My Adventures with Little Ones

Have some SNOW!!!

2010-02-16T08:36:00.000-08:00

My sisters and I decided to have some fun with Bells hair!

I guess I brought the snow from Utah to Maryland!!! We had 22 inches that day! Then the following week another 6 inches. The entire town shut down. This much snow hasn't happened over here in years. Hope you enjoy the pics!

Starting New

2010-01-03T19:30:00.000-08:00

A LOT has happened since the last time I posted, but I feel like starting this over again from a new perspective. I am now a single parent raising my two beautiful girls. I completely love my family with all my heart. They have been the greatest support to me and my situation. I want to thank all of those that have been there for me..helping me move and giving support to my needs even just to TALK to!! I was sad to leave friends behind but I am happy to be moving forward and starting new.

We were able to have a very enjoyable Christmas this year. The girls and I went to visit the National Christmas Tree in D.C. My camera is broken and I wont be able to take decent pictures for a while. These are from my cell phone! Sorry for the quality, but to still be able to capture an image is amazing.

The National Christmas Tree!
This doesn't even show the details..sorry all!

The girls had lots of fun visiting Santa and checking out his workshop!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!!

Back from Texas!

2009-07-14T13:37:00.000-07:00

The girls and I made it all in ONE piece to Texas!! Yeah!! I ended up forgetting my camera half the time we did anything or had my hands full so didn't take pics! This is what I got...!!!

My Mother-In-law Jenny, took the girls and I to a near by kiddie pool and had loads of fun! Lizzy didn't really know what to do but Bells went right on in!

This is the new POTTY!!! It sings when you do your deed in it! How fancy in that! First time I saw this in wal-mart I couldn't stop laughing! What ever works right! We shall see with Lizzy. Nothing yet. But we let her test it out often!

Lizzy passed out on the couch one afternoon. Funny how they fall asleep sometimes!

This is my SIS-DER Ashley! She helped out a ton on the way back home! She just started her week at EFY on Monday so we wont really see her until she gets back from that. Thanks for all your help Ash!

Melatthew

2009-07-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

I got this idea from my sister!! Hilarious!! You have to try it! Matt and I together doesn't look so bad!

The Walking Bells!

2009-06-22T17:51:00.000-07:00

Sweet Bells decided to start walking recently. I'm so excited!! That means less of me toting her around everywhere. Go Bells! We love you!

Williams-Sonoma Meatballs!!

2009-06-18T08:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had the chance to cook for another family that just had a baby girl!! Homemade spaghetti sauce and meatballs!

Last August when I was visiting my Grams in St. George she showed me how to make a very simple fresh tomato sauce. She had recently been to Italy and the family she stayed with made this for her! So..you know it's gotta be the best!!

Tomato Sauce

2 28 oz. cans of whole peeled tomatoes.
1 onion chopped
Olive oil
1 6 oz can of tomato paste
Parsley
Basil
Oregano
Garlic powder
salt
pepper
crushed red peppers
sugar

In the bottom of a large pot, drizzle enough olive oil to coat the bottom and let it heat up on medium heat. Throw in your chopped onion, saute until they start to brown up. Put your whole tomatoes in a blender or food processor until it becomes smooth and pour into your pot. Add spices that you want. let is simmer for and hour or so. I usually only use a pinch of sugar..it adds a little to the flavor. So...its simple..and homemade! You can tweak it however you want. The main thing is the tomatoes..whole canned Roma tomatoes!

There are a million recipes on making your own sauce, so do what you like and make a ton of it at once and store some of it for pasta dishes.

From this fancy little Williams-Sonoma pasta cookbook I found some amazing Meatballs!

3/4 cup crusted removed cubed bread
1/3 cup Milk
1 lb Ground beef
1 small shredded onion
2 tbsp fresh Italian parsley
1 tsp fresh thyme
1 beaten egg
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
salt and pepper
olive oil for frying

1) Prepare the meatballs

In a small bowl, combine the bread cubes and milk. Let stand about 3 minutes, then squeeze the bread dry, discarding the milk. In a bowl, cobine the softened bread, beef, onion parsley, thyme, and egg, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Mix gently with your hands. Form into balls about 1 in in diameter

2) Cook the meatballs

In a large frying pan over medium heat, pour oil to a depth of 1/2 in. When the oil is hot, add the meatballs, in batches if necessary, and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 12 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.

I had some requests last night for this so I'm passing it along to you!! Have fun with it! Any neighbors that want to borrow this book, come get it!!

Love Me, But Don't Show Me

2009-05-27T07:40:00.000-07:00

Matt showed me this last night and I thought it was hilarious! I think the song is from the movie Sons of Provo. Way to send a great message about keeping yourself moraly clean before marriage. Amber, this totally reminds me of when we used to make up dances to the EFY songs! Some of you may have seen this already, but I hope you still enjoy!

Happy Birthday B Bell!!!!

2009-05-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

Isabelle turned 1 today!!! All I can say is....TIME FLIES!!! And I know you all know that when you have little ones.

We didn't have any big kind of celebration. Just our little family of 4. Bells was a little cranky all day probably teething....but LOVED the cake and gifts!!

The BEST cake I have EVER made!!!

Having a rough day with all the attention on Bells. She was crying for Daddy.

Oh yeah! Cake makes everything better right!

Happy Happy Birthday B Bells!!! We love having your adorable little self in our lives!! Love Mommy, Daddy and Lizzy!!

Matt is BACK!!!

2009-05-19T19:52:00.000-07:00

From DC! What a relief! He still has to work 8 hours a day, but seeing him come home in the evenings and play with the girls is wonderful. Matt had a BLAST on his trip!

Sure looks like it huh!

That kiss was for me!!!

I think its his favorite pose!!

Matt is dead set on wanting to be an Airborne Ranger!!

Some of Matt's friends playing and the battlefields.
He got to spend Saturday and Sunday night with my family in Maryland. I was super jealous! I haven't seen them in a year and they have a new house! The girls and I just couldn't afford to make that trip, and I can't imagine what that trip would be like with just the girls and I on a plane!!! Overall he said it was a great trip! He took a ton of pics but couldn't really remember what they were about. The girls and I are happy you're home now!

Single Parent This Week

2009-05-14T11:23:00.000-07:00

Matt left Tuesday morning for DC. He signed up for a class at the beginning of the spring semester where you get credit for doing an assignment and going on this trip. Way cool huh...wish I could have gone. He won't be back until Monday night, so lets see, I'm only on day 3 and I already have to blog about my problems...

First issue.....NURSERY!!! When is it ever safe for your kids to be in there? Every week we take Lizzy to nursery and she loves it, goes right in. BUT, Tuesday comes along and I see runny noses, fevers and coughing, all that yucky stuff. It's not even winter season anymore! Come on parents, leave you kids at home if they have any sign of a runny nose. Lizzy and Isabelle have been miserable the last 2 1/2 days droopy eyes, constant runny noses and Isabelle had a fever of 101 for half the day. Nothing would bring it down. I don't know how people can handle there sick kids. It's 10 x worst when they are. They're cranky, following you around and crying at everything. So, I think we are going to pass on the nursery part this Sunday.

I have awesome neighbors!!! Definitely a huge difference compared to Texas neighbors. No one said hi at our old apartments, maybe we had cooties. We love it here, everyone has kids and going to school. I have had tons of help already to get through parts of the day. And I'm sure it wouldn't be half as bad if the girls were actually feeling well. I can't put Bell's down for a second without her crying.

When do I take a shower? Probably right now right! I actually did today already, I set the girls in front of the t.v and took the fastest shower of my life. I can take it when they are napping but I feel like I either have to nap too or finishing cleaning something while they aren't messing it up again. The girls are usually up by 6:30 in the morning, no way I'm waking up an hour earlier to take a shower.

So that's all...I always have pics on when I post. It doesn't feel like a good enough post without pics. Thanks for enduring my venting. You get to be in Matts position this week, just listen and nod and maybe some of you can relate in small ways.

I think tomorrow will be a much better day, back to normal with the girls getting better. We can't wait to have you home Matt, just having another human adult here keeps me sane.

New Moon

2009-05-04T13:18:00.001-07:00

I was browsing around today and found out that.....

Dakota Fanning

will be playing the role as Jane in New Moon! Perfect fit I think! Alec, the twin brother of Jane in the book, will be played by Cameron Bright....

I haven't seen him before but I guess he played in X-Men: The last stand.

Michael Sheen will play as Aro, one of the Volturi dudes. He looks a little creepy to me but that would fit the role wouldn't it!

Awww, this will be Emily (Tinsel Korey), Sams fiancee! How perfectly cute! Well I guess she'll look a bit different when they have to make-up the scars on her face.

Some of the other Quileute guys: Alex Meraz (left), Chaske Spencer (center), Kiowa Gordon (right). Not bad!
After seeing all these on EW, (there are more I didn't post about)I'm starting to get super exciting for the movie to come out in November! Call me a Twilight nerd! What do you think?

Busy Weekend

2009-05-03T18:10:00.000-07:00

Well, sorry I haven't posted in a while. That just means there's nothing exciting going on or my brain is just dead. This weekend however was a little more eventful. Matt had the opportunity to be a groomsmen in a wedding for one of his fellow ROTC cadets. His friend graduated, was commissioned into the Army and got married all in the same weekend. Instead of renting a tux, Matt insisted on purchasing his Dress blue uniform, not really needed until he graduates. He looked totally handsome in it though!!

Lizzy was adoring Daddy! Once he commissions into the Army he gets to add some ribbons on the sleeves and shoulders. It looks a little bare now but still good looking.

Matt and his friend.

It was a long day! We got to the church at noon and stayed until six. Lizzy was running wild. Overall it was a fun day.

We tried pawning our kids off to them! They've babysat for us a few time before so the girls are some what comfortable to them. Congrats to the new married couple!

Daddy in The Helicopter

2009-04-09T14:38:00.000-07:00

Every Thursday Matt has an ROTC lab to attend as a class. They usually go to the nearest canyon and do land navigation, but today a pair of helicopters came to USU and they got to take some fun rides!! Some fun neighbors of mine decided they wanted to check these things out too. So we made a FUN trek up a gigantic hill while pushing our babies and feeling our legs burn! I had NO idea what to expect with the helicopters. I totally didn't know about the WIND, and the NOISE, that those things make!! There I was trying to take a picture, hold Bells ears, and stop the stroller from spinning and flying away!! Everyone was looking at us like we were totally crazy bringing our kids up here. It was all worth it though. I love seeing my soldier work hard and I will take any chance I can to support him, and embarrass him.

We love you Daddy!

Lizzy Looks Like....

2009-04-06T12:29:00.001-07:00

This cute picture of Lizzy was taken May 2008. Every time I look at it she reminds me of the girl in Napoleon Dynamite, Tina Majorino. So I looked up some pictures of her. Tell me what you think! Am I just crazy!?

They both have that side pointy tail going on!

Birthday Pictures

2009-04-06T11:21:00.000-07:00

We were excited to have Alvord Photography take our pics again! Lizzy had some fun shots and looked great with the pink background. Thanks so much Randa!

Isabelle woke up from her nap during the photo shoot and we were able to get some cute shots of her as well. Hopefully we can get Randa to take B Bells 1 year pics too!

The "binki" that Elizabeth CAN'T live without!

This is my favorite pose of Lizzy. She looks all grown up though. We love you so much Lizzy and B Bell and are blessed to have you in our lives!

Park Fun

2009-04-06T11:03:00.000-07:00

This last weekend turned out to be somewhat nice. So we took the girls to the park. Isabelle is now 10 months and in this pic Lizzy was 14 months. Lizzy used to be scared to death of the swings and in this pic she loved having the wind in her face!

So does B Bell!

We will have many more adventures at the park when it warms up!

How Old are You?

2009-03-23T13:26:00.000-07:00

I may have asked her one too many times, but we know she can tell us and show us. We taught her to show "two" with her thumb and pointer.

One Year Older and Wiser Two

2009-03-23T12:18:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

to
Elizabeth and Melanie!!

Our Little Lizzy turned two yesterday and I turned 23 on the 18th. It's hard to believe she is already two! Time flies! We decided to celebrate yesterday with just our little family of 4. Matt had to be at drill until 5:00, so I got to hang out with the girls for most of the day. I threw a roast in the crock pot and took the girls to church. Oh man, Lizzy was crazy! She was drinking her milk "moka, moka" and she finished it all, demanding, "more, more!!". As soon as I said "no, we don't have any here" she chucked her sippy cup behind us hitting an older woman! I don't think it hit her face but it was still bad. How embarrassing! Once we got home the day went better.

Matt requested I make a fun dirt cake for Lizzy's birthday. It turned out really cute. Super easy and NO baking required!

Lizzy got a ton of toys, puzzles, books and clothes. Matt got me 5 Suzanne Sommers' books and a necklace. My Mom and Dad sent a card with a coupon for a nights stay at a bed and breakfast in town. The place is a surprise! We get to go in April and my sister from Provo gets to babysit. We can't wait to go!

This fun toy is from her Grandma and Grandpa Bonnett and she has been playing with it all day, taking it where ever she goes. Thanks Mom and Dad!

Birthday girl wearing her favorite bunny slippers from a year ago. They are a little small on her, but we managed to shove her foot in. Super cute with the dress Lizzy!

Our Lizzy does this hilarious thing with her blanket for comfort. She finds one of the corners and rubs it under nose, on her top lip, while making a sucking motion with her lips. I guess this time she wanted to try it out on her arm pits.....then her neck. Sometimes we catch her playing with her blanket between her toes. One CRAZY girl!! What ever makes her happy I guess.

Happy Birthday Princess Lizzy!!! We love you so much and are blessed to have you in our lives!

Ummm....Where did my pants go Mom?

2009-03-03T21:04:00.001-08:00

Baby Bells or as Lizzy calls her "B Bell" was crawling into the kitchen in her funny army crawl and she lost her pants! I didn't move them at all in the picture. I left her for a little moment and came back to her pants off! She just kept going and going. Nothing was stopping this girl. Too funny!

Isabelle's favorite toy is this funny bath toy crab. When she spots it across the room she goes for it then squeals and chews the heck out of it.

B Bell is so much fun to have around! We love you Isabelle!

Puzzle Pro

2009-02-28T12:39:00.000-08:00

Miss Lizzy has started to become quite good at using puzzles!

She got these two puzzles for Christmas from Grandma and Grandpa Carol. Since then she has played with them a little, but I think she has remembered where each piece goes. Today I asked Lizzy if she wanted to put the puzzle pieces in the puzzle and she just started working at it. She pretty much knew where each piece went, but needed some help with fitting it in.

I was amazed at how well her little brain could work! She might be getting more puzzles for her b-day then!

French Braids!!

2009-02-25T20:37:00.001-08:00

Lizzy finally has enough hair to do something with! I tried doing french braids and it worked!! It was super exciting. I did it after she had her bath last night so her hair was wet enough to grasp. I love how they show off her cute round head. I definitely think I was meant to have these girls. They are so much fun to play with and dress. I can't imagine what its going to be like when they are older.Little Lizzy isn't so little anymore. She jibbers all the time about everything and usually has to repeat it twice. You know, just in case I can't hear it the first time. Milk is "moka moka" and book is "booka booka". She ALWAYS informs me if bells is awake or crying after a nap, " a da bebe a da bebe". She is very good at saying please, thank you, sorry and I love you. Next month she will be two!! How exciting!

Bells is finally getting around the house by doing this funny Army crawl. I guess she wants to be like Dad! I'm sure he would be so proud if his girls joined the Army. In a million years right!! It could happen. Isabelle cheers on her dad by saying "a da da da da". That is truly all she ever says. Bells absolutely adores Lizzy! Everything Lizzy does is so amusing to her. Sometimes Lizzy gets down on the floor and actually plays with her. Its so cute. Other days Lizzy is that big sister that thinks everything is "mine, mine".

Baby Bells fell asleep on her hand during naptime!! She loves to hold her cheek as she falls asleep. I guess this is what happends.

Say Cheese!!!!!

2009-02-19T08:08:00.000-08:00

The other night I was getting ready to take a picture of Lizzy so I said, " say cheese!" Cheeeese... and then this funny, not really Lizzy, picture came out. Look at that chunky face!

Ok, so take two! Cheeeeeeeese......ummm not much better. A little more cheeks in this one.

Take three! Cheese.....aww how sweet. I even got Isabelle in the background.

Ya we still use Christmas jammies all year round. Until they don't fit anymore. Plus they are just too cute to only wear on Christmas day!

Here is another, "say cheese".

She deserved that chocolate pudding. Eating her bananas and PBJ sandwich all gone!!

Laughing Babies

2009-02-07T08:05:00.001-08:00

I about die laughing every time I watch this!

My Review of Jardine Capri Lifetime Convertible Crib - Antique Walnut

2009-01-31T12:17:00.001-08:00

Toys R Us

The Lifetime Crib is the heart of our Capri Collection. The antique walnut child-safe finish is gender neutral and marry well with every decor. The crib design is timeless and grows with your child answering your familys needs from babys birth to adulthood. This piece easily conv...

Not a Great Toddler Bed

melbels Logan, UT 1/31/2009

Pros: Easily Assembled, Durable

Best Uses: Newborn, Infants, Preemies

Describe Yourself: Parent of Two or More Children

I loved the bed when it was a crib. All but how tall the sides are. I had the hardest time reaching in to put my daughter to bed. The toddler part of the bed isn't very safe for toddlers. The bed does NOT come with a side rail to protect her from falling out. And the cheap metal bed rails don't work on any toddler bed. It has to be a mattress and box spring. The crib does come with a "guard rail" but its just there for the mattress to stay in. Really the toddler bed is called a DAY BED because they don't have the extra side rail that most toddler beds have. We might just have to convert it to the full size bed and use a rail. I do love the thickness and heavy duty part of the crib though.

I just made this review on Babies "R" Us. We have converted the bed into the toddler part and was hoping to order the side rail so Lizzy will stop falling out. I just found out though that it doesn't come with one!!! If you're looking to get a new crib that is a convertible crib, make sure it does come with the side rail and a guard rail.

That long piece right there is called the "Guard Rail". It's purpose is to hold the mattress in. "Guard" the mattress, but not Lizzy!!!

Here are the WARNINGS for this crib: The DAY BED is not intended for children under 15 months of age or over 50 lbs..... If guardrails are used as the mattress containment means, guardrail (s) provided must be used.

The only way the guard rail can be used is to hold the mattress in!

Sweet Lizzy and Isabelle sleeping. I can ONLY blog when they are asleep.

AND......

2009-01-08T18:09:00.000-08:00

We're Back in Utah... where its cold....with plenty of snow.....

We decided to head back up through New Mexico and up through Vegas and St. George. It was a beautiful drive with excellent weather. There, we were able to visit and get some sleep at my Grandmas. She is such a blast to visit with! Showing me all her wonderful recipes and playing fun brain games on facebook. The girls did great on the way back and were so happy to finally be home in their own beds. Matt started school on Monday with some fun classes. Art and Military science and more Art. I am home playing with the girls and looking for a job. Lizzy is chatting up a storm now even though we can't understand half of it. She can say snow "no" and snowman "noman". She has been singing "Once there Was a Snowman" in nursery. So every now and then we hear her singing "noman, noman". Isabelle still does not have any teeth but is rolling all over the place. She loves her sister Lizzy and giggles at her.

Grandma Jenny helping Isabelle learn to sit. She was determined to teach her.

Matt's dad caught ..............giving Lizzy candy! It was ok though because its Christmas!!

Little Lizzy's new cabbage patch.

New jammies made my Grandma Carol.

Who you lookin at????

WE MADE IT.............

2008-12-20T19:28:00.000-08:00

To TEXAS!!!

WHAT A TRIP! We had to go down to Provo first to pick up my sis and THEN take her to the airport. All the while we were trying to get out of town before the storm came in. I got to start out driving which ended up being through the mountains and Wyoming. AND... we did NOT beat the storm. It was terrible. We literally couldn't see the road in front of us at times. The snow became so thick that we got stuck at one point. Thanks SO much to Matt for putting those snow tires on before we left, we were able to get out fairly easy. We then followed a truck, that looked like he knew what he was doing, until....... someone cut him off right in front of us. He lost control, spinning out and ended up off the road knocking down a huge sign. We were so scared crazy that we stopped and helped him out. His car wasn't okay but he was just fine. We decided to stay the night with my Aunt in Denver. We left this morning around 4am and arrived in Texas around 6pm. The girls were good for the most part but they definitely had their moments. We are so thankful and blessed to have arrived safely. We hope everyone will have a wonderful Christmas and those home in Utah.... we will be seeing you next year!!!!

Vick Vapo Rub!

2008-12-12T11:20:00.000-08:00

My grandma sent this email to my mom who sent it to me! I also found it very interesting but haven't had to try it yet.

Subject: VICKS VAPO RUB INTERESTING

During a lecture on Essential Oils, they told us how the foot
soles can absorb oils. Their example: Put garlic on your feet and within
20 minutes you can 'taste' it.

Some of us have used Vicks Vapo rub for years for everything
from chapped lips to sore toes and many body parts in between. But I've
never heard of this. And don't laugh, it works 100% of the time,
although the scientists who discovered it aren't sure why. To stop night
time coughing in a child (or adult as we found out personally), put
Vicks Vapo rub generously on the bottom of the feet at bedtime, then
cover with socks. Even persistent, heavy, deep coughing will stop in
about 5 minutes and stay stopped for many, many hours of relief. Works
100% of the time and is more effective in children than even very strong
prescription cough medicines. In addition it is extremely soothing and
comforting and they will sleep soundly.

Just happened to tune in A.M. Radio and picked up this guy
talking about why cough medicines in kids often do more harm than good,
due to the chemical makeup of these strong drugs so, I listened. It was
a surprise finding and found to be more effective than prescribed
medicines for children at bedtime, i n addition to have a soothing and
calming effect on sick children who then went on to sleep soundly.

My wife tried it on herself when she had a very deep constant
and persistent cough few weeks ago and it worked 100%! She said that it
felt like a warm blanket had enveloped her, coughing stopped in a few
minutes and believe me, this was a deep, ( incredibly annoying!) every
few seconds uncontrollable cough, and she slept cough-free for hours
every night that she used it.

If you have grandchildren, pass this on. If you end up sick, try
it yourself and you will be absolutely amazed at how it works.

This might be helpful for the cold winter season when some of us get sick. Let me know what you think. Has any one heard of this actually being true?

Matthew and Melanie Sitting in a Tree........

2008-12-10T06:34:00.000-08:00

TAG I'm IT!

You all get to hear about how Matt and I met! Yeah!!

Where did you meet? At church! I was playing the organ, and I can always see what everyone is doing while I'm up there. Well this ONE Sunday I saw Matt come in and I knew I recognized him from somewhere, oh YA marching band!!! I knew WHO he was in marching band but I didn't care to meet him. I also KNEW he was not a member of my church. So as soon as I was done with my postlude I went to say hi. We talked for a bit and he recognized me as well. I asked what he was doing here and he said he was investigating the church. He eventually joined!
What was the first thought that went through your head when you met? I can't believe this guy I knew from high school is HERE! At my church! And I'm talking to HIM. I kinda like him!
Do you remember what he was wearing? Of course! White church shirt with a tie and black pants.
Where was the first time you kissed this person? Oh......well we weren't "official" yet, but he invited me over for lunch and we were doing our own homework and talking. AS I AM TALKING he leans in and sneaks a kiss. I was SO NOT ready for it. I forgot how to kiss!! It had been that long since the last BF.
Where did you go for your first date? I guess above would have been.
How long did you know this person before you became a couple? Well I knew who he was in high school for about 2 years and then I knew him for about a month before we started dating.
How did he ask you out? One night we went downtown and got some apple cider from Starbucks. I spilled half of it one me and as we were walking back to the car he asks, "so Melanie, What are we?" Then we decided that we were TOGETHER. Awwww.
Has this person ever proposed to you? YEP. But it wasn't anything crazy special. We both decided together that we wanted to get married. After we had decided, he would make little fake proposals randomly. Until he got the RING, and then he was too nervous to say anything and just showed me it.
Do you and this person have kids together? TWO little girls! Elizabeth 20 mo. and Isabelle 6 mo.
Have you ever broken the law with this person? Sad to say, Yes. But now we will always have that memory together. We look back and just laugh at it.
When was the first time you realized you liked this person? So my friend April and I were at institute and Matt was there talking to a group of friends. There was this one girl, that came out and said, "one day I'm going to marry Matt" To me she was a tom boy. Why would Matt ever want to marry her? But I was SUPER jealous! That's when I knew I was CRAZY about him.
Do you trust this person? 100%!!!!!
Do you see him as your partner in the future? This is a tough question for me! We have our ups and downs but probably worst than any regular couples ups and downs. So Yes and No. I guess I'M admitting my marriage isn't so great right now.
What is the best gift he gave you? Well I am so blessed he gave me my children, But I also love the VS Bath robe and slippers he gave me one year for Christmas. I will probably use it for LIFE!
What is the one thing he does that gets on your nerves? Mainly leaving all his junk on the floor! But there are a few more!
Where do you see each other 15 years from now? Um..... I guess with the girls in high school and Matt stationed somewhere for the military.
What causes the most arguments? RESPONSIBILITIES! Matt doesn't care for TOO many! Or any at all!
How long have you been together? 3 years married
Are you married? Yes
Who do you tag? Anyone!!!! I love hearing your stories too! Amber, Ardis, Elizabeth, Emily, Heather, Tearese, .........everyone!

Look What I found!!!

2008-12-09T08:36:00.000-08:00

HAND ME DOWNS!!!!

A little while back Mom sent me a box of Megan's (my 4 year old sister) old clothes. So I was sorting through them and I came across some pajamas that Amber and I used to wear when we were that age! WOW MOM!!! I can't believe you kept those going for about 18 years!! All of my sisters got to wear them and now my daughter might be able to wear them. Maybe not though. I will probably save them in my memory box and send Amber hers. They are so soft and fuzzy after all those years!

Pictures!!!

2008-12-04T20:01:00.000-08:00

We were able to get our pictures done by Alvord Photography this year and they turned out wonderful! The girls were so patient and well behaved. It was hard to get them together but they still looked adorable.

I love Lizzy's smile in this one!

This one and the next are my favorite of Isabelle
I know I uploaded a ton of pics but I just love them all and wanted to share them with you!

Melanie's Super Easy Somersizing Made up Recipes to LOSE weight!!!

2008-12-03T22:59:00.000-08:00

So I make up my own recipe's for this Suzanne Somers' eating plan. But it works to lose weight! I lost 30 lbs last summer on just the way I ate. Now I'm trying to do it again with exercise this time. Amber wanted some of my recipes so I just decided to blog about it. Here you go SisDer!!!

This is a new one!!

Cheesy Italian Chicken Tomato
(The name says it all)

1. Grill some chicken and cut into strips OR purchase a bag at Wal-mart of frozen pre-cooked grilled chicken strips(Super Easy)

2. Place on a plate and throw on some Mozzarella cheese.

3. Cut up some Tomatoes and add to the side

4. Pour some Zesty Italian Dressing over ALL of it

5. Nook for about 45 seconds. Till cheese melts.

Add some green beans for more food! I know the Italian Dressing has some sugar in it. But I just think if I'm at least eating THIS healthy, then its gotta be doing some good to my body. Or don't add it at all.

CREAM CHEESE and VEGGIES!!!
Super fatty but Super yummy. I think of Cream Cheese as pretty much a dip. One day I just bought a ton of veggies, like; Celery, Cucumbers, Zucchini, Carrots, and broccoli and dipped them in cream cheese. Place an 8oz package of cream cheese in a bowl or get the spread, and DIP away. It would probably work best to not use a ton of cream cheese. Fill up on veggies. This could be a snack or a small lunch.

This Cream Cheese Recipe I owe to KRAFT PHILADELPHIA

PHILLY Tomato-Basil Dip
1 Pkg 8oz Cream Cheese
2 Plum Tomatoes
2 Tbsp. Zesty Italian Dressing
2 Tbsp. Parmesan Cheese
1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil

SPREAD cream cheese on bottom of 9in pie plate
MIX Tomatoes and dressing and spread over cream cheese. Sprinkle with Parmesan and Basil
SERVE with Wheat things or fresh veggies

So this one is pretty much like the cream cheese and veggies. Just spruced up a bit.

SPLENDA NO CRUST CHEESECAKE

So this one isn't the best because we ALL know what REAL Cheesecake tastes like.
I use the PHILADELPHIA 2 step recipe and substitute sugar for Splenda and NO crust.

2 Pkgs. Cream Cheese, Softened
1/2 c. Sugar
1 tsp. Vanilla
2 Eggs
1 Can NO SUGAR ADDED pie filling. (They have cherry and apple)

Blend Well cream cheese, sugar and vanilla. Beat in eggs till smooth. Pour into a spring form pan or any pie dish. You can try spraying Pam at the bottom so it doesn't stick. I haven't tried that yet. Bake at 350 for about 20 to 40 min. You kinda have to check and guess. My oven is small so foods cook a little faster and you don't have a crust this time. Cool. Chill and add pie filling. I am the only one here that will eat it, so I just dig in with my fork.

I was REALLY craving sweets one day and decided to just make it without the crust and with splenda. It wasn't super yummy but it satisfied me.

SHEPHERDS PIE

Brown 1lb of ground beef, drain and add 1 can of tomato soup and 1 can of green beans. Add desired salt and pepper. Dash of Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 5 min and eat as is. AS MUCH AS YOU WANT!!!! Maybe add 2 cans of green beans but no Potatoes or rice.

TACO SALAD

Brown 1lb of ground beef, drain. Add a package of taco seasoning mix and follow the instructions.
Load the plate with Lettuce and add beef, cheese, tomatoes, and sour cream. Dig in!

I LOVE GREEN BEANS!!!

Sometimes I just use a can of green beans as noodles.

Make meatballs add tomato sauce and pour over a plateful of green beans.

As a side you can nook a bowl of green beans completely drained and add cheese.

These are just a few things I make, because I'm sometimes too lazy to make anything amazing like Suzanne Sommers! The whole idea is to separate your carbs from fats. In the morning I just have 2 slices of whole wheat sugar free toast and sometimes that's all the carbs I have for the day. This way of eating is for loosing weight and you MUST follow it consistently with carbs and fats separate from each other. AND NO SUGAR. There are a few more rules that I dont always apply. You can get her books for more info. If you just want to maintain your shape eat whole wheat carbs with your fats. Eating tons of veggies can do you NO HARM and protein fills you up.

Dizzy with Lizzy

2008-11-20T13:08:00.001-08:00

Little Lizzy is growing up and she is SO like Matt! Every time Matt says "Dance, Lizzy dance" She does this.............

Diaper Tote Bag

2008-11-18T18:34:00.000-08:00

My wonderful Mom loves to make these Diaper tote bags and now has these 4 listed on ebay for a starting bid at $39.50. I have 4 of them already and I LOVE them. They have held up really well for the last 2-3 years and have lots of room to load all your stuff. If anyone knows my mom, they know that she IS a perfectionist when it comes to sewing anything. They are great quality bags. So if you're interested, you can check them out here.

Michael Miller LeBag Pink

Baby Girl Green

Miller Eiffel Tower Toile

Michael Miller Horse Play Cowboy

These are the 4 bags I have and this cute butterfly bag I have had for 5 years! It still looks great!

My mom made this bag for me before Elizabeth was born and I seriously used it everyday for 14 months, before she made me the next one.

Isabelle's bag!

I have had many questions and requests about these bags over the years and I suggested to Mom that she sell them on ebay and now she is! Hope you all like them as much as I do!

The Ultimate Baby Bottle

2008-11-15T12:55:00.000-08:00

I'm in the process of weaning Isabelle to a bottle and have found it very difficult to get her to take ANY of the bottles I have. She has a tiny mouth and gags on any long nipples or pacifiers. So I tried the NUK bottles that are similar to the pacifier she takes and she still hated it. So we all decided to take a trip to Babies "R" Us and check out what they have. I talked to a sales associate for help and she directed me to the Adiri Natural Nurser. The top of the bottle basically looks like a breast.This IS, the ONE bottle she will take and she loves it. So, you turn it upside down with the lid on tight and add your milk, then you screw on the bottom and shake. The bottom has a flower shaped vent to let the air escape. I love the quality and design so it's definitely a keeper. I was able to attend a Military Ball last night ONLY because she was able to finally take this bottle. So I feel like I can have a little more freedom. AND Last night, for the FIRST TIME, Isabelle slept from 11:00pm to 4:00am. What a blessing that was for me! Now I have to see if she can do it consecutively. Then hopefully we can push it to 6:00am.

Veterans Day

2008-11-11T20:12:00.000-08:00

Today was such an awesome day! There are days when I'm not to sure I want to be military wife. The weekends or weeks that Matt is away for training are TOUGH!!! Then again, I do have two wonderful girls that are only 14 months apart. ALL of his Army stuff is ALL over the place. Very frustrating at times. Today was a reminder of how proud I am of my soldier. He LOVES what he does, WANTS to be in the Army for 20 years and WANTS to experience Iraq. I am lucky he has NOT been to Iraq yet. So Matt left this morning to set up the cannons for a ceremony that was held on campus. The girls and I got bundled up and walked the HUGE hill to campus. We watched an amazing ceremony and as the Major read off all the wars America has fought in, the cannon fired. It was super emotional. I started crying after the 2nd war was listed then the Major started to get emotional as he read the names. We then got to see Matt and walked home together. Thanks to all the soldiers fighting for our country.

Lizzy NOT Taking Her Nap

2008-11-10T20:02:00.000-08:00

So, sometimes there are days when Lizzy just likes to play instead of sleep. Usually, she is really quiet for some time before she does this playing. Then, Matt and I hear her jumping and shouting and we just laugh wondering if she ever fell asleep at all. This time I decided to record it down. Sorry there is not much of a visual but it's still hilarious.

Look Below

2008-11-10T19:56:00.000-08:00

I just made a new post of Halloween pictures and somehow it published it before the Twilight posts. So please look below to see! Thanks

Twilight Movie Cover

2008-11-07T12:09:00.000-08:00

Paramore

2008-11-07T11:56:00.000-08:00

Paramore-"Decode"
from the
Twilight Movie Soundtrack

Paramore - New Music - More Music Videos

Halloween

2008-11-06T22:53:00.000-08:00

These are a little late but too cute to not post. It was Elizabeth's second Halloween but first to really participate in something.

While Matt was in Korea he picked up an adorable outfit for Lizzy. We thought it would make the perfect costume.

Indeed it did.

Isabelle was a cute little kitty cat. She even let me draw on a nose and whiskers.

We took the girls to a fun carnival where Lizzy was one of many others to win best costume!

She got a fun spider painted on her cheek with....

a missing leg.
I guess cause we were trying to get it done as soon as possible before she would start moving.
Matt looks like he was having more fun than Lizzy. She looked adorable with her little buns taken out. Elizabeth had a fun Halloween this year and I know it will only get better as she gets older.

How Would You Mop Your Floor

2008-10-11T22:06:00.000-07:00

The Swiffer vs Your Foot

Today I HAD to mop my floor. I hate to mop, and I would hate to have to get a bucket and one of these to get the job done. So I got out my older version of the Swiffer and started working at it. But you know what, it just doesn't do the job quite right. I know they have an upgraded one but I don't want to go out and buy it. Then, a brilliant idea popped into my head. Why not just put the wet cloth down on the floor and put my foot to use. I can use much more umph with my foot than that little mop can. And you can use your BIG toe to get the tougher spots, plus its an awesome workout! Oh, and I love the different scents of the Swiffer cloths. So when your done you get to smell all that work you put into it. For all those that use the MIGHTY Swiffer to mop your floor, maybe next time you can try your foot instead!!

November 21st

2008-10-11T09:28:00.000-07:00

Twilight Movie Trailer!!!! When I first saw the preview the movie was coming out in December. It's now November 21st!! I'm stoked to see it!

Obama or McCain

2008-10-10T12:21:00.000-07:00

This is a questionnaire to see which candidate's policies you most agree with.
Obama v. McCain

She Can Use a Spoon Now!!!

2008-10-09T21:08:00.000-07:00

Matt and I have given Lizzy lots of opportunities to feed herself.

She has finally made the next step to using a spoon on her own. Yeah!!! A little less for us to do at meal time. But.....

still makes a mess. She doesn't always get a lot on her spoon but at least she gets the concept. Kids have to learn somehow.

We have had a few rainy days recently and what's better than a warm bowl of oatmeal on a cloudy rainy morning. Another opportunity for Lizzy to feed herself. How awesome! Here is the result. All over her face, up her nose, and in her hair! I HAD to give her a bath right after. You'll get it down some day Liz. I love you!

Vote for Lizzy's Pic

2008-10-09T15:36:00.000-07:00

I just entered this pic of Lizzy in a photo contest. So if you would like to vote go here
Thanks a bunch!

PS. I just tried to vote and its kind of a pain. So honestly you don't have to vote if you don't want to. I guess these contests are a bit ridiculous.

Enter to Win a FREE Handbag!!!!

2008-10-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

So a dear friend posted this on her blog and it completely excited me and now I have to tell you all about it.

Click Here For FREE Handbag

I love handbags and to celebrate, on Oct 15th, the launch of a new website they are giving away 1 handbag for every hour for 24 hours. They are cute and adorable. You get to pick the one you want to enter for! So try it out!

Thanks Heather

Isabelle

2008-09-14T15:36:00.000-07:00

Isabelle is almost 4 months old now and growing too fast. The other day she started to laugh and giggle with me. So this video was taken about 2 weeks ago when Matt's parents were here. HIS DAD is SOOO loud that you can hear him across the apartment and in the video. So sorry in advance. Just a taste of the week I went through while they were visiting.

Korea

2008-08-29T09:37:00.000-07:00

Matt is finally back from Korea! The girls and I picked him up this last Saturday at the airport. His flight left Korea around 3 pm to Los Angeles and then boarded another plane to Salt Lake at 1 pm. So about a 12 hour difference with the time change to Utah. He still has major jet lag! He cant sleep at night and wants to sleep all day, but is still managing his classes and homework well. While it was humid and hot the whole time Matt said he still enjoyed most of Korea and the people there. Here is a pic of Lizzy in an adorable outfit Matt picked up while he was there.

The top is a little big so we didn't even try to put the bottoms on. Lizzy looks so cute in it though. Sometimes she doesnt look part Korean but she has 1/4 of it in her.

Korean food on the flight there

Matt met some friends and went to a Karaoke Bar. I think they kinda look the same. Matt just wasnt wearing his glasses.

Of course there's always a McDonnalds and Burger King. Good American food.

Matt told me Koreans love Americans that can't speak their language, but they hate those that are half Korean and cant speak it at all. They still got to know Matt well enough to have fun. He plans to go to Korea every year for 2 weeks for his National Guard training. While he was there they had asked him to stay for a whole YEAR!!! But knowing how I would feel about that, he decided coming home and finishing school would be best. We are glad to have daddy home.

Adventures at Willard Bay

2008-08-02T10:40:00.001-07:00

On one of our many trips to Ogden or Salt Lake I saw some picnic tables by what I thought was the Great Salt Lake. I told Matt that we had to check it out some day. That weekend we packed the girls and lots of snacks and headed to check it out. We then saw an exit sign for Willard Bay. hmmm I guess after all it wasn't the Great Salt Lake. We found our way to the entrance where we had to pay 10 bucks to get in. I know Bear Lake is FREE, but this had picnic tables and a potty. So we were willing to pay. Lizzy had loads of fun in the water and sand, and Bells enjoyed sleeping the entire time! Silly girl. We will definitely be coming here again since I'm not too fond of the curvy mountain roads to Bear Lake.

Matt Snackin' on a flamin' hot cheeto!!

We met some nice people that shared a picnic spot with us. Lizzy was having a fit about something and this sweet lady asked if she could have a lolly pop. She has never had one and therefore had NO idea what to do with it. After Matt and I tried to show her that you can lick it, she went to town on it and became sticky everywhere. We then dunked her in the water and cleaned her off.

BIG toes, Little toes, and tiny toes

2008-07-31T15:34:00.000-07:00

What comes with having little girls? Painted toes!!!

I was painting my toes one evening and decided it would be so much fun to paint the girls also. Isabelle was fast asleep in her swing so I stopped it and painted her toes. I then did Elizabeth's the next day while she was eating in her high chair. This way they couldn't touch or mess their toes up! Isabelle's nails have stayed the same for almost 3 weeks now! For the record, this picture was very hard to take. I was holding both the girls while Matt was trying to keep Lizzy's foot there and then Isabelle kept wanting to curl her little toes, and all at the same time taking the precious picture. This was the only shot we were able to take.

Pioneer Day Parade

2008-07-26T15:09:00.000-07:00

The girls and I waited along the sidewalk for daddy to come marching down the street.

Sweet kisses from Elizabeth to daddy!

The National Guard got the chance to be at the front of the parade.

Trying out the blog!

2008-07-25T18:31:00.000-07:00

We are doing fantastic up here in Logan, UT. Matt is finishing school at USU with an accounting degree and I am SLOWLY working on a Biology degree. We just had another baby girl named Isabelle Violet. She was born on May 19th and weighed 6lbs 7oz. It is so fun being a mom of two adorable girls, and I cant wait till we get to play with dolls, barbies and dress up!

August will be a very busy month for us. Matt leaves to go to Korea for 2 weeks as part of his training in the National Guard. It will be a real test to see if I can take care of two children by myself. Once Matt is home I get to pick up my sister Emily in Salt Lake and help her get settled in at BYU. The following weekend Matt's parents will be visiting an ENTIRE week!!!!! In my little apartment! Can't Wait! I'm sure the level of stress for that week will be maxed out. But that will complete August.

I still have to figure this thing out! Hope you enjoy hearing from us!