vibrate the left side of his body morning and night, put peppermint smells on the right side of his face morning and night, re-taught him how to cross crawl correctly and then do it backwards and around obstacles, put together 3-D puzzles, pick items out of a bag without looking- lots of fun things that add up to hours and hours. But Wyatt never complains (or I should say-rarely complains :) and works so hard. He also is taking a Krill oil supplement (thanks all those that emailed me the info on this supplement)

He also recently started doing Developmental Therapy to help him with his social skills and some more self-help skills. It's a big time requirement, but luckily his Aunt Afton helps his mommy stay home with the other kiddos while she takes him to Twin two days a week while she goes to college. Thanks sis!

The reason for the update- I just had Wyatt's final Parent/Teacher Conference for the year. As always, I was worried and my stomach was in knots. Honestly- you just never know! Now I do homework with Wyatt every night (well Daddy helps out a few nights a week) so I know what he can do, but sometimes that does not always display so well at school. My jaw dropped at his report card- he was 'above grade level' in almost every aspect! He was still struggling a bit with fine motor skills and managing himself in class participation- but I was thrilled. At the beginning of the year, I remember thinking that if he could just write his name, I would be ecstatic. Guess what? He can write both his first and last name and just about any other word you help him sound out. He is much better about coloring in the lines- and you should hear this kid read!!!

I am also sooo incredibly blessed to have many good friends in Gooding with kids Wyatt's age. They are so great with Wyatt- they are truly his friends and love him exactly how he is. Children are amazing and are truly more Christ-like than the rest of us. They see past flaws and imperfections and accept those around them for who they are.

My Wyatt is a miracle to me. I am always proud of him- even when he struggles- because I know how hard he tries, how hard he works, how much he wants to be a good boy and please those around him. I know that his was a long post- but now hopefully all the fam and friends that want the details- have them. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers about my Wy-guy- I know that he worms his way into people's hearts- and for that I am truly grateful.

The Menace

2011-04-03T20:52:00.000-07:00

Ike is lovingly nicknamed 'the Menace' at our home. He is a busy little stinker who is constantly into everything. Just an example- at this moment in time we are missing two remotes and the receiving end of the baby monitor. We have absolutely no idea where he could have hid them. And yesterday we finally found a Redbox movie that had been missing for 13 days- the little monster is a good hider! But he is so darn sweet and fun and has such a funny little personality, that you have to just laugh at him. I was making the rounds cleaning the other morning and found Ike sprawled out on his stomach on Wyatt's play computer. Serious business.

This boy LOVES his food. Every meal ends up with syrup in his hair, green beans in his ear- he is the messiest eater I have ever seen.....but when you hear that giggle and see that grin- it makes it all worth it :)

Adventuredome

2011-04-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

Wyatt's actual birthday also fell while we were in Las Vegas, so for Wyatt's birthday- we decided to take him the Adventuredome indoor theme park in the Circus Circus casino. He went on every roller-coast, every ride. He would 'fake scream' because that is what everyone else was doing, but he was never once scared- he smiled the entire time! Livvy and Weston had fun on all the kid rides- Ike loved exploring the arcade- even the aunts and mom had fun on all the rides. It was a 'screamin' good time :)

Livvy's Birthday Adventure- Real Mermaids!

2011-04-02T20:45:00.001-07:00

Livvy actual birthday landed while we were in Las Vegas. She chose to go see the 'real, live mermaids' at the Silverton Casino! Wyatt loved the scuba diver that cleaned the tank too.Aunt Hailey was a genius and wrote a note to the mermaid telling her that it was Livvy's birthday. The mermaid spent several minutes signing 'Happy Birthday' to Livvy, blowing her kisses, and making hearts. Livvy soaked it up- she loved every minute of it.

The Strip

2011-04-02T20:37:00.000-07:00

One morning the wind was blowing, so we decided to take the kiddos to explore part of the strip. We went the M&M World and they loved all the fun stuff to look at and the 3D movie.Ike could be the Yellow guy's twin- no?

Viva Las Vegas- chillin at the beach!

2011-04-02T10:56:00.001-07:00

Just some fun pictures of our favorite part of our Vegas trip- soaking up some sunshine, swimming in the warm water, and playing in the sand. We made mermaids out of nearly everyone (Aunt Hailey is pictured), built tons of sand castles, Wyatt snorkeled, Livvy water-danced, and Ike loved just throwing all the sand toys into the water :0)

Blast Off!

2011-04-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

Shelby's parents gave Wyatt a rocket for his birthday. I think maybe Grandpa Jon and Daddy were just a little bit more excited than Wyatt- and that's hard to beat! Even though it was a windy day, they set out to set it off. We did lose one rocket-and even after much searching- we finally just bought another for a second 'blast-off'. Wyatt loved it- and so did the other kiddos.Waiting for Daddy to get the 'lauch' ready:

Happy Birthday Wy-guy!

2011-04-02T10:24:00.000-07:00

Wyatt turned 7 last week. 7!!! He can't wait to be 8- the next year might just torture him to pieces! I am just glad he is only 7! We made him a Swimmer Cake- since swimming is Wyatt's favorite thing to do. It's a bit lop-sided. Don't judge me- we had made a last minute trip to Utah for a family funeral, and I was E-x-h-a-u-s-t-e-d when I was making these cakes. So I was just thrilled that they didn't fall apart :)

Wyatt was thrilled to receive a new bike helmet, a baseball mitt, his own snorkel, a new life-jacket from Mom and Dad and Grandma and Grandpa Turner and cool new summer shoes and a ROCKET from Grandma and Grandpa Scoffield. That deserves it's own post!

Happy Birthday my wonderful Wyatt! Wyatt has grown, learned, and accomplished so much this year. This also deserves it's own post! My goal for this Conference weekend is to get caught up on all of my much needed blog posts while I listen. Happy Birthday to my first-born, much-loved crazy fun Wyatt!

Happy Birthday Livvy Louise!

2011-04-02T10:06:00.001-07:00

Livvy turned 5 this month. I can hardly believe it! I will have two kids in school this year! Where has the time gone? Livvy is such a wonderfully fun addition to our family. She is a wonderful big sister to Ikers and love to help her mom. She loves to color, draw, paint, decorate, dance, and sing. I often find her making up plays in her room, making up a special dance, or singing to herself. She loves to make up Primary songs on the piano about how much Jesus loves her.

Livvy wanted a Princess cake this year...I was wanting to tackle the castle cake again this year, so we googled and found the below cake instead. She loved it.

Poor Barbie had a slight accident with burning candles- her poor hair will never be the same :)
Livvy was spoiled as always by all of her family. She loves the new swimming suit and huge box of art supplies that Grandma and Grandpa Turner gave her, the fun clothes and Rapunzel doll her Grandma Wendy and Grandpa Jon gave her, and more art supplies from mom and dad. I tell you- that girl loves to do 'projects'. We have cards and signs all over our house.

Livvy loves her room. It is her special place and while Mom makes her keep it picked up, I've learned that she needs to have a place to 'decorate' and make her own- even though it may drive me crazy! Here are her two most recent ideas for her room. She lined up all of her pink stuffed animals in the window to welcome all of our guests. She also took her ballet bar and hung all of her favorite outfits on it and made it her 'wardrobe'. It sits in the middle of her room. Don't ask me why a girl with a closet and a dresser needs a 'wardrobe.' She's too fun and I am so grateful to be blessed with such a strong-willed and loveable little angel.

Oh that girl!

2011-02-26T15:09:00.000-08:00

To say that Livvy is amazing- an understatement. She is stubborn, unique, self-confident, and self- assured, and so talented. But then, I may be biased :) We have had to create a rule- she can wear whatever she would like to in our home, but when we leave, Mom gets to pick her clothes. That is why when you see here in pictures she has mis-matched and always summer clothes on. It's always Summer in Livvy's world :). But she is so happy and outgoing that she constantly makes me smile. Here's a clip of her singing at the tops of her lungs to a Taylor Swift song while she bugs her little brother- just another day in paradise :)

Iker's Giggles

2011-02-26T15:01:00.002-08:00

Shane and his girlfriend Aspen came to visit us last Friday for the day. The kids absolutely loved hanging out with them and playing all afternoon. I loved the below video of Ike laughing his head off while they chased Wyatt around the room:

Ike likes Mom's cooking-

2011-02-26T15:01:00.001-08:00

Organization Baby!

2011-02-26T14:24:00.000-08:00

I have been motivated. I recently discovered the following blogs:

www.orgjunkie.com and abowlfulloflemons.blogspot.com

To say that they have inspired me- an understatement. They really have lit a fire under me. Last year- I had my sweet baby #3. And I was ALWAYS overwhelmed. I never really felt like I had enough time for my home, my calling, my children, my work.....yup- overwhelmed. And it showed. But not this year baby! I'm kicking 2011's trash so far this year- and you know what? It feels amazing. I have vowed that I am taking back my home, taking back my routines...and it is such an invigorating feeling! So here are a few projects that I have tackled- maybe they will motivate you as well!

Most recently- the freezers. We are expecting a half of a pig from the butcher soon and I was not just going to shove it in and make it fit. No sir. No more throwing away freezer burnt food- we are using it all from now on. But man- defrosting and organizing two freezers is a ton of work!

All the food out:

After: I decided to put all of the meat and produce into my stand-up freezer along with my extra loaves of bread and homemade jam. Then I put everything else into my freezer in the kitchen. This way when I am making my menu- I can pull it out and see what needs used without having to consult both freezers.

I also tackled my back pantry (or should-be linen closet) and my kitchen pantry. I'm a little into couponing (you may have heard :)- and my stockpile is way too big for one pantry. But after I organized this back pantry- I started on my main one and found that alot needed to be changed. So this back pantry has since changed. It mostly only holds non-food items like diapers, toilet paper, cleaning supplies, etc. but still has my home canned goods as well.
This is my project cupboard for the kids (this is the after in case you could not tell!) I have so many craft supplies for the kids and therapy tools for Wyatt that I moved them into my office and organized a 3 drawer container to keep them in. This is just those that we use on a daily basis.
My new idea- a snack cupboard. Now when the kids whine that they are hungry, they just grab a stool and pick something out of the snack basket. One less job for Mom! however, they do have to ask before they swipe something out of here :)
The before kitchen pantry- look at how all over the place everything is. There are cleaning supplies, bags of flour on the floor- it did not flow well. But I was delusional thinking that it was actually organized pretty well considering how much stuff was in there. But Ike made a mess of it all one too many times- so a makeover was in order:

After: I organized all canned goods together and by type. Containerized and labeled everything, put all those packets together in a box, and stacked my surplus food on the top shelf so I can easily rotate it. It's really bothering me that all the boxes I used to organize don't match, so when I get a second I'm going to cover them with something.

I also decided to get my lists and calendar in order. I have a master calendar that I use in my office for work and home stuff, but it was soo full and since it was all the way in my office I often didn't take the time to consult it when making an appt on the phone- oops! Now this is hanging on my pantry door and it makes my life so much easier! I have an ongoing grocery list that I can't lose and my favorite part is the to-do list at the bottom for Shelby :).

I've now tackled nearly every cupboard and closet in the house. I only have my closet, my bathroom, and a few cupboards left that house Shelby's stuff in the kitchen! I see such a difference in how I feel as I work about my house. It's much more enjoyable to clean and do projects in an organized home. Plus I feel much less stressed. Below is a picture of my happy little helper: I love this girl!

The little menace

2011-02-21T15:45:00.000-08:00

Ike is no longer a baby. He wants everyone to know- he is now a big kid. He is constantly into everything. He knows how to open up the toilet lid- NASTY! He loves to play in the bag of flour that I used to have on the floor of my pantry. He would hide things in there all the time- I would scoop out a cup of flour to use in a recipe and would pull out his magnets, Ritz crackers- you name it. He made a royal mess out of the flour the other night and thus I decided to redo my pantry (post coming soon). So here's some cute pictures of my little menace:

And then every once in a while I will catch my little angel like above. Awww!

Big Red Ball

2011-02-21T15:41:00.000-08:00

Mom bought Wyatt this giant red ball that you can climb into and roll around in for Christmas. It is a wonderful tool to help him blow off some energy when it is too cold to go outside. They have loved it literally to pieces. Ike was scared to climb in it....so after a week or so when he finally did, I was able to take the cutest pictures of him.

Fun with Ikers

2011-02-21T15:39:00.001-08:00

Love at first Sight

2011-01-25T12:01:00.000-08:00

When Wyatt got home from school today we had the usual conversation about what he had learned, if he had been a good listener, who he had played with at recess...

Wyatt: "I played with my friends until I met a girl."
Dallas: "Who is she? Is she nice? What's her name?"
Wyatt: "I don't know her name- but she was so nice and very beautiful. Mom- you've just got to meet her. I can't wait to see her again tomorrow."

Ummmm.... yeah. So Wyatt is in love with a mystery girl- I am so not ready for this.

My Daddy is a Trapper!

2011-01-17T06:47:00.000-08:00

Shelby has been trapping for a few years now and really enjoys it. Sometimes if it is not too cold then Shelby will take Wyatt with him. Last Saturday they had an eventful trip out to check traps. They had a mountain lion in one of his traps. This is a big dea- not only because it's a MOUNTAIN LION, but also because it is illegal to kill a mountian lion in a trap- so you have to let it go.....Yeah- how do you do that? So when Shelby called me to tell me about the mountain lion- I was panicky for my little guy in the mountains with him. They checked the rest of their traps before freeing the mountain lion and found this huge bobcat. This is Shelby's largest bobcat to date and as you can tell from the pictures- the boys were excited. Luckily when they came back around to the mountain lion, he had jumped over that large branch and was kinda stuck by his foot so Shelby was able to free him relatively safely and easily- Whew! Never a dull moment around here!

I blew these pictures up to 8x10s so that Wyatt could take them to Show and Tell last week. His teacher was asking him all the details- So your dad let the mountain lion go, but shot the bobcat? No- Wyatt said- he didn't shoot him. He choked him down!! That's a lovely image for a class of kindergarteners- don't you think?

Enjoying the spoils from Christmas

2011-01-04T20:32:00.001-08:00

Just a couple of fun pictures of Ike and Livvy enjoying some of their presents from Christmas. Ike loves his car that Grandma and Grandpa Turner gave him. Livvy loves her real Barbie makeup and her Ixl that Grandma Wendy and Grandpa Jon gave her. I downloaded some Taylor Swift on it and she rocks out all day long :)

Christmas Morning

2011-01-04T20:23:00.001-08:00

Ever notice how all of the Christmas morning pictures are not so great looking? I don't know whether to blame the picturees or the picture-taker :) Plus our poor Ikers had double ear-aches on Christmas morning- so he didn't really enjoy it that much.

Sittin with Santa

2011-01-04T20:19:00.000-08:00

We had several chances to visit with Santa this December- I even got to sit on Santa's lap- and he didn't believe that I had been good- What's up with that? You'll notice that there is no Livvy pictured with Santa- she will not get near enough for me to get any type of shot. Two years running now- no pics of Livvy. Oh well- pick your battles- and I prefer to pick mine when they do not occur in public :)

Livvy's Christmas Dance Recital

2011-01-04T18:03:00.000-08:00

Livvy's been taking dance classes this year and has sure enjoyed them. Their dance company performed at the Festival of Trees. They were pretty scrunched and was their first time performing in front of people. They were a little nervous...but I love watching little kids dance.

Livvy- Aggie Cheerleader

2011-01-04T15:47:00.000-08:00

Shelby's brother Shane is a cheerleader at Utah State University and he let us know about the cheer camp that they were holding in December. It worked out that we were going to be in Utah that weekend anyway- and Livvy was totally excited to go learn how to cheer. She went with two of her best friends from Tremonton and had such a blast- plus her Uncle Shane took really good care of her. She learned a dance and several cheers. Then that evening they performed at half time at the basketball game. Livvy was never once nervous- never once shy. She loved every single minute of it. Every few days I'll still hear her in her room practicing her cheers. She's also taught them to Wyatt and her cousin Weston. (Ignore the running commentary from me in the background-k?) She's the one with the white flower.

Thanksgiving Turkey Hunt

2010-11-30T10:03:00.001-08:00

Aunt Hailey planned the grandkids' annual turkey hunt- complete with hats and binoculars- and of course treats! It's a favorite tradition. The kids have so much fun- Thanks Aunt Hailey- and thanks Laramie for your wonderful 'gobble' sounds :)

Being a Toddler is the Best!

2010-11-30T09:55:00.000-08:00

Ike turned 1- became a toddler- and hasn't looked back. He's a full fledged menace around our house now. He learned how to climb up on his brother's tractor bed- a full 3 feet off the ground- so he can drive it and jump on the bed. I'm constantly rescuing him so he doesn't break his neck and then re-shutting the door. He climb into his own jumper- onto the couches- you name it- he's a climber.
He now also works his way in as much as possible to play with the big kids- no more exploring on his own. No sir!

This is what Livvy does to keep him away from her projects- locks him in the hamper- he thinks it is a hilarious game. What he doesn't know- I guess it doesn't hurt him :)

Ike is 1

2010-11-30T09:34:00.000-08:00

My sweet baby turned one the week before Thanksgiving. I really don't know how it happened. I swear we just barely brought him home from the hospital a week ago! I was in full-blown denial until the day of his birthday when I finally had to realize- heartbroken or not- that my sweet baby is really, truly 1 year old. Isn't his cute on his John Deere tractor that his Grandma Wendy bought him?

He had a spaceship cake- mostly because I was in such denial that I didn't really plan ahead- and maybe kinda threw it together that morning. But that boy loves cake- actually all food in general- he eats it just as fast as he can shovel it in.

All of his cousins and siblings helped him open his presents- aren't they just so helpful? Ike and Charly are just about 2 months apart. I love this picture of both of their big eyes.
I love this grin while we sang 'Happy Birthday' to him. He likes to be the center of attention. Sorry it's sidewise- Blogger has it's annoying days. Ike had a wonderful birthday surrounded by lots of family. What a lucky guy.

Ikers

2010-11-10T08:37:00.001-08:00

My sweet baby is growing up so fast...soon we will be celebrating his first birthday. I can hardly believe it. It just seems like last week we brought him home. He is such a total joy in our home- so mild mannered and smiley. But he does have a mischievous streak to him. He like to pull things out of drawers, the dishwasher, toy boxes, you name it---and throw it. You should see our bench after sacrament meeting- we have to gather toys from everywhere. He's got quite the arm! Notice all of his teeth in his picture above- he now has 10 teeth....going on 11. His baby blues are to die for--and so are his chubby cheeks to kiss.

Here are his first independent steps- captured two nights ago:

He belongs to me!

2010-11-10T08:24:00.000-08:00

Saying that Livvy loves her little brother is really an understatement. She watches over him constantly- giving him toys, picking him up, finding his pacifier- and telling me what she thinks he needs :). She is a wonderful sister. Most of the time- he enjoys her attention...but every once in a while he lets her know he's had enough. The other night I was getting him in the bathtub- and found something odd on his neck...

Livvy's name!!! Apparently- Ike belongs to her. Don't you write your name on all of your belongings???

What you can do with the power of God-

2010-11-10T08:22:00.000-08:00

Shelby gave Wyatt a blessing before the first day of school---like many fathers do. Wyatt now knows that he was blessed with the 'power of God'. This makes him so much smarter in school, so strong, and lets him do cool tricks like this--

Livvy

2010-11-10T08:17:00.000-08:00

Livvy did something wonderfully special on Halloween weekend. She sang a solo in our Primary Program. She sang 'I know that my Savior loves me'. ALL ALONE! She did perfect! We had been practicing constantly for weeks. Livvy is quite temperamental- she's hot and cold. So I was really afraid that after all of our practicing she would see all of the people in the chapel and freak out. Not so- this brave girl walked right to the microphone and looked at me mouthing the words with her- she sang loud, clear, and beautiful. Mommy was sooooo proud!

Here she is practicing some of her dance moves in lovely dress-up clothes.
Livvy LOVES to color and is so smart with knowing her letters and writing words. She can write every member in our family's name- that includes most of her cousins and grandparents. She is so eager to learn and loves to do 'projects'. Here is a bear headband we made this week- she is giving you her best 'bear growl'.

Halloween

2010-11-10T08:08:00.001-08:00

I know there are a million pictures...just bypass this post if you want. I LOVE fun times and holidays with my kids. This Halloween was so fun because my kids were so into it, we had family in town, and Ike was just so dang cute :). Thus the millions of pictures- and I cut it down alot..

Shelby's mom and dad were here- it was so fun for my little dragon and my two PowerRangers to get to spend Halloween with both sets of grandparents.
The kids loved the Halloween Carnival that the youth from all three wards put on. They enjoyed the face painting, pony rides, games, and cupcake walk.

All the Turner grandkids- aren't they all so cute?

Jack o lanterns

2010-11-10T08:05:00.000-08:00

This was my kids' first year carving a jack o lantern. In years past, we've painted them, made crafts with them, etc. but this year I decided they were old enough to really like it. Well- Wyatt did.....Livvy thought they stunk :)

Cheering on Uncle Shane

2010-11-10T07:59:00.000-08:00

Shelby's brother Shane was given a scholarship to participate on the Utah State Cheer Squad- he'd never been a cheerleader before...but (and I may be biased) - He's awesome. He's so strong! One weekend we were in Tremonton, we decided to take the opportunity and go watch Shane. Even his bigger bad older brothers were impressed :)

It had been a long day for the kids- they crashed just as we were pulling into the game, but we woke them up with snowcones.

Livvy is a Dancer

2010-11-10T07:43:00.000-08:00

Livvy has been waiting FOREVER (she thinks) to start dance. So we enrolled her in a ballet/tap class this fall and she is loving it. Isn't she so adorable in her little dance outfit? I love having a girl and watching her practice her leaps and plies.

How did they pick that up?

2010-10-12T06:58:00.000-07:00

My kids have said some of the funniest things lately- I want to be sure to remember them. Isn't that what a blog is for?

We've been trying to be more dedicated about family scripture study and the kids were begging for their own scriptures. So Wyatt and I went to the LDS bookstore to pick some up. As we were checking out, the manager asked him- "Wow- I bet you're excited to get your own scriptures." Wyatt replied -" Yep. Now I can teach my brother Ike how to keep the commandments because I have the word of the Lord." You should have seen the poor guys face- he was in shock :)

I took Livvy and Ikers with me to Park City last weekend to spend some time with Shelby's family on a girls trip shopping at the outlets. It was a blast- period. It made me miss them and a little homesick.....but I digress. Anyway- Livvy loved shopping the outlets- she found something at nearly every store that she HAD to have. Later she was showing her daddy all of the spoils that we had found- she could remember every single store and what we had purchased there. She even told her dad about the stores that we had gone into but hadn't purchased things- "We went into the Skechers store- and they had these really cute shoes with lights and sparkles- but there was too many crazy ladies in that store- so we left :)"

Ike can't speak yet- duh. But he is growing so much. He explores the entire house- dances to music- eats EVERYTHING in sight- and is just like his Daddy. Their favorite game is to sit and growl at each other. It sounds like a couple of puppies ready to fight-

This momma is blessed :)

No Dumbos around here!

2010-10-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

While shopping today- I found the cutest little Dumbo costume for Ike- it had big ears and was so soft. I fell in love with it. I turned to Wyatt and showed it to him- "Wyatt- look at this cute Dumbo costume for Ike for Halloween!". This was his reply-- "NO MOM!! Ike can't be Dumbo- everyone will laugh at him- and that's not nice." He was very serious about this. His little brother was not to be laughed at. So my hilarious costume went back on the rack.

First Day of Kindergarten

2010-09-07T14:53:00.000-07:00

Wyatt was so totally excited to start kindergarten this year. I was a wreck. I couldn't sleep for days before and was so nervous how he would handle all the situations he was put in. Of course- he rocked it. So far- so good. And he LOVES doing homework- how weird is that? I think it's just because I make the other two stay busy elsewhere in the house and it's Mom and Wyatt time.

Island Park Family Vacation

2010-09-07T14:19:00.000-07:00

Every year we head to Island Park for a long weekend with Shelby's extended family. It is one of my favorite traditions of our summer. For one thing- I love Shelby's family and my best friend is actually his cousin- the kids have a blast and there is so much to do. We always head into West Yellowstone- some years we take old fashioned family pictures (coming soon) and sometimes we just shop and see all the animals. This year Wyatt talked me into a slingshot in West Yellowstone- then he spent the rest of our camping trip shooting small pinecones at the trees. They love riding their bikes, canoeing as a family, floating the little river, spending time on the beach at the reservoir, and of course we EAT.

We always go on a fun nature hike to Big Springs to feed the large fish there, and usually see some wildlife- this time there were a male and female moose about 10 yards off of our trail! I was a little worried what would happen with us so close- but we just backed up a bit and they crossed the trail and run up into the trees.

Fun times at the pool

2010-09-07T14:11:00.000-07:00

We spent lots of our summer at the Wendell pool. We love hanging out there in the afternoon- we also head there every evening that Shelby is not going to be home. They are all crazy fish. Livvy and Weston having a blast in their tubes.

Wyatt loved showing off his moves for Fallon.

Wyatt NEVER brings his head above water- he should have gills.

Gooding County Fair and Rodeo

2010-09-07T14:01:00.000-07:00

Every year we have so fun at the Gooding County Fair- we always take the family to the rodeo and then enjoy the few rides that are there. The kids love it. Grandma Wendy spoiled the kids rotten and bought them new rodeo clothes for the occasion. Thanks Grandma!

Livvy and Wyatt were so excited to go on the major swings with Hailey and Fallon. They had so much dang fun with their great aunts.

Ike spent most of the time on Daddy's shoulders clapping for his brother and sis. What a dang sweet boy!

Malad Gorge State Park

2010-09-07T13:55:00.000-07:00

Every couple of weeks, Malad Gorge State Park floods their grassy area with water. There was a RS activity with a picnic and fun to enjoy the water. Mom took my kids for me as I was busy at a funeral, but they had a blast playing in the puddles with their cousins and friends- but they were sure filthy when they were done!

Wyatt the Waterskier

2010-09-07T13:42:00.000-07:00

Wyatt has been begging to water-ski for the entire summer. Frankly, we all thought that he was too young. My sisters both started young- but around 8- not 6! He kept pushing and we finally decided that he could try. Grandpa, Uncle Cody, and Daddy were patient in working with him and teaching him the tricks, but it only took about 30 minutes and Wyatt was up and going all on his own! He was so proud of himself- when he got back in the boat he said- "Mom- did you see me waterski? I'm such a rockstar!!!" :)

Beck/Turner Reunion at Downata Hot Springs

2010-09-07T13:10:00.000-07:00

In July we camped at Downata Hot Springs near Preston, ID with my mom's side of the family the Becks AND a few of my Dad's side of the family- the Turners. We had so much fun spending time with everyone that I hardly had time to use my camera. We spent every minute we could going down the waterslides, hanging out at the beach, or just visiting. Wyatt was the social bug of the family- he would go from trailer to trailer visiting all of the family- he'd ask them all how they slept, if they had fun swimming, etc. I'm so grateful that my family all loves him so much. He also spent most of the trip in the trees in his Power Ranger costume. Livvy LOVED playing with all the girl cousins there- she doesn't have any girl cousins around here to play with very often, so she ate up every opportunity. I didn't see much of her as they made up dances under the trees, played tag, and rode around in the jeep.

We did also spend a day at Twin Lakes. The kids loved the blow-up jetski that we finally got working (we bought it when Wyatt was 2)

They had such fun activities- the kids made these cute hats out of paper sacks and got to decorate them all up- I know I took pictures of this, but I must have accidentally deleted them, but we kept the hats- so I'll have to do it soon.

4th of July and Forts of Fun

2010-09-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

When Aunt Hailey comes to visit- you know that fun comes too :) One weekend that she came to visit this summer, she planned a sleepover for the kids. I helped her build this fun fort in the basement of Mom's house and the kids watched movies and ate snacks. They loved it.

Nephi Addiction

2010-08-25T09:43:00.000-07:00

Wyatt and Livvy love to watch the Living Scripture videos. Their recent favorite is 'Journey to the Promised Land'. When Wyatt falls in love with something- it consumes his every thought and all playtime activities. A few examples:

I stuck my head out the back door to check on the kids playing. I said 'Hi guys. Whatcha playing?' Wyatt said 'Hi Mom! We're playing Nephi and I'm leading Livvy to the promised land!"

Later that same day.....they had found one of Livvy's jewelry boxes- a silver one with a hinged lid. They were carrying it around the yard. Wyatt informed me that it was the liahona. When Livvy wanted her turn to play with it, he informed her that unfortunately she was not righteous enough to play with the liahona. Maybe when she was 5, she would be more righteous :)

They fought so much over the stupid liahona (ironic, I know) AND it was really Livvy's afterall, so Shelby promised to make Wyatt his own liahona at work. What a great dad. Wyatt gave him very specific instructions. It had to be green. It had to have a lid. It had to have a pointer that spun around and would point the way. So Shelby built it. Thinking Wyatt would be thrilled, we went to pick it up. His reaction: Nice try Dad. Do it again and this time it needs to have glass for a lid and letters written on it. To which his loving dad told him- TOO BAD- this is the liahona that you get. So he now loves it.

At the parade the other day, he took two stones to Grandpa Beck and asked him if he knew how to scrape two stones together to make fire like Nephi does. :)

Yesterday, Livvy was having a moment :). Wyatt told me- Why does she always have to murmur?? I said - what? He said- she always is murmuring just like Laman and Lemuel :).

I love this crazy kid.

Motherhood: An Eternal Partnership with God

2010-07-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

I know that all of you mothers have days when you need reassurance and a confirmation that what you do is really important. That all of your hard work means more than just laundry, dishes, and the never-ending cleaning cycle. It means more than breaking up fights, repeating directions over and over, and disciplining your babies. Especially those of you I know that have sweet ones with special needs- I know that you understand how trying the day to day struggles can be and how easily it wears you down. I hope that this will inspire all of you as much as it did me and help you be re-invigorated in our sacred calls as mothers.

Livvy-ism's

2010-07-22T08:16:00.000-07:00

We went to town last Saturday with Shelby to pick up some stuff at the hardware store. Shelby had been working out in the garden in his shorts and lace-up boots and didn't change. He got out at a friend's house to drop some stuff off, and Livvy whispered to me "Mom- Dad looks SO DORKY!" When he got back in the car she told him how dorky he looked and he laughed. Then Wyatt said "Yeah- that's not fair. My mom won't let ME wear shorts and boots" :)

Livvy was outside playing with her brother and she came in the house and changed into yet ANOTHER outfit. I told her no and that she didn't need to get a million outfits dirty everyday. She told me- "But Mom- we're playing kitties and this is my going-to-the-kitty-hospital-to-have-the-doctor-take-the-kitties-out-of-my-tummy shirt. I HAVE to wear it." How can you argue with logic like that?

Wyatt- ism's

2010-07-22T08:13:00.000-07:00

Lately my kids have said such funny things that I wanted to be sure to record them somewhere so I could remember them.

Wyatt and Livvy were playing outside and I opened the door to check on them. Wyatt told me- "Hi Mom-I'm Nephi and we're going to the promised land. The Lord is leading us." :)

We were chopping wood in the mountains and I was carrying large logs to the truck. Wyatt told me "Don't worry Mom- when you grow up, you'll be as strong as me". So glad I have that to look forward to.

Ikers- 7 months

2010-06-29T16:07:00.000-07:00

My sweet baby boy is 7 months old. By the end of this week- he'll have 10 teeth. That's right- and 6 of them have come through in the last 4 days. CRAZINESS! He is starting to army crawl- he has the sweetest giggle, the saddest whiny cry, and the absolute best cheeks for kisses. I think I may have over-kissed them though, because today he learned how to do the kissing noise himself and does it whenever I walk into the room :)

My mini-me

2010-06-29T16:00:00.000-07:00

Livvy is so fun lately- she is so girly and scary, but true- she is so much like me. I got the above Bella Dancerella DVD, bar, and mat at a garage sale last week. She has loved learning all of her ballet positions and I've gotten such a kick out of watching her do the moves. So dang cute.
Yesterday Livvy pulled out her Dora table and stool and set up her center in the living room. She would sit there, pretending to be able to read :), writing her to-do list, drinking Pepsi from her tea-kettle, and eating chocolate chips from a ziploc baggie. Think she's been watching her mom much? I just thought this was hilarious for all of you who know me well :)

Under the Big Top- except with no tent!

2010-06-29T15:47:00.000-07:00

Shelby and I took the monkeys to the Filer Fairgrounds last week to the Shrine Circus. The kids AND I had never been to a circus before- it was so fun! It was a little chilly, but it was great. They loved the guy below who did stunts on the swinging circle- he scared me a little too much.

I think the elephants were Shelby's favorite part- the kids weren't too impressed. I think it's because the only elephants they really have a frame of reference for are from Dumbo- and on the movie they do much cooler tricks than these elephants did. They don't know that elephants don't really form a tower six high :)

Of coarse- Wyatt spent much of the evening with his ears covered- but he still enjoyed it.
The trapeze were also really neat- I love having kids- it gives you the excuse to be a kid again and enjoy all these super fun activities!!

Dairy Days

2010-06-29T15:03:00.000-07:00

We always take the kids over to the Dairy Days parade in Wendell and then to the park for a mini-carnival. The kids love it- How do you like Wyatt's GIANT corn-dog? He ate the entire thing. So funny! The kids loved the parade- especially Wyatt. He was dancing to the music- as you'll see in the video below, and when people kept throwing him candy- he thought he'd found a magic secret- so he kept dancing for every float that came by so they would throw him candy. By the way- he gets his dance moves from his father :) (Sorry it's side-ways, can't get it to flip.)

Medical Miracles and Answers

2010-06-05T14:38:00.000-07:00

Medically speaking- our family has had our share this last month. For those of you who hadn't heard, my dad was diagnosed as having a tumor on his pituitary gland. It was larger than an inch around and affected his vision, hormones, and mood to name a few. They moved rapidly and scheduled surgery to have it removed. They went up into his nose, broke a bone, and cut it out. He had a few complications and spent a few days in ICU recovering and has since been able to come home. He is still having problems with his vision, balance, and connecting thoughts at times, but we are so grateful for all the prayers and fasting in his behalf. We truly felt that it was a miracle that the tumor was found and taken care of as quickly as it was.

Also during this time, Shelby and I had decided to follow our Developmental Pediatrician's advice and have Wyatt tested before he enters school next year by a Neuro-pyschologist to determine an official diagnosis. We have had many 'guesses' on Wyatt over the last six years, but this was the real deal. Wyatt and I traveled back to Boise and he spent a long 5 hours doing various tests. Then this last Friday, Shelby, Wyatt, and I returned again for 2 more hours of testing and the results. Wyatt's official diagnosis is 'Acquired Brain Injury'. According to MRI's we've had done in the past, Wyatt probably suffered from a stroke when he was in utero, or during the birth process that has injured his brain. All of the things he struggles with and his various symptoms, all stem from this brain injury. He doesn't have Autism or ADHD, which actually might be easier because I would have more information and know exactly what to do to help him best. Instead, every brain injury is different. We don't know exactly what Wyatt will learn to do and when. We have some information now on exactly what he can and cannot do at this point in time and ways to help him, but we have to be creative and find ways teach him at home and at school. One of those ways is through a medication we've started giving him to help with his over-sensitivity to stimuli through his senses. We're hoping that once we can help him not get so over-stimulated we might be able to help him learn through his difficulties.

I'll be honest- it wasn't what I thought I was going to hear. It wasn't as clear-cut as I wanted. Instead- I'm terrified of how to best help Wyatt. On the other hand, being creative and learning as we go is how we've been doing things so far- but school will present a whole new set of problems and hurdles.

I so appreciate all of my friends who have brought meals to my family through this trying last month- have called to check in me- have remembered the days of Wyatt's appointments and called to find out the results. I am so very blessed in the people that my Heavenly Father has sent into my life. I love you all!!!!

Zoo Boise

2010-06-05T14:28:00.000-07:00

While my dad was in the hospital, we spent as much time in Boise as we could supporting my mom and taking turns visiting my dad in the ICU as often as they'd allow us in. We managed to squeeze some fun out of the trip and spent a few hours at the zoo with Afton and Weston and my cousin Ashley and her two cute kiddos. The kids loved the zoo- it's improved so much in the last two years since we were there! We'll have to make it an annual trip for sure.

Fallon's Graduation

2010-06-05T14:21:00.000-07:00

My little sister Fallon graduated from Bear Lake High School last week. Wow!!! We're so proud of her and she looked beautiful doing it!

Fallon with Afton and Aaron- such a cute picture!
My sweet Dad- he'd had brain surgery just over a week before this- but he would not miss Fallon's graduation for anything!
Fallon was trying sooo hard to get all the monkeys to smile.

Batter up

2010-06-05T14:19:00.001-07:00

We spent an afternoon with some of our best friend's and their kiddos at Hop 2 It in Twin for a birthday party. Wyatt loved the new baseball game they had- he actually did really great at it, but this time that I recorded him was too funny not to post :)

Farm kids

2010-06-05T14:15:00.000-07:00

Shelby is teaching the kids so much with all of the animals that he has brought around our home. He is raising baby pheasants from eggs this year and the kids loved watching them hatch. Actually, even though I am a farm girl myself, I'd never seen a baby chick hatch from an egg. It really is fun!- So for your viewing pleasure -----

A few more pics of Graduation

2010-06-05T13:53:00.000-07:00

Fun at Chuck E Cheese

2010-05-24T08:33:00.000-07:00

My kids and I have never been to Chuck E Cheese. Sad I know- but the closest one is in Boise and we hardly ever go to Boise. Since we spent much of last week in Boise with my dad in the hospital, we needed a fun way to burn lots of energy for the kiddos- they absolutely LOVED the place. Couldn't get enough of it- so much so that we went twice :)

2010-05-19T12:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T19:39:00.000-07:00

Rea mothers don't eat quiche;
They don't have time to make it.

Real mothers know that their kitchen utensils
Are probably in the sandbox.

Real mothers often have sticky floors,
Filthy ovens, and happy kids.

Real mothers know that dried play dough
doesn't come out of carpets.

Real mothers don't want to know what
the vacuum just sucked up.

Real mothers sometimes ask 'Why me?'
And get their answer when a little voice
says 'Because I love you best.'

Real mothers know that a child's growth
is not measure by height or years or grade....
It is marked by the progression of Mommy to Mom to Mother...

Happy Mother's Day everyone. I am so grateful for my wonderful mother, mother-in-law and grandmothers. I am in awe of all that they've taught me and the amazing women they are.

Field trip to the Firestation

2010-05-06T15:57:00.000-07:00

The kids had a field trip to the firestation with their preschool class last week and I decided to tag along. Below is their entire class.Mr. Wyatt chillin on a fire truck
This is seriously how he spent the majority of the field trip (sorry for the funky white spots in the picture). He was so worried about the fireman turning on the siren. I promised him (upteen millions of times) that we would run outside when the man got ready to turn it on. They didn't end up turning it on anyway because one of the boys in Wyatt's class has seizures. Wyatt promptly told the fireman -"Thank you so much for not turning on that noisy siren :)"
Miss Livvy waiting patiently to be told to say 'cheese'.
Dang- those smiles make me smile too- Aren't they contagious?

Hurry- it's sunny and the wind stopped for a minute!

2010-05-06T15:53:00.000-07:00

The weather has been horrible this spring- I know you all feel it too. On Sunday it was nice for a whole 10 minutes and this is how I found Shelby, Wyatt and Livvy- playing Power Rangers on the grass. Wyatt is seriously obsessed with the Power Rangers and actually has some impressive Power Ranger-like moves. He pulled out all the stops for wrestling with Dad.

Ike 5 months

2010-05-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

Iker-Bikers, as he is affectionately called in our home, is 5 months old. Actually he is 5 1/2 months now- but I'm late in posting this. I weighed him when I had his shots done last week- guess how big this porker is - 17 pounds! He is so heavy! But he has really kinda thinned out. He's still roly-poly, but doesn't look as obese :) as he used to. He's such a happy baby with the funniest giggle. He loves his sister, as long as she doesn't smother him, loves to watch Wyatt do all of his crazy stunts, likes to growl at his daddy, wrestle his toy frog and duck, and give loves to him mommy. His cheeks are the best to kiss- just ask Grandma :).

We train 'em young 'round these parts :)

Easter

2010-05-06T13:09:00.000-07:00

Easter this year was miserably cold. There was snow on the ground and the wind was blowing- yuck. We decided to hold our annual Turner family Easter egg hunt inside the large shop. Amber and Austin had gone to Logan for the holiday- Afton had stayed in Montpelier- and Charly and Ike are too little- so it was just Wyatt and Livvy. They both had to fill MULTIPLE buckets to get all of the eggs gathered. Grandpa said it was ridiculous- he just doesn't know how to have fun- :)

On Easter morning- Livvy spelled out the letters in her name with her candy- this is a 'V'- in case you don't yet know your alphabet :)
My sweet Ikers- look at that grin!!! and those cheeks and those chubby hands- I'm crazy about this little guy-
The kids dying eggs at Grandma Turners- again with no cousins- so they did several dozen eggs- they were running short on creative inspiration by the time they were done. It was a wonderful holiday- even with the darn weather.

A peek into the future---

2010-04-20T11:50:00.000-07:00

My little Livvy is quite mischevious. She likes girly things- not likes- LOVES. And she gets very frustrated that her mother does not let her take her things wherever we go. The last few days I've gotten a glimpse into what her teenage years will hold:

Case 1: Livvy wanted to sit on my lap at church- I reached down to pick her up and felt something hard under her dress. It was a toy cell phone. That's right- She'd snuck her cell phone into church in her panties. Do you believe that?

Case 2: I was getting her ready for school this morning and found her lipstick hidden in her pants pocket. She knows she is not allowed to take her makeup to school. She didn't seem that upset when I took it away, that's because minutes later while packing her backpack with her snack I found another one hidden in a small pocket in her backpack! Then she started to cry and told me "But Mom- my friends will ask me where my lipstick is! I have to have it to share with them on the bus!" WHAT?!!

Oh poor Shelby- you just wait for the whirlwind that will be Miss Livvy when she hits the teens!

Road Trippin

2010-04-02T13:38:00.000-07:00

Notice that Wyatt fell asleep holding Fallon's hand- so cute! Then minutes later, Fallon fell asleep too.

Some fun pictures from the road trip.

Vegas Vacation

2010-03-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

We took our annual Turner girls' and kids trip over Spring Break to Las Vegas. I'm sure many of you heard that we were lucky enough to get food poisoning when we had only been there for 24 hours, but I won't focus on that misery. I'll just say 13 sick people and only 3 bathrooms. Not fun. But here are pictures of the fun parts.

Wyatt was totally excited to see the volcano at the Mirage- so right here we are saying 'Volcano!' We never did get back there to see it erupt at night- maybe next year!

Wyatt with Haily and Fallon in the hot tub- just minutes before the puking started.

Iker Bikers chillin under the umbrella.

His fat feet playing in the sand.

Livvy and I waiting for the fountains at the Bellagio to begin. Whenever they would pause, she and Wyatt would shout 'More More!' and then they would start again- they thought they were magic :)

The first night we got there, the pool was closed. But the kids were so excited to swim that we decided to let them swim in the jacuzzi tub. Too fun!

Can't stop myself

2010-03-03T13:57:00.000-08:00

I know this post is probably tacky- but I'm just so thrilled that I can't control the urge to post this. Plus I promised a few friends that I've talked to today that I'd show them my super screamin deals I got today at Albertsons. This is the first time I've gotten the doublers in my 5 Sunday papers- that makes 15 doublers- plus the three they give you at the customer service desk- 18 doublers! I checked out 6 times- boy was it fun.

You have to really look to see it all- plus 1 ketchup and 2 packs of cookies are missing. The cookies I already put away and the ketchup I left for Shelby at the shop. Guess what my total paid was----------$18.51. SHUT UP! I was so excited planning this shopping trip last night that I could hardly sleep. I kept dreaming about all the great deals. This is a savings of 84%!!! I was pretty excited. I also went to Target and got some great deals (not pictured), but Ike was a pain in the butt. I forgot to give them a few coupons that I left in my pocket. So my deals there weren't as great as I wanted them to be. Oh well.

As I was putting all of these things away today and counting up how much I've accumulated, I had a revelation. Last January, I committed to working really hard to build up a storage. But in my heart, I just wasn't sure how it was going to be possible. A few weeks later I got really into couponing. I looked today and I have a year's supply of most if not all of our toiletries (toothpaste, razors, shampoo, mouthwash, soap) and a good supply of many of our grocery items as well. It was just such a testimony builder to me that the Lord will multiply our efforts- do the best we can, and he'll provide the way!

Iker Bikers 3 months

2010-02-23T20:10:00.000-08:00

What the heck? Where did the last 3 months go? I can't believe how fast Ike is growing. He is such a sweet little guy. He is just like a litle Shelby- except with Livvy's cheeks. He is very laid-back and hard to ruffle- like his dad and they both make the same sounds when they sleep :)

Ike loves to 'box' at things- his toys- he wants to grab them so badly! He is starting to really talk to us and giggle. This is not his best moment- but still so dang cute.

My beautiful new fireplace- and insane kiddos

2010-02-23T19:57:00.000-08:00

Shelby, ever the industrious guy, found a wood fireplace for free. It's huge. I mean like Tim the Tool-man Taylor huge- MANLY. It's been an ongoing project all winter to get it installed- little bit by little bit. Shelby poured these huge cement slabs for the base and back, then we found this beautiful marble on an insane steal at Lowe's. Then we had to find all the parts to install the pipe and cap and top in the roof. Finally we were ready to install it. The pictures are in the wrong order, but I'm too sleep-deprived to change them. Sorry :) So first you see the finished project- Then you see my crazy kids. Wyatt has been really really really excited to help his Daddy put this chimney and fireplace in. So his Dad snuck him up on the roof to help him- YIKES! Shelby thought he had out-smarted Livvy but a few minutes later I heard her very nearly getting on the roof by herself- My crazy children!

Here they are looking down in the chimney hole to talk to 'Ikers'.

It's been a long process- but I'm so happy that it's in. It's heavenly warm and will sure help on all future winter power bills. Good job Shelby!

On a funny note- I asked my brother Cody - "What kind of a crazy mother lets her children get on the roof?" He answered "Probably the same kind that let's them have a trampoline in her living room for a whole winter." Ha Ha- true true.

A few of my favorite things:

2010-02-08T17:45:00.000-08:00

I love blogs. Love, love, love, love them. They teach me how to sew, new recipes to try, how to save money by couponing, how to make money, fun projects to do with my kids- the list goes on.... I also like knowing what blogs other people like to read. So I'm tagging some of you to find out what are your five favorite blogs-

1. Hip 2 Save- http://www.hip2save.com/- I gotta give this lady a shout-out. She helps me save tons of moolah on my groceries and other stuff I buy. I seriously check her blog 2-3 times a day because she is constantly posting great deals and I absolutely cannot stand to maybe miss reading about one that I need!

2. http://www.princesshairstyles.com/- Many of you that have seen Livvy lately may be wondering- a hair blog for girls? Livvy's hair hasn't looked that great lately. Well- give me a break- I just had a baby and the little stinker decided to cut her own hair over the holidays. Both of these make it less fun to play with her hair- I don't have as much time, and it's all uneven until it grows out more.

3. mykitchencafe.blogspot.com- This ladies recipes are delish. Seriously. I haven't tried one yet that I am not absolutely in love with. Try the corn bread and honey butter. We've been eating it for dessert all week. Yum.

4. moneysavingmom.com I just found this blog last week- so it's hasn't been on my top 5 that long, but I've sure been enjoying reading all of her great tips. Going along with this one- nicolesnickels.com- Good stuff.

5. visitingteachingblog.blogspot.com- I really don't visit this that often- probably once a month- but she's got dang cute and easy ideas and handouts for Visiting Teaching.

Last but not least- I love my Swagbucks. You can win 'Swagbucks' just for searching using their search engine and then you can cash them in for Amazon gift cards or even Paypal cash. Sweet! I'm hoping to pay for lots of my Christmas next year using those bucks. If you're interested, click on the link on my blog and we'll both earn!

So- my favorites list contains probably 20 or so more blogs, but this is a pretty good selection to choose from. Now I tag:

Amy
Jinger
Kim
Jolynn
Katie