The Kemp Family

I've moved!!!!!!

2009-01-18T21:52:00.000-08:00

http://leanne-kempfamily.blogspot.com/

So much to catch up on!!!!!!

2009-01-06T14:04:00.000-08:00

I like posting pics, because it reminds me of what we did for the last month, and catching up becomes so much easier. Because I have so much to catch up on, these posts are going to be out of order, and probably so scattered.........but at least I'll have the memory. This pic of Marcus and Santa was taken at Lydia's dance at Tuacahn.

John had not seen any of Lydia's dancing, so he was excited to see her perform. We got there about 15 minutes early, and I realized I had forgotten her ballet shoes. I thought we had plenty of time, so I sent John home to get them.

Lydia performed two songs and John missed them both! She was sooo cute, she just loves dancing. Well, fortunately they were performing twice. It was outside, and they had heaters, and a fire, but it was pretty chilly. After fifteen minutes, they started to perform again. Lydia wanted a drink before she performed, I couldn't find one. Her class was going up on stage, and she was not going to perform until she got a drink. I told her that daddy missed her first performances and he really wanted to see her dance. Well I wasn't sure if she'd perform, because she's pretty stubborn, but I still took her up to the stage and stood there with her. The music started, and fortunately she forgot about her drink. The second time they danced, she told me she was too cold. I begged her again, and she finally stood up on stage, but stood there the whole time shaking from the cold.:) oh the memories!

Marcus(6) Lydia(3) Brigham (1) Payton(8)

I love Brig's face

lydias Dance

2009-01-06T14:00:00.000-08:00

This is Marcus and Trey up on the stage Lydia, Jayni, and Brielle performed on. The boots Trey has on are from Jordan....passed on to Marcus(he wore them everywhere).....passed on to Trey(who now wears them EVERYWHERE!)

Jayni, Brielle, and Lydia

Lydia sooooo cold.

Greggy got his MISSION CALL!

2009-01-06T13:57:00.000-08:00

We were able to go up to American Fork Monday(December 22nd) on Greg's birthday. We also got to see Tami's nutcracker that her students performed, it was awesome! I LOVE watching Sydnee DANCE!!

We are so proud of Greg, he got his mission call to Colorado Springs, and leaves in February. Maryann and I thought he better start learning to cut his own hair, or have fun butchering his companions, so we got him a pair of scissors, and a razor for his Birthday.

The kids LOVED Greg's dog Diamond. Diamond was very good to the kids.

christmas eve

2009-01-06T13:53:00.000-08:00

I took this picture off of Laurie's blog, I was excited someone took a picture of where the kids slept. We had Eleven kids sleeping over at Grandma's on Christmas Eve!

The kids sang, "Christmas Day" for all the parents,

My mom made these horse blankets for all the kids, and the adults. We still love to wrap up in them to stay warm, thanks MOM!!!!!

Then we jumped in Dad's wagon, and went caroling around the neighborhood. It was definitely the highlight of the trip.

kemp christmas party

2009-01-06T13:42:00.000-08:00

Because we came up early, we were able to make it to the Kemp Christmas Party at Jason and Mary's. It was the first time in a long time that EVERYONE was able to be there.....This is a picture of Lydia being the angel in the Nativity.

We all enjoyed watching "ELF"

This is Hayden, Corbin, Marcus and Payton playing Joseph and the wise men

We really enjoyed the party, and got a wonderful gift from John's Parents, lots of dishcloths, towels, and money! This is our sorry attempt at a picture with our Family.

Christmas Day

2009-01-06T13:34:00.000-08:00

Oh what the best Christmas Ever. The kids were standing down at the bottom of the stairs waiting Patiently to be able to come up. Jordan, Marcus, Bryson,Payton, Lydia and Jayni(Trey is turned around).

Here they Come!

Each family had a corner set up in mom's family room. This is our corner with Brig chilling on the floor.... all he wanted for Christmas was a BOTTLE!

Trey's motorcycle was definitely a hit!!!!

Brigham enjoying his BYU basketball

Brig wondering what in the world was going on!

Payton and Marcus were so excited to give their dad a BYU shirt

Lydia loved her dollhouse, and mom loves it too. All she wanted for Christmas was BARBIES!!! I loved Barbies also when I was little, but I just was getting sick of the barbie thing, so we tried "My Loving Family" dollhouse. It is SOOO much fun, and Lydia didn't even notice she didn't get one barbie for Christmas.

Enjoying all the snow

2009-01-06T13:16:00.000-08:00

Because there was SOOOOOO much snow the week we were up at my mom's, we did a lot of SLEDDING!!!!! John and Lydia taking their turn down the mountain

Cam pulled kids behind his truck, that was fun

my attempt at making a picture pretty.:)

Oh I love this boy so much!!!!! He wants to grow up way too fast though

Payton snowboarding behind the truck

Marcus didn't care about much but having fun, and boy did he have it. He pretty much wore this smile all week. Although on the last day, he got a pretty nast burn from the ice on his face.

This is my mom's street. Another highlight of the week was running the old route we used to run all the time. John does not like running, but I'm determined to get him to:)....anyway he came with us both times we went. Running in the snow is so much fun, and I really enjoyed running with my husband.

What has kept me up at night

2008-12-14T18:30:00.001-08:00

I'm not sure what it is, but I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS. A couple of months ago I got called to be the Primary Chorister in our ward(my FAVORITE calling). I knew that the Primary was in charge of an evening for a Nativity, so immediately I started planning. I started out just putting the program together, and I think I really started to make the Primary President nervous, because I tend to go ALL OUT!:)

So for the last week this has been on my mind constantly, and for the last three nights, I have gotten 4 to 5 hours a night of sleep. I have been up making signs and a folder for myself, thinking and thinking again of whatever would help this go smoothly. It was set up as a medley, so there was really no stopping, we went from one song to another, and the kids had to be ready for their part.

Of course if anyone has heard Payton sing, I had to have him sing a solo. He sang the first verse of, "When Joseph went to Bethlehem", and the Shepherds sang the 2nd, and he sang the third. Well when it came to his part, he had to get to the microphone that was on the stage, and Joanne (our pianist) played the introduction, and then started playing the song, well I don't think she noticed Payton didn't start with her, but he jumped right in and sung, 'When Joseph' real fast to catch up. I was so proud, he has a beautiful voice, he counts really well, and really has a feel for music.

I had a cute 3(Breele), 5(Jara), and 6(Ethan) year old sing Silent Night, and everyone that had parts were so good, they knew exactly when to come in, and it was just perfect. The spirit was so strong, and I honestly can say I know good music is so important in our children's lives, and I KNOW that it will and can strengthen testimony, because my heart is burning tonight.

I am sick I didn't take picture of the stage, so if ANYONE took any kind of pictures I want some please, and I wish I had someone video it. We had an awesome manger that Cam (my brother-law) made, and a stable on the stage, and a big star above the manger. While the children sang, "Picture a Christmas", the angels, wise men, shepherds, Joseph and Mary all came out on stage as we sang about them.

Major CATCHUP

2008-12-03T19:35:00.001-08:00

ok, this is going to be LoNNNg........... so be prepared! As many of you know, our lap top hit the dust, and I lost lots of pictures from it, I'm still hoping and praying my brother-in-law may be able to save it. So now I have decided that I am going to keep up on my blogs, because a lot of those pictures are on this blog. Here is a recap of our last month or so...........We had Thanksgiving at my mom and dad's and every year I decorate my mom's house for Christmas for her, cause I love to do it. This year, Michelle and I were at Roberts, and Michelle saw a cowboy Christmas tree, and we both loved it.(my mom is a total cowgirl) We called my mom up and asked her if she wanted to do a cowboy Christmas theme. She loved it, and couldn't believe we were letting her do it. Here is her finished Christmas tree, and yes there is my mom's cowboy boot in the tree.
and her banister

Thanksgiving was so nice, we spent it at my mom's and some of mom's brother's(Richard, Bob, Brian, Greg). Mom always loves to get the quartet stuff out and play, I'm glad my cello that I bought and used once got used by Bob this year. I stick to the violin, so much easier:)

Me, Brigham, and GRANDPA JOHNSON, what a handsome guy he is!

Payton played tackle football this year, and it was so much fun for him, but by the time November hit, I was so ready to be done. (his practices were Tues, Wed, and Thurs 5:30-7:30, and games on Saturday). I asked him on his last week, if he was ready for it to end, and he said, "No way, I love football!" He did really well. His team was really big, two more kids, and they would have split it, so he only played defense. He is a perfectionist, and always had his eye on the ball.

This is a picture at his last game, his team won the championship!!!

Here is his first trophy, he is so proud of it!

The night before Halloween, Payton did not have a costume, so guess what mom did til 2 in the morning! He just never could pick, and I guess I was kind of hoping maybe he'd choose to be a football player:) I told him that I would paint a skeleton on his black ninja clothes, and he liked it. I started to paint it, and like I said, "Payton is a perfectionist", he was critiquing me like crazy, "um, mom.... the skeleton's ribs are supposed to get smaller towards the bottom.....um, mom....do you know how many bones to paint.... um, mom...." I finally sent him to bed. In the morning, I got him up, and I looked him in the eye, and I said, "Payton, I was up til 2 am painting, and I don't care if you think this is the ugliest costume in the world, after you see it, the only words I want to hear are, 'I love it'. " He looked at it, gave me a hug, and said, "thanks mom, I love it." I think he enjoyed wearing it especially after getting his face painted!

Marcus wanted to be spiderman, I just couldn't get myself to buy a spiderman costume when Bryson had one he could wear, but with no mask, so I asked him if I could paint his face, and he loved it. I decided to dress up at the last minute, because Marcus said he really wanted to see dad and mom dress up, I'll have to work on John next year:)

Brigham was a puppy in the morning, and a dinosaur at night, he hated the puppy ears!

Brig's 1st birthday pics I never got up, or did I? Actually I think I did steal this pic off of Michelle's blog and post it......oh well, he's so darn cute no one will mind.

Some of his cousins, he was really unsure the whole night

Payton gave me the idea for his cake.

LAKE POWELL .....one month late

2008-10-27T07:48:00.000-07:00

So these pictures may be old, but I want this trip documented, because it was so much fun! It was a little frustrating at first, because it was a hard time for John and I. John was coaching the freshman football team, and was not going to miss a game! We were going all the way to bullfrog (5 1/2 hours away verses 2 hours to Lone Rock for us). So, I did not want to wait for John to get done with his Thursday night game, and only be there for two days. I wanted to go for the whole week. Well it worked out. Maryann and I went with our kids on Tuesday. I was able to arrange for Brigham to be babysat in the day, and have John bring him with him on Thursday. It was just wonderful to have Wednesday and Thursday to just relax without having to take care of a baby. I didn't realize how wonderful it was until John, Clayton(Maryann's husband), and Brigham came late Thursday night(actually early Friday morning). This is our campsite. It was very private, and so peaceful~~~

Nobody mentioned the little scare mom gave us. My mom is so healthy and strong, so when she got sick on Saturday night, it made us all so nervous and scared. She was playing with the kids on the back of the houseboat, dipping them in and out of the water, when she sat down, she felt shortness of breath. She thought to herself, she was too young to have a heart attack.....We were so lucky to have a doctor on board, Travis tended to her, and after an hour or so, she was starting to feel better, but insisted she go to the nearest clinic and have blood work done. Everything turned out to be ok, but it sure made me realize how much I love my mom!

I don't know if you can see Marcus' smile, but this smile was on him all week!

So Brigham was at a hard age, he was not comfortable walking, so he crawled all over, got so dirty, and put everything in his mouth!

He was trying to hard to hit the ball with the racket!

here is Ken, I mean Greg(Nice hair)!

NICE CHRIS!

The kids, and this is not all of them, there is 6 missing!

Lydia and Trey

Payton got up on the wakeboard, but would never stand up, I remember when I first got up on skis( I was eight), I never stood up either, I skied the whole loop in a squat.

Chris and Laurie catching some rays

Surfing was a fun thing to try. This is Payton and John.

These are my favorite pictures of the kids going off of the slide.

and Cam

Brigham really hated wearing the life jacket and didn't care to be on the boat much.

The air chair........John tried so hard to do it, he was up for a couple of seconds, it looked very difficult, but this is Travis showing off his back flip. That's all folks, sorry so late!

So, until I get my computer working.......

2008-10-15T14:35:00.000-07:00

I can't get my pictures from Lake Powell, and Brigham's birthday up, so until then you can look at Michelle's blog, (thanks Michelle)she put some cute one's up. Brigham is now getting his first tooth, and I think he's getting them all at the same time, because he has been really miserable for a week. Of course you can look at Laur, Maryann, Laurie's and Michelle's blog for almost all the Lake Powell pictures, but I still have some I want to put up, so until I can I'll show you the family picture we are printing, Lannie (thanks)did it in a really cool tint for me, and I love them!

Our family PICTURES!

2008-10-06T16:29:00.000-07:00

Life has been CRAZY, Lake Powell was a blast, hopefully I can get the pictures up. I can not believe I did not post on Brigham's birthday! I lost my phone, lost my camera, found my phone, found my camera, and our laptop broke, so I have to use our old computer which is slow, and is in Brigham's room. When Brig is sleeping, I can't blog (which is the time I would blog).

But, good news.... one of my best friends from High School came down to visit, and she took our family pictures. It was very stressful, and the place we chose to take it was an old barn I drive by every day(John could NOT see the vision.:)). There was never a time in the evening(because of us) that we could do it, so we did it at 10 AM, and there was only one side that was shaded, it was muddy because of the rain the night before, and trying to get four kids to cooperate it so challenging!!! But the results are awesome! Lydia's picture is my FAVORITE! I have never gotten a real good one of her, because she scrunches her nose and squints her eyes when she smiles, so THANKS Lannie for capturing a perfect one of her. Lannie and her husband shoot amazing photos, and they are up in Salt Lake. I HIGHLY recommend them. It was amazing what they captured in only a very short time (about one hour). Thank you Lannie. click here to see our pictures. You'll have to scroll down until you see Kemp family.

One year ago......

2008-09-21T18:04:00.000-07:00

This beautiful baby boy (Wyatt Lewis Larsen) was born to a wonderful family who loves him soooo much. He was on this earth for 5 months and 3 weeks, and returned back to heaven after heart complications. This sweet boy has made a huge impact on my life. His life on this earth was long enough to make me strive to be better, to strive to draw nearer to my Savior, to strive to be a better Daughter of God. Wyatt, I know your family misses you dearly, you are so loved and I just wanted to wish you a Happy Birthday.
Saturday was the day before Wyatt's Birthday. Lots of friends, neighbors and family showed up to the Larsen's home to release balloons and honor Wyatt.

Derek and Andrea are an amazing couple. Their example of faith and strength have and will help so many.

I didn't think that Lydia really understood what was going on, but today in church, as we were leaving our first meeting, many were giving Andrea a hug, I wanted to also, but because there were others, I decided to wait, and talk/hug her a little later. As I was passing Andrea, Lydia tugged on my arm, and said, "Mom, give her a hug!"

What a beautiful, spiritual sight to see these balloons released. Wyatt was loved by so many.

Andrea and her husband Derek are really a couple to look up too. They grief, and the yearn to be with their Wyatt, but they have been such an example to me, Andrea has a blog that I love to read. If you would like to read her story, (I know I have referred to her blog often, and I hope she doesn't drop me as a friend.:) ) click on her name, leave her a comment, or just gain strength like I have, she has an amazing testimony.

Oh, their sweet little girl!

I had their oldest boy in my Weebelos (scouts) den, and he is just amazing. Such a good kid, and so smart. He never showed a whole lot of excitement at Den meetings, (he's a very much get things done kind of kid) but I remember the Wednesday before Andrea was going to be induced, he was like a boy the day before Christmas. I know he loves his brother so much, and this is not what he had imagined, but he is a strong boy. Also in this picture is their eldest daughter, she is too cute for words, such a sweet, and beautiful girl

Andrea, we love you so much!!! This is the best neighborhood ever, I absolutely love the pure love that is shown by everyone!

Thank you Andrea for your friendship, and Happy Birthday to Wyatt, this day will always be a special day, I know that I will never forget what this day means to me.

Peace of Heart

2008-09-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

click here

Here comes the phone calls!

2008-09-17T10:14:00.000-07:00

So last night I got a phone call from Payton and Marcus' bus driver. She is a substitute for 6 weeks, and said that Payton and Marcus were not listening. I remember last year when Marcus' teacher pulled me aside, and said that Marcus was being difficult. Well I did a lot of crying that day, wondering where I went wrong! I have grown up a little, and didn't cry, but took it as a chance to help the boys understand the importance of respecting adults.
I actually was really glad for the phone call, because, it has more of an affect on Marcus. He will push limits until he knows there is a line. So last night after a lot of talking, crying, and talking again, I think he understood that there was a line, and he had definitely crossed it. Payton struggles with Marcus, because he tries to control him and his actions, and if you know Marcus, that is not possible. Marcus works with enforced rules, and he will do things to just drive Payton CRAZY! Payton gets really frustrated, anyway, this was our night last night.
translation: Dear Bus Driver, I am so sorry, I will be more helpful I am so sorry I should be more respectful Love Marcus

Marcus was really proud, and finished saying ,"that was really sweet huh Mom?" I said, "yes, doesn't that feel good to help someone and do something nice?" They are really good kids, I love them so much, and I love all they are teaching me. I have been praying a lot to have the guidance to know how to handle each of their oh so different personalities, and the other day, I saw a Popsicle on my coffee table MELTING!!! My first reaction was to grab Marcus' arm ( I was pretty sure it was him) and bring him in and show him WHAT HE DID WRONG! I felt a very strong "NO, just clean up the mess, and when he does something GOOD THEN pull him in and show him what he did good!" I did just clean up the mess, and I am trying to focus on seeing the good things all my kids do.(which unfortunately do not have the same impact as something they did wrong!)

IT WORKED

2008-09-17T07:36:00.000-07:00

I have been trying forever, to get videos on, because I really want to put the kids really cute hip hop. Thanks Laurie, for your help, I changed the properties, and it still didn't work, but it worked when I downloaded them again from my camera. I was downloading the hip hop video again, and then it stopped and said I didn't have any more space, so that will come soon. This is a video of Brig's first step, ON my BIRTHDAY!

Sorry, no time

2008-09-14T21:55:00.000-07:00

But read my Sunday thoughts on my new blog

From the mouth of Lydia, "Flies, get off of my strawberry, go outside and eat your own strawberry!"

SIMPLIFY

2008-09-09T09:53:00.000-07:00

Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated. - Confucius
I really need this! (click on the red word:))and this

What a WEEKEND!!!!

2008-09-07T08:55:00.000-07:00

I know that the boys started school August 12th, but I never posted this pic because it was on John's phone, so here it is. They were so excited to start school, and both are doing well.The morning Lydia started school, I was on the phone trying to fix a mistake I made on a bill, and then when I got off, I realized we had like 10 minutes to get ready! So she is eating her breakfast on her way to her school.
I'm really excited that we started this little preschool, because IT'S FREE!!!! There are five ladies in the neighborhood, we switch off, so I will teach once every five weeks!

So the weekend started with this cute performance, Brielle and Lydia got to perform at the High School half time. That was a lot more work than needed, but Lydia LOVED it. She was so cute, not shy, and fun to watch perform. I thought I was recording the whole thing, but I guess I pushed the wrong button.

I have to say though, Lydia has been a little sassy(nice word) lately. She just has such a bossy attitude, she loves to boss the boys around, and at first it was cute, but it's starting to not be so cute. Anyway, at half time, they told us to take our girls to the gate. They wouldn't let us go on the track with them, and it was just caotic with 100+ little girls. Well, my friend's little girl was in there when I went up with Lydia, and my friend was worried that her little girl would get scared again(there was an instance during one of the rehearsals when she got left by a cheerleader). I told Lydia to go find her and help her find her spot. Lydia ran in, found her, put her arm around her, and took her over to her spot. Oh, it made me proud. What a sweetie!

Lydia and her cousin Brielle, this is probably the only decent picture of the whole night.
Saturday morning I got up at 5am to run a 20 mile race. Thanks Michelle for taking these pictures. I am so grateful I had Sara to run with, she kept up the perfect pace, and I just kept talking trying to forget I was running 20 miles! I felt great, we got a decent time(3:06), and as soon as the race was over, I could barely walk(because of a blister I started to get at mile 18), and my head cold was back. I came home slept for 3 or 4 hours, and it took everything for me to get up and go to Payton's first football game!

This is a picture of Sara, me, and Shannon. Shannon is training for the marathon, and she is running her 20 miles on Saturday, ew, ew, I do NOT envy her!

We started the race about 3 or 4 minutes after the gun went off because they only had 2 port a potties, and we were in line, so we spent the whole race trying to catch up to Cam. He ran in about 9 minutes ahead of us.
Where's my picture of Payton's game? Well, it's not here, I'm a horrible mom. It was at 4:20, and it was blistering hot. I had my camera, but I only took video.

These are third graders, and it is intense. We were a little frustrated, because Payton stood on the sidelines the whole first half. Both the coaches have boys on the team, and there are about 5 that are good friends with them.(They're all good players too) John has really stayed out of the way as a parent, because he is a coach, and he knows how parents can get.
It was really hard for me to not think in my head the whole time of what I would do when I would call the coach, email him and say, "ARE YOU SERIOUS?" Ok, so I probably wouldn't, but it was so very hard.
After the half time Payton got to play, he did play quite a bit the second half, but it was always on defense. He did a good job, he was so nervous before the game. After the game, we hugged him, told him GREAT JOB, and then asked how he liked it. He told us that he didn't think it would be that much fun. He didn't say anything about not playing very much, or not playing offense, and he still loves it.
There was a time in the game where he was the safety and he ran from clear across the field to try to tackle a player running in for a touchdown. He didn't get him, and they got a touchdown. I was really watching Payton's reaction and he pounded on his helmet and kicked his foot a little. After the game, I asked him why he got so mad, and he said,"I am the safety, I should've gotten him, and our coach said that if we won and they were zero, he would buy us all a big texas doughnut!"

WHAT AM I THINKING???

2008-09-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

Honestly, 20 miles, am I nuts!!!! I am planning on running a 20 mile race tomorrow, signed up 3 days ago am I ready? We'll see Will I make it? We'll see, doesn't help to have a cold sinus headache!!!!!!!!! If you read this tonight, maybe say a little prayer for me :)

I'M AWAKE!!!!

2008-09-04T12:20:00.000-07:00

I remember listening to Sheri Dew speak, and I will always remember one thing she said, and it has stuck with me ever since. She said that when we wake up in the morning, Satan should say, "oh great, she's awake!" Yesterday I had an experience that made me realize that I am going to fight, fight for my family. On Sunday, our Sunday school teacher said something that stuck with me too. Our lesson was on addictions, and he told of an experience he had with a young man when he was in the bishopric. The young man came into his office hurt and frustrated, and very remorseful because of an internet sight he came across that was phonographic. Our teacher couldn't help but think about the what if's, What if his parents took the necessary precautions that would have stopped him from even seeing this sight? I sat there realizing that I could do better. I tend to live my life understanding that the world around us is full of evil and corruption, but I take a stand on the sidelines, and watch our children get exposed to it each and every day, thinking that there is not much I can do to change the way the world is. I know there are things that we will not be able to keep them from, but do our kids have the armor on that they will need, and yes we can take a stand and change some of the things that are happening in our own community! Anyway, I spent most of the morning filled with such a burning desire to do something more! My side ached because I was so filled with fire to step up and fight. I know that this is so important right now, and I wasn't sure what to do right at that moment, but I knew something had to change, so I decided to set up a blog that is designated to my fight for my kids, and my family, and so I can keep this blog for all the fun pictures and fun outings, but my new blog www.standfortruthandright.blogspot.com is where I will daily post things that I know that I need to be doing. that's it for now, no more preaching on this blog, but you're welcome to come and visit me, and leave your comments.

THREE POSTS IN ONE DAY!!!!

2008-08-31T17:29:00.001-07:00

Well, Laur had her baby on 19th, and we all didn't want to wait until our powell trip to see him(Crew Charles Reber), so Michelle and Cam headed down Friday, and Maryann and I went down Sunday morning. It was a quick trip, but so worth it! Maryann and Jayni drove down with me , Brigham, Payton, and Marcus. I left Lydia home with John. I loved the drive to Flagstaff, it was beautiful, and while we were driving, I told Maryann to take a picture of the beautiful mountains, and this is the picture she took, you can tell in the picture that she thought she was being so funny!!! Ok, Mares, you are a beautiful creation!
We got to Flagstaff, and were able to eat dinner with Cam and Michelle, and then say goodbye to them, it was perfect though, because we just have way too many KIDS!

Maryann did Laur's hair while we were there, I helped a little:)

We wanted to get a picture of the three of us, so we had Marcus take it, it was very challenging getting a decent one. Jayni thought she'd help.

Good job Marcus pretty decent picture, dang if only we thought of getting one when Michelle was there.

The weather in Flagstaff is beautiful, it was so nice to get a little rainstorm in the afternoon. Marcus was in heaven because he is so active, and there was always so much to do! The kids played in the rain until there was thunder that sounded like a gun shot!

Maryann and I went on a bike ride that Laur and Travis went on all the time before Laur got pregnant. No wonder she got so skinny, it was a KILLER, but very beautiful, and we both forgot our cameras. This is a picture of Brig in the baby seat, I asked Payton to watch him while I ran and got my camera, and this is what I found when I got back.

Lar, Mares, and Michelle chillin', and Sadie in her cute sunglasses!

So, now everyone in my family has one girl, and Every one of those girls are so dog gone cute! This is Sadie(Laur's girl), and Jayni(Maryann's girl).

Payton was so excited Saturday night to see Caden, he came in to my room Sunday morning at 3;00 AM, and told me he couldn't sleep. He was a little under the weather all weekend, but loved every second of being in Flagstaff. Marcus had this smile on all weekend!

MY BIRTHDAY!!!!

2008-08-31T16:27:00.001-07:00

I did not expect, especially after bombing John's birthday, to have the BEST birthday ever. John asked me in the morning what I wanted to do, and I've always loved hiking and as a guide at the spa, I always think when I'm guiding a hike, that I would love to go hiking with John, so that's what we did. John's not a big hiker, but he didn't even ask why I would choose to hike especially on a hot summer day in St. George. We started later than we probably should have on a summer morning(9:00). John loaded our bikes in his truck, and we rode 2 miles up a dirt road, that I did not want to walk.We parked our bikes, and walked in the sand until we got to the bottom of the mountain on the right.
Oh the dreaded sand, I can't tell you how many times I have heard guests complain about this sand, it was so nice to walk in it, and not have to hear someone behind me asking 'how much longer in the sand?', and 'Do we have to walk back in it?' I actually like the sand, it's a GREAT workout, and yes, we always have to walk back in the sand.

It was an AMAZING hike, I enjoyed it so much, and it was so nice to hike it with my husband. There is something about being on top of a mountain, and looking down, I LOVE LOVE LOVE the mountains, they are truly one of god's greatest creations! I can't ever go hiking without doing a yoga pose on top of the mountain, I know I'm a nerd!

Ok, maybe I'm not the only nerd!

Two of my favorites: My husband, and the peacefulness of the mountains!

Ok, this is why I can't lead this hike, there is one spot where the only way across is to jump this LITTLE crack! If you look further back on the left, you can see where you have to jump across. It is not a big jump, but the problem is, it is not flat on the other side, it's just a mountain, and a little ledge to jump to. I freak out, and every time we get to that spot I have to have someone help me over. I have jumped it once, my first time actually, but I haven't since, and I really wanted to on my birthday, but some things just don't need to be proven.:)

This day was so perfect, the gifts I got were so fun, I love that Maryann gets me a purse every year,and I got a yummy German Chocolate muffin from my friend Andrea, I love the running shoes Michelle got for me, and the sunglasses from my mom and dad, thanks Laur for the visa card (which by the way Laur, I bought the cutest shoes with , thanks), Laurie gave me some cute earrings. Laurie has always been so good at getting something in the mail for each and everyone of my birthdays. I always look forward to Doug and Kristine's(John's sister) phone call every birthday, they have never Missed a year!!! John's mom always gives a gift that I hate spending money on, this year it was temple garments.

I did not expect going to 25 main to eat and have cupcakes would be as fun and successful as it was with NINE kids! It was wonderful though, and I love their cupcakes! I love this picture, all the kids are focused on singing to me, but Brigham is eyeing the cupcakes!

Thank you everyone for making my birthday such a great and wonderful day!

After LOTS and LOTS of practice, it's finally here!

2008-08-31T16:08:00.001-07:00

John went two years without coaching football, and now he's BACK! He is the head coach for the freshman Snow Canyon football team. They had their first game on Saturday in Las Vegas. They played the catholic Bishop Gorman football team. This school is very wealthy, their football stadium was incredible! Our team lost, but did very well, John is an excellent coach, and I really enjoyed watching him with a younger team, he will do an excellent job of getting them ready for varsity.John giving the kids some encouragement after losing the game.

In the bottom right corner, John is encouraging a player, he has a talent at making anyone feel special.

This is Payton's football team, he is playing tackle football this year, and is so excited, he is the second to last on the right in the front row.

hard days....

2008-08-29T07:43:00.000-07:00

There is so much so much to update on, our trip to Flagstaff, my birthday, the cutest hip hop recital, but I find myself ....after a hard, frustrating, and overwhelming day of being a mom of four, and knowing that I am not cut out like I thought I would be.... finding strength from others. I have a sweet friend Andrea that has a beautiful boy that passed away 6 months ago, he was the same age as Brigham, I check out her blog often, she has beautiful music, and wonderful and uplifting quotes, and her blog always gives me strength, and today, I happened to notice one of her links that said Love the life you live
of course I clicked on it, because I was curious, and she had a beautiful post that was titled, 'Learning to submit'. That is what I needed today. I will catch up, but today, I needed this, I want to share it with my family and friends, so click on the colored words, because sometimes we tend to be so caught up in the way we think our life should be, and well, we do not know what we need, and we can't even begin to think we know what we need. I thank my father in heaven for all of my wonderful blessings, and especially for the opportunity I have to reach the potential that he knows I can reach. LOVE YOU ALL!!!

THEY HAVE A FOREST!!!

2008-08-21T10:23:00.000-07:00

As I was walking Payton and Marcus to the bus stop, they told me that they had four cousins who were RICH. I asked who, and they replied, "Bronson, Jake, Bryson, and Caden" . I asked why they were rich, and they said, "Bronson is because they have that big house, and swimming pool."(he is my cousin Micheline's boy, and they just built a beautiful home to fit their 8 kids, and they have a pool.) "Jake because he has a swimming pool." (Jake is actually Bryson's cousin, but we see them a lot, and they live in an area that has a pool for the homes in that area, but we are usually the only one's at the pool, so they think it is Jake's pool.) "Bryson because he has a splash pad, a putting green, and a trampoline!"(Bryson is my sister Michelle's boy, and they just put in the ideal back yard for a st. George family with young kids.) and of course "Caden because...... he has a forest!!!"(Caden is my sister Lauralee's boy, they live in flagstaff Arizona, and right behind their house there is a forest where their kids have built a fort, and they ride their bikes on the trail through it. Payton and Marcus think it is Caden's forest.)

I'm really ticked!

2008-08-19T10:19:00.001-07:00

This is a picture of Brielle holding a sign for her mom and dad last year for the St. George marathon. I ran the Salt Lake marathon in '97, wow, 11 years ago, and have not had the desire to do another, I felt like I got a good time, (3hrs 57 min) I made it under my goal of 4 hours, (barely) and just was fine with running one. I ALMOST signed up for the marathon this year, but missed it because I kept deciding and then it was too late. Now I'm ticked because two Saturday's ago, a girl in my ward asked Sara(another girl from my ward) and I to run 17 miles with her to train. I was totally excited, I just wanted to know if I could do it. I did it, and I have been running with her since. We ran 9 miles last Saturday, and I plan to run her 19 and 20 mile runs too, so I've got to figure out a way to run the marathon!!!! I'm so mad, because I really want to do it this year, so I've heard people running with other people's numbers, you're not supposed to transfer numbers, but I think if you just run as that person's name it is ok, so if anyone is not running, I'd love to run for you, I promise I'll try to run fast so you can have a good time on your name.:) Anyway, this picture is actually on the St. George marathon website, I just had Brigham two days before, and I didn't get to go, but at the last minute made signs for Brielle and Bryson to hold up, and sent them with my mom and John, and they didn't even take a picture of them holding the signs, so I thought it was so cool when someone took this and put it on the website!!!

IT'S YOUR.....

2008-08-16T12:18:00.000-07:00

Boy do we love you!!!! Integrity, one of your best qualities.
Really do LOVE you!!!

Talented in everything you do.

How we love to just spend time with you!

Dang good lookin!!!!

Awesome DAD!!!!

You are #1 in our hearts, (next to mom of course!)

Happy Birthday

Bon voyage Summer......

2008-08-12T12:34:00.001-07:00

It is over!!!! I thought summer would be relaxing, and it was anything but that, we were so busy, and with four kids home all the time I was soooo ready for school to start today. We didn't even go on a vacation this summer, but it still felt busy, and we were always doing something. Brigham is so ready to get some more attention.

Last week we went to jumpin' jacks with some friends, it was really fun, and nice and cool inside.

They had music playing, and so a bunch of girls danced and Lydia tried to join in.

Saturday we went bowling, a request from Marcus. Marcus was sure he'd be good, cause he played it on the wii.

Lydia loved it, and always ran back so excited , not even looking at how many pins she knocked down.Kaitlynn left yesterday, she was so excited to go home, I guess living with a family with four kids under 8 wasn't as relaxing for her as she thought. She said the excercise was harder than she expected, but she was really glad she did it. She excercised 5 to 6 times a week, and helped out babysitting when I needed her. Lydia is excited to get her room back, now if only we can get her to sleep in her room. I'm sure Kaitlynn was so excited to get home to her own room also.

This was actually Kaitlynn's first time bowling EVER! Great form Kait!:)

Kaitlynn's FIRST DATE

2008-08-02T20:11:00.000-07:00

Kim this is for you and Ryan. Their first daughter Kaitylnn went on her first date!!! Her date is a boy named KC from my ward. His mom is my visiting teaching partner, and I absolutely love her. He comes from an amazing family!

I did her hair this morning, and then we went shopping for the perfect outfit.

Her hair turned out cute,

and she found the perfect outfit!! Have fun Kaitlynn, I'm sure she'll put more on her blog.

Did Everyone get their copy of 'Breaking Dawn'?

2008-08-02T10:04:00.001-07:00

This is Kaitylnn, she was SOOO excited to get her copy of 'Breaking Dawn'. We drove down first to Barnes and Noble at 10:30 PM, and wanted to see what the party was like. Both of us had gotten up at 6:00 to go on a bike ride, so we weren't real enthusiastic about joining all the partying, but there were plenty of people that were dressed up, and many had shirts that said, 'Team Edward", "Team Jacob" ect. We decided to go over to Walmart and get the book cheaper. The line was sooooo long, but it went pretty smoothly.

The check out lines were so long, there were a couple of people that came in just to get a few things they needed, they weren't real happy.

I was trying to be sad because I didn't get a copy. I actually ordered a copy off of Amazon.com, cause I got free shipping, and I also ordered "The Host" which I have not read yet, but I have to say, after seeing everyone walk out with two or three copies, I kind of felt left out not walking out of the store with a copy. We finally got checked out and left Walmart at about 1:00 AM. I have not done that forever!!! I was so grateful that John and the kids let me sleep in until 10:00!!!!! I bought a Diet DrPepper when we headed out that night, because I was already so tired, but I don't think the caffeine kicked in until I was trying to go to sleep. It was about 2:30 before I fell asleep.

Well, this week we had a couple that was doing the program at the spa who stayed in our basement. They wanted to bring their baby, so we watched him while they were at the spa. He is one month younger than Brigham, bigger than Brigham, and you can tell from this picture has lots more teeth than Brigham. He was a good baby, and slept a lot. Kaitylnn took care of him, I am so glad I had help, I'm not sure how mothers of twins do it!!!

Lydia loves being the mom, she played great with Jackson.

Brigham didn't really like this new baby that was taking up his space.

My Testimony

2008-07-27T20:27:00.001-07:00

After reading the Ensign this month and reading Elder Ballards talk titled 'Sharing the Gospel Using the Internet', and listening to his talk he gave to graduating BYU students, (click here to listen) I've decided to share my testimony on my blog. I do have a testimony of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I know that it was restored for these latter days by a young man by the name of Joseph Smith. He was the young man who was an instrument in the hands of God to restore the true Gospel to earth in these the Latter days. I know that 'Joseph Smith has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it..(D&C 135:3)'. I know that Jesus is the Christ, the Redeemer of the world, he died for us so that we might live again. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, it is a daily guide for us, and with it Great will be our Joy. I know that the temple is the Lord's house, I know that families can be sealed for time and eternity in his house. I know that Heavenly Father loves each of us, and is aware of each of us. These things I testify of in the Name of Jesus Christ Amen.

This last week John and I were able to attend the temple (thanks Kaitlynn for babysitting). Just like the primary song says, "The temple is a place of god a place of love and beauty." As I was sitting there in the temple, my mind wandered, and I began thinking that I really wanted to see just a little tiny glimpse of the angels that I so often felt in the temple. I remember attending the temple soon after a cute cliente of mine passed away. She was a temple worker at the Mt. Timpanogas temple, I knew how much she loved the temple and I was certain I felt her spirit there. Well, sorry back to my story.... I was sitting there thinking that Lamen and Lemuel saw an angel and they were rebellious:

1 Ne. 3: 29

29 And it came to pass as they smote us with a rod, behold, an ^aangel of the Lord came and stood before them, and he spake unto them, saying: Why do ye smite your younger brother with a rod? Know ye not that the Lord hath chosen him to be a ^bruler over you, and this because of your iniquities? Behold ye shall go up to Jerusalem again, and the Lord will ^cdeliver Laban into your hands.

I know it was silly, and I knew I didn't need to see an angel, what good did it do for Leman and Lemuel when soon after they were rebellious yet again:

1 Ne. 7: 10

10 How is it that ye have ^aforgotten that ye have seen an angel of the Lord?

Still, we had to wait a few minutes in the temple because they were not ready, it was so peaceful and I couldn't help but keep thinking, "oh, I just want to have a little sign" ok, I know, I know that the scriptures also tell us:

Alma 32: 43

43 Then, my brethren, ye shall ^areap the ^brewards of your faith, and your diligence, and patience, and long-suffering, waiting for the tree to bring forth ^cfruit unto you.

So I knew my request was silly, but I still couldn't help but think that I just needed something to just keep me moving forward. Well, when we moved into the next room of the temple, I was walking in to be seated, and I happened to sit right next across from my husband, and it was at that moment, I felt a tender mercy from my Father in Heaven. John is truly my angel, he hates when I get too personal on my blog, but his heart is so filled with love for the gospel and for our Savior Jesus Christ, I am just so thankful that I can spend the eternities learning and growing with him. Now if only I could find a way to treat him as the gift he is to me.:) For some reason, I struggle with showing him the same kindness I show others, but it is way to easy to release my frustrations, complaints, my self conscious weaknesses, and my anger on him, the one I know loves me, and takes all the ugly I dish out.

(As I was googling for a temple picture I came across a blog of a young woman expressing her reasons for leaving the church. We now live in a world where there is so much confusion, and I am so grateful that we have a prophet that leads and guides our church in these Latter Days.)

Our 24th!

2008-07-25T14:56:00.000-07:00

We started the day out by waking up at 5:30 Am and running a 5 mile fun run at Ivins City. Kaitlynn's mom sisters and brother came down to see her run, and I knew she was in pain because she pulled her muscle and couldn't run the day before, but she really wanted to run this race, and her family was here, so she decided to try it. The trail was a beautiful trail, running along side of the red mountain, and through Kayenta on a dirt road, passing a few ranches, and then downhill . Kaitlynn was in pain probably the whole race, but she wanted to finish, and we did. I was really proud of her. Then we stayed for the Ivins City breakfast and parade, and then on to the lake. John and one of his best friends purchased a boat a couple of weeks ago, and so we took Kim's family and went out for the day. I really do love just sitting on a boat and having our family out on the lake. John has been so busy lately, he gets up and goes to football(he coaches ) at 6 am, and then to work, and sometimes, I don't see him until 9 at night. He also has a new calling in the ward(first counselor in the elders quorum), and I really do try to be supportive, but it's hard to let your husband go help others move, clean up, or just visit, he never complains though, although it takes a lot to get a conversation out of him when he is having conversations all day long, and most of them (because the spa's clientele is mostly women) are women with lots and lots of issues, so spending the day with him on the lake was really enjoyable, it's amazing how I now cherish even riding in the car with him. Then on the way home, the trailer to our boat had a blow out, we had to park it drive all the way back to costco get the tire fixed, and come back, that time in the car with him, I could have done without.:) We got home, and John barbecued his famous chicken and steak. We ended the day with fireworks, our neighbors gave us quite the show. Lydia and Smokey posing for a picture at the parade!

Kaitlynn and I running in, oh the pain she endured. Her mom Kim and sister Makenna ran in the last block with us. Maryann's in the picture also, she ran too, she pushed herself a little too hard, and was sick the rest of the day(she's way too competitive).

Marcus and Payton rode with our primary in the parade.

Yet another busy week......

2008-07-18T08:56:00.000-07:00

Brigham standing for the first time without falling soon after.

Kaitlyn is the daughter of my husband's sister Kim. She came down to live with us for a month. She really wanted to workout every day, get a tan, and just get a fresh start for school this year(what teenager doesn't?) So on Monday, we got up and ran the good ol' stop sign trail. Oh how I love/hate that thing. My mom was here with Michelle and the new babe, so she came also. My mom is like the energizer bunny. Kaitlyn did awesome, she ran/walked 3 miles up, and 3 miles down. I took Lydia and Brigham, and left the boys home to sleep. Tuesday Kaitlyn ran it faster. Tuesday night we went shopping for new running shoes for Kaityln, because she was getting blisters with her other ones. Marcus got some new running shoes too, so he wanted to run with us in the morning. So on Wednesday, I took both Payton and Marcus, and can I tell you, it was PURE JOY!!! Marcus ran most of the way, and then jumped in my stroller, which I didn't mind, because it gave me a better workout, but Payton ran with Grandma. He stayed up with her the first 3 miles, and then Grandma wanted to go to the top, so Payton turned around and ran back to me and asked if I needed help pushing the stroller. He was incredible, and not even tired. So he ran back to the 3 mile marker with Kaitlyn and I, and ran all the way back. Along the way, I let Lydia out of the stroller so she could run. For some reason, running with my kids was just priceless. Payton really had the best attitude, and none of my kids were whining, it was WONDERFUL. We went swimming later that day, and Brigham stood for the a very long time all by himself. Thursday, we ran again, Kaitlyn was really sore, and pushed through a lot of pain. I left all my kids home, because Grandma and Grandpa Kemp are here this weekend, except for Brig, I pushed him in the stroller. Kaitlyn pushed the stroller up the last mile, and I ran with my mom to the top. I told Kaitlyn to go as far as she could and try to meet us when we ran down. I knew she was really sore, so I really didn't think she would go too far, but we turned around, and she was pushing the stroller up the last mile which is STRAIGHT up. My mom took the stroller, and Kaityln and I walked up to the top and made it to the stop sign, I was really proud of her, because I knew that she was in pain.

Last night, we sent Marcus home with Grandma Meacham. She was going to take him to Kim's house to stay for a week. So this morning I got Payton up, and brought him running. He is going to play tackle football this year, and I'm really nervous. So, today was not pure joy, try pure headache, he complained almost the whole time. He was able to sit in Maryann's stroller for a little bit, but she got a flat, so he had to get out. Maryann ended up putting Jayni in my stoller and pushing it. I stayed with Payton and tried everything to motivate him. We walked most of it, and he just was stubborn. At one time he planted his feet and told me he wasn't moving, and I told him he could walk home then, and I left. After a while I could hear him yelling MOMMMM!!!! It was an angry yell, so I kept walking(I used to get embarassed about others watching my children throw fits, but I don't care anymore). He started running to catch up screaming and finally said PLEASE STOP! So I did, I let him catch up and I told him to stop screaming it was unacceptable, and we walked in silence the rest of the way. At the end, he started crying and said sorry, we hugged and talked, but oh my what a different experience from Wednesday!!!!

Baby Kade is here!!!

2008-07-10T23:02:00.001-07:00

He's here, and we're so excited. He sure is cute though, sorry I didn't take very many pictures, Amie (Cam's sister) was snapping a bunch with Michelle's camera, so I only took a few, so hopefully CAM will post a few on their blog soon. Laur and I walked in with Michelle's kids, and Michelle could not hold back her tears. She has four beautiful kids, and there is a special spirit that comes with each newborn that puts life back into perspective. Congratulations Michelle, you are amazing! Here he is 20 minutes after Birth!

All three of Michelle's kids are so excited to have Kade in their family.

Kade is mom's 17th grandchild! This is Laur's little girl Sadie, she is soooo cute

As we walked into the hospital with ONLY four kids under 7, someone made a comment about how big our group was, good thing we left 6 kids home! This is Sadie and Jayni walking with Grandma. Sorry the pictures weren't too good, hopefully you can see pictures soon on Michelle's blog.

This is for Cam!!!

2008-07-10T10:27:00.001-07:00

My brother-in-law hates being seperated from his kids, so this is for him, now tell Michelle to have that baby!

Our 4th of July weekend

2008-07-09T17:33:00.000-07:00

(This picture accidentally got erased, so that is why it is up here.) Payton, Marcus, Lydia, and Jordan enjoying the firework show at Grandma and Grandpa's.

We weren't planning on going North for the weekend, but John's brother Jason and Mary just got back from a year in China, and so we wanted to see them. On Friday, John went golfing with his brothers and then when he got back, we went over to Jason and Mary's house. We walked over to the park to play volleyball. I used to love to play volleyball, but haven't really played since High School. We played 2 on 2 (Jason and Mary; and John and I). It was a blast. The kids just played around, and we played some serious volleyball (so I thought) . We played three games, and we actually won one of them. (Jason was easy on us, he has a MEAN spike-ouch!) I didn't have my camera, but I wish I would've, cause Payton took some really cool pics with my phone, but I can't put them on the computer. We came back to my mom's and roasted marshmallows, and watched fireworks in my mom's back yard.

Grandma and Grandpa came out for the fireworks show too.

Greg always loves to be around his family. He loves each of his nieces and nephews, and it is fun to see him get so excited to see each of them.

Greg really wanted to celebrate in style, so he got a sheet, and set up a projection screen outside, and we watched 'Spiderwick'. It was so much fun, we watched 'Vantage Point' the next night also.

(This is a pic of Greg catching some rays, and Chris and Laurie staying out of the rays). On Saturday Lydia and I went with Chris and Laurie on their boat, and John took the boys golfing, they actually chose golfing over boating. John thought it was going to be crazy because of the 4th, but it actually was not busy at all.

I didn't get to wakeboard at all last summer, because I was pregnant, and we haven't been out at all this year, so I really enjoyed getting out on the lake again. The water got pretty choppy, so I decided to try the tube(not a good idea). On Monday morning, my back KILLED!

For being such a girly girl Lydia's pretty tough. I never blogged what happened to her last week; she got hit with a bat (a foam one marcus was swinging), and cut her eye. I thought she'd go bezurk when she saw blood, but all she said, was "o-my gosh, o-my gosh, o-my gosh". She absolutely loved the tube, and smiled the whole time. ( This is my nephew Jordan and Lydia)Ok, I have to stop, we have a crazy weekend ahead of us, my sister Michelle's kid's are sleeping over, because Michelle is so close to having her baby. Kim(John's sister) and her girl's are on their way down to spend the weekend, and leave Kaitlynn for a month, and Laur(my sis ) is traveling down tomorrow to be here for Michelle's baby, and spend time while Trav is in Alaska, and my mom and dad are coming down tomorrow, so I need to STOP BLOGGING!!

Brigham is 9 months today

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

9 things in 9 months1. Crawling. Brig is now crawling everywhere, but mostly to mom's feet to beg to be picked up.

2. Standing. He is now getting comfortable with pulling himself up. Unfortunately our coffee table is metal and tile, and when Brig smiles, he bounces up and down, then hits his mouth on the table.
3. Teething. No teeth yet, but he has been chewing his hands like crazy for the past two months. He loves to bite anything, especially mom's chin.
4. Eating. He loves to eat all the time; bottles, rice cereal, fruits and veggies, crackers, and he especially loves Popsicles. He still likes to nurse, but mostly at night or in the morning or when we're out and about, and I forget to bring his bottle (which happens more often than not).
5. Kissing. Oh, how he loves to kiss. He grabs the back of your hair, pulls you in and slobbers all over your face; the best kisses ever. He is also the king of pinching.
6. Talking. Mama, dada, and as Lydia tells everyone, "My brother Brigem says, 'Blah Blah'." The kids love to try and teach him new words.
7. Sleeping. Finally Brig is out of mom and dad's room, and in his own crib in his own room. He sleeps through the night, but mom loves the middle of the night feeding/bonding (every ONCE in a while). Naps are whenever and where ever we can, in the car seat, at the pool, in the stroller, but my favorite is in his crib for 3 HOURS. We still all fight over cuddling and falling asleep with him.
8. Growing. He is already wearing 12-18 month clothes, he is growing up so fast. He is now a whopping 20 lbs. The doctor says he is above average for his weight, but below average for his height. He's a solid chunk.
9. Playing. Brig loves to jump in his jumper, he loves stroller rides, he loves to go swimming, and he loves to play with his brothers and sisters as long as I am close by. He always looks back at me with a look of fear when his brothers and sister take him away to play.

Oh, how we learn...

2008-06-28T19:30:00.001-07:00

I spent most of the day Saturday doing laundry, and washing load after load. When I clean I don't listen to music, I just talk to myself. My thoughts were turned to how I was going to answer at judgement, when I am asked how I managed my finances. On Friday night, I decided since John was at a football camp, I would pack all four of my kids in the car, and go shopping. I'm sure my mom is gasping about right now, and asking, "Why would you do that?" I don't know, I had a target gift card for $30, and oh ya, I needed to pick up Brigham's crib bedding. After 8 months of being in my room, I think it's about time he sleep in his own room. I found a crib set for $69, you can't beat that!!!! So anyway, I headed to target, and oh ya, Target also had my wallet that I lost 2 weeks ago, I canceled the cards, and got new ones, but at least I know someone doesn't have it. So, we're at Target, my kids are doing pretty well; I decide to shop around a little. I bought some stuff that came to about $40. I pulled out my new wallet, and my gift card wasn't there? I don't know where I put it, so I just used my debit. We stayed and got popcorn, pretzels, and chicken fingers at Target(gross). Then I decided that I wanted to run into Children's Place to see if they had a swimsuit for Lydia, they didn't, but had some great sales for Brigham. I got him a cute pair of shorts and a shirt for church, no he didn't really need them, but I thought I'd use them for our family picture I intend to get someday soon!!! Then Lydia came up to me with this purple dress. Lately she has decided that she loves PURPLE. She carried it around and told me she "Weally wanted to get it!" I thought it was on sale for $9.99, and thought it was kind of cute how she was so determined that she wanted it, so we found purple flip flops to go with it for $1.99. She was so EXCITED! Well, I didn't find a swimsuit, but managed to spend money for clothes we didn't necessarily need, and her dress was not on sale, it was $14.99, but I caved. So we walk out, and I thought I should check Gymboree for a swimsuit. I didn't even have a stroller for Brig, I was lugging his car seat. So we all walked down to Gymboree. Of course, they were having a HUGE sale. I found the cutest swimsuit! I was so excited, it was on sale for $9.99. The kids were watching a movie, so I shopped around a little, and found a cute skirt and shirt for Lydia for only $11, and come on, tell me it is not fun to go to church with a cute new dress. So, I went up to the register, and of course had to buy the cute matching swimsuit cover up for only $7.99. While I was at the register, the lady at the counter asked if I saw the cute plaid shorts that matched the shirt I bought for only $5.99! How can you not buy them? Well, the kids were tired, and I still needed to get Brig's bedding. Why do I tell you all this, because all day today, I have been thinking, thinking about why finding a good deal makes me feel so good, and it is so easy justifying a good deal for shorts when in reality I really don't need them. I mean, am I really going to look back at my life, and say,"Oh, I remember those shorts, I got them for such a good deal." I know that I could be better, I think I find a good deal, but always end up buying more than I need. Just a thought, I have a feeling, that I am not the only one who thinks about this. I know we hear over and over again, that our generation is the generation of more, more, and more. I don't necessarily think that it is evil to shop or buy stuff, I absolutely LOVE Lydia's swimsuit. It makes me smile when I see it on her, because it is so cute. The other stuff was not necessary, Lydia would probably not even remember today that I didn't buy her dress. I just want to be smart, be conscious of my wants, and my needs, and my daily choices. On Sunday, I taught Payton's primary class, the lesson was on making choices. I told them to imagine they were alone on a raft in the middle of the ocean. They discover that they must lighten their load because the raft is riding low in the water. They must throw overboard all but two items of their supplies: Life jacket; first aid kit; chest filled with gold; Fishing pole, tackle and bait; Case of one dozen bottles of fresh water, Two-way radio, Box of emergency flares, Large can of shark repellent. This activity posed a dilemma, choosing would be difficult because they would not know what would happen in the future: they might sink and need the life jacket, become thirsty and need the water to drink, become hungry and need the fishing pole, encounter sharks and need the repellent, need the radio to seek help, get hurt and need the first-aid kit, need the flares for a nighttime rescue, or get rescued in the next few hours and wish they had kept the treasure. Anyway, how fitting that a lesson I was teaching to 8 year old children helped me so much. I am thankful that I have the choice to learn more to be like my savior. He is the true example, and it might take me all my life, but ultimately it's not about the choices that we think will make us happy, we do not know the future. I am grateful that I have the knowledge that we are here on earth to learn and grow, and we will make mistakes, and then we will learn to recognize those mistakes, and strive to be better. I am thankful to know that "The Lord is my Shepperd; no want shall I know. I feed in green pastures; safe folded I rest. He leadeth my soul where the still waters flow, Restores me when wandering, redeems when oppressed. I really felt like I needed to add this, because I struggle with this, and want to strive to make better choices not only for myself, but for my children to learn that they can't make choices by themselves without the help of the Holy Ghost, no choice is a silly choice, because each choice we make is another step closer to where we want to end up, and for me, that is back with my Father in Heaven and to hear him say, "Well done, way to make good choices!!!(or mostly good choices:)) "
Brig's new bedding, what a steal!

Lydia, showing off her PURPLE dress she picked out all by herself! The purple flip flops were only $1.99, she has a ton, but we're always looking for flip flops when we leave the house.

The shorts I was easily sold on.

Lydia's cute skirt for church. My justification,"They are both 4t, so they will fit her next year too."

The swimsuit that should have been my only purchase for her!!!

Who needs a Wii?

2008-06-26T14:08:00.000-07:00

We almost bought a wii last year, John was checking every Walmart from American Fork to St. George, and we were so close to getting one, but someone snatched it up before us. Well, after failing at getting the wii, John decided to get the xbox 360. I wanted the wii, so the kids could at least get some excercise, and not just sit and play. Well, Payton can NOT play the xbox while sitting still, so I guess it turned out ok.

52 blessings #6 grateful for a sister who does HAIR!

2008-06-25T15:06:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm so bad at this blessings once a week Laurie, but maybe I'll get 52 before the end of the year. :) OH, how nice it is to have a sister who does hair. Today Maryann came over, and we did each other's hair. I decided to go a little blonder for summer. I wanted to get a picture of the both of us, but Mares was in a hurry. I didn't do much to her hair, just fixed her much needed roots.:) She's still the cutest blond ever. Thanks Mares, I love my hair.

Proud moment for me.....

2008-06-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

so much has happened, we had a wonderful Father's day, I actually got all four kids up and ready by ten minutes to 9, and we were to church on time (very important to my husband, and very hard for me, usually he gets the boys ready, and I get Lydia ready, and we barely make it). Breakfast in bed was not possible for me, so we had a brunch when we got home. John got himself a phone , he is the king at finding a bargain and got a $400 phone for $130. John has been really busy, he has started coaching football this year, he just has a passion for it, and he took a break for 2 years, but is so ready to get back into it. He is coaching the freshman team at Snow Canyon. He has had a football camp every Saturday for the last three Saturdays, and he gets up every morning at 6 to go to practice. In his spare time, he takes the boys to the High School, and throws the football around with them , and they absolutely love it! So, I've been trying to keep the kids busy in the summer, not as easy as I thought. The highlight of this summer so far has to be a silly 5k run/walk that we signed up for because Michelle wanted to do it for her birthday. On Saturday morning, we woke up at 6:30, and went to St. George town square. I needed to register my kids, so I wanted to get there early because I wanted to beat the crowds, well it turns out we were the crowd! Not very many people signed up to run, maybe 30 or so signed up. Well, there wasn't really a start, they just told us to start running. We started running, and I was prepared to NOT get a workout, thinking I would spend most of the time trying to get Payton and Marcus to keep running. The kids started running with Maryann (she wanted a workout), and then started dropping off except for Payton, he kept running with Mares. Well, about a mile into it, I decided to run up and catch up to Mares and Payton, so Maryann could get her workout. I tried, I ran as fast as I could(I was pushing Lydia and Brigham in the stroller), but I couldn't catch them. I finally caught up to them at the very end. I just couldn't believe Payton, he was jogging with Mares like 3 miles was NOTHING! He ran in to the finish, well we didn't really know where the finish was, there was not much of an ending, but he was the FIRST one in! It was incredible, I was so proud. We got some water, and headed back to cheer everyone else on. Marcus and Bryson were next to run in. Before the race, they were handing out free candy to all the kids, and Bryson and Marcus both got a side ache soon after they started running. I took video of the race, and thought it'd be fun to post it Play by Play, so if you want to get the real effect, start at the bottom, and go up, I posted them wrong, so the first video clip is the end of the race. I ended up sweating a ton trying to catch up to this guy!

Marcus did really well, but wasn't sure why Michelle wanted to run a race for her birthday

We won for being the biggest family to run, thanks Michelle for having a fun Party!:)

(start with the last clip first and then end with the first)(ok, I threw the very last clip in, it was funny, because both Bryson and Marcus had side aches because of the candy they downed right before the race, and yes that is Michelle ready to have her baby any day RUNNING! )

Happy Father's Day Dad

2008-06-15T15:36:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to wish my dad the Best Father's Day, and reminisce through the years of my childhood. After having one girl myself, I can't imagine raising THREE more. I think my fondest memories of my dad were in the car. Because I chose to go to Lehi, my dad drove me every morning, and because I was a teenager, I had no concept of my dad having to be to work......oh the drama of not having anything to wear, and not finished with my hair.......and of course if I got into the car, and dad thought my shorts were too short, I had to march back into the house to change, of course the shorts would go into my backpack to change into when I got to school(sorry dad). I have many memories of sitting in the garage and helping my dad (really just keeping him company, and fetching his water) with the little blue Renault that my parents let me drive to school. I knew if I didn't stay in the garage until it was done, I wouldn't have a car to drive. I remember holding up sheet rock in the basement while my dad went to find nails. I remember hiking Timpanogas mountain with the family, and my dad always trying to teach us to be prepared in any situation. I remember the many, many, many times my dad would be out looking for me in the wee hours of the morning. Now that I cherish sleep so much as a parent, I am so sorry for that. I always hoped that he would be asleep when I got home, but NEVER did that happen. I remember running the Salt lake marathon and I passed my family at the end, but the only one at the finish line was my dad, I collapsed in his arms and had such an overwhelming feeling that I was witnessing a little bit of how it will be when we return home to our Father in Heaven! I remember my dad going to everyone of my basketball games, and being so supportive. I remember my dad taking me to UVSC every day the first year I went there, he always tried to get me to memorize, scriptures, or Articles of Faith. Mostly I remember the importance of Family Prayer, and Family Scripture EVERY day were to my dad. Dad never missed an opportunity to have Family Prayer. I am so thankful for my Father, and want him to know how much I love and appreciate him. Love you Dad. Greg, where did you think your good looks came from?

I love the expressions on my mom and dad's faces.

What a great example you are to all of us dad.

Payton's baptism and more birthdays

2008-06-07T20:36:00.000-07:00

So much has happened, I hate playing catch up, but I'm going to try because I know it is important to document our lives, so here it goes. On May 31st we had John's parents, his sister's Kristine, and Kim and their children, and my parents stay with us. We had a full house, but we had a great time, and the kids were in heaven. The baptism was more than words could express, the power of the Holy ghost is real, and to witness one of our own children receive that precious gift made all our endless efforts to try to be the parents god would want us to be so worth it. I am so proud of Payton. Payton and a little girl Tegan were the only two getting baptized from our ward, so after they were baptized, we went into the primary room, and listened to my sister Maryann play primary songs on her violin(thanks Mares) while we waited for Payton and Tegan to get dressed. The bishop said a few words, and then Tegan and Payton sang, "The Things Jesus Asks of Me" it was so cute. Plus, Brigham slept throught the whole baptism.( a tender mercy :) ) All in all, it was a wonderful weekend, thank you everyone for coming and supporting Payton on his special day.

How cute would this family picture be if it wasn't blurry!!!! Dog gonnit! Grandma and Grandpa Kemp thank you for coming

I love this boy!

We celebrated Grandpa's birthday on Sunday,

Grandma and Grandpa Meacham, thanks for coming

Payton's cousin Joshua

Payton's cousin's Jordan and Bryson

Payton's cousins Jasmine, and Mckenna, and of course, his cute younger brother Marcus who looks up to Payton so much.

I had to throw this picture in, I've been telling Lydia for like the last year that when she wears underwear, she can take dance. Well, she has been really good, so I signed her up for ballet. We went and bought her and her cousin matching ballet outfits and got all ready to go to dance when five minutes before AAAAggggghhh Lydia had an accident in her dance outfit!!!! We took it off, and she had to go to dance without her cute ballet outfit, she was so sad, but got over it real quick, and had a blast at ballet. This is a picture of Maryannn, Jayni, and Lydia stretching.

MORE DRAMA! Recently Lydia got my hair scissors, and cut her hair. I had to cut it into a cute little A-line bob. I put up all the scissors in the house, and then one day, I found her with her hair chopped up by her ear!!! She got scissors from Payton's back pack, and they are not sharp scissors, but she managed to do damage. I really didn't know if I could fix it and make it look cute. This is a picture of the damage, it was just chopped everywhere!

Here it is, the cut I probably would never have given her if she hadn't cut her hair, but I think it turned out so cute, it definitely suits her.

Here is my cute Brigham. He is now 8 months old, and oh we love him. This picture was taken at Jayni's 2nd birthday party, he got sunscreen in his eyes, so he had tears the whole time, but that doesn't stop him from smiling. It was a swimming party, and while we were there, I laid out my towel to try and get a few rays, and Payton laid his towel next to me, and said, "This is the life isn't it?" Kids really notice so much more than we think they do.

My mom's surprise party is after "May is too Crazy"

2008-05-28T22:16:00.001-07:00

May is too Crazy!!!

2008-05-27T22:59:00.000-07:00

Payton's 2nd grade programPayton friend Lauren

Payton loved his teacher, Mrs. Westover

Payton gave me the cutest book it was a journal that he kept at school, I love it!

John, Lydia, and marcus at Marcus' kindergarten graduation

Brigham being occupied by a popsicle at the boys baseball game, we have one Mon, Tues, Weds, and Thurs.

John and I with John's sister Kris' baby sydnee on her blessing day

Lydia telling Uncle Ryan how her brothers don't let her play with them

Kaitlyn and Brig

Payton, Bryson, and Brielle celebrated their b-days together at Jump on it, and chuckt cheese. Thid is Lydia at jump on it

Love the costco cakes

ok, we were at chucky cheese with Toby and Josie Christensen, and Toby recognize a BYU football player he played with, and I guess he went on to play pro, so we had him sign Payton's football he got for his birthday. I don't remember his name, I'll have to ask John and get back to ya.

Payton in the ZONE

Greg we know how much you love CHUCKY CHEESE

Michelle and Brigham with their cute matching outfits

What a busy month, I am still trying to get the post done for my mom's birthday surprise, the biggest day ever, it was so much fun, but it'll probably be under this post so keep checking for it, hopefully tomorrow I'll get it up.

The surprise of a lifetime

2008-05-26T14:37:00.000-07:00

About a month ago Grandma J thought it would be a fun idea to celebrate my mom's retirement from teaching 26 years of violin. In 1983, my mom decided that she wanted all four of her daughters to play violin. She bought two violins for Laur and I, and then bought a tiny little violin for Michelle that cost $250 (Laur has that violin, and has taught all three of her kids on it). She started teaching us, and decided to teach others. Her first students were the Kelly girls. Their mom did hair, so my mom just traded violin lessons for hair care. She taught using the Suzuki method. For the rest of my child hood I grew up listening to violin music .
As I was calling her old students, I was able to hear just how much she truly had an impact on all of their lives.
Well , with much planning, we were ready on Saturday. Laur and her family drove to St. George Friday night, and we all headed up on Saturday. We got there, and spent the day setting up and getting ready. I can't believe we kept it from my mom. Jordan was at my mom's on Saturday helping his dad work on my parent's deck, and my mom said after later that she was a little sad he didn't say anything about it being her birthday. (Good job Jo!) Well, we got it all set up, and there were probably 70+ people there ready to surprise her.
My dad took her out to eat along with Grandma and Grandpa J, and Grandma M. Grandma had told my mom earlier that she wanted to go to a concert that was being held at the City Hall.
They finished eating at 6:30, so my dad was sweating trying to think of how to stall for 30 minutes. We told him not to be there until five to 7:00. So he sat in the car for a while and slowly ate his mint he got from the restaurant, and when my mom asked why he wasn't going, he slowly put his seat belt on, and started going. To make life harder for him, we called him and told him we needed him to stall longer, and so he told mom he had to run home and get something for my brother Chris, and that did not make mom happy, she hates to be late especially when they are going somewhere with her mom. Then, I think he tried pretending he got sick from the restaurant and needed to find a restroom and literally stopped the car and started walking down the road. :) Oh dad, we love you and your efforts!!!

Well, they made it, and we were ready, and mom had no idea. It was so wonderful to surprise my mom like that. I tried so hard to add more clips of the program, but was unsuccessful. I think they were just too long. The first video is of course my mom's reaction. Then, we started the program. Dad got up and gave a few comments, and then two of mom's recent students played the violin. Then Doug (my oldest brother) got up and talked about mom telling him to practice the piano so he could palm the basketball one day. His daughter Sydnee(aside from being the best dancer/gymnast) played the piano, then Bryson(Michelle's boy) played the piano, and the second clip is of my Marcus playing. Laur's three kids; Caden(7), Matthew(4), and Sadie(2) got up and played the violin, so so so cute!!! Then Chris(my brother) got up and talked about playing the cello, and told of how he'll never forget- E 2 2 3 11 A 1 2 3 E E E. (that is one of the Suzuki violin songs we heard mom saying over and over in lessons). I told him I'd write down some stuff I wanted him to mention, but I knew he didn't need me too, he did a GREAT job, very touching and you could tell he loved his mom very much. Then Laur played a beautiful solo on her violin. Then Greg(my baby Brother) got up and gave a few comments, he did such a good job, he's got such a special relationship with my mom, he showed such gratitude towards mom, I don't think there was ANYONE who wasn't crying. Then Serena(mom's student), Lisa (mom's student), Laur(her daughter), Michelle (her daughter), Maryann(her daughter), me, Amberly(her niece), Graig(her student), and Taren(her student) all got up and played the Bach double duet. It is a graduation piece. Then, I got to introduce Serena. Serena flew from Los Angeles to be here. She is incredible! She started when she was three. Her family came to America from Korea, and my mom was a wonderful friend to Serena's mother. Serena was a natural, and graduated all of the books from Suzuki so fast. She has become a professional violinist, she has played in many, many orchestras, and her achievements are far too many to write. She has played for many movies, and is in an upcoming movie. Serena stood up and gave a very touching tribute to my mother before she played. I wish so bad the clip would have worked to upload on here, it was absolutely breathtaking. You have to pay a lot of money to hear someone like her. Her violin piece was AMAZING, and I still might keep trying to put it on here, because I don't think very many people have heard anything like it. Well, after Serena, we asked my mom to say a few words. She said, "This is Heaven". She was just taking it all in, she wanted to look at everyone, and in the middle talking she'd recognize an old student, and ask about them and what they were doing. My mom is such an inspiration, and to have a role model like her to follow is good and bad. Good, because I strive to become a daughter of God like her, and her example helps me through many of my own trials. Bad, because oh I want to be lazy sometimes, and I try to remember when I have every not seen my mom working hard, and I can't. Then her kids and spouses and their kids(all 29) sang, "Thanks for the music".

It was a perfect night, and I just want to thank all those who helped make it possible. Thanks Grandma for the idea and for getting us the perfect place to have it. Thanks to all those who helped with refreshments. Thanks to all of her students who made such an effort to be there to celebrate with us. Thanks to Laurie for spending so much time remembering the little details, and making the beautiful program. Thanks to Cam for making the dvd that was playing by the refreshments. Well to end the most perfect night, my mom drove away in a brand new SUZUKI car!!!! What a night!

Brielle's Dance

2008-05-22T11:28:00.000-07:00

I sure hope this worked. I don't think the sound did, but one of the things that made me sad to leave American Fork was missing seeing Sydnee dance. I loved going to all of her dance recitals, cause she was the best one and was so animated, and good. Well, now we've got Brielle to watch here in St. George. She surprised even her mom, she was so, so, so cute, and fun to watch. Good job Brielle, I can't wait to go to your next recital!!! Brielle is the second to last girl on the second row to the right. I can't wait to get Lydia dancing, Jayni and Lydia have ballet class next week. Natalie Jackson(Brielle's cousin)is right in front of her.

Happy 8th Birthday Payton

2008-05-15T22:53:00.000-07:00

Payton loves Star Wars. He was showing off his moves in this picture(age 6)

Ok, I do hair for a living, so everyone of my kids (except Brigham of course ) has had this process done, Payton was just not too thrilled. He was 3 in this pictureHe is 2 years old in this picture

Payton is obsessed with Spongebob!

Happy birthday Payton!!!!

Mother's Day--Should be every DAY!:)

2008-05-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

Payton's mother's day book

I would definitely prefer a dog, but I guess a cat is more motherly

Payton playing basketball, and mom running I guess it's ok for him to think that's my favorite activity

I know mother's day is not about the gift's , but oh how this makes me want to be a better mother! When we built our house a year ago, I convinced John that we had to have it plummed for central vac. I swept my wood floor, and vacuumed my floors with my horrible vacuum for a year, so this was a very very exciting giftJohn woke up at the crack of dawn(our church is at 9:00!) to make me his famous YUMMY 'Bread pudding' . This time he mixed up a little cinnamon frosting to put on top oh oh so good!
These are my Boys, so perfect. Marcus couldn't wait til Sunday to give me his gift from school, so I opened it on Thursday. He was so excited because I mentioned that all I wanted for Mother's day was chocolate, and he made me a chocolate hershey kiss necklace. He also wrote a cute book, "I'll love you forever . My mom is beautiful because she has pretty hair. My mom always says Clean your room. My mom and I like to play duck duck goose. My mom's favorite clothes to wear are her pink shirt. My mom really loves to play hide and seek." I really need to take a picture of Payton's book, because the art work is so good. Brigham is now sitting up by himself, so that is a great mother's day gift!!!
Lydia, oh Lydia, what would I do without her? She is such a joy and keeps motherhood ENTERTAINING!!!
This has nothing to do with mother's day, but Payton made this cute letter for his teacher, he is such a thoughtful boy!! "Dear Mrs. Westover, Thank you for all that you had done for us. You are the best teacher ever. I love you, and thank you for teaching us math and you are very nice. Love, Payton.
This is what makes all the days soooooooooo worth it!

The Hurricane half marathon

2008-05-05T13:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, on Monday, I decided to sign up for the Hurricane 1/2 marathon. I thought about doing it for a while, but it wasn't until Lisa (my friend from up north) told me she was running it and wanted to get together while she was down here, that I decided I would do it. I ran a full marathon 12 years ago it was such a spiritual experience for me. I think EVERYONE should run at least one marathon once in their life. For me, when I saw my family at the end, and then my dad at the finish line, the feeling I got when I collapsed in my father's arms was so strong, and I knew that that was what it was going to be like when we return home to our Father in Heaven and collapse into his arms, and hear him say, "Well done!" That was 12 years ago, and I remember it like it was yesterday. Well, so on Wednesday, I convinced Maryann to run 9 miles with me, and then I tried to register her, and couldn't, and I emailed and called Hurricane city, but no luck. Friday Lisa went to pick up her packet from the Hurricane office, and called me and told me they had extra registration forms!!! She registered Maryann, I was so excited. Saturday morning I got up at 4:15 AM, and went and picked up Shannon, and then Maryann, and we headed over. It was a beautiful run, and I really enjoyed it. I felt great the whole time, and to run with my sister was so great. In fact Maryann said that the night before she had a dream that Michelle (7 months pregnant) signed up and showed up to run with us, if anyone knows Michelle, that is not surprising, she probably could've ran it. She was at the finish line to greet us though. It was a great run, but I'm not sure about the St. George marathon, today I woke up with major back pain. What is wrong with my back, I hate thinking that running is not good for it because that is what I love to do. What do I do? I also have something going on with my right knee, I hate getting older!!!! The end came sooner than I thought, I was excited that I never really hit a wall.

Maryann, so graceful!

I love that all my sisters are so active. Maryann was never planning on running a half marathon until 3 days before, and she did GREAT! We both ran it under 2 hours, I ran it in 1:52, and Maryann ran it in 1:53.

The girl that got me motivated to run! Thanks Lisa, I really had a good time running with you.

Two girls from my ward ran, this is Shannon, and Sara also ran, but she had to get to a baptism, so I never got a picture with her.

ANYONE NOT RUNNING?

2008-05-01T13:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, this may be a long shot, but I registered to run the 1/2 marathon in Hurricane this Saturday, and I convinced my sister, Maryann to run with me, and I went to register her, and they are closed!!!!! Does anyone know anyone who signed up and is not running, and she could take their spot? I'm really bummed, because I ran 9 miles with Mares on Wednesday, and I was so excited to run with her, all we need is their confirmation number, and of course we'd pay for the spot!!

HERE COMES THE SUN

2008-05-01T07:23:00.001-07:00

I love girl's weekend! This last weekend, the Keilman girls came down for the weekend, and invited me to join them for their getaway. We went hiking in the morning, and got a great workout, and got a LOT of sun, oh boy did we get plenty of sun, and poor Annie even got some blisters.:( We went shopping, and stopped at Nielson's to get the best custards EVER!!! I had a great time, thanks for inviting me girls. Sue Keilman has 9 children, 6 GIRLS, and 3 boys. This picture is of Rachel, Annie, Debbie, and Amy. Becky came down also, but she just is pregnant, so she decided not to run up the mountains. Sara was the only daughter missing this weekend, and we also were missing the three daughter-in-laws.

Silly picture of Amy and I, but here is the most dangerous, but most beautiful flower down here. The fishhook cactus is what is called, so watch out for it while hiking.:)

52 blessings #6 FRIENDS

2008-04-27T12:25:00.000-07:00

Ok, I don't have a picture, because that would be almost impossible to have a picture of all of those that have had an impact on my life. I was on Amie's blog, and she had a link to a beautiful video of the saviors life. I am so grateful for friends who make me stronger, and who help me to become a better more christlike person. Thanks Amie for posting this video, it made me realize how fortunate I am to have so many friends that I look up to so much and gain inspiration from. I am SO grateful to be around such wonderful friends. Click here to enjoy the video, and then call a friend.:) The music is absolutely beautiful, it makes me want to get my cello out and relearn it.

WE"VE BEEN BUSY!!

2008-04-20T22:03:00.001-07:00

John's sister Kim planned a surprise birthday getaway for her daughter Kaitlynn, and her friends, they came down to play, and boy did we have a blast. Here we are Saturday morning at 'The Egg and I' for breakfast. Lydia was so excited to be the ONLY toddler, she was so hyper, so Kim had to distract her and play games with her while we waited for our food, Lydi loved it!

Then we went shopping, and Lydia was in heaven. She had so much fun with these girls, they dressed her all up in jewelry, and she really thought she was 14.

Lydia and Camry looking stylish

We went hiking through Payton and Marcus' favorite slot. Payton and Marcus like it because they slide right through, it gets pretty small.

This is the end of the slot

These are all the heads of hair I did while they were here, it was actually really fun, John watched the kids upstairs while we were downstairs doing hair, and eating yummy treats. Jasmine was brave and dyed her hair red, it was so cute.

On Monday we rode my mom and dad's horses that they keep here.

It was fun for my kids, they couldn't stop smiling all weekend

Marcus in his cool cowboy boots, and Lydia is a little nervous up on the fence. We have so much fun, this time of year is fun because of all the visitors we get, thanks Kim, Kaitlynn, Jasmine, Tracey, Malorie, Camry, Whitney, and the girls for coming to see us.

Well right after they left, my parents came down. My mom and dad have two horses down here, and they brought two more horses that can pull a big wagon. They keep them right down the road from Fitness Ridge. The owner of the property has been there for years, and actually made this park that the kids play at every time we go to see the horses. He made this cute circle swing thingy, I'm not sure what it is, but the kids pull back and forth on the bar in front of them, and it starts to go round and round pretty darn fast.

This big circle wheel was a blast for the boys

Here's my Lydia just as dirty as the boys!

Maryann and Jayni came to play, Maryann came over, and decided that instead of weaving her hair again, we'd just put the blonde all over to be faster, it went really blonde, I think it's cute, she's twinners with her daughter.

My mom and dad stayed for 4 days, longer than they usually do. My mom just does not ever slow down, was constantly cleaning, and working. My mom never ceases to amaze me. She went over to Michelle's house and cleaned, and she never stopped cleaning while she was at my house. Although it was nice to have her help, I hope that some day, she can come down and just relax, so my goal is to try to get my house so clean there's just nothing for her to do.:) Thanks mom I really do appreciate all that you do for me. When they left, Payton said, "I don't ever want to grow up, because you have to live far away from your parents, and you don't live with your brothers and sisters."

Brig and Lydia playing in the van

My cute dad getting the horses used to pulling a wagon. He had broken ribs while he was down here, but you would never have guessed it!

Why we moved South

2008-04-08T11:15:00.000-07:00

In August, we will have lived here for 3 years. Boy the time has flown!!!!! Three years ago, we packed up and moved South, and a lot of people thought we were crazy. Since Cam and Michelle started Fitness Ridge(used to be The Body Shop Spa), I wanted to move down here, but I didn't think John would ever move to here. But three years ago, John came to me and said he felt he needed to quit his job, and look for something else, he agreed on coming here and talking to Michelle, Cam, and their business partner Tami. I remember the day, it was 118 degrees, and I remember thinking that I would love to move here and be closer to my sister, but I wanted it to be good for John. He was coaching at American Fork,( a hobby he absolutely loved), he really enjoyed living in American Fork, and always complained about the heat when we came down here to visit. Well, after he talked with them, he was excited, and he told me he loved what they were doing, and wanted to be a part of it, so within a week, he was working for them. John has worked really hard, and he really enjoys it at Fitness Ridge. He is the person people talk to when they call and book their stay. He is able to be reached at any time, and I can't tell you how many times we have been in the car, and John has said, "Quiet!! Dad's on the phone." The kids are actually quiet, why can't I do that? Anyway, it has been a wonderful 3 years, and the last year has been so exciting since the big article in USA today(click here to read) and then the big national exposure on Biggest Loser when a weeks stay at Fitness Ridge was the prize for the challenge (click here to watch the challenge from the show). Then Michelle told me to read this article from Laura (a lady from Access Hollywood who recently came to Fitness Ridge for a week) click here to read. I finally read it today. It took me a while to read this article, because Michelle didn't make a big deal of it, that's just her personality, she is not at all bragadocious, so I will be for her.:) Her partner Tami came to her 5 years ago with an idea, they had an opportunity to start something that a lot of people would have turned away from because of fear of failure, now look what it has become, I think it is incredible. I am so proud of John, he is truly a man of integrity, and humility, he works hard, and so many times guest will tell me how kind and helpful he is. Since all this exposure, now I really don't see John, he is so so so so so busy, but I know he loves what he does, and he loves what he is selling, and believes in it. Fitness Ridge is for everyone, those who want to lose weight, get in better shape, eat better, live healthier, and do something good for their body. Ok, now I'm selling it. :) There you have it, now we will raise our family here. I love it!!!

Highlights from General Conference

2008-04-06T19:48:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed this weekend of conference, and I can't wait until I can read what was said, but these are a few talks that touched me:

Elder Russel M. Ballard gave a wonderful talk on Mothers especially young mothers, it gave me strength and encouragement, to live in the moment. He told of a cute story when he realized how exhausting it was for his wife to sit with 6 children in church. He also talked about how recently he learned that motherhood comes with a lot of twisting, bending, and lifting after he took on a lot of his wife's responsibilities while she was recovering from back surgery. I loved he talked to the children how he told them to listen as he told them how they could help their mothers by picking up their toys, making their beds, and saying thank you. The time our children are with us is only 1/4 of our adult lives, and the most important time of all in a child's life represents less than 1/10 of our lives. Don't over schedule, Find time for yourself making time for things you can do to replenish yourself, avoid any kind of substance abuse, don't waste time on TV, Internet surfing, and soap operas(there are many shows that would fall in this category).

I loved to listen to D. Todd Christofferson who just got called into the Quorum of the twelve apostles, his humility was so touching as he talked about his calling. He truly has given his life to the service of our lord and savior. He talked about being born again is not an event, it is a process and engaging in this process is the CENTRAL purpose in mortality. On this path of spiritual rebirth he promised that temptations will lose their appeal, through christ we can become Holy. His commitment to his service in the church was touching, and I believe that when we can lose our self in the service of this gospel like he committed himself into doing, will bring true happiness.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf was a delight to listen to, he talked about magnifying our callings. He said, " We do not seek nor do we decline callings that come from god." I have always loved my callings in the church; Sunbeam teacher, Laurel leader, Relief Society song leader, Primary song leader(LOVED), Enrichment leader, YW/YM music director, nursery leader(especially because Payton was in there), but the calling I received in this new ward kind of threw me off, I was called(with John) to be the Webelos Den leader! When the bishop asked John and I, I seriously was kind of upset. I accepted, hopeing I would be released as soon as the Bishop realized he had made a mistake, which hey, "We all make mistakes." Oh how wrong I was. The Bishop is not running our ward, the lord is, I know this to be true now. I have learned so much about the scouting program, and I honestly did not think I would find myself falling in love with the cute 10 year old boys like I have. This boys are so amazing, and I am so amazed at their kindness, and true christlike attributes. I have a testimony that if we serve in the church, and magnify our callings we will be greatly blessed, and we will become more like christ.

David A. Bednar talked about improving our prayers. I loved his example about praying and asking Heavenly Father to lead the missionaries to individuals and families who are prepared to receive the gospel. It is our responsibility to find people for the missionaries to teach. Missionaries are full time teachers, you and I are full time finders. We should not be praying for the missionaries to do our work. I remember shortly after my sister Lauralee returned off her mission, she was always still sharing the gospel with others. I remember one time I asked her how she happened to come across so many people who were looking for some truth, and she told me that when she prayed, she asked Heavenly Father to guide her to those who were seeking for truth. Elder Bednar told us to pray for courage and boldness to share The gospel, thanks Laur for being such a great example to me.

The tabernacle choir sang my very favorite song from the Primary songbook, "He sent His Son" I just love this song; "How could the Father tell the world of love and tenderness? He sent his Son, a newborn babe, with peace and holiness. How could the Father show the world the pathway we should go? He sent his son to walk with men on earth that we may know. How could the Father tell the world of sacrifice, of death? He sent his Son to die for us and rise with living breath. What does the Father ask of us? What do the scriptures say? Have faith, have hope, live like his Son, help others on their way, What does he ask? LIVE LIKE HIS SON."

A much needed haircut!!!

2008-04-06T19:16:00.000-07:00

I loved Lydia's A-line haircut, because it was short and so easy to do, and so cute. But I decided to grow out her hair, and now it was looking way too straggily, and although, I wasn't excited too cut bangs, I really had too, cause she walks around with her hair in her eyes.

Mexican Layers

2008-03-30T17:46:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have to write this down before I forget, it was so yummy! I found it on the internet, and it was actually made into a pizza. I just layered it with flour tortillas, and it was really yummy, I might try it on pizza dough though:

Cook about 1/2 pound of chicken, and at the end add a little water, and one pkg of taco seasoning
Layer tortilla's in bottom of 9x13 pan, then top with a layer of refried beans, followed by green enchilada sauce, chicken mixture, and then cheese, layer with another layer of tortilla repeat layers, and then end with tortillas topped with cheese. Bake @350 degrees for 30-40 minutes without cover, and enjoy.
Garnish (my favorite part): tomatoes and cillantro chopped up and put on top after you bake it.

I need to start saving recipes I like!

2008-03-30T17:45:00.000-07:00

Cold Cheesecake

1 8 oz cream cheese
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1/3 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla

1 graham cracker crust

Beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla. Pour into graham cracker crust and chill for 1-3 hours until set. Top with fresh, frozen, or canned fruit topping (or eat plain)

52 blessings#5.... grateful for kids who have the biggest smiles

2008-03-30T17:31:00.000-07:00

52 blessings #4.. Grateful for healthy bodies

2008-03-30T17:27:00.000-07:00

52 blessings#3 ...Having a child old enough to help with the baby

2008-03-30T17:23:00.001-07:00

In his own way of course. :)

Kemp Look-alike Meter

2008-03-28T15:24:00.001-07:00

This was really fun, I did all my kids, Marcus looked more like me by 12%, Lydia looked more like me by 22%, and Payton looked equally like John and I.

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Family tree diagram - Family history

Easter picture

2008-03-27T20:19:00.000-07:00

IT"S OVER!!!!!

2008-03-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

before (12 weeks ago)

After

Well, three months of hard exercise, and trying to eat 1500 calories or less, is over!!! This last week I have worked so hard, my body is soooo sore. Monday, I got up and ran with my cousin Micheline (on the Meacham side). She is amazing, after 8 kids, she looks sooo good, and she is tough. I ran 8 miles with her, and I was so glad she was doing most of the talking, because I could hardly talk, and my legs were on fire. Her pace was so fast, and we never stopped!!! Of course the feeling of accomplishment was so worth it in the end. On Tuesday, I went to her 6 am kick boxing class, and I thought if I did one more squat, I would collapse. After her class, we lifted weights, oh I am a whimp, I followed her, and had to lower the weight on every station. Then I went with Cam and Michelle to Snow Canyon to run our famous trail. I pushed my stroller the first 3 1/2 miles, and then Michelle watched the kids, while Cam and I ran up the last 1 1/2 miles. I did everything in my power to stay behind Cam, and not let the distance between us get larger. Then Wednesday morning was the weigh in, and I met Micheline for one more run, this time only 5 miles, but then I ran to the spa, and weighed in. I lost 37 pounds. My body fat percentage when I started was 32.7%, and today it was 16.8%! So, I was in the lead, but there were a few more people who hadn't weighed in. After everyone weighed in, Cam called and said I WON by .2%!!! How close is that? The prize was $1000.:) So John and I, and Cam and Michelle went to Pasta Factory for lunch, and then Michelle and I went shopping!!!!

52 blessings #1

2008-03-24T12:30:00.000-07:00

Ok, Laurie and some others started this in January; each week, they show a picture of something they are grateful for, and at the end of the year they will have 52 blessings. I thought about doing it, and of course like everything else I think about doing, I didn't do it. Well, I want to, and when I saw this picture on Laurie's blog, I decided I was going to start, and how fitting that I start with my savior, I am so grateful for his atoning sacrifice, he IS my Redeemer. (I'm going to have to do a couple a week, because it has been 12 weeks.)

52 blessings #2

2008-03-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

I'm grateful for my van. We've had this van for 6 years. Chris bought it at the Vegas Auction, and we bought it for $4500. It has been a great van, we've had it paid off forever, and it just keeps running. It is great for the kids, I don't stress as much with all the snacks. John asked me if I wanted to get a new van, and of course I'd love one, but I think I'll drive this til it dies.

ONE WEEK LEFT!!

2008-03-20T15:19:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am one week away from 12 weeks of competition. http://www.fitnessridge.com/ challenged all their employees and family members to a Biggest Loser competition. Next Wednesday is the weigh in, and the person with the most weight loss percentage will win $1000. Today Laur was in town, and so we all went up to Snow Canyon; Travis, Laur, Caden with his Heeley's, Matthew in a stroller, Sadie in a stroller; Michelle, Cam, Bryson on his scooter, brielle in the stroller, Trey in the stroller, Me, Payton on his Heeley's, Marcus on his Heeley's, Lydia in the stroller, and Brigham in his stroller, the WHOLE gang. We went up the first 3 1/2 miles, stopping to let the kids run some of the trails, and sometimes I would push 3 in a stroller, so I was tired, and weak, I convinced myself that because I haven't been eating as much, my body was too weak to be pushed, and that's exactly how I am in competitions--go hard in the beginning, and getting ahead, and then relaxing, and slowing down towards the end. When we got 3 miles into it, Cam told me I wasn't working hard enough, and I needed to go harder, so he told me to run ahead, and they took my stroller. So I did, I ran, and I kept running up 2 more miles straight up; I had to talk to myself quite a bit to keep running-'keep running', 'don't stop', 'you're almost there', 'just keep your feet moving', 'you want to win!' Well, the talking worked, it was totally mind over body. The body is a powerful thing, and way too many times we baby it, and convince ourselves we're pushing it too hard. Well, if you want your body to start having results, you have to shock it, you have to push it harder than you've ever pushed it, if you think you are working hard, your body can work harder. Now on to the eating---it's Easter weekend, and I think it'll be easier because I am so close, but now it is so important to not eat any empty calories!!!!

Be Still My Soul

2008-03-16T12:43:00.000-07:00

Wyatt Lewis Larsen

Today, we walked in to church right after the Bishop made a few announcements, I noticed that the ward seemed a little different, and then John leaned over to tell me that a family in our ward just recently lost their baby. I gave him a dirty look because it angered me that he would say such a thing, because that could not have happened, he was a beautiful baby boy, he was two weeks older than Brigham, and his mom and I were often in the nursing room together. He passed away earlier this week, I'm not totally sure what exactly happened, he was life flighted to primary children's with heart complications. I'm not sure how to write my feelings, I have feelings of guilt that I still have my baby, and so much sadness for the loss of my friend. I'm not sure how I could go through a trial like hers, but I am so grateful for the knowledge that this is not it, this life is just a preparation for eternal life, she will be with her son again. I came home, and opened the hymn to this song, hymns are always so comforting to me; "Be still, my soul: The lord is on thy side; With patience bear thy cross of grief or pain. Leave to thy God to order and provide: In every change he faithful will remain. Be still, my soul: Thy best, thy heavnly Friend Thru thorny ways leads to a joyful end." click on here to see his goodbye from his familyhttp://www.legacy.com/HeraldExtra/Obituaries.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=105727998

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARCUS!!

2008-03-13T11:45:00.000-07:00

Marcus holds a special place in my heart, he is ALWAYS smiling and always happy, he loves life, and today he is 6!!! This picture was taken when he was 5, and the picture below was taken when I was 5 what do you think, do you think he's mine? I am so thankful for him, and we've got a big day planned, so I'll post later and post some more updated pictures.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DOUG!!!

2008-03-12T09:05:00.000-07:00

I love this picture Michelle took of Doug couching Greg

I just wanted to wish my older brother Doug the best birthday. The things I remember most about Doug while growing up was that he just absolutely loved to hide behind a corner, and jump out and scare me. He would be talking to us all, and when he knew I was deep in concentration and listening, he would all the sudden turn to me, and say, "Rawrrr" (how do you type that?) Anyway, I would totally scream and give him the reaction he loved!! I remember when he was going to school at the U, and he lived at home for a semester, and I was just starting out doing hair at "Madison", he would call me up at work and ask if I wanted to go running. Of course since I was just sitting trying to build up my clientele, I dropped everything and he and I and our dog buddy would go up to Alpine and run in the mountains. He always beat me up the hill, but I think I had him on the distance.:) I remember working out with him at the little gym in AF, he always made me feel that he really cared, and he took time out to spot and show me how to lift weights. I loved going to every one of his basketball games at the U, and have truly enjoyed watching him coach, he is an amazing coach. He is such a great brother, and has the cutest family ever, Have a great birthday Doug. They have now joined the blogging world, click here and check out their new blog http://dougandtami.blogspot.com/

ok, who's running the St. George marathon?

2008-03-08T20:19:00.001-08:00

Today, as I was enjoying my workout without kids, I got to thinking about the St. George Marathon. I ran the Salt Lake Marathon in 1997(?), and I just haven't had the desire to run one since. I absolutely loved it, it was definitely something I would recommend to everyone to do once, and it was such a spiritual experience, I've got pages and pages in my journal about how it impacted me. But running another one to me is like returning to heaven after this lifetime, and saying, "That was fun, when can I do it again?" I just don't really have the drive to do it again, but since I live here, I feel like I should run it at least once. I guess I'll try running the Hurricane 1/2 marathon and see if I get any motivation.

Today was a great workout, I got to go without my kids, and

I love running in Snow Canyon on Saturday. The park is full of cars, people from all over come to St. George this time of year to get out of the cold, and most people come to Snow Canyon to hike. I love to watch people explore little bits of Snow Canyon. Today I started running the Stop sign trail, and as I got a mile or so into it, I decided that since I did not have any of my kids, I was going to go off and hike. I love running up these mountains, they are safe, but tough, and it is easy to get a good workout in, and enjoy the beauty of Snow Canyon.This computer used to belong to "The Body Shop Spa", so I found this picture of Michelle doing a yoga pose in Snow Canyon.
Here is my back yard, I LOVE IT!!!!

Happy Anniversary John

2008-03-06T09:47:00.000-08:00

weren't we cute nine years ago

Nine years ago we were getting married today, wow, we've come a long way.

I hope you're as excited now as you were then

We drove to California for our honeymoon, and stayed in St. George with Chris, Laurie and Jordan one night, look how cute Jordan was nine years ago.

Michelle Welch had a really cute shower for me before I was married, and she had people write their advice and I thought I'd share some:
Adrienne Higginson said,"Always remember to lauh a lot, igore a lot of things, and show a lot of love."
Eileen and Britanie Brown said," Take time to make each day fun."
Marianne Roberts said," Smile, smile, smile, and then smile! And keep your toenails clipped, and smile. Fix him what he likes to eat, and smile. Give him lots of hugs, and smile. Pray a lot, and smile. Don't sweat the small stuff, and smile. Spend less than you earn, and smile. Trust in the lord, and smile."
Heidi Binnall and Hillary said, "Leanne , take my adivice, not the advice of crazy friends that miht scare you, make him give you all his Money!!!! Don't ever let him know how much you make every day, because he will want it. Keep yourself a stash, so you can buy clothes and makeup and new things for your house."
Ada Eckles and Lindsee Shipp said, "Get on for the ride of you life!!! Always smile and have a good laugh, nothing is too big or too hard if you can laugh!"
Debbi Sermon said, "just keep lovin each other Forever!"
Diann Mott said, 'Remember that laughter is the best medicine and ven in the worst of situations you can find something to laugh about. It eases tenseion and reminds you of why you fell in love."
Michelle and Maryann said, "Go on vacations (invite your sisters!)
make traditions together. Attend the temple together. Make a weekly date night tradition. Always show your love for each other. Give us lots of nieces and nephews."
Cristy Dowse(then) said, " Go on dates together and spend time talking. Laugh and smile. Have fun notes for each other in random places."
Sharon Bell said, "Keep a sense of humor. When the kids start coming, make sure there's still plenty of time for John."
Sandy, Katie, and Rachel Barney said,"Don't listen to anyone who tells you to never go to bed angry-sometimes it's better to get some sleep so you can think more clearly. Always keep in mind why you decided to get married."
Lisa Radmall and Linda Bloodworth said, "Be flexible, learn to give and take. Laugh at the little things and some big ones too. Plenty more to think about but you'll have to figure that out too! ((I did) or at least I'm still trying.)"
Tami Meacham said, "If there is bread and milk in the kitchen at all times, John will always think there is something to eat! Enjoy every single moment with each other! It is GREAT!"
Diana Leiter said, "Always be best friends. Enjoy doing things together. If John likes something do it with him and have him do things you like too."
Candy Terry said, "Read your scriptures together and talk about what you think. It will give you a realy nice opportunity to get to know each other spiritually."
Arlene Heiner said, " This is advice for John. My husband John gives this advice often and I love it, "A Happy life is a happy wife!"
My mother-in-law said,"Stay home as long as you possibly can to raise your family. They are little for such a short time. Don't argue about methodology for family prayer, scripture reading and family home evening just do them and do them often."

My mother said, "Just realize the most important work you can do is raise children and keep the commandments, and encourage John in his priesthood responsibilities."

THREE WEEKS LEFT!!

2008-03-04T20:50:00.001-08:00

Ok, I haven't posted about our competition for a while, too many other fun things to post about. I was at a Plateu for like three weeks losing only one pound if that a week, and it was frustrating, but all last week Brigham was sick, Lydia was sick, and although I still took them on the stop sign, there were a few days, it was just too cold, so I would try to do something else, or run when John got home or one day I ran before the kids got up(I am not a morning person). So on Monday I was walking the stop sign pushing both Marcus and Lydia, and I was so frustrated, because I had no energy, and it was hard just to walk, I didn't make it as far as I wanted and I was really mad at myself. Today, I decided I better step it up, because there is only three weeks left, and my kids really think I am going to win.; I am a very competitive person, and I start out hard, but I have always struggled with finishing hard and winning, it's like I feel bad for the other competitors or something. In fact tonight we had the Pinewood Derby, and Payton turned to me and told me he felt bad for the losers. But, I have come so far, and my kids keep asking if I am winning the competition, and I want $1000, and it is fun to fit in to my jeans again. So I decided today I was going to make it up to the stop sign. I started out running and feeling good, I was pushing Marcus and Brigham in the stroller, and I had more energy today, so I keep running, I was ready to turn around so many times, but I keep going, and I made it to the top!! If anyone is a fan of the Biggest Loser, you've seen how hard they work, and how hard they are breathing, that is exactly how I was breathing. I knew I needed to shock my body if I was going to get some better results. I came home and weighed myself, and I have lost 28 pounds. This competition has been such an eye opener to me. I have learned a lot about what we can really accomplish if we want to. I can not believe how hard it is to pass up food, or just limit ourselves to one serving, there is nothing easy about it, but when I do, I feel so good. I also always remember what my mom told me, "You know what it takes like, you don't need to taste it again." Some foods are just not worth it. On Sunday, my mom made her killer brownies, and I told myself I could have one serving, and I did, and usually, I would eat more than that for sure, they are KILLER BROWNIES!!! It scares me to finish this competition, because I already have a list of all the foods I want to eat, I just think that because I've worked so hard, I will still be more conscious of what goes in my mouth.

Fun Weekend

2008-03-02T18:04:00.001-08:00

This weekend, my Grandma and Grandpa Johnson came to St. George, What a treat!!! They came down Friday night, and went to Kim's house in Vegas on Saturday, but they came with us to church today, and we got to spend time with them today.

Grandma helped Payton with his journal entry
I am thankful for Grandparents who have always been an example in my life.

Here we all are gathered around the web cam to talk with Travis and Lauralee in Arizona.

There they are, Travis, Laur, Caden, Matthew, and Sadie!!!

my awesome mom, and how could you not love Poppy doo(Maryann).

I am so thankful for my husband, he went shopping for me on Saturday, came home, put all the groceries away, got the meat out for Sunday dinner, tenderized it, marinated it, and made Strawberry jam. Then on Sunday, he amazed us all with his yummy beef skewers, very tender chicken, and yummy hot dogs for the kids.

Our fun weekend (two weekends ago)

2008-03-02T16:55:00.001-08:00

We can't go up North without going over to Grandma and Grandpa Johnson's and performing---Payton sang, and Marcus played the piano
Bob and his girls were visiting Grandma, so we got to spend some time with them.

Marcus and Lydia ADORED Jemma's dog, Hooper.

Ok, I can't always be good, chocolate is just too hard to pass up.

John was a better teacher than I was. This is a picture of Marcus and dad getting off the lift.

Marcus, getting the hang of it

Payton picked up real fast.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDMA KEMP!!

2008-02-28T22:28:00.000-08:00

I wanted to post a little Thank you on my mother-in-laws birthday. She is a wonderful mother, and Grandmother, and I am so grateful for the way she raised her children to be so kind and loving to everyone they associate with. She taught her children to be outstanding children of God, and proud to be who they are. Although we all tease her about her Perfection in all that she does, I love that I see Payton taking on that quality, and wanting perfection in all that he does. She can remember everything about her kids when they were little, and my kids love to hear stories about their dad when he was their age. We love you Grandma, and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Horder? I'm guilty

2008-02-26T20:15:00.000-08:00

(sorry, the story is below the pics)

I am horrible at holding onto stuff, but my husband's just as bad, after Michelle and I loaded this onto the truck, he wanted to go through it and make sure it could all go to D.I. he saves EVERYTHING!!!

Now my house is open and without the clutter I am amazed at how I feel, it makes me want to keep throwing stuff away, and stop buying useless STUFF.

My laundry room is clean, and clutter free, Michelle helped me go through a lot of clothes, I held on to shirts that I absolutely hated, but felt guilty throwing out. RIDICULOUS!

The boys function better with all their stuff organized, and because we don't have a play room, a lot of toys got thrown out, but they could care less.

Did anyone see Oprah's show on hording? One lady filled a huge wharehouse full of stuff out of her tiny house. Well, I think my sister Michelle was so sick of hearing me complain about having such a cluttered house, and I was actually getting depressed because I couldn't get a handle on things, and I felt that there was just never enough time ect. ect. I have to thank Michelle for helping me not become like that lady on Oprah. Today, we went running, and then she came home to my house and helped me fill up two garbage cans, and our truck full of D.I. I have been guilty of putting aside my stuff to go through later, and not throwing anything away. I didn't realize how the stuff stacking up made it so much more difficult for me to function as a mom and wife.

Our office was my junk room, I had boxes in there of papers, picture, you name it, it was there for me to go through later. I moved Lydia's room to the office, and put Brigham in Lydia's room, so I cleaned out all of the stuff in the office and filled my living room, it was really ridiculous how much stuff I collected. Michelle was here, and she spent 7 hours helping me go through it, I am so truely grateful that she was here, because I would never have gotten it done, and we would have lived in caos, and clutter causing stress on my family and I. I really feel like I can breathe.

I have always loved going into someone's house that looks so open, and free of clutter, but honestly wondered where there stuff is. Well, I guess I didn't realize, that they throw it out. The stuff that I have kept thinking I'll look through it or use it someday, it did nothing, but sit in the back of my mind causing me useless anxiety. Thank you Michelle. Funny story..........she handed me a CD, and told me to put it somewhere, well, I wasn't sure where I wanted it to go, so I put it in a basket in my room (full of other odds and ends-to find a place later!). Well, a while later, she decided to go through the baskets in my room, and could not believe I stuck the CD in there. I'm going to be better, I swear. My house looks wonderful, and so OPEN! :) Thanks michelle.

Memory lane.....

2008-02-23T11:03:00.000-08:00

Trey and Lydia, "Best Friends" This was taken last year
Last year also, Lydia loves her aunt Michelle
Classic picture, if you notice that Darth Mole has his eyes locked on Marcus. Marcus is slowly standing up, and then runs to his dad.
Lydia and Grandma Kemp last year
Jason and his daughter Haley. They live in China now. This was taken over a year ago
Kemp family
Last year in the snow at Grandmas
I love having a girl!!!
Classic mom laugh, I love Maryann's look, oh how we LOVE our mom.

Ok, so much has happened, I have some really cute pictures from our fun weekend up north, I'll post them later when I can get them on my computer. I love going home, and I love the snow. We went up for John's sister's baby shower, and to see John's brother Jason before he went back to China. His family is living there for a year while they both teach English, and what an amazing experience they are having. John wanted to come back home Saturday night, and I just wanted to hang out at my mom and dad's house on Sunday. So, because Monday was Presidents day, I told John that we should take the boys snow skiing on Monday. I was so excited because he agreed, and so I got to stay and hang out with my family all day Sunday. Jordan and Jemma were there with their cute little dog while Chris and Laurie were in San Diego, so the kids had a blast, and I got some cute pictures, I will put them up as soon as I can. Skiing with the boys was so much fun. Although, John surprisingly (I thought I was the most patient person, until I became a mom) was so much more patient with the boys than I was, I was so nervous that they were going to get hurt, I babied them a little too much, so we took turns skiing with Marcus, then Payton. John had them snow plowing by themselves everytime he took them. I skiied with them in between my legs, or holding on to my pole. After lunch we took them to the big lift, and they went down great, Payton got so comfortable, he started singing while he snow plowed down the big hill. They did great for their first time, I loved the whole day.

Yo what up!?1?

2008-02-17T13:37:00.000-08:00

I''ve been tagged....but first.....

2008-02-10T20:49:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a weekend. Laur came to visit on Tuesday night.... Wednesday, we went to Michelle's and tried to see what she was having with her ultrasound machine...Laur and Michelle are both having boys unless we were looking at the umbilicle cord. Thursday we all(Mares, Michelle, Laur and I ) walked the stop sign. I hope Laur posts the picture she took with all of us and our kids that we try to bundle up and keep happy for two hours. Lydia was horrible on Tuesday, she was so cold, but would not keep her hands and feet covered, so after many times of telling her she would not get to go to Michelle's house (her favorite place to go after we walk), I let her walk for the last 1/2 mile. So I kept to my word and did not let her go to Michelle's. Well on Thursday, she was an angel, she layed back and kept herself covered, and when we were almost done, she turned around and asked me, "Are you going to let me go to Brielle's?" Soooo cute. On Friday we went swimming, the kids had a blast, and we got babysitters and went to see '27 dresses' on Friday night. Since I am still in this weight loss contest, I was really trying to be good, I bought Mike 'n Ike's for John, and told myself I wasn't going to eat one, I kept remembering what my mom said to me..."You remember what they taste like." and I didn't have one, it was a proud moment. We went to Bajio after, and John wasn't that hungry, so we shared a salad. Saturday, we ran the stop sign with only 3 kids, I love to run with my sisters. It was so fun to have Laur and her kids here that long, she just like my mom always cleaning, I just woke up and found my kids bathroom scrubbed, thanks Laur. We were constantly feeding little ones, but the kids were so thrilled to have their cousins here. Well, today my mom sent Valentine's cookies with Travis and I'm sorry I had no will power with them I know what they taste like and I wasn't willing to not taste them, lots of them....YUMMY! Thanks mom
Ok here's the questions for the tag:
10 years ago......I was 21, I was still dating a boyfriend from High School, an on and off, and on and off relationship that was not going anywhere, he was a great guy, and fun to hang out with, but I think we both knew that we were not going to get married, so the day before Valentine's we talked and decided to end it,(truth be known it was his idea to end it, but I knew it was right to end) and I am forever grateful, because I met my husband that same year 5 months later. I remember....I know this is silly, but true, so I'm going to write it anyway so I never forget.....I was praying because although I knew it was the right thing for our relationship to end, it still was frustrating, and I remember feeling so peaceful, and I felt so strongly that I had not yet met my husband, I got a small glimpse of him in my mind. Well I got set up on a blind date, and didn't want to go because I was going back to school, and thought I wanted to find my husband, but when John showed up to my door, I answered it and knew he was the one. We were married the next March.
Things on my to do list....tomorrow, I've got to get up and run the stop sign.....plan Marcus' school Valentine's party....plan my meal for the week, and buy the groceries(four of us make four meals, and swap)....plan Weeblos den meeting.....help Michelle plan her awesome fun Valentine's dinner(let you know more later)......get rid of all of my left over pregnancy clothes, and get my closet organized.....get caught up on laundry.....pay my bills......start on my curtains.......organize Lydia's closet(she just got a box of clothes from Brielle)......sneak in some time to read Twilight (ok, I gave in and started reading today)......buy something for John for Valentine's day.....does the list ever end, of course I will probably only get 2 or 3 things done on this list and then it will carry over the next day.
Snacks I enjoy..... I love cadbury creme eggs,... I love caramel apples with white chocolate and cinnamon,... I love homemade caramel,....I love a cold orange cut up in slices...... I love.....I'm trying to think of something healthy......my snacks lately because of the contest have been....yogurt thick and creamy.......100 calorie kettle corn popcorn......lots and lots of ice water.......a sweet potatoe cooked in the microwave.
What would I do if I were suddenly a billionaire.... I would buy a house with a swimming pool in the backyard, and a basketball court in the basement, I would have a guest house also, I would have someone deep clean my house once a week, I would travel, I would have a vacation home somewhere on a lake(preferably Priest Lake)....I would buy a house boat on Lake Powell...I would buy my parents a home right next to mine that had a beautiful barn and lots of horses and hired help.
3 of my bad habits...... I bite my nails.....I am a procrastinator.....I flick my kids way too much.
5 places I have lived..... AF, Lehi, Ogden, Washington Utah, and now Ivins.
5 jobs I have had..... How could I forget Bayside Bagels, my family loved it because I brought home bags of bagels everytime I worked. I worked in Wyoming at Turpin Meadows Ranch, and cleaned cabins, did dishes and entertained guests with the fiddle. I worked at Fine Print in Ogden, I liked the printing business. Madison Salon and Chloe's Salon (both names I wanted to name my girls).
5 things people might not know about me..... In school, I was voted 'Class Clown', 'biggest sluffer', and was also voted 'Best Legs'. I regretfully got out of class a lot because I came up with excuses, I used my innocent personality to convince teachers, like being on the volleyball team and leaving when they had an away game........I am not proud, I still made the honor role though. I have no idea how I got best legs, I hate my legs, I have big ankles, my husband's are smaller than mine I swear. Before I was married, I went on 30 blind dates( go figure I met my husband on one). I have had hearing loss all my life, but didn't get hearing aids until I was 22(too proud ) because of my pride, I lived in a quiet world. I transferred out of my neighbors honors english class because I didn't want to say I couldn't hear her. I couldn't hear most of my teachers, so I did a lot of catching up at home. I could never hear my Sunday school teachers, and at sleepovers, I would pretend I was asleep when the lights went out because I couldn't hear whispers. How I would love to go back and not be embarrassed about something so dumb. So if I seemed stuck up, I wasn't , I just couldn't hear. Is that 5?

I tag my sisters and my mom, Laurie, Ruthann, and Lannie!!!!! How many can I tag?

My support group

2008-02-03T15:31:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, I woke up, and because I am competing in a Biggest Loser contest, I knew I had to exercise, and I DID NOT WANT TO! John told me that he would come with me, and so we packed up the kids, and drove up to the stop sign trail.

Payton rode his bike, and John pushed Lydia and Brig.

I pushed Marcus in the stroller(his bike had another flat!). It was good because he was able to ride the bike when Payton got tired. The kids know I am in the contest, and they keep asking when I'm going to win the $1000(they each have a toy in mind :)). The highlight of my day was when Marcus turned around and said,"Mom you're getting so skinny."

We made it up to Galloot(3 miles up), and we all ran up the red rock. Snow Canyon is so beautiful.

John and Lydia

I know that everyone got a lot of snow up North, so this is nothing, but there was enough to have a snowball fight, and the kids were satisfied.

As Marcus was running up the rock I heard him say, "This is the best day ever!" We ran down the mountain, and at the end Marcus fell and hurt his knee, and then he said,"This is the worst day ever." We can never win.

We had a wonderful time, and I burned 950 calories! :) I have a post on my daily efforts below if you want to read, I have learned a lot doing this contest, and if it wasn't a competition, I don't know if I would be able to do this every day, hopefully I am forming habits.

Pics from Lydia's Birthday

2008-02-03T15:10:00.000-08:00

Bryson, a little too excited
Lydia, the princessPayton sneaking some cake

Jayni, not in the partying mood

All seven of them, a very rare occasion when they are all SMILING

Follow the Prophet, don't go astray.

2008-01-28T17:18:00.000-08:00

Tonight for family home evening, I really wanted to help my kids understand how much I loved President Hinckley, and I saw on someone's elses post his beautiful testimony he gave in the April 2006 conference, and what a gift we will always cherish. I shared his testimony with my kids, and of course the 9 ways he has taught from his own life to be happy and make something out of our lives.
Be Grateful
He always spoke of his deep gratefulness for his sweet dear wife Marjorie

Be Smart
I loved this interview with Larry King, it was very obvious Pres. Hinckley was well educated, and was very smart in helping others understand our religion without turning them away.

Be Involved
He was the most traveled President of the church, and did not miss any opportunity to be involved. Here he is lighting the Olympic torch of Neil A. Maxwell.

Be Clean

We know Temples were of great importance to him.

Be True

He spoke the truth in over 2000 speeches. I remember one comment he made about having a hard time coming up with something new. I loved his humor.

Be Positive

Even when he lost his best friend his wife of 67 years, Marjorie Pay Hinckley, died in 2004, he told Larry King: “The best thing you can do is just keep busy, keep working hard, so you’re not dwelling on it all the time. Work is the best antidote for sorrow.”

Be Humble

Many leaders around the world had deep respect because of his humility.

Be Still

What better place can we go than to the House of the Lord, and so many people are blessed to have a temple closer to them because of him.

Be Prayerful
I pray that I will remember the things this great prophet taught.

President Hinckley's testimony:

"I hope that all of you will remember that on this Sabbath day you heard me bear my witness that this is God's holy work. The vision given the Prophet Joseph in the grove of Palmyra was not an imaginary thing. It was real. It occurred in the broad light of day. Both the Father and the Son spoke to the boy. He saw Them standing in the air above him. He heard Their voices. He gave heed to Their instruction.
"It was the resurrected Lord who was introduced by His Father, the great God of the universe. For the first time in recorded history, both the Father and the Son appeared together to part the curtains and open this, the last and final dispensation, the dispensation of the fullness of times.
"The Book of Mormon is all that it purports to be—a work recorded by prophets who lived anciently and whose words have come forth "to the convincing of the Jew and Gentile that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God, manifesting himself unto all nations" (Book of Mormon title page).
"The priesthood has been restored under the hands of John the Baptist and Peter, James, and John. All the keys and authority pertaining to eternal life are exercised in this Church.
"Joseph Smith was and is a prophet, the great Prophet of this dispensation. This Church, which carries the name of the Redeemer, is true.
"I leave you my testimony, my witness, and my love for each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."
President Gordon B. HinckleyApril 1, 2006, Sunday morning session of the 176th Annual World General Conference

I want to win, but chocolate is soooooo good!!!

2008-01-27T21:24:00.000-08:00

Ok, if you have been reading my 12 weeks of what's a good word?.... misery,...no it's.... ok it is that bad. Anyway, I have been writing down my daily efforts; I want to write them down, because it helps me stay motivated to do something everyday knowing I have to report it.

Wednesday, I got up and went to Michelle's church to teach yoga, I love yoga, but it does not burn many calories. I thought about working out that night, but ended up doing hair at the spa for 2 hours. I weighed myself, and I hve lost 15 pounds yeh!

Thursday, I got up to run the stop sign, but it was raining, and I can't take me kids out in the rain, so I got a silly idea, I put on my heart rate monitor, and ran up and down my stairs to get my heart rate up. When my heart rate was up to about 160+ I ran around my house cleaning. If my heart rate started to get below 110, I ran back to the stairs and ran up and down two or three times, then continued cleaning. I ended up burning 450 calories, that is pretty good, and my house looked a lot better. Lydia got a kick out of my energy, she was running around with me.

Friday, Michelle's kids were still sick, and she didn't feel so hot, so I had to attempt the stop sign all by myself. I waited till Marcus got out of school at 10:30, and I took his scooter so he could ride it. I have to say, I was so close to going to walmart instead, but I ran, and burned 800 calories. Marcus didn't ride his scooter, so pushing three kids was a great workout.

Saturday, I played church ball again, and there were 8 of us, so dang it I only burned 500, but it was fun.

Sunday is hard because I don't exercise, so the eating is always hard for me, soooo hard. The eating is what is going to get me, but I found a treat that almost tastes like a banana split ( french vanilla yogurt, bananas, frozen raspberries, and a little hershey's chocolate drizzled on top. YUM). I like that this contest is 12 weeks, because I am forming better habits, I am not perfect, but like a 300 calorie ice cream bar, I would eat without a problem, but now it is easier for me to just eat half because I am aware that is all I can spare. Tonight at the baptismal fireside they had cookies(the costco ones), oh they probably had 200 calories a piece, but I chose not to eat one, because it wasn't worth it, (the treat has to be better than a store boughten cookie). Before this contest, I would have eaten it no problem.

Monday: It was so nice to wake up knowing I did not go for that snack that I wanted so bad last night. I got all ready to run the stop sign, it was cold, so I bundled my kids up and drove up. Michelle and Cam met me there, and we went for about 1 1/2 miles and decided to turn around, cause the wind was so strong. I was bummed because I knew if I didn't get my calories in, I would not do it at all, so I gave Michelle my van and I ran to my house which is only 3 miles, but in the wind pushing a stroller it is tough, I burned 600 calories. yeh, and it didn't rain on us.

Tuesday: Ok, if it's not one thing, it's another. It was a blue sky today, but up in the canyon there was ice on the paved trail. Michelle, Cam and I ran up (Cam pushed both strollers-quite a sight), we had to go kind of slow because it was icy, but I was so glad, because I got blisters yesterday from my new shoes, but my back felt great! Running down was just pure misery, Lydia would not get under the covers, and I had to run flat footed because of my blisters. I did burn 600 calories, I am slacking on the 1000 that was what I wanted, but at least I'm trying. I have been doing pretty well with eating, but made the mistake of making cookies for FHE. I thought I could be good, and at first I didn't even feel like I needed to have even one---then I broke of a little bite and scooped some ice cream with it mmmmmmm, I was a gonner. I didn't actually put any in a bowl, but by the time I was done snacking I might as well had a bowl. Today I am craving valentines candy, but I will not buy it. I am waiting for valentines day, and then I am going to reward myself. The food is the hardest, but because I am very much aware of everything I eat, and allowing myself to make mistakes, it is getting easier.

Wednesday, today I taught yoga, I love the stretch. I went and worked out at the spa in the evening, it is so boring to burn calories in the gym, I got to only 400.

Thursday, it was a beautiful day, I ran the stop sign with Michelle, and Jessica, I burned 950 calories. My back felt great, and my blisters were a lot better.

Friday, I did the stop sign by myself. I took Marcus,Lydia, and Brig. Marcus held on to my stroller strap, and wore his heeley's, but half the time he was in the stroller, it was not very fun, I was so not motivated, and my heart rate monitor stopped, but I probably did around 800.

Saturday John and the kids came with me, we had a wonderful time, I burned 950 calories. Last night I bought candy and ate it instead of dinner, so I was so sluggish, and had no energy, so the kids kept me motivated. I weighed myself, and I have lost 18 pounds in 4 1/2 weeks. Mom, you might not beat me!!:)

A day to remember

2008-01-27T18:33:00.000-08:00

I'm sure everyone knows and experiences the Sunday morning craziness; I have to get up before my kids to get myself ready for church, then John usually gets the kids cereal, and then while the boys get dressed, he takes a shower, one of us bathes Brigham, and then I get Lydia ready, trying to make her hair cute, and get to Church before she messes it up, then we all jump in the van and try to arrive before the opening prayer-9:00 church is a killer!!!! Of course today was no different, but we did get to church on time, I sat down, exhausted and not sure if I was ready to deal with trying to keep Lydia quiet, keep the boys reverent, and keep Brigham asleep. Then an older gentlemen in the ward stood up and gave a beautiful prayer, his prayer was one that was certainly from the heart, and it definitely put in to perspective the small efforts that I am making each day to teach my children, that I know will have an effect on the choices they make throughout their lives. The gentleman's wife, (they are both Polynesian) gave a beautiful closing prayer in her language, and all that happened in between, to be honest, I didn't catch much of it trying to keep kids quiet, but to listen and feel the strong spirit that both of the prayers brought was so worth it.

Tonight was Payton's baptismal fireside, I can't believe our oldest is at the age to get baptized(May 17th). It was a wonderful fireside teaching the kids about what they need to know about that very special day. Payton said the opening prayer and did a wonderful job.

Our dear prophet President Hinckley passed away tonight, I can't help but think of how wonderfully happy he is to be with his dear sweet wife. What a wonderful life he lead, the televisions news programs about his life were so well put together, it is obvious that he is a prophet that is loved by so many people around the world. When life gets tough for me, I often remember the letter his father wrote him on his mission telling him to; "forget himself and go to work", he did just that and kept doing it throughout his whole life.

Happy Birthday Lydia!!!!!

2008-01-23T22:16:00.000-08:00

My little girl is three today!!! I was so excited to have a girl, but the joy she has brought to our lives is unlike anything I could have imagined. She is three, and I love when everyone writes the things they love about that person one for each year, so this is a piece of cake:

1. She is so full of life, very social, kind, determined, thoughtful, and so darn cute!

2. She loves her "boys" (how she refers to her brothers) especially "Briggen".

3. She is such a girly girl, loves dolls, American Idol, Dancing with the stars, barbies, Dora, painting her nails, putting on her makeup, playing with ANY ONE'S hair, talking on the phone, doing yoga, shopping, dancing, singing, but she also loves to watch Superman, Spiderman, and power rangers with her brothers.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LYDI!!!!

Still hangin in there

2008-01-22T21:27:00.000-08:00

Well last week was not so good:
Monday, I walked the stop sign, my back was still in pain

Tuesday, walked it again, but actually ran down with Cam and Maryann, I literally held on to the strap of my stroller while Maryann pushed it. My back was hurting at the end. I did go to the chiropractor, but because of my fear of popping, this chiropractor did not believe popping was necessary, (yeh) He adjusted, pushed, pulled and I walked out pretty hopeful.

Wednesday, I taught yoga with Michelle, and felt much better.

Thursday, what a joke, we started walking, I noticed my tire flat, Cam got his pump, while Michelle and the others went ahead, the pump did not work, so I got my front pack and put Brig in it, and Cam was going to run ahead and get Michelle's stroller, come back and put Lydia in it. (there have been many times when we have had three in a double stroller). He came back, and walked with me because I couldn't run with Brig, and after a couple of miles, his stroller had a flat. Well, we walked back with Lydia and Trey, and Miya. Miya stayed in the stroller, and Trey and Lydia walked all the way back. We got to the bottom at the same time Michelle, Debbie and Kayla got back, and they ran to the top!!!!!!!!

Friday, had to visit teach, planned on doing something but didn't.

Saturday, I played basketball for the first time in 12 years!!!! Our ward had a game, there were only 5 of us,(I was glad, cause I wanted to burn some calories). We won.:) I burned 700 calories!!! My back hurt, I ran funny, it was frustrating, but I had a lot of fun.

Monday, tried to get up and go, I hadn't fixed my tire, so I went to get my other stroller, it was flat too. Instead, I drove to the tire store, got new tires for the strollers, and my kids bikes that have been flat for a month or so. I was at the spa because I had a hair appt., and the acupuncturist was there, I told her my sob story about my back, and she told me to lie down. She did some readjusting with lots of pressure for only 5 minutes, and it felt sooooo much better.

TODAY, I had a break through!!!!!! I had to run the stop sign by myself because Michelle's kids were sick, and Maryann was babysitting, but I still went. Two miles into the run/fast walk, Cam showed up from out of nowhere, scared me too death, but he took my stroller, and it took everything out of me to keep up with him, but I was determined to keep up with him, and I did. We got to the bottom, I burned 1100 calories, and my back was actually not in pain, and after some good stretches I did not come home frustrated because of back pain!!!YEH

I wanted to write my 12 week journey down because blogging it makes me work harder because I have somewhere to report. The first week and a half I lost 10 pounds, I worked hard! This last week, I didn't write down all of my calories, I snacked a little too much, and wasn't truthful to myself. I wasn't able to work as hard because of my back, I only lost 2 pounds, but I need to thank Laurie for her quote that motivates me to keep going, "We learn from their experience that goals and dreams are not always measured in outcomes but often in attitudes. We gain a lot from beginning and then having to push on by beginning again. So even if you feel that your dreams and goals have washed out in the past, build them up again. Each new day is a fresh start, a clean slate, a new chance to change, improve, and try again. In the very process lie opportunities immeasurable for growth and good fortune."

OOOOUCH!!!!!!

2008-01-15T17:30:00.000-08:00

My back is KILLING!!! I have an appointment on Thursday for the chiropracter, and I am so scared, I hate popping anything. John popped my back on Sunday, and it was so bad, it sounded like a plate dropped and shattered in a million pieces!!! I hate that sound!

On Saturday, Maryann came with me to run the stop sign, my kids wanted to come and John was going to come also, but he sprained his ankle on Marcus' scooter right before, so he stayed home with Brigham. My back was still really hurting, so I couldn't go very fast, so Maryann pulled Payton while he wheeled on his heeleys (shoes with wheels), and I still could not keep up. Marcus was ahead on his scooter, but ditched it halfway, and ran and when he got tired, he rode in the stroller.
This is the stop sign that I will talk a lot about the next 10 weeks because we are going to run everyday but Wednes, and Sunday. It is a great workout, I can bring my kids, and it is beautiful, and I want to win $1000!!!!!!

Poor me in the back just trying to keep up. Marcus took this picture, he was telling me to hurry because I was slow!!!

one week down---11 MORE!!!!!

2008-01-11T22:54:00.000-08:00

Well, one week of trying to burn 1000 calories, and eat only 1500 is over. I am a very competitive person, so it helps to have this competition, but it has been hard. We all weighed in Wednesday night, I was so ready to get going, I went straight to the gym.
Thursday morning I ran the stop sign with Cam, and Michelle. They are tough, but they took my stroller to make it easier on me. I literally am in pain almost the whole time.
Friday Michelle came with me on the stop sign.
Saturday I did a circuit class at the spa. I have to write down my calories to know what I am eating, I bought a bunch of frozen 300 cal dinners which makes it easy, and I love the thick and creamy vanilla 100 cal yogurts.
Sunday, I rested from exercise, but that made the eating so much harder.
Monday morning Michelle,Cam and I ran the stop sign again. It is such a great workout, because I can take my kids, it is outside, and it has an incline, so even walking I am getting a workout.
Tuesday, Maryann came with us and I ran with her to the top and back, I was ready to CRY!!!!
Wednesday, Michelle and I taught a yoga class at her church while the kids ran around in the gym, and that night I did spinning on the cycle for 45 min. On Wednesday, I noticed my back was really bothering me, I made John massage it.
Thursday it felt a little better, so we ran the stop sign again. This time I ran up to the stop sign and back again, and I felt my back hurting a little, but I had to hurry to the bottom, because Cam had my kids in the stroller, (he always is ahead) and I was worried about Brig being hungry. I came home and took a long bath because my body just hurt, and my back was killing!!!!!
Today has been a bad day. I tried to workout with Maryann at the spa, but it was pretty unsuccessful, and when I am in pain, I love to eat thinking that might ease the pain. I did not write down my calories today, because they were definitely way over 1500, and I didn't want to know how much. My body has been pushed too hard too fast, and I hit a little wall. I can't help but think that this is so much like my life. I work so hard to be a good mom,a good wife, a good daughter of god, and I am amazed at how quickly I can hit a wall. But I have to pick myself back up and forgive myself for the things I do out of pain, and start fresh the next day. Tomorrow I am going to WALK the stop sign with Maryann, I will make her push my stroller so she will walk with me, and I will have Sunday to recover.

My word for the year of 2008 is 'ENDURE'