The Donavans

And I quote

2012-01-05T17:32:00.000-08:00

Sydney got a violin for Christmas, as she was practicing tonight I overheard her say "There is something wrong with this G string."

Not something I ever thought or hoped to hear from my 8 year old daughter.

And we're off

2012-01-01T19:05:00.000-08:00

2012 has officially begun and I'm already feeling like 2011 went way to fast, and 2012 is already very disorganized! However, we've managed to make the best of it all and we're looking forward to another adventurous year. We ended 2011 with a trip to Zoo lights with my sisters and their boys and ended back home with fireworks and sparkling cider to ring in the new year. I wish you and yours a prosperous, healthy and happy 2012!

True meaning of Christmas

2011-12-23T15:16:00.000-08:00

Well my first semester of grad school has finally come to an end, and I am taking away two A's from that little adventure. With that it was time to focus in on Christmas. I tried to boycott gift buying this year and take a family trip instead, but that just wasn't a reality for us this year, so I decided to refocus and try to make Christmas more about Christ then ever before.

Our first effort was attending the First Presidency Christmas Devotional where we were able to hear President Monson speak, second we made our first trip inside the Salt Lake Temple, something I have always wanted since I was a little girl growing up in Salt Lake, we then took our kids and other family members downtown to walk through the incredible light display at Temple Square and tour the visitor center. Then we went to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir Christmas Program. Wow! And finally, we have had an activity each week throughout December in remembrance of Jesus' birth. I must thank Scott for being such a great sport, I mean wiseman!

I hope your Christmas is filled with the spirit! Love, The Donavans

Max turns 6!

2011-11-23T14:24:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday/Halloween

2011-10-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

The last week of October is real cause for celebration in the Donavan Family. My nieces Kacie and Emersyn have their birthdays as well as my sister in law Kelley.

We celebrated in style with the annual birthday costume party. I was the tooth fairy, Scott was a viking, Max is a werewolf, and Sydney is a multi-colored spider. Thanks to my awesome mom for sewing the kids costumes.

Happy Birthday to all these wonderful ladies!

Sunday Drive

2011-10-09T18:57:00.000-07:00

as captured by Max

Living Life one parent/teacher conference at a time

2011-10-04T09:33:00.001-07:00

This week I attended parent/teacher conference for both of my kids. Max got great reviews, but needs to work on his penmen ship (apparently the name Max is hard for him to write neatly, nice). Sydney did great as well, she is in the top 15% of the district in reading and one of the only students in her class to get all excellents on citizenship.
While my intention is not to brag but to recognize that I am really just living my life right now, one parent/teacher conference at a time. We come home at the end of the day and try to cram all of the homework, music lessons, and soccer we can into a few short hours. It doesn't ever feel like we have succeed in accomplishing much. But on days like today when the teacher tells me "all is well" I breathe a great big sigh of relief and in the same breath begin to build up the anxiety of the next parent/teacher conference. I only have about 17 more years of this, I should be fine.
I wonder if my performance at work would be any different if my mom had to come to my yearly evaluation? Yikes.

Fall=Fun

2011-09-12T20:21:00.000-07:00

I''m beginning to think that Fall is my favorite season. I love fall weather, I love fall clothes and I especially love fall activities, specifically football. It's no secret that we are Aggie football fans, and have been season ticket holders for the past four years. It's also no secret that Aggie football is not so good.

However, it is with EXTREME faith that I have in them this season that I profess we may have a better winning than losing record this year. I am not delusional, it is called being optimistic people, after all they gave defending national champs Auburn a run for their money last week, and promptly whooped on the Weber State Wildcats this week.

How you ask do I find time to attend football games with all of the considerable madness I have gotten myself into this year? To that I say, there is always time for tailgating and tossing the pig skin. Yep, I guess its official, Fall is my favorite.

School Daze

2011-08-25T14:14:00.001-07:00

Officially today the entire Donavan household is Back In School.

Thats right, all of us. Sydney to 3rd grade, Max to Kindergarten, Scott to Weber State to finish his bachelors and start his masters and me back at my alma mater, Utah State, to get my Masters in Social Work.

Moral of the story: Stay in school. No literally, forever.

For - Ev - Er

2011-08-22T13:46:00.001-07:00

My family went here:

So now we get to be together for:

This is good news.

Win some, Lose some

2011-08-20T14:04:00.000-07:00

Sydney and her soccer team had the opportunity this past week to play in the Strikers Cup in Layton, UT. Unfortunately, they experienced their first loss as a team. Everyone knew this day had to come, I just think we were all hoping it wouldn't come on the last day of the tournament in the championship game.

Although there was a lot of sadness, I know lessons were being learned by these awesome 8 year old ladies. Now we start the regular season. I'm sure there is a new fire lit under them after this first loss. Hopefully they can continue to improve and grow as a team.

Congratulations Infinity U9 Blue on your second place finish!

Fair Enough

2011-08-16T18:53:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday our nieces Kacie and Brynley stayed with us while their parents were out of town. What a perfect opportunity go to the Cache County Fair!

I was assigned to escort the younger two, Max and Kacie as they rode rides and Scott took the older two girls. They had a blast, and even though there were precisely 2 million people there, even until midnight, we still managed to get several rides in and some face painting.

I was however, disappointed with the fair food. You hear lately so much about how you can get just about anything fried at the fair. Well not at this one. I really wanted to try the fried twinkies, but I'm also kind of glad I didn't because the thought of that now makes me a bit queezy. This country is a heart attack waiting to happen, but I can post about my thoughts on that later!

All in all, the fair was the fair and we had fun making memories.

Goodbye Good Buddy

2011-08-06T13:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday our Chancey dog went to heaven. We were blessed to have him with our family from our beginnings. Chance came into our home as an abandoned stray just two short months before Sydney was born. We lived in a one room apartment with hand-me-down everything which turned out to be the best thing, since Chance destroyed nearly all of it.

We have so many wonderful memories with our special pup. While he was very challenging, he was an intricate part of this family and his presence is being sorely missed. It hasn't even been a full day and I have a million and one reminders around me that he is gone. I know it will get easier with time, but the hole in our hearts is very large and open right now.

We love you very much Chance, and we know you are having the time of your life. I suspect you have found water to play in, people to constantly pet you and cool grass to lay on.

Thank you for coming into our lives, and teaching us lessons we couldn't have learned anywhere else. You'll always be our first puppy.

Happy Campers

2011-07-30T12:28:00.000-07:00

We try to do a good amount of camping each summer but this summer has been so busy with different things that we just haven't been able to find the time.

But any true camper wouldn't let that stop them! The kids decided that since we couldn't get to the mountains, they would just put the tent up in the house. Night one they had it in Sydney's room and the second night in the basement in the guest bedroom.

This just didn't quite compare to the real deal, so last weekend we finally made it up Logan Canyon for at least a one night stay.

Sydney and Max caught two fish, and we have come to love roasting starburst on the campfire. This made truly Happy Campers.

Eye of the Tiger

2011-07-24T19:09:00.000-07:00

Sydney and her soccer team have done it again. A couple weeks ago they played in the Cache Cup and went out undefeated with the championship in their age bracket. I have to admit it is fun to watch such a great group of girls really get out there and play hard, and walk away with huge smiles.

Sydney has really turned a corner in her attitude and passion for the game, she even received two warnings from the ref for pushing in her last game. I heard the coach say to the other "thats great, you can't teach kids how to be aggressive, thats gotta come naturally." I guess we're covered there.

Congrats Infinity U9 Blue!

My greatest teacher

2011-07-06T19:28:00.001-07:00

I have this incredible daughter Sydney who made the decision to be baptised last Saturday. This has been a significant milestone in her life, but also mine. Sydney came into our lives at an unexpected time and turned our lives upside down. We wondered just how we would make it. Since that day she has been my greatest teacher. I learn more from being her mom then I ever learned in grade school and college. She has made me want to be a better person, she lead me back to church, and more importantly helped me to reconnect with my father in heaven.

Her baptism was an awesome day filled with the spirit. I am thankful each moment for this special little girl.

Max-isms

2011-06-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

Sitting at the dinner table we are having our usual goofy time and I observe that Max has eaten 3 hot dogs before any of the rest of us have even sat down for dinner, which was grilled chicken breasts, that he also ate.
"Maybe you're having a growth spurt." I comment.
"Gross Burp?!" Max says and then laughs hysterically for several minutes.
Gotta love him.

8 is great

2011-06-23T14:37:00.001-07:00

Sydney turned 8 this week, and in proper celebration we had two fun filled parties. First, a few friends came by to have a "Pamper Party" including pedicures, manicures, and to top it all off, pink hair spray. The next day the family came over for a Carnival party. We had carnival games, carnival food, including popcorn and sno cones,

and what Carnival would be complete without its very own Carnies!

Happy Birthday Syd, I love you so much and can't believe you are already 8. Time flies when you're having fun!

Celebrate Providence

2011-06-08T15:31:00.000-07:00

I had some of the best times of my life growing up in downtown Salt Lake City. I never imagined living anywhere other than a city. When I came to Logan to attend USU, I found my new home.

We have now "put down roots" in Providence, and I feel very comfortable here and hope to be here through my end. Last weekend we attended "Celebrate Providence" a small carnival to do just that.

It started out with a bike parade featuring the kids. Sydney and Max loved it. They decorated their

bikes with hawaiian leis and American flags. Good combo right?

Next we ventured to the Carnival games, which features one ride that I swore Max was going to have dragging on the grass, but to my surprise it did lift off.

Sydney and Max also tackled the climbing wall and bounce houses.

As I watched them run from game to game, I thought about just how much

I have come to love my small town life

, how simple everything is, how friendly people are, and how invested neighbors are in a sense of community.

"Celebrate Providence?" Yes I will, thank you.

First Time Champion!

2011-05-30T07:44:00.001-07:00

Sydney was invited to join a team of girls to play in the 4 on 4 Kohls Cup soccer tournament this weekend. These girls are awesome little players and ended up going undefeated and winning the championship in their age division.

This is Sydney's first ever championship, and she is only 7. I don't think I've ever won any championship, and I'm 31. You go girls!

Put me in Coach!

2011-05-22T14:40:00.000-07:00

We are just wrapping up our spring soccer season and it has been lots of fun. Sydney is really starting to understand the game, the rules, and the techniques and has decided to try out for a year round soccer team.

Max too has come alive. This is saying quite a bit for the typical lumber around the field, get tired fast, and not pay attention, kind of kid. His last two games he has actually got out there, chased the ball down and ended the season with 5 goals under his belt! That is up from last season when he had, well, zero.

Not that we measure success purely on goals, but man, I can't help myself but think that the trips to the dollar store for every goal scored couldn't have hurt his motivation!

Happy Mothers Day

2011-05-08T07:06:00.000-07:00

This Mothers Day, just like many mothers days before, I attended a Mother Daughter Banquet with my mom, sisters, dear friend Michelle and her daughter Natalie, at our old Salt Lake City Ward, Poplar Grove. This event has been going on for 50+ years, and though simple, it is a wonderful time seeing all the old neighbors and spending time with my sisters and mom.

I would also be ungrateful if I didn't take this opportunity to say how awesome my mom is. She has never been a June Clever but she was also never a Peg Bundy. My mom was the perfect mix for me. She is non negotiable on house and yard work, she never let us get away with anything, and she let us explore the world and become ourselves, all the while making sure we knew that she was there and loved us unconditionally.

I have a great mom, and today on Mothers Day I want to say thanks mom for everything, we love ya!

Asia 2011

2011-04-22T11:22:00.001-07:00

How do you possibly sum up two weeks of vacation to three different Asian countries? Lets just say it is best if we sit down, go through some pictures and eat anything but rice and noodles!
The trip was amazing. Asia is almost 100% opposite of America in many aspects, but I also learned we really are a lot alike.
We ate many strange foods, endured the stares at every corner in China, soaked up the fabulous sun in Thailand and participated in their country wide waterfight, and enjoyed a bike ride through the streets of Taiwan.

Here are a few pics of the events, but like I said, lets just get together sometime, and I will tell you all about it!

Scuba Steve

2011-04-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

Humans were created to breathe air. I have never felt the need to deviate from this. But about 8 years ago I married this guy who has turned many of my comforts upside down and strongly suggested I try new things. One such thing is the art of scuba diving. Lets keep in mind that I had a major mental breakdown and sinus infection the first time I tried simple snorkeling. So I felt quite justified in NOT wanting to learn to scuba. However, my upcoming trip to Asia is touted as some of the best scuba diving in the world and the majority of this trip is being planned around diving. I relented and took the course. After several weeks of studying "the bends", dive depths, what to do if you see a shark, etc. and diving in swimming pools and hot springs, I completed the course. I now have a lifetime certification to Open Water Scuba Dive. Just call me Scuba Steve.

The Black Stripes

2011-03-30T10:43:00.000-07:00

Occasionally in my marriage my husband will suprise me with the statement "By the way, I bought..." some of the fill in the blanks have been guitar/recording equipment, and snow and wakeboards. Not usually inexpensive items. My instinct is to get mad, go into a lecture about discussing purchases, but I've learned that if it doesn't bankrupt or kill us, acceptance is a more peaceful choice.

The other day, such a statement occurred again. This weeks purchase happens to be a set of drums.

Max and Sydney were thrilled, and immediately began pounding way. I told Max he and Sydney could be like the brother sister duo, the White Stripes. A guitarist and drummer.

Max informed me that they would be called the Black Stripes.

Fair enough.

Luck O' the Irish

2011-03-19T19:10:00.000-07:00

I really am lucky to have my Irish heritage. While I am in all reality a "mixed mut" of sorts, the Irish blood has always been a source of pride and focus amongst our clan.

However, as luck would have it, we totally forgot to properly delegate who would sign us up for the St. Patty's parade this year, so we ended up being spectators which we haven't done in quite a few years. Oh well, it was still as silly and fun as it is every year, and we were even graced by one of my best good friends Alicia and her triplet boys.

Top O' the mornin to ya!

Reasons to celebrate

2011-03-08T17:06:00.000-08:00

March is starting off to be one big celebration.

We were so happy to attend the baptism and blessing of my niece Brynley and my niece Alivia. It was such a sweet day for the Howard Family and we thank them for inviting us to be a part of it. The girls were adorable in their matching white dresses.

Then on Sunday Scott turned 32. I sure do love him and am really happy he was born!

And last but not least, my birthday comes along this Saturday. I have really taken to the idea of having a birthday week, so each day this week I am trying to do something, however small, that is just for me.

Party on!

Back to School

2011-03-04T09:47:00.000-08:00

Its official. I got the call yesterday and I have been accepted to the USU Masters of Social Work program starting this fall.
It is bittersweet. I now realize I have another three years of schooling ahead of me, I have to shell out lots of money, and there goes my free time. BUT I am way more excited to get my masters, have more options available to me, and show my kids first hand how important education is.
HEY! I get to go to all the sporting events for free again! Woot Woot!

Lunch with a Deputy

2011-02-25T15:12:00.000-08:00

So Sydney earned a special privilege at school for outstanding citizenship. Her reward was being selected from her class to have "Lunch with a Deputy." My sister Lonny reminded me that this must be a "country" thing, because they don't do it in Salt Lake. Country as it may be, Sydney was very excited.

She came home with a couple photos from the event. My pessimistic mind got the best of me and all I could think as I stared at this picture is "this better be the last time she is standing in front of a police car with a cop behind her."

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T16:15:00.000-08:00

Ladies Man

2011-02-04T14:21:00.000-08:00

The other day Sydney and Max had a friend over to play. She is an adorable neighbor girl, about 6 years old.
The kids were being super silly and having a good time as they sat on the floor playing Trouble. As they were laughing and playing, Max turned to his friend and says "I have to tell you this. Just so you know, my farts are long!"
Nothing like charming the ladies with that one buddy!

Calorie Counters

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

I guess since Scott and I have decided to make fitness a priority we have discussed calories once or twice in front of the kids.
Last weekend Sydney and Max were comparing calories in their Juicy Fruit. "Hey this only has 5 calories, that is good!"
The kicker came this morning as I was combing Sydney's hair and Max says "How many calories does this have?" He was holding the hairspray bottle.

Public Relations

2011-01-25T11:18:00.000-08:00

Is it any wonder the DMV has a pretty poor public image? You hear the horror stories, right? Long waits, you forgot this, go to the back of the line, we are not open on Fridays, blah, blah, blah. I decided since I had to venture to the DMV today to renew my license that I would give them the benefit of the doubt. I did all my paperwork online, gathered all 900 of the required documents needed and went in. The initial line was small, it went pretty quick and the guy helped me in a timely fashion, and didn't send me back to the line. I was prepared.
HOWEVER, they lost all of my good patience and comments, when I was just about to leave and they hand me the print out of my temporary license, soon to be my permanent license for the next five years.
The picture was bad. I had one eye half shut, and a half smile. Lets say it looks something like a facial deformity, lazy eye, and a drunk all mixed into one photo of me.
Here is my beef. If you take a photo of someone that is OBVIOUSLY that bad, retake it for them. I am far from picky when it comes to this stuff, but its bad. I would appreciate a little humanity from you DMV. There really is a reason no one likes you. I gave you a chance and you walked all over me. I won't forget this. How can I, I will have a perfectly horrid drivers license staring at me from inside my wallet for the next five years.

Turtle Deal

2011-01-21T08:47:00.000-08:00

Sydney wants a pet turtle. I DISPISE reptiles and amphibians. They gross me out, scare me, ick. BUT I can respect wanting a pet. I had bunnies, dogs, a bird, a cat, fish, when I was a child, so to be a "good mom" I set up a deal with Sydney. She would have to go online and research turtles, which ones are best for indoors, as pets, how to care for them, etc. She would have to take notes and present her information to Scott and I. She then would have to save up enough money to buy the turtle and all its supplies.
SO... she has recruited her brother to save up his money too so they can share the turtle, and earn money faster, she has already spent at least three hours on the internet researching and writing notes, all on her own accord, and lastly she took all her research notes to school unbeknownst to me and presented her findings to her class. The teacher sent me a message about it with a giggle.
I gotta give it to the girl. She is doing just what she was told. I think a turtle might be joining our family.
DANG IT!

Mission: Organization

2011-01-14T18:15:00.001-08:00

I have set a little goal for myself to really organize my house this year. I have decided to go room by room and make some organization upgrades to hopefully make life easier. That being said, I thought I would share this "exciting" journey with all of you.

Room 1: The Pantry

Before and After pics to come soon, or whenever I actually get it done!

A fine day for a birthday!

2011-01-11T13:11:00.000-08:00

Today is one of those cool number days, 1/11/11. I happen to have a pretty cool little nephew who is celebrating his 5th birthday on this special number day.

Jackson is an incredible kid. He and Max love to be around one another and seem to be growing closer each time we get a chance to visit (he lives in Arizona).

Jackson is smart, tender hearted and loves airplanes. He is the only 5 year old that I know that can name every airline and identify the planes while still in the sky.

I love you Jackson, I hope you have a wonderful birthday! I even more hope to see you soon!

8 is great

2011-01-04T10:32:00.000-08:00

Today is my 8th Anniversary. In honor of this special day, I would like to share 8 random things I love about being married to my best friend:

1. He "gets" Jim Carrey.

2. Widespread Panic Concerts

3. He knows exactly what things I hate him doing, and he does them anyway, and I still end up laughing.

4. Nobody can talk, yell, or converse with the TV better than him.

5. He hates Jared from the Subway commercials and I hate Paris Hilton.

6. He loves and wants to travel the world, just like me.

7. We got a Sydney and a Max out of the deal.

8. He takes me to lunch almost everyday.

Board out of my mind

2010-12-30T14:15:00.000-08:00

Today was my maiden voyage to Beaver Mountain on a snowboard. I did a little skiing when I was a kid, but with some gentle hinting, Scott convinced me to try snowboarding. So I bought the gear, he gave me his old snowboard and off we went.

Yesterday Sydney and Max headed up with dad for their first day on the boards. Sydney is old enough to take lessons and did real well in them. Max isn't old enough so he had private lessons with dad. Both of them absolutely amaze me with how quickly they pick it up. Poor Max spent so much time with snow in his face and goggles and only cried at the end when he was pretty much freezing and worn out. I heard lots of comments about how cute it was to see such a little guy on a snowboard. I would agree.

It was fun. I did however spend my fair share of the time on my behind, but its all a part of the learning process. I look forward to conquering Little Beaver someday! But from the looks of things my kids will be doing that before me.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-29T08:53:00.000-08:00

Christmas came and went without a hitch again this year. The kids scored big with new snowboard outfits from grandma Mern, snowboards, boots, gloves, and lessons from mom and dad and a few fun toys and games from Santa Claus.
Christmas Eve we spent with the Howard Family. It was fun to play DJ Hero, Darts and Air Hockey, and eat yummy food.
The day after Christmas we partied with the Richmonds. The kids did their annual book exchange and grandma Linda gave everyone their stocking full of goodies.
It is such a fun time of year and the traditions are great. Here's to another year of good times!

Month 3

2010-12-22T15:50:00.001-08:00

Well here we are. I have arrived at my 3 month mark for attending AR Cross. As promised an update on how things are going.

1. I have gained weight. Everyone keeps telling me muscle is heavier, I hope they are right.

2. I feel tighter. My goal with working out has always been to have less wiggle in all areas. I currently still wiggle and jiggle here and there, but not at much.

3. My waist is slightly smaller.

4. I not not as tired and have more energy.

5. I am sore everyday I workout, which means I am doing something, which is better than nothing.

6. I enjoy the way I feel.

So while I don't have exact numbers here for you, I haven't been real active in measuring and weighing, but I know I feel better and that is worth its weight in gold.

So here's to another 3 months, hopefully by then I will be buff and tough!

The fairy returns

2010-12-15T12:51:00.000-08:00

Last night Sydney lost yet another tooth. We seem to be on a tooth losing spree lately. And just a simple question: Why does she yank them out 1 minute before bed, making it hard for the tooth fairy to remember to come?
But not worry, I think the tooth fairy got smart and set her alarm clock for midnight :) and surprisingly she remembered to come and didn't even get held back by the snowstorm. Maybe she's finally got this tooth fairy thing down.

Merry Christmas to me

2010-12-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

My Christmas came early this year, a new car. No I didn't go on the Price Is Right, I had to buy it. I also had to say bye bye to my good ol' Honda Civic. She was 12 years old. I'm sure she will make some high school or college kid real happy. But if the truth be known, after she couldn't get me home last month after the first snow storm, I new it was time for something new, and here she is: "The Nata" as Max calls it. (No that is not really my car and my house in the background, this was just a way nicer picture to present her for the first time!)

Giving Thanks

2010-11-21T18:56:00.000-08:00

I was feeling rather overwhelmed this weekend with how behind I was on my blogging because so much has happened worth writing about. Then as I was downloading the latest photos I realized that all things happen for a reason and this was the perfect opportunity to blog about some of the things I am truly thankful for:

MUSIC!

Sydney had her first piano recital and did great. She was really nervous about being in front of so many people that she only played one of her two songs, but she played it from memory and felt really proud of herself.

I am so thankful for music. I luckily married a very musically talented man and I am hoping this rubs off on your kids. Music always fills our home whether to help make chores go faster, to celebrate the holidays, or when we are having a battle on DJ Hero!

TEACHERS!

Teachers hold a very special place in mine and Scott's heart. First, we are both children of teachers, and really good ones at that. They taught us the value of education. Sydney loves school and this year has a teacher that is truly the whole package. She has so much energy, passion, and skill and this year was nominated as the Providence Elementary School Teacher of the Year. When the district presented her with this award we went to the meeting to show her our support. We are very thankful for Mrs. Mills!

HEALTH!

Working in a hospital definitely shows me how quickly health can leave us. I am so thankful for the health I have and the health of my family. We are blessed to have children who love to be active and play sports. Sydney seems like she is going to try her hand at all of them before its done, and while the running around seems endless, I am thankful that she has a desire to be athletic. She just started Junior Mustang Basketball and will finish her first season in December.

MAX!

And last but not least, I am SOO VERY thankful for my special little man, Max. Today he turned 5 years old. We celebrated with a fun party at Chuck E. Cheese with the family. Thank you everyone for braving the weather for Max's big day. He is still raving about the good time and of course all the presents.

I can't imagine our little family without him. He is the perfect addition. Happy 5th birthday buddy!

Fairy tale Part II

2010-11-11T08:52:00.000-08:00

Today the young Sydney awoke from her slumber to find that the tooth fairy had in fact visited her! To her surprise she found a note from the good fairy saying "Sorry I missed you last night, thank you for the tooth."
Sydney was so excited and happily dismissed being forgotten the night before. It couldn't have hurt either that the tooth fairy left a little extra cash!

The End (or until another tooth is lost).

A fairy tale

2010-11-10T10:34:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time a little girl named Sydney lost a tooth, her fifth tooth to be exact. She happily got out her tooth fairy bear, a cute stuffed bear with a pouch just for teeth. She gently placed tooth beary on her nightstand and went into blissful sleep.
The next morning she awoke to find that the tooth fairy had not come. She cried big huge crocodile tears and broke her mothers heart when she said "The tooth fairy forgot me!"
The mother quickly explained that the tooth fairy would never forget her and that there must have been so many kids to see last night and with the cold weather and snow she just didn't make it. Her mother was very sure the tooth fairy would come tonight.
To be continued...

Jackass 3D

2010-11-04T18:21:00.000-07:00

I guess you really have to know my personality to appreciate this post.

I love Jackass, and Jackass 3D did not disappoint. I only gagged and had to look away about 3-4 times.

Frightful good time

2010-10-31T14:42:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween, especially when it falls on a weekend and we don't have to get up and work or go to school the next day.

This year I used my wonderful cricut machine to make a Halloween sign. I thought it turned out pretty cute so I am sharing it with y'all.

The kiddos (wakeboarder and Medusa) had a good time as well. We spent Saturday afternoon trick or treating at the stores in downtown Logan, attended an indoor carnival and then hit up Grandview Drive for trick

or treating at night. And last but not least, we went to Grandma Merns for hot chocolate and donuts.

I have spent today trying to keep busy enough that I don't devour EVERY Reeses peanut butter cup my kids brought home. I'm not doing so great.

Max's world

2010-10-28T11:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a recent conversation we had with Max at the dinner table:

Max: "WHHAAAA" (Max acting silly at the table and lovin' it).

Mom: "Why are you so wild?"

Max: "ha ha ha ha ha" (ignoring my question as usual)

Mom: "Where did you come from child?"

Max: "MAXico!"

Arizona

2010-10-23T19:19:00.000-07:00

Last week we went to Arizona to visit Scott's sister and her family. It was so nice to spend time together. The kids especially loved their time together. They boys wrestled, the girls played dolls and I got to hold the newest addition a whole bunch. The weather definitely wasn't bad either. Upper 90's to be exact. We went boating last Sunday and all of us got a little sun burn. I think that is a first for me in late October.

Thank you Rayms for being such wonderful hosts. We hope to see you sooner than later, maybe in a moving truck pulling into Utah?

Hail the Utah AGGIES!

2010-10-06T18:57:00.000-07:00

No I didn't forget to post that the Aggies beat BYU at home last Friday, I was simply giving it time to marinate in every one's mind and just when the hype was starting to die down, I wanted to promptly reminder you....

We beat the COUGARS!

It was such a sweet victory. My years of college and the

following years with season tickets, I have never seen USU football beat BYU. History was made, and oh yeah, I was there. And I was happy.

I wanna be like you

2010-10-02T15:02:00.000-07:00

Today Max and Scott went wakeboarding together for a fun end of summer boys outing. In turn, Sydney and I got to spend our day together.

Max gets abnormally excited about wakeboarding and drools over his dads wakeboard, and can often be found watching wakeboarding on youtube.

I think it is so cute how much he loves his dad and wants to be just like him.

Country music is like a four letter word at our house due to Scott the music snob. But since he doesn't write this blog I wanted to share a video that really sums up Max and Scott. Just take out all the country references and insert wakeboarding and you get the idea!

My new best friend

2010-10-01T09:18:00.000-07:00

Remember back in March when I turned 30 and flapped my lips about feeling great, no major issues with turning 30, blah, blah, blah.

Well I now FEEL like I am 30. Starting this cross training program has quickly taught me, no, you are not 18 anymore.

Last week while doing an ab workout I pulled an oblique muscle. It hurt, burned, and all that jazz. I gave it a few days rest, and being the old lady that I am I re injured it again last night in WARM UPS at my rec volleyball game.

Wow. Life has its own special way of bringing us back to reality. Another little reality check is that I am now best friends with Icy Hot. I remember making fun of my mother for rubbing similar muscle ointments on herself and smelling like a medicine cabinet.

Guess the laughs on me now, huh mom?

GOOOOOOOOOOOOAL!

2010-09-26T10:17:00.001-07:00

With two kids playing soccer up to twice a week with two practices in between, we have morphed into quite the soccer family. Mind you, neither Scott nor I played soccer so we are not exactly "helpful" when it comes teaching soccer skills. Luckily Max and Syd have fun playing and are picking up the basics from good coaches and friends.

Sydney is in her 3rd season of soccer and has yet to score a goal. Yesterday, on the weekend I had to work of course, she scored not one, but three goals! I got the play by play via text message from Scott, but I am still super sad I missed her firsts, but oh so proud.

Max is simply out to lumber around and once in a while kick the ball, but he says he's having fun which is the point.

Finally last night we attended our first REAL Salt Lake major league soccer game at the new Rio Tinto stadium. It was really fun! It was unfortunate that the only rule about soccer that I am familiar with is that you can't use your hands because there was so much going on that I just didn't get. But the atmosphere, the athletes, and the weather were all great and we definitely hope to catch another one in the future.

And so it begins...

2010-09-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I embarked in a long overdue journey. I have finally signed up and gone to my first Athletic Republic Xross Training session.
This is a program offered at the hospital where I work, where you basically have a 30 minute butt kicking workout lead by your own trainer.
Once upon a time I was a pretty fit person. Yesterday I remembered that that was a very long time ago.
I'm not proud of my performance, but I hope by posting it for the world to know, it will motivate me to repost in December on the 22nd with some major improvements. Your prayers would be appreciated for my aching thighs!

I may have squeeked out 1 push up, and about 12 sit ups in30 seconds. I attempted to sprint on the treadmill for 20 seconds and was able to to this 3 times. I'm pretty disappointed in myself. I know I can do better and that is my motivation. My other motivation is that each day I see just how quickly your health can be taken from you and I don't want to take mine for granted.
So, I'll post updates along the way and hopefully some better news come December 22.

In the Presence of a Genius

2010-09-14T19:02:00.001-07:00

There is an incredible parenting phenomena going on at our house. Somehow Scott and I have raised a 7 year old genius.

It is clearly represented by the day to day conversations we have with her, for example:

Mom- "Sydney stop hanging on the fridge door you are going to break it."

Sydney- "I know."

Sydney- "Mom, why do we have traffic lights?"

Mom- "So cars don't crash into one another and hurt people."

Sydney- "I know."

Extraordinary, isn't it? She somehow knows everything, even when she is asking the question. Don't ask how, it is something our incredible parenting genes must have just passed on creating our own little know -it- all.

Lake Powell + Stitches = awesome Labor Day

2010-09-08T15:49:00.000-07:00

Labor Day weekend we took a nice long drive down to Lake Powell with Scott's entire family. His sister met us there from Arizona and we spent a nice long weekend together. The weather was perfect, the water was warm and the company was great.

The trip was not without its share of mishaps of course. My poor sister and brother in laws boat broke down the minute we launched it into the water which ended up taking a day and half to get back in working order, only to end the trip with a a big gash in the side of his boat as they were loading it.

To end the trip I had myself a little accident when I was getting into the tent on the last night. As I kicked off my flip flop to step inside I step down right on the tent stake and it promptly went through the bottom of my foot. My foot immediately started bleeding like Niagara Falls. The campsite looked like something out of CSI Miami. Luckily my sister in law the nurse came to my rescue with a first aid kit and bandaged me up and told me "that looks like it needs stitches." Trying to be tough and not pay some ridiculous out of network emergency room bill I waited until I got home to have it stitched up. Now I am a gimp for at least one week, which puts a damper on me starting my volleyball league this week.

But even with the few problems we encountered it was really nice to spend time with the Donavans and all the grand kids. I hope we can do it again next year, minus the stitches of course.

Fruits of our Labor

2010-09-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

We are finally enjoying the fruits of our first annual vegetable garden. We set the goal of just growing at least one edible thing, and we did; in fact we have grown several edible things including raspberries, strawberries, jalapenos, and tomatoes of many varieties.

The tomatoes were the most important to us. Scott is slightly obsessed with fresh garden tomatoes and could possibly be seen snatching them from his children.

I realize this task is not that hard, but I don't know if you remember May of this year when we decided to plant these babies. It was cold, rainy, and did I mention cold? We had to cover them almost every night until Mid June when it finally decided to be summer. This is not easy work.

So forgive me while I bask in the glory of our fruit for a moment... yum.

Back to School

2010-08-30T17:21:00.001-07:00

Syd started 2nd grade last Thursday. There were many firsts for her:

first time she cared what she wore on the first day, first time she woke up to her own alarm, and first time she got ready without me nagging her the whole time.

Syd started 2nd grade last Thursday. I had a first:

first time I have had a 2nd grader.

wow....

Phone Home

2010-08-23T15:53:00.000-07:00

So we don't have a land line phone and haven't for many years. It works great. No solicitor calls, no additional bill, fabulous.

But I now have a soon to be second grader. This poses a problem for all her calling needs. So we did what I thought I wouldn't have to do for at least a few more years, buy her a cell phone.

Granted it is a pay as you go $10 phone, but its a phone. I am still a little shocked.

It is for emergencies only as she takes on more responsibilities and will have some times here and there that she will be home alone or out at soccer, etc.

I think I got my first cell phone when I was in college, along with my first email address and a few other firsts that aren't really appropriate for an entry about my daughter, but you get my drift right? Kids are growing up way to fast, but lucky to have such cool technology.

Blankey

2010-08-16T15:24:00.000-07:00

For those who know Syd, you know she has a torn up old blanket that she has had forever that she isn't willing to get rid of, It's name is Nay. It only hangs out at home and in the car sometimes, but it looks pretty trashed. She loves the thing. My sister Kathy told me about this commercial, its hillarious, it comes from someone else's "blankey."

Book Me Now!

2010-08-11T18:47:00.000-07:00

This is my first ever balloon animal. In case you can't tell what it is, it is an octopus!

Sydney got this awesome balloon animal kit for her birthday and after many sore fingers and popped balloons I (kind of) succeeded.

So book me now for your next birthday party, I can make all the lop sided, tentacley-challenged octopus' you want, for a small fee of course.

Speaking of birthdays, today is my sister in law Michelle's big day, so a special birthday wish to her. "I love you to pieces and wish we could see you more. Move back to Utah okay!"

Tree Hugger

2010-08-05T21:45:00.000-07:00

I've always tried to be environmentally aware and to do my part. While I still don't do as much as I should I do feel it is important and I have tried to pass that on to my kids.

It was one of those proud moments last weekend when Sydney decided to make fliers, which she drew herself; notifying each one of us (she hung them in our rooms) that we love the world and we needed to clean it up.

She then decided to organize a club that would ride bikes around and pick up trash. She and her brother were and remain the only two members, but they did collect two bags of trash just on our street. We won't count the two brand new newspapers they picked up on two of the porches that I quickly explained were not garbage and they had to go back.

Way to go bug, your carbon footprint is dwindling by the moment.

In Memory of Abby Sue

2010-07-31T15:24:00.000-07:00

My sweet dog niece Abby passed away to doggy heaven on July 30.

Abby is my sister Wendy's 13 year old weiner dog. Abby was such a great dog and my sisters very best friend. My sister is the ultimate dog mom and spoiled Abby like nothing I've ever seen. You are in my thoughts Wen.

We will miss you Abby.

An American 4th of July

2010-07-23T11:07:00.001-07:00

This year Scott's best buddy was in town from Switzerland with his girlfriend and daughter. Since he is also a Widespread Panic fan, we decided to catch their show in Driggs Idaho at the Spud Drive In. It was absolutely awesome. This was literally a small town drive in taken over by a mega band for one 4th of July night celebration. I have never been to a Widespread show with so few people, in such a small venue and being right up next to the stage. Two thumbs up.

Sydney and Max also came along since kids were free. They loved their first concert.

Here is a photo from the outside of the drive in, too funny!

The Newest Nephew

2010-07-19T15:51:00.000-07:00

As promised, a post announcing my newest nephew, Sawyer Jonathan Raym.

This is Michelle and Jon's third child, and unfortunately they live in Arizona so we haven't met him yet.

Sawyer was born June 28, 2010 weighing in at 7 lbs 13 oz and 20 1/2 inches long.

He is another cute addition and so glad he is finally here and healthy.

Havin' a good time

2010-06-29T19:20:00.000-07:00

In case I haven't mentioned it lately, and I don't think I have, my most favorite jam band is Widespread Panic. This past weekend they put on their annual three day show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado. Scott and I happily attended.

First off, if you don't know about Widespread and you enjoy bluegrass/rock, check them out. They are well worth it. Second, if you haven't seen a concert at Red Rocks, put it on your bucket list, this place is amazing. A natural amphitheatre in the Red Rock hills overlooking Denver. Beautiful!

Here's a photo I stole from the bands site of the show. This is much better then our pics since it is close up. But I was there, I have the ticket stub, t shirt and video on Scott's new iphone 4 to prove it.

It is a major shame that my awesome weekend came to a ridiculous ending when we arrived at the Denver airport to board our plane.

I won't bore you with the asinine details of this airline, but the bottom line is, NEVER fly with Frontier airlines. They have no desire to provide respectful customer service and a lower price with them means compromising all aspects of comfort, and ethical business practice. I threatened them in my nasty email to the customer service department that I would tell all not to use their airline, so I am fulfilling my threat. All the while my new nephew was being born in Phoenix. (He will get his own post of course announcing all his details; just waiting on a photo from the happy parents!)

But to end on a positive, the trip to see Panic was heaven, I loved them so much I think I will catch them again this Sunday in Teton Valley, Idaho!

7th Heaven

2010-06-23T14:36:00.000-07:00

Syd J turned 7 on Monday and it was nothing short of a celebration. She requested this year a friend party and a family party. Her friend party consisted of 13 energetic kiddos, water, games, cupcakes and creamies. This always equates to a great time.

The following day we had our family party with an Alice in Wonderland theme. Tim Burton's version of course. Since she is a water freak this party too had to incorporate water and we blew out the slip and slide on the second run.

Monday, her actual birthday, we went to Lagoon. Syd is tall enough to ride everything and she did just that. Max had a rough day being 2" shy of every "good" ride, and having to sit and watch his sister go on all of them. However, they were both fast asleep in the car with snow cone stained lips, dirty feet, and chlorine smellin' hair before we got on the freeway.

This is how I measure success.

Gratifying Moments

2010-06-03T19:48:00.000-07:00

The last two days have really had an abundance of gratifying moments for me. I am not sure if my senses are heightened or if just some random acts are occurring, none the less I am quite pleased.

I got called into work last night and had to cut my evening really short with the kiddos. When I finally returned home just before bed time, I found Sydney deeply cleaning her room, organizing drawers, and sorting through the bathroom as well. She was so happy to show me what she had done and I was also very pleased to see her do these things all on her own and feel good about what they produce.

Today she was found completely engulfed in her Junie B. Jones books. I couldn't pull her away, and didn't want to. This new found passion for reading is also awesome. I hope that she continues to enjoy it like me and her dad do.

Small victories, great feeling.

This week in Donavan

2010-05-24T18:21:00.000-07:00

Tuesday: First grade Patriotic Program( we happily cheered on our own Susan B. Anthony).

Wednesday: Traveled to Ogden to watch my super cute niece perform in her dance review.

Thursday: Played in the first round of our rec league volleyball tournament. Good thing it is double elimination! We survived to play another week!

Friday: Worked half day so I could spend the second half of the day caring for my sickly husband who endured an endoscopy because he has this little problem where he can't swallow and ends up barfing up most of his meals. I think we are on our way to figuring this out.

Saturday: House cleaned...(my mother would be so proud). Then Saturday shopping at IFA on free hot dog day. Nothing like fighting the crowds for tomato plants and steer manure.

Sunday: Planting our first veggie garden in the freezing Cache Valley May weather. Wish this first Donavan crop luck, it will surely need it.

Happy Birthday Payton!

2010-05-18T14:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my now 10 year old nephew Payton. I love you to pieces. Thanks for having an awesome birthday party where we all got to be contestants on "Minute to Win It." Here's a couple shots of everyone doing "Junk in the Trunk." By the way, if you haven't tried some of these games that they do on the show, try it at your next family or friend gathering. Hilarious!

Soccer Success Story

2010-05-16T08:13:00.000-07:00

Saturday was Sydney's last soccer game of the spring season. She has had an awesome team to play with this year and a great coach. She really increased her skill and understanding of the game since last year, worked hard during the games, and above all had tons of fun. The coolest part is this little team of soccer super girls made it through the season undefeated!

Thanks to the fam for coming out and supporting Syd.

Way to go Dragons!

103 Beaches

2010-05-05T12:54:00.000-07:00

Last night I had just turned off the TV and was enjoying that quietness that is in our house just before we all drift off to sleep when I heard from the other room a certain little girl shout out, "Hey mom, did you know Australia has 103 beaches?!"
I started to laugh and she quickly scolded me, "It's not funny, I am serious!" "Thats cool Syd," I replied.
Needless to say my dreams were filled with Australian beaches.
Thanks Syd, I needed that.

White Shirt

2010-04-30T14:05:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like being mislead by a new crisp white shirt. I am no dumby, I know white and kids is wrong. There is no hope for a white shirt in my home, but there is something about a new white t shirt that can make a child look so fresh and clean even if for just a few minutes.

I happily put a new clean white t shirt on under Max's hoodie today and he told me "this is my boring shirt."

You wait little man, one day you too will appreciate this simple pleasure.

Talent Show

2010-04-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

Sydney and her classmates have earned a talent show in their music class. Today as I was routinely doing Syd's hair for school I asked her what she was going to do for her talent and I threw out the usual suggestions: play a musical instrument, sing a song, draw a picture... her response was,
"I want to do the reattach your thumb trick," and she promptly demonstrated.
She makes her mother proud.

Jr. Olympian

2010-04-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

Sydney experienced her first "Olympic" event as a participant last Thursday with her gymnastics program. Sydney has never been one to shy away from an audience and this was no exception. She told me later on the way home that her favorite part was standing on the podium and saluting the crowd when they announced her name and everyone cheered.

"I was really good," she explained.

Yes you were sweet pea!

10 years later

2010-04-14T11:43:00.000-07:00

First off, disregard my last post about spring being here, it has since snowed significantly at least three times since then. But today... lookin' good!

Enough about the weather, lets talk about me.

10 years ago this very month, I was a care free little spirit at Utah State University, and I decided to join with 7 other lovely strangers to start a new sorority at USU, one that would celebrate diversity. Well we did just that.

I am not your "typical" sorority gal, but this opportunity was my chance to change the image that I felt was pretty negative.

We are very pleased to also announce that that sorority, Theta Nu Xi, is now 10 years old at Utah State and doing well.

This past weekend 7 of the 8 original members were together to celebrate with many more alumni and current sisters from USU.

This is a small accomplishment in my life that I am pretty proud of and hope will live on for many many more years.

If you are interested in further info, see our website at:

http://www.thetanuxi.org/

FINALLY!

2010-03-21T15:46:00.000-07:00

We've waited so patiently, and we can now finally start to enjoy spring and be outdoors again.

Nothing like a good spring bouncing!

Don't rain on my parade

2010-03-17T15:04:00.000-07:00

Well it did. In fact it decided to snow on our parade. I am referring to the annual St. Patty's parade in SLC that we proudly march in each year and carry the Donavan and Monahan Family banners.

In true Irish spirit, plenty of well wishers, green beer drinkers, and wanna be irishmen came out in support despite the weather.

Yes I am. Thanks for asking.

2010-03-12T13:33:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am 30 years old today. Thanks for asking. I don't have any profound words of wisdom to share or any major goals I am now setting because of this milestone. I am actually quite content with being thirty. How could I complain when the first words I woke up to at roughly 6:15 am where Max saying "My pants are wet" (aka I pee'd the bed) followed by "I love you mom!"

Thanks for all the birthday wishes; hearing from my friends and family today has been the best gift of all.

Me and my grandpa Doug on my 1st birthday.

Thirty Oneth

2010-03-08T18:06:00.000-08:00

Scotty went and turned another year older last Saturday and according to Sydney he had his "Thirty Oneth" birthday. Scott didn't fancy turning 30 last year, but took this one in great stride. How could he not? We dined at P.F. Changs and ate until we were literally rolled out of the restaurant, spent the night without children at the Little America and he spent the whole day snowboarding his little heart out at Snowbird. Why I didn't join him... long story short, I am worse than a wrecking Lindsay Vonn on the skiis and Scott is damn near Shawn White. See the problem?

Happy birthday Scotty D!

FYI- a certain incredible individual is celebrating her 30th birthday this coming Friday. She wouldn't be offended by mass quantities of birthday wishes, treats and presents.

Vampire in my house

2010-02-25T17:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Sydney ventured down a road she has long been awaiting. She finally lost a tooth! Well, teeth. She managed to wiggle her two front bottom teeth out in her last ditch effort to be the LAST kid her class to lose a tooth.

She happily came to me in the kitchen holding two tiny teeth and blood spilling in mass quantities from her mouth, down her chin like she had just left a street brawl or had turned into a vampire and attacked her first victim. She was so excited she forgot the tooth pulling etiquette of sticking a wad of toilet paper in the hole to stop the hemoraging.

There was a trail of blood from the kitchen to the bathroom, and a blood hand smear on the door, marking the path she took and leaving me wondering just what I would find in the bathroom.

Later that night she scolded her brother from her bed as she tried to get to sleep anticipating the tooth fairies arrival. She told Max that if the tooth fairy didn't come it was his fault for not going to sleep.

Surprisingly enough, the fairy came once all the little eyes were closed. I don't know what the going rate is for teeth these days but I sure think it was a fair trade.

Sydney was thrilled to wake up and find her cash and has already calculated just what her whole mouth is now worth. I am now calculating how much braces are going to cost!

Newest Addition

2010-02-23T19:24:00.000-08:00

It is my pleasure as a very proud aunt to welcome my newest niece, Alivia Howard to the family. She was born today at 4:35 pm weighing in at 7 lbs 14 oz and 19 inches long.

My praise to Kelley for going o natural with the birth and delivering such a cute and healthy baby girl.

Congrats to Jer, Bryn and Kacie on the newest baby sister. She is already tons of joy and easy to love. We look forward to all the memories we are going to make.

30th Birthday Celebration

2010-02-22T18:34:00.000-08:00

I am turning the big 3 0 on March 12. A couple of my bestest friends have or are also having their big dirty 30 this year, so we decided to all get together and celebrate it together.

We did this in the way of a real casual gathering at Greenstreet in SLC last Saturday.

It was a fabulous idea and we all had a great time. I loved seeing so many good friends and family members. The time together was better than any present.

Thanks ladies for an awesome night, I suppose we will be doing it again when we are 40? Or better yet, how about 31?

Love is in the air

2010-02-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

This month I got to host Bunco and decided to make it a "love" theme since Valentines is almost upon us. We wore boas, discussed love songs, ate treats, but most of all just enjoyed each others company. I have to say we have a great group of Bunco gals.

Mandy's Gratitude

2010-02-02T18:31:00.000-08:00

Today is Groundhog's Day, no better day to start a new project, or my New Years Resolution right? I have wanted to keep some sort of photo journal for a while, so today I create "Mandy's Gratitude" blog. I hope to capture the little things that I am grateful for each day.

Follow along if you like, or create your own. We could all use some extra gratitude right?

www.mandysgratitude.blogspot.com

MLK Day

2010-01-18T16:52:00.000-08:00

Today is Martin Luther King Jr Day.

Throughout high school and more so in college I studied Martin Luther King and his teachings with a lot of passion. I was so fascinated by his non violent approach. I even wrote an essay in junior high that won me the opportunity to attend a luncheon where his daughter was the keynote speaker. A few years later in college, through an organization that I volunteered with I had the opportunity to hear his son speak. It was such an honor.

I hope that we all take even just a small moment today to remember a true American hero. We can take away so many lessons from his historical speeches and moving sermons.

If you haven't given much thought about what his work did for you, take today and reflect. I know I am thankful for his vision and I share his dream.

First attempt

2010-01-10T13:48:00.000-08:00

So this really great guy bought me a Cricut expression for Christmas. I have been secretly envious of everyone who has one, well not secretly. So now that I have my own I need to put out a disclaimer. I don't really scrapbook and I really don't know really well how to use it, but I am learning and have had some guidance from some nice friends. I am now creating a laundry list of craft projects I am going to attempt, and lucky for you I will probably blog about.

Speaking of attempts, here is my first attempt at cutting vinyl. I did this for my sons room.

I welcome your comments as I would hate to go on doing this to my home if it doesn't really look as awesome as I may delusionally think it does.

And yes, the X is a little crooked. Amateur!

7 years and counting...

2010-01-04T15:01:00.001-08:00

Happy Anniversary to us! Today we have been married seven awesome years and wouldn't trade a minute of it.

We always have a small reflecting moment on our anniversary which usually starts with "Can you believe its been __ years?" This year holds its own significance for us.

From the day we got married until now our life has been somewhat of a whirlwind. We married, started careers, found a dog, had a baby, bought our first home (all in one years time), had another baby, sold our home, and bought a new home. We are finally at a point where we can catch our breath. We are really blessed with a healthy family, great jobs, a great new home and neighborhood and each other. I really did marry my best friend, love you Scotty! Happy A!

Farewell 2009

2010-01-01T15:47:00.000-08:00

"Farewell 2009, you have been a good year to us and we appreciate you coming to visit. We are so very excited to welcome 2010."

Last night our small family celebration of the New Year's Eve included a toast with the bubbly (its Martinelli's, relax), and a couple out of state worthy fireworks. Then it was off to bed, well before midnight, well before 10 pm to be honest!

Christmas-All Wrapped Up!

2009-12-29T12:23:00.000-08:00

Once again the Christmas season has come and gone in a flash. We had good times with the families, kids enjoyed the spoils, and we spent at least three days in our pajamas until late afternoon. Here is a quick wrap up of the happenings...

Grandma and Grandpa brought us a Wii, Mario Kart is a big hit with the boys.

Santa came to visit on Christmas Eve at Grandma Mern's.

Richmond cousins during their annual "Cousin book exchange."

I finally got to meet Alicia's triplets. Too Cute!

Corbin, Nash, and Brooks.

Christmas Traditions

2009-12-20T07:14:00.001-08:00

Last night Scott's family got together to pick up his sister Michelle and her family from the airport and then we went to see the lights on Temple Square.

It has become a family tradition and is a really festive time. I am still amazed at how they put lights on every branch. I think next year I need to come watch them do that, I can't imagine the patience is requires.

Max's Christmas Program

2009-12-19T09:16:00.001-08:00

Last Thursday Max participated in the Preschool Christmas Program. Max really enjoys singing and sang his heart out. At the end they sang "Here comes Santa Clause" and Santa really showed up. Max has not been a huge Santa fan, but to my surprise he marched right up there and sat on his lap and told him he wanted a Transformer.

I hope Max understands that Transformers are pretty popular and he may not have given Santa enough notice on that one!

Free advice

2009-12-18T14:55:00.000-08:00

One of the perks of my job is I get to work with a psychiatrist on a daily basis and sometimes this results in "free" advice from him. I wanted to share his latest bit of advice that I felt was very helpful, especially for me with younger children.
"The worst thing you can do to a kid is be critical."
This probably hit home for me as I catch myself, mostly with Syd, being critical of little things about her and not putting the positive spin on them that I should.
It really sucks to see all the flaws I have as a parent, but at the same time I like to think that I am open minded enough to address my shortcomings and hopefully get better at this stuff.

Happy dirty 30!

2009-12-10T19:38:00.000-08:00

My dearest bestest goodest friend Rachelle,

Have a happy merry wonderful day.

Since you are now 30 I think you are ready to learn about the meaning of life.

You were born, we met, we've become awesome friends, we will forever be awesome friends and then we will die and remain awesome friends it a wonderful happy place.

Wrap your mind around this, make a wish on your candles and enjoy your big day.

But don't forget, the celebration continues with our combo 30 year old birthday bash in February 2010.

Love you much!

The Lone Star State

2009-12-10T12:05:00.000-08:00

Me and the kids tagged along on Scott's business trip to San Antonio Texas last Friday through Tuesday. We arrived to San Antonio and were greeted by a letter in our hotel informing us of the chance of snow they were expecting for the next two days and the below average temperatures. Vacation indeed! The hotel had a pool, Syd didn't have a swimsuit since she grows out of things at an alarming rate these days, and no, you can not find a swimsuit anywhere this time of year in San Antonio so your daughter will have to swim in a dance leotard.
They say "everythings bigger in Texas" my research concludes: not so much.Its all the same size of things everywhere else. The Alamo was even just a regular, or even shorter building then most houses.
The Riverwalk was cool, Six Flags was mediocre and cheesy, way to over priced for the time of year when half the rides are shut down and the staff is sparce, but Sea World however, (yes, there is a Sea World in the middle of land locked San Antonio)was a real treat. We immediately walked in and got to feed the dolphins and witnessed Shamu's spectacular Christmas Miracle Program.
Texas was fun, a nice break from the regular routine, but I will take the Beehive State as my prefered residency anyday over the Lone Star. Even if the temperature is below 0!

Thanks

2009-11-29T13:10:00.001-08:00

I didn't want to let Thanksgiving get too far gone before I mentioned a few things I am pretty thankful for.
I am thankful for the naked Barbie dolls that line my bathtub because they remind me of my sweet Sydney and her great sense of imagination.
I am thankful for the droplets of pee that dot the toilet seat several times a day because I know my little man is still little.
I am thankful for the "millions" of pairs of khakis I have to iron each week so that Scott has some pants to wear to work because I know that we have great jobs that provide for our family.
I am thankful for the husband who still tells me I am pretty when I really look bad, feel bad, and haven't brushed my teeth yet.
I think most of all I am thankful for my health, without which I couldn't love and enjoy any of these great things.
So thanks body, you are doing a great job, keep up the good work!

Happy Birthday Mr. M!

2009-11-21T09:54:00.001-08:00

Today Mr. M turns 4 years old! How lucky I am to have such a wonderul little man in my life.

Love you tons big guy, have a great day!

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

2009-11-15T14:21:00.001-08:00

I have some very awesome nieces and nephews, so bragging about them is a sure thing you will find on this blog. Today I am blogging about Ashton.

Each year at the elementary schools they have the Reflections contest. You remember this right? Your chance to showcase just how artistic you are. The theme this year is "Beauty is..." Ashton decided to create his own photography entry and titled it "Beauty is Colorful."

Ashton will be the first to admit that school is one of his least favorite things, but he did get excited about this project and took every picture on his own, and guess what? He WON!

His entry will now go on to the District finals. I think this is so exciting!

Below is a copy of his photo collage. Congrats Ash, I am very proud of you!

Top 5

2009-11-13T14:40:00.001-08:00

The top five signs at my house that the holidays are well on their way...
5. Two eager children have already made their letters to Santa
4. A flyer about Christmas light hanging services, free estimates! arrived on our door
3. I ordered our Christmas cards
2. I purchased the holiday scented candles
1. My little man snuck into my bed this morning and began to quietly sing "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer"

Let the festivities begin!

I think I prefer Dawn

2009-11-10T15:01:00.000-08:00

So in case you were unaware, kind of like me, there was and is this CRAZE over the Twilight book series, and now movie series.

I have avoided it, simply because teenage love and vampires has never really tickled my fancy, accept for when the original Buffy the Vampire Slayer movie came out, (I did watch that quite a few times, mostly because of the humor).

I also tend to shy away when there is a madness around certain things, maybe it is my line of work, but this never my thing. In fact, I don't know if I've had a strong passion for much of anything entertainment wise for a while. I think my last obsession was with MC Hammer and his tapes, hammer pants and music videos.

That being said... I have now lived in my new neighborhood for 6 months and have some wonderful neighbors. Especially the ladies who have welcomed me into the local Bunko group. This group IS obsessed, to say the least, with all things Twilight. Last Saturday the Bunko theme was Twilight and I of course was clueless as to why "Edward" was the catch phrase and why pale skin is so arousing. We ended the evening with a viewing of the first Twilight movie.

Another soapbox, I typically read books that are made into movies first because the book is always better. In this case I did not read the book. Maybe that is why my love for the series didn't burst into bloom, or maybe it was the super low budget film with cheesy lines, and mediocre acting. (Sorry Bunko crew!)

With all that said, these wonderful ladies continue to support my lack of understanding of this whole scene, have purchased me a ticket to the second film, New Moon for next Friday, which I will happily attend and enjoy.

Yes you can be a part of something silly that is not your style and still enjoy it when you are surrounded by fun people who, regardless of their love for a vampire, are excellent party buddies!