The Lopez Family Blog

Happy Independence Day...er weekend!

2011-07-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

We spent the 4th of July weekend up at my parent's cabin with almost all my family (we missed you Will, and Jay and family)! Grandpa and Seth took the kids fishing on Thursday and Friday! They had a great time and although neither of my girls caught their own fish, they were okay with that (as was I)! While the kids and men fished on Friday, I enjoyed shopping the boutiques in Show Low with my mom, sister, and Aleia! Saturday (after the Miners and Roberts joined us) we enjoyed the Heber parade in the morning and Taylor Fireworks that evening! We had lots of games, movies, and rediculously delicious FOOD!! I LOVE my family, and I LOVE my country!! So grateful for the freedoms I have and those who have sacrificed everything for me to have those freedoms! Warning...picture overload!

Easter 2011

2011-04-29T23:28:00.000-07:00

We had a great Easter! Painted eggs; found eggs and baskets Easter morning; wore cute, CHEAP (spent $5 on each one, tax included, at Kohls!!) dresses to church; went to a BBQ and had FUN at one of Seth's cousin's house (pictures of that are on Ernie's camera that I have yet to steal!); and hosted Easter dinner for my family and Seth's family that evening (dumb camera battery died and I forgot to charge it!)! Here are the pics I did manage to get and yes, those are I love Justin Beiber pj's Sophia is wearing courtesy of Aunt Sheridyn!

Zzzz...

2011-04-29T23:25:00.001-07:00

Yes, she is totally asleep! She "wears her sunglasses at night!" (insert Corey Hart voice)

Randomness

2011-04-29T23:04:00.001-07:00

A funny story about Julia - Preface: We moved back into our home last April. We originally bought this house in 2004, and when Seth got hired on with Union Pacific, we moved to Tucson in Jan of 2007, then Yuma, then Chandler. We were renting our house out and our renters moved out last Spring. So, Julia was about 18 months when we moved from this home. For her first birthday, she received this:

Little by little, all the coins began disappearing. I thought for sure when we moved I would find them all stuffed under the couch or something, but they never did show up. I assumed Julia had somehow put them in the trash, and they were long gone.

Jump to last winter: It actually got cold enough in Arizona to justify turning on the fireplace (it is a gas powered with a switch)! This wasn't the first time we used it all winter, but I noticed that once again, it had a funky smell. We thought it was either the glue the manufacturer used to put the fake logs together or just the dust and grime that had built up over the years. Seth decided to turn it off, let it cool, open it up, and do some maintenance. Here is what he found when he took the top panel off:

There they are! Melted to a crisp! There is a slot just barely big enough for an 18 month old to slide them right in! Such a stinker! Julia, at age 5, thought it was quite hilarious! Love that girl!!

And, just to keep the stinkerness amongst my kids equal, here is what Sophia did when I asked her to clean her room:

Wow Sophia, it is really clean...or...maybe not so much!

Christmas 2010

2011-04-29T22:58:00.000-07:00

Catching up... I hosted Christmas Eve dinner this year for my family and Seth's family. It was great! Once again, I am so glad to have families who all get along so well! We had a great time and delicious Mexican food!! The other pics are Christmas morning at home and Christmas afternoon at Mee-Maw's and G-Dogs (grandma and grandpa Lopez). Love, love, love this season!

Bah hum bug

2010-12-26T21:48:00.001-08:00

This was the first year since Seth and I have been married that I have failed to send out Christmas cards. I would like to thank the miserable cold virus that attacked me for three weeks and then made its way through my family (Sophie and Seth are still fighting it!), finishing and graduating from nursing school (not gonna lie, this is my absolute favorite excuse!!), and the other usual business that the Christmas season brings for my slackerness! (Also, I would like to make a sidenote here that I am so very impressed with my friend Kim who had a baby in early December at her house, no less, and still managed to send out adorable cards!!) I made the card, several weeks ago, but never made it out to get a decent picture to put on it, so here it is with the picture from Sara's wedding.

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas! I will post pictures soon of the very special day. I am very grateful for my wonderful friends and family this holiday season and throughout the year. I am always reminded of how truly blessed I am during the holiday season. Such a great opportunity to be reminded of the humble beginnings of the most important Person in my life who has given me the other most important people in my life and the opportunity to be with them forever. Have a wonderful new year friends and family! Love you all! I will leave you with my favorite You Tube on the season! :-) Enjoy!

More Halloween from the party

2010-11-15T21:07:00.000-08:00

Gracious Hosts, Tweedle Death and Tweedle Doom!

A bunch of Fancy Nancys!

Sweet Josie Ladybug!

Big freaky babies, Seth and Eli

I am going to be a great nurse!

Leah and shy Audra

Melissa the cowgirl! Gidee-up!

Sophia looking like she is in trouble...and she would have been had mom seen the tear in her dress, but that wasn't until later!

Newsies! They just happened to show up wearing the same costume, and they were both so great!

Brandon as Mario! Lots of room for candy in that belly!

Tyler as Dracula! Ty was such a great helper at the party! Thanks Ty!

Dallas as Yo Gabba Gabba's DJ Lance Rock!!

Will as a 70's b-baller! He is still single ladies! Look at those hot buns! Must be a Bradshaw thing! Lol!

Oh my gosh, I can't believe it! Amy as the double rainbow! (You Tube it! Hilarious!)

More Fancy Nancies! So cute!

Joe is scared of the camera person. It was Ernie afterall!

Grandma helping Julia get ready for some Bingo!

Halloween

2010-11-14T22:03:00.000-08:00

We had a great time at Me-Maw and G-Dog's Halloween party the Friday night before Halloween, and a great time hitting their neighborhood and passing out candy Halloween night! The girls were adorable as usual as Belle and Alice in Wonderland! Even their little personalities were quite fitting (the princess and the peculiar one!) I wish I would have gotten more pictures, but my camera battery was dead. :-( Here are the couple I got, and if I can get my hands on Me-Maw's pictures, I will post more (just for you Courtney!)!

Summer 2010

2010-10-02T11:40:00.000-07:00

I know, it is overdue again, but since it is still 107 outside today, I think it is appropriate to post summer pictures today! Here they are...picture overload!

Julia's birthday, June:

Sara's wedding at SLC temple, August:

Julia's first day of kidnergarten, August

Disneyland, September:

A great way to do allowance that I stole from Michelle!

2010-06-27T22:24:00.000-07:00

I was telling my sister's about this great way my friend Michelle does allowance for her family tonight at dinner. They asked me to send them the blog, but Michelle's blog is private, so I hope she doesn't mind that I am stealing her post from her blog (minus some of the pictures, because I had to download them each seperately). :-) I was going to just send it to my sister's email, but I thought this was such a fantastic way to do this that I might as well share with all two of you who might read my blog! Lol! I am definitely going to give this a go! Thanks Michelle!! And to all my friends, keep the thoughts, ideas, inspiration coming! I might not have time to write much lately, but reading all your blogs makes me feel connected in some small way! :-)

THOUGHTS ON ALLOWANCE

Ohh...where do I begin?
Allowance has always been kind of an "issue" for me. It's a subject I've debated back and forth seriously since Michael was probably about three. In my mind I tried to sort through different scenarios about how to make it work without tying it just to chores. Trying to figure out how much to give, when to give, would it spoil my kids???, yada yada yada.
I seriously came up with nothing.

Then I read "Parenting Breakthrough" --a book I've previously blogged about.

When I first read the book, I remembered that I really liked the authors thoughts on allowance. But, Michael was too young at the time I felt and I wasn't quite there yet myself, but I vowed to re-open the subject when Michael was bigger. Near the end of last year Michael and I had a bit of a run in on the subject and so I figured it was time to re-read.
And man am I glad I did.
Now, I will preface this by first giving full credit to Merrilee Boyak (the author) because that is where all the insight of this came from. But it's so genius that I had to share.

SO this is how it works.

The first Saturday of every month is what we call Pay Day. Rather than give the kids a weekly allowance--it's lumped into a monthly sum. The reasoning is so that the kids have an opportunity to manage a "larger" amount of money--also it helps encourage the kids to use the spending portion of it on perhaps something a bit nicer rather than blowing it on junk (although they're still likely to do that).
The other reason is fast Sunday (what my church refers to as the first Sunday in each month) follows that day and so it's an instant reminder for the kids to pay their tithing.

So you may ask how much do you give??
The answer: $1 per year in age the kid is.

So Michael gets $8
Maddi gets $5
Braxten gets $3

I've figured out the best way for me to bridge the whole question of "why does Michael get more money?" Is to just simply say, "Because he's older and when you're older you will get the same thing...isn't that exciting?"
For me it worked.

So the BIG key here is when it's Pay day around here I make it VERY clear (not sure what the book said about this one) that I am giving my kids allowance because they are part of our family.
That's the reason.
I am NOT giving them allowance to do their normal chores.
HOWEVER, I also make it VERY clear that they do their chores-again-because they are part of our family.
That's my key phrase.
I have to remind my kids of it frequently.

Now the other BIG key here is that come pay day, ALWAYS make sure you have EXACT change to allow for the next step.

10% IMMEDIATLEY goes to tithing (a church donation)
and 10% immediately goes to savings.
The rest--is their's to spend HOWEVER they want--NO questions asked.

So this means I have a stash of dimes and quarters that are included in their pay and we sit right then and put the first 10% in a tithing envelope all ready for church the next day (I just grabbed a huge extra stash from church so we have them on hand) and the second and third straight in corresponding jars
(I found these at IKEA for $2.50 each) again--for us they work great--but just use whatever works for you.

So what do you do if your kid wants/needs more money?
That's where the money chore chart comes in.
These are chores that are ABOVE and BEYOND what would be considered their "normal" chores.

So just last week Michael desperately wanted to earn more money.
I told him to pick something off our "Money Chore Chart."
He chose this:

It earned him $5 bucks --mowing the front and back yard all by himself--it was a huge moment for me (in more ways than one) when he did it.
(Don't those crooked lines looked great! )

Things on my money chart are:
Mow Lawn: $5
Pull Weeds (front and back): $3
Clean a car: $2
Vacuum a car: $1
Sweep the garage: $1
Read an extra book (aside from normal required reading--and it has to be a "just-right book to count): $.25

Now this is something I added to our routine:
Things MOMMY get's paid for:
Socks left outside (a HUGE problem for me): $.50 per pair
Backpack/Coat on the ground: $.25
Bike left out: $.50
Burp at the dinner table (thanks Lisa for this idea--although I may be the one having to pay my kids--he-he ): $.25

The greatest thing about this is there are SO many teaching moments that are presented naturally with it ( I know we all love those moments with our kids) like just filling out the tithing envelope and answering the kids questions about all the additional lines, or what it feels like to have to save for something (something I'm still working on myself :) or to not have instant gratification--just because "they want it". It has helped SO much with the kids asking for things at the store.
Seriously.
Everytime they ask for something, I ask them right back if they have money for it (this works especially well for Braxten surprisingly enough). If they do--they RARELY want to actually spend it. Michael hasn't bought ONE thing yet with any of his money because he's saving for a Wii game and I just think that's great! Maddi bought an outfit for her favorite doll--that was great too because it was something she saved up for and it was a very calculated purchase for her. Plus, she seriously takes so much better care of it than she does the other toys she has.
I just love how it naturally makes them think.

And this is something we've done for the past 6 months not something that I just started--so I know it works!

Okay, I'll get off my soap box now...

Anywhoo...I'm sure each of you have your own method of teaching these same things to your kids. I just can't help but share when something that's been shared with me makes my life so much better!

Hopefully if you're looking for an allowance idea--you were able to pull something from this.

GOOD LUCK!

PS - If you need some vinyl for your jars, check out http://www.thelettercafe.com/

Two blocks down, two to go...

2010-05-04T17:42:00.000-07:00

I have a whoppin' two weeks off before my next block, so what to do? Catch up on blogging. :-) Even though my free time has dwindled this past semester, we still had time for some fun.

Peter Piper Pizza:

Disneyland:

My birthday staycation at Gainey Ranch:

Some fun in the sprinklers with good bud Carter:

And some Easter morning fun:

All in all, we have been having fun and staying busy! Life is good! Until the end of August when I am finished with block three...okay, I will try to post some in between!
:-)

Girls' night anyone?!

2010-04-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

http://familiesfororphans.org/fso/event_flyer.pdf

Many thanks!

2010-02-06T00:35:00.000-08:00

What a week! I have to give a public huge thanks to a few people who seriously came to my rescue this week! I had a minor outpatient procedure on Monday (nothing to worry about). As a result, some of my regular "motherly" duties seriously lacked this week! To make matters worse, both my girls had pretty nasty colds, and my mother-in-law (who I usually rely on as the back-up mommy to my girls, for which she gets an eternal THANK YOU) also caught the cold! :-( Thus, it was a rough week!

First, I have to say thank you to my husband!! He took great care of me on Monday, keeping me calm before the procedure, staying with me during it, and making sure I was okay after it. He kept the girls entertained, fed, and safe! He did dishes, laundry, made meals, swept, mopped, vaccuumed, and went grocery shopping for me (more than I do in a week when I am 100%)! And, he did all this while working Tues, Thurs, and Fri (took Monday off to be with me and Wednesday off to stay with the girls while I was at school)! And, he still managed to have plenty of time to play Warcrap (for which I refrained from giving him a hard time this week since he was perfecto in every other way!).

Second, I have to thank my father-in-law and my parents for watching my girls while Seth went to work and I went to school on Thursday. The girls had a great time scribbling with chalk all over the garage floor with G-Dog and picking oranges with grandpa to earn their beloved quarters! And, thanks for the citrus mom and dad! We really needed some vitamin C boosters around here!

Third, I have to thank my awesome friend Kenna for constantly offering to take Julia to preschool with Ethan even though it is my turn to drive them! I probably owe Kenna about $200 in gas money by this point!!

Finally, I have to thank my sisters for hanging out with me tonight! Although, Dear John was about the dumbest movie I have seen in awhile, I always have fun with my sisters!!

And one more thanks to Seth, who after a week like this, still let me go out with my sisters while he watched the girls!! Wow, I am one lucky lady!!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-15T19:25:00.000-08:00

Here are the Christmas pictures from that morning and evening. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful family and to have married into such a wonderful family. For Christmas Eve everyone came to our house so we had mine and Seth's family together. On Christmas day, my sister hosted dinner and invited Seth's family. It is so great to be able to be with both families on the holidays! I feel for those of you who have to do the 'every other year' gig. I am so blessed that our families get along so well, and we all have such a great time together!

Christmas morning:

Christmas dinner:

And the best present ever...men doing the dishes!

December '09

2010-01-09T00:14:00.000-08:00

We had a fun-filled December and all that goes with the wonderful holiday season! Here are some highlights!

Sophia decided she wanted to follow in mama's friend, Sarah's footsteps and become a makeup artist. Sarah, we are going to need some tips!

Julia thought it would be fun to put on every single pair of pajamas she owns! That didn't last long. It may be December, but we do live in Arizona!

We helped Rhonda and Ernie make about 30 dozen tamales! ...Well some of us helped, while others managed to pull the bowl of Maseca over their heads!!

We took a family pic in front of the tree!

And of course, we went to Disneyland (and Knotts Berry Farm)! Aunt Sara, Uncle Will, Cousin Aleia, Aunt Leah, Stew (pretty much Uncle Stew), MeMa, and G-Dog came with us! It was so much fun! I love Disneyland during the holidays!

More to come with the rest of December! My dad celebrated his 70th birthday, Uncle Eli and Aunt Vanessa came to visit, and of course, I have Christmas day pics to share. However, since it is 2 AM, I am going to wait until tomorrow...or later today to post them!

Little Miss Muffet

2009-11-13T23:51:00.000-08:00

Julia: "Little Miss Muffet sat of a tuffet, eating her curves away..."

Wouldn't it be great if we could sit on tuffets and eat our curves away? Boy do I love that girl!!

I do think Julia's interpretation of Little Miss Muffet is hilarious, however, it doesn't top my cousin, Heidi's son's rendition of Nephi's courage.

I love when children sing!!

Christmas?

2009-11-06T20:32:00.000-08:00

It is not too early for Christmas music is it?! If you said, "yes"...bah hum bug to you!!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T22:02:00.000-08:00

Julia's preschool Halloween party: Neighborhood Halloween party: Lopez Halloween party:

Disneyland etiquette

2009-10-29T14:28:00.000-07:00

I have been to Disneyland several times (I know I am lucky right?!). However, maybe because I am getting older, I was never so annoyed by others at Disneyland as I was on this last trip.

1. When the ride states, no flash photography please, this does not mean as soon as you are not in the workers view you can start shooting pictures with your flash!! It is so annoying for the other riders! And seriously, what are you going to do with those pictures? Recreate the scenes? Good luck with that!

2. Even though you are at Disneyland, which feels like a huge playground, do not act like a kid unless you actually are a kid! Do not cuss out someone else in front of his kids, do not get in a fist fight because someone was rude. With thousands of people there, some of them are bound to suck. Get over it! We actually saw a woman run after a man after they got off the ride (running into others on her way), and cuss him out in front of his kid. I think it had to do with her asking him not to take pictures with his flash during the ride, and he said something rude back to her. Some people just suck lady. Walk away...don't chase him down to swear at him in front of his kid and mine!!

3. Do not stop to look at the fireworks, parade, characters, etc. if there are Disneyland workers all over the place telling you to keep moving. There are designated sitting areas. If you are not in one, get a move on!

4. Do not bring your kid to Disneyland if he is dripping snot and hacking all over the place! Hello, we don't need your swine flu!!

5. When you see a line for the characters, get at the end of it. Don't try to start your own. My kid wants to see Goofy just as much as your kid.

Okay, that is it for now. Despite the rediculousness I witnessed, I also witnessed the magic that truly is Disneyland. First, when I saw this tall, big, middle-aged man act like he threw out his back when trying to pull out the sword in the stone. The erruption of laughter that came from his kids was such a feel good moment! Second, when the little boy who was dressed up from head to toe like Woody from Toy Story got to take his picture with Woody! The excitement on that kids face was awesome! And of course, seeing my own girls so excited to be there, want to go on rides over and over, and eat every giant sucker we passed made it, once again, a great, memorable vacation!! Here are some pics:

Swiss Days in Utah

2009-09-12T22:14:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my sisters, my mom, and I went to Swiss Days in Utah. If you have never been, you are missing out! Note though, save your money before you go! We got there as soon as it opened in the morning, and it was already crowded. By mid-day, there were so many people we had to wait in lines just to see the crafts! However, the endless white tents of cute crafts, jewerly, and delicious food (mmm...scones) made it all worth it! Those Mormon Utah ladies sure know how to craft!!

This is us in the morning ready to go!

The signs said no pictures please, but I took a few before I saw the sign, so I can't be held accountable right?!

Mmm...scones!

Pooped from all the shopping!

However, after a night of rest (dinner at Five Guys and a movie, All About Steve...it was good to see you Vanessa!!), we were ready for more! My Aunt Vicki took us to the cutest shops in Utah (Tai Pei, Rod Works, Randee's, Archibalds, and others). Since I spent most of my money the day before at Swiss Days, I took pictures of the things I thought I might be able to make someday (wishful thinking!).

Rachel, can you make me one of these aprons?! Isn't this adorable?! It says, "The Ghostest with the Mostest" in case you can't read the writing.

Sheridyn (holding Jackson), Shannon, Aunt Vicki, and my mother at Gardner's Village

That night, we went to dinner at Tucano's and to see my cousin, Courtney's cute new place. If you have never been to Tucano's and you live in Utah, you must go! So good! Just don't eat anything for a 24 hour period before! And, make sure you order a Brazillian Lemonade (Lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and water...yum!).

Proof I ate a chicken heart! Tasted like hotdogs with a disgusting after taste!

It was a very fun weekend with all my sisters, a couple of my sister-in-laws, my Aunt, and my cousins! Thank you for hosting us Aunt Vicki and Uncle Scott! Thanks for letting us cruise around in your van Melissa, thank you to all my family for a great time, and thank you Rhonda and Seth for taking such great care of my girls while I was gone!!

It was so great to come home to these sweet little faces after four days!

PS - Note the Halloween decor already up in the interior of the house! We seem to decorate earlier and earlier each year. The longer we can enjoy it the better!! Pictures of the Halloween decor coming soon!

Playdates

2009-08-29T22:40:00.000-07:00

We have had a couple fun playdates lately. A few weeks ago, I took the girls and met Amy and her girls at Jump and Play. They had a great time and can't wait to go back!

Sophia and I had another playdate on Friday with good friends, Sarah, Jaime, and Courtney and kids (Jules was at preschool). I am sad I did not get pics with Jaime and Court, but I did get some fun ones of Sophie and Alex hanging out (aka - trying to destroy the place!) at Sprinkles! We had a good time!

Shafted

2009-08-29T22:32:00.000-07:00

This evening, I decided to put Sophia down for bed and let Julia stay up later so I could we could spend some "Mommy and me" time together. We had fun drawing rediculous (seriously, I think Julia's were probably as good if not better than mine!) picture of her Uncle Booj's and Aunt Nessa's dog, Dexter. Then, we did the bedtime routine of potty and brushing teeth, and said prayers just outside her door so as not to wake the beast. When we quietely entered her room, Julia asked me if I could lay down with her and hold her hand. I replied, "Sure honey, but just for a little bit." And, in classic Julia response, she said, "Mom, what is a little bit?" I absolutely love that about this girl! She never misses a chance to learn! Since she was born, she quietly observes, memorizes, and puts into practice! Seth and I are constantly saying that she is too smart for her own good! Although, I want her to stay my girl forever, I can't wait to see what this smarty pants has in store!

Updates

2009-08-20T20:46:00.000-07:00

Julia started preschool at Happy Apple Preschool a few weeks ago. She is loving it! Her buddy, Ethan from church is in her class. I miss my girl for a few hours every other day, but I know she loves it and having the social time is great for her!
Here she is on her first day:

Sophia is hitting milestones too. She is having full conversations now. Most of the time, we know what she is saying. However, there are some occasions where she looks me right in the face and very convincingly tells me something that is total jibberish. I just nod and say, "Uh huh!" while I die laughing inside! She is adorable, but major trouble lately! She has also started potty training too. She has done #1 in the potty several times, but no # 2 yet. We're still working on it. I started a "potty basket" filled with $1 store toys to reward her. Here she is with her first reward (see the rocker necklace!):

We have also had some more trips to the cabin, lots of swimming, playdates with friends and family, and movies, and more movies (its hot outside!!). We are getting excited for the summer to be over though. Bring on Halloween!!

Here is a pic from the cabin:

Hope everyone else in enjoying their summer!!

4th of July

2009-07-19T20:28:00.001-07:00

We had a fun, hot 4th! We went bowling, swimming, barbequed, and lit "fireworks". Despite the heat, we had a great, fun day!

Update

2009-06-19T19:44:00.000-07:00

Time flies when you are having fun (or getting stressed out by writing papers and preparing presentations!)! I found out a few months ago that I had to finish my Masters program by June, or I would have to start over. Since I didn't want to waste all the work I had already done I decided to suck it up and take my remaining two classes. Hallelujah!! I am done! Thanks to Seth and my in-laws for taking such good care of me and my girls while I was glued to the computer! Thanks also to my work, for paying me to write my papers while I was there! ha ha! Anyway, we are alive and well!

Although I have not had the time to blog about it, we have had a fun-filled past few months. Sophie and Julia both celebrated birthdays, we had a trip to the cabin, we have been swimming, playing at the park, and enjoying the unusually nice whether we have had thus far in Arizona! The girls have been having a great time with daddy playing mommy, and although I miss them like crazy during the day, I am glad they are getting some time to bond with daddy. Thankfully, life will be going back to somewhat normal soon. Seth just took a job with the Social Security Administration, and I will be quitting my job in August and starting the nursing program! Yeah! We are excited for these new happenings, and are thankful we have been blessed to make it through some tough times!

I included some pictures below of what we have been up to lately! Hope all is well for all of you!

Julia's Birthday 2009

2009-06-19T19:29:00.000-07:00

Cabin Memorial Day 2009

2009-06-19T19:21:00.000-07:00

Sophie's Birthday 2009

2009-06-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

Bees, eggs, and other fun stuff

2009-04-11T22:20:00.000-07:00

Since I am short on time these days, my posts have to cover more time and more events, so here goes...

My first fun story is about the bees. I came home from work a few weeks ago, and went into our bathroom to find a bunch of bees! There were probably about 15 of them or so! So naturally, I yelled for Seth to come kill them. He did a good job swatting them all with his shoe. Turns out there was a nest in the attic! Stupid bees! Here is a pic of the remains in the tub:

Anyway, nobody wants to see pictures of dead bees, so I will post some pics of what people do want to see (who wouldn't want to see these adorable girls!). Here they are coloring eggs for Easter:

Sophie had a good time watching after she tried to eat the egg (shell and all) that we gave her to color.

And here are some more random pics of the cuteness:

And here is the latest cuteness added to our family. This is my sweet nephew Jackson Miner:

He almost makes me want to have another one..."almost" being the operative word! :-)

Daddy needs a job

2009-02-25T21:32:00.000-08:00

My apologies for anyone who visited my blog and had to read Seth's post surrounded by puke green! At least I can't say having Seth for a husband is boring! Thanks for the entertainment babe! Now, go mow the lawn!

Sorry Babe!!!! Daddy was bored!!!

2009-02-25T14:03:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when "the daddy" is bored and figures out "the mama's" password to her blog. Isn't it lovely!!! I hope she truly appreciates all of the hard work and tremendous effort I put into this masterpiece.....................

P.S.- I could very well end up dead after this little stunt.

Update

2009-02-05T20:14:00.000-08:00

More than a month since my last post?! Boy, I am a slacker! I must admit though, it is tough to keep up when I am working full-freaking-time! I am not sure how my girls are surviving without me and having the Sahd (stay-at-home-dad) around. They seem to be enjoying it though. I am liking my new job at United Healthcare, but glad it is just until I start nursing school in the Fall.

The girls are doing good. Julia has taken quite the active role in playing big sister. She did tell me today that she "doesn't want Sophie anymore". I asked her if she wanted to give Sophie back and she said yes. Oh the fun of sisterhood. Julia has also taken an interest in singing lately (maybe it is all the American Idol we have been watching lately). She sings along with the songs in the car, whether she knows the words or not. My favorite was her rendition of Beyonce's "If you like it then you should have put a ring on it." Julia's version was, "If you like it then you should have put a rash on it." Um...pretty sure those aren't the words Julia and pretty sure you don't want to be spreading rashes to anyone you like. We'll save that talk for another day though, in about 18 years or so.

Sophia is equally entertaining these days. She is quickly becoming quite the linguist. It is hard to be away from her at this age, because I don't get to see the development as it happens. Last night I was reading her a book before I put her to bed, and she opened it to the first page and proceeded to spout out about every object on the page! When the heck did she learn how to say flower, or boy, or pizza?! She is a smart little cookie, but still mischevious as ever. She has at least one near miss a day. That little smile melts my heart every time though. She gets that from her daddy! And just like her daddy, I know she is definitely going to learn to perfect that and use it against me someday! :-)

Other than that, all is well. I will try to get some more pictures of them soon to post. They are growing up way too fast!!

My little helper

2009-01-05T21:33:00.000-08:00

Here is what happens when Julia is left unsupervised in the kitchen:

She had a great time "cleaning the counters" for mama! How can I be mad at that?!

Christmas 2008

2009-01-05T21:09:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas and New Years! On Christmas Eve we went to Casa Grande to spend the night with G-Dog and Meemaw! It was so much fun to stay up until 3 AM playing Guitar Hero and Scrabble! And although getting up the next morning was rough, I loved watching Julia get excited that Santa came. Sophie was not so excited this year. She mostly wanted to just go outside and play. Of course, she also wanted to take Julia's presents which made for some fun. Such a Merry day! Then, we went to my sister, Sheridyn's house for dinner on Christmas night. I wish I would have taken pictures there, but I was just lucky to keep my eyes open! We had a good time playing games and eating junk on New Year's Eve too! We had a fun and interesting 2008. I am so grateful for my friends and family!! I hope all of you have a wonderful 2009!

The Christmas card picture rejects

2008-12-19T23:10:00.000-08:00

Sophia

2008-12-08T23:50:00.000-08:00

I love this little girl!! She tries my patience every chance she gets, but boy does she keep life fun!

The other day she brought me her swimsuit, swin diaper, and towel. She then proceded to undress.

She tried to show me that it was not too cold outside.

She was not happy when we continued to tell her no.

But, the next day we oblidged her and let her wear her swimsuit around the house over her clothes. She complemented the suit with mama's heels. Look out Miss America!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T19:44:00.001-08:00

I am especially thankful this year for:

1. My freedom. Not just the freedom that soldiers have risked and are risking their lives to preserve, but also the freedom Heavenly Father has granted me to make my own decisions. Although sometime it may be begrudgingly, I am also thankful for the consequences that come with making those choices.

2. My family. I consider every member of my family (in-laws included) great friends. I don't just love them because I "have to", I love them because I want to. I am still in awe that after all these years, we still love and respect one another. Within my family, I am especially grateful for my husband and children. Even though I am not perfect, they love me unconditionally! My girls inherited Seth's great big heart! I love them so much, and I am so thankful I can always feel their love. I am going to cherish it now before the teenage years hit and the love might not be so free-flowing.

3. My Savior. Without him, no hope and no peace. He made the ultimate sacrifice, and I am eternally thankful for it!

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!! Now, on to the holiday shopping...

Twilight review

2008-11-21T10:00:00.000-08:00

I didn't go in with high expectations, and the movie was better than I thought it was going to be. Some cheesy parts, mediocre special effects, but overall I really liked it. Reports are that if this one breaks $150 mill, a second will be in the works. Pretty sure that will happen.

Very interesting (and disturbing) read about Prop. 8 retaliation

2008-11-07T14:51:00.000-08:00

Taken from my cousins', Kandis and Adam's blog:

Did they forget who is spreading the real 'hate' and 'fear' right now? Threatening to harm and kill 'Mormons' and everyone else who supported this ban. This article is so disturbing to say the least.

I'm assuming most of you have heard about this now. It's just so sad they have become so outraged with all of this and are now targeting our Church. Did they forget the other 50% of Californians that also supported this Proposition and probably hundreds of other Churches. Thousands of protesters gathered in front of the LA temple and it is supposed to happen today in front of the SLC temple. Again, WOW.
Protesters at the LA Temple

Jeff Flint, Strategist for the Yes on 8 Campaign said "I am appalled at the level of Mormon-bashing that went on during the Proposition 8 campaign and continues to this day," he said. "If this activity were directed against any other church, if someone put up a website that targeted Jews or Catholics in a similar fashion for the mere act of participating in a political campaign, it would be widely and rightfully condemned."

If anyone of our faith or not of our faith wonders why the Church did get involved with this Political issue, the Church responds by saying...

"Most likely, the election results for these constitutional amendments will not mean an end to the debate over same-sex marriage in this country.

We hope that now and in the future all parties involved in this issue will be well informed and act in a spirit of mutual respect and civility toward those with a different position. No one on any side of the question should be vilified, intimidated, harassed or subject to erroneous information.

It is important to understand that this issue for the Church has always been about the sacred and divine institution of marriage — a union between a man and a woman.

Allegations of bigotry or persecution made against the Church were and are simply wrong. The Church’s opposition to same-sex marriage neither constitutes nor condones any kind of hostility toward gays and lesbians. Even more, the Church does not object to rights for same-sex couples regarding hospitalization and medical care, fair housing and employment rights, or probate rights, so long as these do not infringe on the integrity of the traditional family or the constitutional rights of churches.

Some, however, have mistakenly asserted that churches should not ever be involved in politics when moral issues are involved. In fact, churches and religious organizations are well within their constitutional rights to speak out and be engaged in the many moral and ethical problems facing society. While the Church does not endorse candidates or platforms, it does reserve the right to speak out on important issues." To read more about their response to the Vote and why they got involved, read here...
Church Responds to Same-Sex Marriage Votes

Results...

2008-11-04T22:46:00.001-08:00

Yeah for Prop. 102 here in AZ, Prop. 8 in in Cali, and Prop. 2 in Florida! It is nice to know that our society has not completely gone "sodom and gommora". Good luck to Obama. I wouldn't want to be him right now...or pretty much ever, but especially right now.

Halloween night!

2008-11-02T20:42:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of the front yard on Halloween night. Thanks Greg for taking these!!

And here are some pictures of the Halloween fun!

Scary, but hilarious!!

2008-11-02T20:20:00.001-08:00

Maybe some people really shouldn't have the right to vote...

http://www.bpmdeejays.com/upload/hs_sal_in_Harlem_100108.mp3

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T11:30:00.000-07:00

Here are pictures of the outside of the house. I will try to get some video tonight with the fog machine going. The full effect is amazing!!

Playing catch-up...

2008-10-30T00:39:00.000-07:00

We took a trip to Disneyland at the beginning of this month. Here are some of my fav pics. I will post more when I complete the collection with the cute pics I know my sister took! It was rediculously hot and crowded, but it is Disneyland, so we still had a good time! It was so fun to see all the Merrill crew running around Disneyland too! I vote we hold the Merrill Family Reunion annually at Disneyland from now on...we'll just pick a cooler and less crowded time to go next year!

We also attended a great Halloween party last week hosted by Seth's cousins, Tim and Molly and their friends. It was so much fun! I don't think I have really dressed up for Halloween since my single days! Thanks Tim and Molly for inviting us!!

Finally, a little trick or treat to leave you with. Here is the trick:

And here is the treat:

Both ended up equally messy!

More Halloween photos to come. As promised I will post some pics of the outside of the house. If you get a chance to drop by and see it on Halloween night, you won't be disappointed! I have some talented in-laws and a very talented husband! I am sure we will also have lots of left-over candy when all the kids pass up our house because they are too scared!

It's beginning to look a lot like... Halloween!

2008-10-04T23:14:00.000-07:00

Seth, Rhonda, and Leah are master decorators when it comes to Halloween. I swear if they had the time and decor, every inch of the house would be decorated...and I love it! Stay tuned for pics of the outside...

update

2008-09-26T22:42:00.000-07:00

Little Gavin passed away Monday night. Thank you to all who fasted and prayed for him. I know Gavin's family appreciates it as well. In my own prayers and fasting, I had been asking that Heavenly Father's will be done and that Gavin would soon be relieved from any pain and suffering. Sometimes, that means healing in this world, and sometimes it means going on to the next. I know Gavin is where he needs to be now. I hope and pray for his family that they will also feel of God's love for them and for their little baby boy. I have only met Bethany a couple of times, but reading her story, I have no doubts that Gavin's mission here in life, although short, was very complete. Bethany is such an inspiration of strength and unwavering, motherly love. I can't imagine what she went through and is going through now. I just hope she knows that through Gavin, Bethany's words have humbled and inspired me. I saw that there were already 126 comments on her blog about the passing of Gavin. I am quite sure that if I was so touched and truly changed by Gavin's story, so many others were too. Please keep this family in your prayers.

Special fast and prayer for Gavin

2008-09-17T00:07:00.001-07:00

I am asking all of my friends and family who can to fast and pray for Seth's cousin's little boy, Gavin. You can read Gavin's story here. I think Bethany could very well be one of the strongest mothers ever! I am not sure how she is handling all this, but she is such an inspiration of strength and motherhood to me! Please keep Gavin and his family in your prayers!

Julia's first day of preschool

2008-09-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

Julia started preschool today! She is attending the Apples to Zebras program with the City of Chandler. Her teachers said she was a big help to another little boy in class today, so I was quite the proud mama of my own "little mama".

9/11

2008-09-11T23:29:00.000-07:00

We may forgive, but we won't forget...

A prego or a humpback

2008-09-07T21:47:00.000-07:00

Seth finds it so amuzing to stuff pillows or little stuffed animals inside Sophie's shift. She thinks it is pretty funny too, and surprisingly, she would probably wear it all day if I didn't intervene!

Cute pajamas

2008-09-07T21:43:00.000-07:00

Are these not the cutest pajamas you have ever seen?! I bought them on clearance at Carter's for next summer, but they were just too cute not to put on her now. Slightly large, but oh so adorable! I really do just want to squeeze her! I only wish they had them in Sophia's size too!

What we have been up to lately...

2008-08-18T22:07:00.000-07:00

I don't think I have ever gone this long without blogging. Busy, busy, busy! Truth be told, my blogging has been replaced by the Olympics. Go Phelps and Nastia! In addition, we have been making a trip to urgent care for Sophia to get stiches...

She fell and hit her head on the corner of a hope chest. It could have been much worse had it been slightly in a different direction! She cried when it happened and when the doctor stiched her up, but other than that, she was pure entertainment for all the nurses and staff at the urgent care.

Daddy has recently been finding his hidden talents in hair styling...

Perhaps he has been inspired by Sheer Genius (also a regular on the tube at our house).

And, of course, we have been getting in the spirit for the upcoming season...

GO DEVILS!

I also started a part-time job as a scheduler for PMT ambulance. It is not my dream job, but the work is easy and it is good experience for when I get into adminstration some day down the road.

So, my blogging may be a bit more sporadic, but I will try to keep posting updates on us. With our favorite season ahead (football season, a trip to Disneyland planned, Halloween, and hopefully some cooler weather!), I am sure we will have plenty more to post.

Tyler and Tyson Jensen

2008-07-29T23:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the world Tyler and Tyson. I took this pic from Carol's blog because when I saw it I about cried! Carol writes, "Even though the boys are laid down apart from each other they somehow figure out to get next to each other to snuggle while they sleep." Seriously?! How adorable is that?!

Scissors

2008-07-21T21:05:00.000-07:00

As a teen, I vowed that when I became a mother, I was never going to leave scissors lying around for my kids to get and cut their own hair. I have been very careful about putting scissors out of little hands' reach. When I think scissors, however, I think big, paper cutting type of scissors. I didn't think about Sophia's little nail clipping scissors.

I am not sure if it is a good thing they are so small, or a bad thing. Perhaps with bigger scissors, Julia would not have focused on the little clump right smack-dab in the middle of her forehead! And then, maybe I would not have atttempted to fix it and make it worse. Oh well. She is still the cutest little 3 year old I have ever laid eyes on! :-)

Carson Jensen Bradshaw

2008-07-01T12:39:00.000-07:00

Jay and Shannon had an absolutely adorable little boy on June 24th at 3:30pm.
He weighed 8 pounds, 4 ounces and was 21 inches long. He also has the cutest little hairdo I have ever seen on a baby boy! I love it! Welcome to the world Carson!

Money saving tips

2008-07-01T12:30:00.001-07:00

I know I could benefit from any of yours, so I thought I would post some of mine. I can't take credit for all these finds, but they are all great!

1. Buy produce at the dollar store. You have to look through it, but some of it is really good and way cheaper than a regular grocery store. My mother-in-law let me know about the potatoes and they are way cheaper and just as good! My dad gets huge chilis there for cheap too!

2. Buy Santitas tortilla chips instead of Tostitos! They are about a 1/3 of the price and are exactly the same (same ingredients, same taste, and they are even made by Frito Lay). The only difference is one calls a serving 9 chips and the other calls it 8 chips.

3. Dilute your juice. My girls drink Juicy Juice, and it is way too strong for them. In fact, anytime they drink it straight they start coughing. I do half water, half juice. Water is much cheaper. :-)

That's all for now. If any of you would like to share your money saving tips on your blogs, I know I would love it!

Drilling for oil

2008-06-16T23:52:00.000-07:00

Does anyone else find this decision extremely irritating?

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,365627,00.html

I am so sick and tired of the environmentalists making decisions for the masses! Drill for crying out loud!! Perhaps the oil won't make it to the pumps for years down the road, but if it is the oil futures driving the prices up then drilling will have an immediate impact. If those who are buying up the futures see that there will be an excess of supply in the future, don't you think they will stop buying them and perhaps the cost of oil will decrease? I am all for us finding an alternative source of energy (not because I buy into all this global warming crap), but because it would be great for the economy, but in the meantime I am sick of paying an arm and a leg for gas! And, it is nice to finally see McCain doing something somewhat conservative. He is calling for this ban to be lifted and for the states to decide. Although I don't really think the states should have the ultimate decision for the entire country (it's not like California owns the ocean!), at least it is a step in the right direction. If we are going to find an alternative energy source, it isn't going to be cheap. Why not drill (since China is already drilling in the same location anyway), and use the money to invest in finding an alternative source?!

Here are some other resources that I liked:

http://www.chattanoogan.com/articles/article_129863.asp

http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/06/gas_prices259.html

Eli and Vanessa's wedding

2008-06-05T23:34:00.000-07:00

Eli and Vanessa finally tied the knot last weekend in Utah! The wedding was so beautiful and so much fun! Julia wasn't totally cooperative as one of the flower girls, but at least she made it down the isle. She did thoroughly enjoy herself dancing the night away at the reception and eating off everyone's plate. Seth as the best man looked totally hot in his tux! He cleans up so well!! I was the shivering bridesmaid. It rained just before the wedding (luckily it stopped), but it was still cold for an Arizona native! We all had such a good time anyway! Eli cleaned up very well himself, and I have never seen him look so in love! Seriously, I cried! Vanessa looked absolutely stunning!! Sorry we don't have as many pictures of her. Our photographer (thanks Courtney!) was snapping shots of Julia refusing to throw flowers or keep her head wreath on as Vanessa was walking down the isle. I just hope most people were watching the beautiful bride rather than Jules. I am so glad Vanessa has officially joined our family, although after two years I feel like we are already sisters! Congratulations again to the newlyweds! We love you guys!!

PS - The new song on my playlist was the song they danced to at the wedding!

Julia

2008-06-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

I had to post Sophia's birthday tribute yesterday so I could post Julia's today! :-) Today really is her birthday! We had a little gathering on Sunday with my family (thanks Shannon for the left over birthday cake). Today Julia got a Mickey Mouse pancake for breakfast and of course, we'll be having spaghetti for dinner (Julia can eat more spaghetti than me!!). We are going to have a little party for her on Saturday with Seth's family.

Some of the mentionables about Julia include:

1. She loves to dance!! She danced all night at Eli and Vanessa's wedding reception (pics to come).

2. She is such a good little mama already! A few months back, I was not feeling well. I told her I was going to get some medicine because I had a headache, and she kissed my knee and gave me a hug and said, "It's alright mama, I will make you feel better."

3. She loves to help with everything...dishes, laundry, cooking.

4. She loves to be outside. 100 degree plus temps are not a deterrent for her!

5. She loves to sing. At first, it was just primary songs at bedtime, but now she sings songs she makes up all the time! I have heard some good ones about food, Utah, getting married, Disneyland, and of course all her family members.

6. She likes to color. We have probably already caused the destruction of several trees from all the paper we've used. She has recently learned to draw a mountain. I was quite impressed.

7. She loves to play with her imaginary "boys". She refers to them as her boys too. To my knowledge they include Brandon, Tyler, Dallan, and Keagan. These are all real people, but they become imaginary when we are home, and she is putting them down for a nap, or feeding them, or going swimming with them...

8. She holds Sophia's hand in the car because she "has to help Sophia go night night."

9. She can count to ten in Spanish! Thank you again Dora and Diego.

10. She lets me snuggle her up in her towel after her bath and carry her like a baby to her room to get dressed. To me, she will always be my little baby!

Te Amo Ju-Ju-Bee!!! Happy, happy Birthday!!

Sophia

2008-06-02T22:57:00.000-07:00

Sophia turned one on May 7 (I know this post is way overdue!!)! We celebrated her birthday at Disneyland. She got to where a cute birthday button, and we got her the birthday bucket that included a little Mickey cake. As you can see, she thoroughly enjoyed it.

Sophia is such a happy, little sweetheart! We are so grateful she is part of our family! The following are some of Sophia's adorable traits and characteristics:

1. She thinks everything is amusing. I can't even get through a book with her. She laughs every time I point at something on the page.

2. She is so independent already! She only wants to eat something if she can pick it up and put it in her mouth herself. Hence, she eats Pasta Pick-ups quite often.

3. She is a good snuggler. She loves to sit with me and watch reality shows. American Idol and So you Think you Can Dance are some of our favorites.

4. She gets so excited when daddy comes home!

5. She loves the water (bath, pool, and unfortunately, toilet)!

6. When she is grumpy, she yells, "Ma ma ma ma...". I love that she needs me!

7. She holds Julia's hand when we are in the car.

8. She loves to kick back and put her feet up, literally! Whenever she sits in the stroller, she has to have at least one leg up on the tray.

9. She is so active! She climbs (or attempts to climb) on everything (couch, stairs, Julia's chairs, Julia's tricycle)!

10. That smile melts anyone who sees it!!

I love you "Sosie Sue"!! Happy Birthday!!

Back to blogging...

2008-05-23T23:36:00.000-07:00

I think this is the longest blogging drought I have had thus far! :-) We started this month with another trip to Disneyland for Sophia's 1st birthday (pictures and more to come). Since then, we have been go, go, go! Moving, cleaning, painting, repairing... Note to self - don't ever move the same time a tenant moves out of your rental house (and leaves it a mess!!). What a nightmare! More to come on that too. After the last couple weeks, all I can really write now is that I am so very grateful for family who come to the rescue and a husband who can just about fix anything!! Boy am I glad I married such a handyman!! More posts with accompanying pictures coming soon...

That things that come out of Julia's...

2008-05-04T20:57:00.001-07:00

I was going to do a segment called "the things that come out of Julia's mouth". However, this post had to do with something that didn't come out of her mouth, but somewhere else. (I don't know what it is about me and posting about poop...I am trying not to make a habit out of this, but this one was too funny not to share.) Tonight, Julia was taking a shower while I was in the living room. When I heard her yelling mama, I just assumed she is done and ready to get out now. So, I went in to get her out, and she told me that she went pooh. She had taken her little potty in the shower with her and pooped in it!! I would have taken a picture, but I didn't want to gross you all out more. ;-) We had a nice long talk about getting out of the shower and using the toilet when she has to "go". I guess I should be thankful that she did go in the potty and not right on the shower floor.

A few things inspired by other's blogs...

2008-04-30T22:45:00.001-07:00

A friend of mine, Rachel, posted some of her favorite things including white T's, which reminded me that I had found the all time greatest white T at Target a couple months ago. I thought I would share so others could enjoy the find. It is the Merona Double Layer Scoopneck Tee for $9.99. It is 93% cotton and 7% spandex, and so comfy! The best part is that it is not see through!

I also love reading about the funny things my fellow blogger's children say or do. So I thought I would start my own little segment called 'The things that come out of Julia's mouth'. Today Julia told me that Keagan was her father. Keagan is my eight year old nephew's friend. A few months ago, we were at my sisters house babysitting and Keagan was over playing X-box with my nephew. Julia went and sat next to Keagan and began stroking his arm in admiration. Thus, the teasing by my nephews began, and Julia's boyfriend has been Keagan ever since. Today, however, Keagan became her father too apparently. I replied, "No Julia, Keagan is not your father, daddy is your father." To which she replied, "No mama. Keagan is my father, because I love him because he is strong." Oh, well okay then Julia, as long as he is strong.

And, finally, I decided to include a quote I recently received from a friend. This posting is inspired by my great friend, Sarah, who is leaning toward voting for Obama in November. I still love you Sarah!!

'My friends, we live in the greatest nation in the history of the world. I hope you'll join with me as we try to change it.'
-- Barack Obama

Great sale!

2008-04-22T23:25:00.001-07:00

Children's Place is doing an additional 50% off their clearance again. This time it is all the Spring line. You can shop online too (online has a separate shoe section that they don't have in-store). The Children's Place at Arizona Mills mall had the best selection when they did this for their Winter clearance. If you are on their mailing list you should have received a coupon that you can use to get an additional 15% on each item on top of the already super cheap prices! Happy shopping!!

New tricks

2008-04-21T23:37:00.000-07:00

I have just about packed everything I possible can up to this point, and I have had a little bug the last couple days. So what better to do than update the blog look?! I have learned a bunch of great new tricks for the blog from SJH Blog Design, and I am attempting to learn how to make better use of Photoshop Elements. Please ignore the fact that my pictures are not centered well in my slide show. A perfectionist would have gone back and cropped them all, but who has time for perfection?! Credit goes to Pillowgirl for the scraps.

Charity Yard Sale

2008-04-21T13:39:00.000-07:00

Go to Gift for Gavin for more information. Gavin is extended family. I know his family would appreciate any help you can give!!

Google Reader

2008-04-12T23:03:00.001-07:00

Go to www.google.com/reader and sign up. Then, you input your friends' and family's blog URL's in subscriptions. Every time you go to google reader, it will show you who has new posts that you have not read yet. It is so nice, because you don't have to blog hop to find out who has posted. You do actually have to go to the blogs if you want to comment, but the link is right there. Saves me time and I can make sure I don't miss anything! I can't take credit for finding this though. My intelligent friend Kim Anselmo told me about it. Thanks Kim!!

The latest...

2008-04-11T23:03:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update on the Lopez latest. We are moving back to Chandler next month! Yeah! I have enjoyed Yuma (seriously, the ward we are in is a great ward!!), but I am definitely ready to move back "home"! :-) We will be moving May 13th, so if I don't post much in the next month or so, it is because I am packing up my house...again!

In other news, we were able to enjoy yet another trip to Disneyland a couple weeks ago. Our camera went dead after the first shot I took (time for a new one I guess!), but my in-laws got some good pics. I will post them when I get them.

Julia has been pretty funny these days. She loves singing along to the radio in the car. The song today had the lyrics, "Maybe I'm the one...". Julia sang, "Maybe I'm the wall..." I tried to correct her once, but to no avail. It was better with wall anyway I think. Her other notable funny is when she said to her daddy the other day, "That's a cool seatbelt dad!" (looking at his waist belt). Seth replied, "Thanks Julia, but it is not a seatbelt, just a belt." To which Julia replied, "That's a cool belt dad. Where did you get it, The Dollar Store?" The Dollar Store!?! I am pretty sure she didn't pick that up from Dora! Man, I love that girl!

Sophia has been equally entertaining. She is learning to deal with her anger. When she gets mad, she starts whining, puts her head down, and crawls at a very rapid pace in whatever direction she is facing until she runs into something (usually a wall). Then, she gets even more upset and starts crying louder. This probably makes me a horrible mother, but it really is quite hilarious to watch. She must get that "just put your head down and go" attitude from her daddy! Ha ha! When she is her usual happy self, she is all smiles! One of my favorite things is when she giggles every time I try to brush her two little teeth! Man, I love that girl too!

That's it for now! I hope all is well with each of you and your families! I am enjoying reading your blogs! Keep the posts coming! I know I don't always leave comments, but I do read every post (I love google reader!!)!

Property Manager

2008-04-03T18:43:00.000-07:00

If anyone knows a good property manager please let me know ASAP. Our tenant is moving out in May, and we would like to use a property manager with out next one to save us from the headache. :-) Also, if you know anyone interested in renting, please let us know! Thanks!!

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T21:19:00.001-07:00

We had lots of fun coloring and hunting Easter eggs! We hope you had a wonderful Easter too!!

Spring is in the air!

2008-03-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the world pretty, little Ella Tait

and handsome, little Rigden Talbot!

Spoiled!

2008-03-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

My husband spoiled me for my 30th birthday last weekend! First, he got me a new snowboard and bindings! I already thought that was above and beyond! Then, he surprised me with a trip to San Diego for a few days!! We had such a great time! We stayed in the Gaslamp Quarter (which was quite the happening place for St. Patty's day). We toured the USS Midway (highly recommended at least once), shopped at Horton Plaza and Fashion Valley, hit the beach, and of course, ate lots of delicious food! I would post pictures, but I forgot my camera!! :-( I guess that is to be expected with a last minute trip in which I was totally unprepared! Thank you to my mother-in-law for taking such good care of my girls! I did miss them like crazy! Thank you to my wonderful husband for taking such good care of me!! Seth, I would have been happy to spend a few days alone with you anywhere...even El Centro!!

Now that really is chocolate!

2008-03-07T22:06:00.000-08:00

Julia got into my purse and had fun playing with my chocolate flavored lip gloss while I was doing laundry. She came into the laundry room and said, "Look mom! I am chocolate face!" How can one be mad at that?! She gave me a good laugh!

What happens when you fall asleep around the Lopez household...

2008-03-07T21:57:00.000-08:00

Seth was so tired one evening after work, he crashed on Julia's homemade bed of couch cushions. Julia, however, was not done playing with daddy.

If I hadn't woken him up, he probably would have slept all night on the floor with toys all over his body. Oh Julia!

That's not chocolate!! :-(

2008-02-26T19:59:00.000-08:00

As any mother knows, sometimes you have to deal with some pretty nasty stuff. I have cleaned up my fair share of throw-up, thrown out plenty of full bags of dirty diapers from the pail, and have cleaned up pee three times already in the last two days (the woes of potty training a toddler)! However, the mischief Sophia managed to get into today topped them all! I have been working on getting Sophia to go down for her nap and put herself to sleep the past couple weeks (I had previously been rocking her to sleep). So today I put her down for her nap, went downstairs, and turned on the monitor. I heard the usual gibberish for about ten minutes, then all went quiet. I figured she was sleeping like an angel and was so proud that she was adjusting so well. Then, about thirty minutes later she began to cry. I let her cry for a few minutes then decided I would go see if I could get her back to sleep. That is when I walked into this and almost started crying myself!!

In case you can't see it all in this picture, here are a few more:

Note the diaper in the corner of the crib! And note to all moms everywhere, DO NOT LET YOUR BABY SLEEP IN HER DIAPER! Hard lesson learned!

After use of almost an entire bottle of Clorox wipes for the crib itself (she managed to smear it on almost every single slat), two "heavy soil" cycles on hot through the washing machine for the bedding, lots of J&J baby wash for her little body, a one-way trip to the diaper pail for her binky, and a wall plug-in in black raspberry (thanks Amy Hadley) I was able to get things back to normal. Thank you to my mother-in-law for volunteering to come help out and to my Julia for staying down for her nap the entire time!

PS - If any of you moms out there are lucky enough to experience something like this, Poison Control confirmed that she will be fine. However, eating feces from another animal or another person could be toxic. Blaghhhh!

Moved to tears...

2008-02-26T19:38:00.000-08:00

It takes quite a bit to get me to cry, but this guy did it tonight! His performance of John Lennon's "Imagine" was easily the best performance I have ever seen on American Idol! Go kid!

Don't eat yellow snow...

2008-02-22T17:09:00.000-08:00

We went to Sedona for Valentine's Day last week. It would have been such a romantic, fun time for Seth and I if we hadn't gotten sick! I got the bug the night we got there, and Seth got a little bug on Friday. Despite the fevers and chills, we still had a great, relaxing time, and I still enjoyed the flowers and Milk Duds from my hubby and girls! We were able to sneak away to Flagstaff and see the Welkers. Thanks for letting us play in your snow Melissa! :-) Julia had a great time throwing snowballs and eating the snow. Sophia was also quite intrigued. Thanks to my sister, Sara, for coming and hanging out with us too (and for the yummy steak dinner at the Cowboy Club and for letting me borrow your suit for the hot tub)!

100 things about me...

2008-02-11T21:55:00.001-08:00

Even as I write this, I am thinking there is no way I can come up with 100 things, but I too loved reading Kim's and Lanae's 100 things, so here goes...

1. I want to submit my husband's photo to Parenting Magazine's hot dads contest
2. When I was in college (walking around 'make it or break it' lake near the 'hoochie house') I had a really strong, all of the sudden, overwhelming feeling of love for my future children. It is the same feeling of love I have for them now.
3. I get along with all seven of my siblings, their spouses, and my parents extremely well.
4. I think my parents raised us extremely well!
5. I am hopelessly inadequate in comparison with my in-laws (cooking, sewing, raising children, etc.), but I could not have chosen a better family to marry into!
6. I have probably had about 20 best friends at one time or another. Many are still my best friends.
7. One of my best friends (Cindy) and I have known each other since preschool.
8. We used to walk to Walgreen’s at 11 PM at night to get candy when we had sleepovers (11 years old or so). Very different times!
9. I love having friends who are there for me anytime, and I love being there for them.
10. I love giving and receiving advice.
11. I used to hate being tall.
12. Now, I love that my girls will probably be tall.
13. In third grade, I was always chosen to be on the boys’ team in kickball at recess.
14. They called me sexy legs when I ran the bases (they probably did not even know what sexy meant at that age!).
15. I was very fast when I was little, but now I am a total slowpoke!
16. My favorite feature is my hair.
17. I have had some ugly haircuts!!
18. I played tennis, basketball, softball, track, and cheer my freshman year.
19. I played badminton 10th – 12th.
20. My teammate (Cindy, mentioned above) and I placed 5th in state for doubles our senior year.
21. My badminton coach and my softball coach from ninth grade were very influential people in my upbringing. They were inspiring.
22. I wish I had an indoor gym so I could play badminton whenever I wanted.
23. I get very bored when I work out or run by myself, hence I do not do it often enough.
24. I like being part of a team.
25. I HATE losing.
26. I was up until 3 AM one morning after losing a championship game of softball the night before.
27. Many times, I will not watch the end of a game if my team is losing, or I have to change the channel and come back because I get too upset.
28. I hate the SEC!
29. I am a conservative.
30. My husband frequently gets me to be objective on issues that I otherwise would not have been.
31. My husband is a conservative too, but loves to “push my buttons”!
32. We are both hardheaded and stubborn, which makes for some heated debates.
33. I love that about us.
34. I have always been attracted to a challenge.
35. I think Julia is smarter than almost everyone her age, but I cannot take credit for it.
36. I think Sophia is cuter than almost everyone her age…again, she does not get that from me.
37. I love when Julia acts like the little mommy to Sophia.
38. I only have two classes to take before I get my Masters in Health Administration.
39. I am going to complete nursing school before I finish my MHA (I start in the fall).
40. I have a BS in Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology.
41. I am interested in all aspects of health (care, science, administration).
42. I would like to make a difference in my community (state, nation, world), and hope to do so in the healthcare field.
43. I could have done very well in school if I applied myself more.
44. I do not regret not applying myself more, because I had some great times in college.
45. I resented the fact that science majors have to work twice as hard as other majors due to the labs.
46. I think most academic counselors are useless (especially at community colleges).
47. I am easily overwhelmed when I think about the problems we face in the world today.
48. I get upset when people discuss problems without offering solutions.
49. I do not like when people criticize the President as though they could have done a better job.
50. However, one of my favorite bands is Rage Against the Machine…I just like their music. Lyrics go in one ear and out the other. ;-)
51. I think people seriously underestimate the terrorist threat. Actually, I used to work for a member of the Defense Science Board for the DoD, so I know people underestimate it.
52. I have a very good understanding of the Plan of Salvation, and always have.
53. I consider myself very blessed for that.
54. My favorite bumper sticker reads, “It’s not a religion, it’s a relationship.”
55. I like to cook, but only with a recipe. I cannot make things up on my own.
56. I wish I could sew.
57. I love being out of the shower clean, but I do not like taking showers. It takes too much time (of course, I still do it for the sake of those around me ;-)).
58. I do like taking hot showers when I am cold or sick.
59. I have never broken a bone…only a few sprained fingers and toes.
60. I like action movies more than any other type of movie.
61. I like all types of music, but some much more than others.
62. I cannot really dance, but I try anyway.
63. I think Jewelry is a big waste of money! Do not buy me a necklace, just give me the cash!
64. I would like to live in San Diego someday.
65. I would like for all my friends and family to move there too.
66. I could (and probably have) eat a whole box of Milk Duds during the previews at a movie.
67. I never get sick of Disneyland.
68. I do get sick of Vegas after a few days.
69. I like going out of town to see a concert more than seeing it in my hometown.
70. I have been to so many concerts I cannot count them all.
71. For lack of stuff about me, I will list some of the bands I have seen (many of them more than once): RATM, Korn, Linkin Park, Staind, Incubus, Deftones, Jimmy Eat World, Collective Soul, U2, System of a Down, Jane’s Addiction, Pearl Jam, Sevendust, Static X, A Perfect Circle, Metallica, Limp Bizkit, Wallflower, Third Eye Blind, Onesidezero, Trapt, Seether, Smile Empty Soul, Brittany Spears, Depeche Mode, Erasure, REM, Sarah McLachlin, Dave Matthews Band, Green Day, Blink 182, No Doubt, NOFX, The Smashing Pumpkins, Stone Temple Pilots, and more…
72. I am very afraid of cockroaches and scorpions.
73. I love my husband’s obsession with Halloween.
74. My favorite holiday is Christmas.
75. I love buying presents for people.
76. I love to get good deals, especially on clothes.
77. I hate clutter in my house (a trait passed to me from my husband).
78. I am very systematic in taking care of my home and family.
79. I am easily irritated when my system is disrupted…something I need to work on.
80. Unlike most people, I like being a patient in a hospital. Please, wait on me all you want!
81. I do not like going into the ocean. I hate the salt water!
82. I love being at the beach, but not taking home the sand.
83. I like to eat out with my husband.
84. I love having my feet rubbed with lotion, but cannot stand it without lotion.
85. I love watching criminal type shows (Criminal Minds, CSI's, Law and Order, etc.)
86. I hate when those shows try to push a liberal agenda (which is pretty much all the time, but they are still entertaining).
87. My favorite color really is pink, but was not so until I was in college.
88. I love fast, twisty roller coasters. They make Seth sick.
89. I have been treated for being clinically dehydrated and still do not drink enough water on a daily basis. Another thing I need to work on.
90. I went a few years without drinking soda.
91. I usually only drink soda now when I go out to dinner or a movie, or need some caffeine.
92. I rarely fall asleep before midnight.
93. My little sisters and I used to make funny faces in the mirror, and not when we were little kids. This was when I was in my early twenties!
94. I love to host parties, but my husband…not so much.
95. I love to play board games. It’s a cheap fun night
96. I love eating a huge breakfast, although I do not enjoy making it, and thus usually eat cereal.
97. I drink a lot of milk (see the no broken bones above!).
98. One of my all time favorite things is when Julia puts her hands on my cheeks to talk to me sometimes.
99. I love taking naps when my girls are napping.
100. I love when my husband gets up with the girls and lets me sleep in!

Okay, that was seriously tough, but fun! I challenge all of you to come up with 100 things! I would love to read them!

The lesser of two evils...

2008-02-06T11:26:00.000-08:00

Although, Romney seems to be optimistic still, it looks like the nomination is going to McCain. All we can hope is that he will get the votes in November, be made President, and then die before he is able to do anything too damaging! (Okay, that was harsh, but the man has battled skin cancer twice already, and he is old, so it is a possibility!) Despite the fact that I cannot stand Juan McAmnesty, he is better than the alternative, and perhaps he does have a better chance to beat the Democratic nominee than Mitt would have (apparently, Matt Anselmo believes this as well, hence the e-mail to vote for Mitt to many of you...ha...I just outed Matt on my blog!). There are potentially two Supreme Court Judges this President may get to appoint. So, I probably will vote for McCain in November. I can live with higher taxes and a pathway for illegals to become citizens for four years. I can't live with two judges that may enact laws to allow partial-birth abortions, civil unions, strip the right to bear arms, and other such liberal crap! CNN has a list of all the issues and the stances on its website that is pretty good and comprehensive if you are interested. The only thing I can be sure of from yesterday's "Super Tuesday" (they should call it Stupid Tuesday!), is that we surely are in the last days!!

Don't forget to vote tomorrow!!

2008-02-04T12:03:00.000-08:00

...unless you are voting for McCain or Hillary! :-)

What the ladies have been up to this month...

2008-01-28T22:59:00.000-08:00

(Please push pause on the music player below before playing the videos.)

Standing in the crib (and yelling ma ma ma ma until I go get her):

Crawling:

Cruising:

Devising cool handshakes?:

Riding a new tricycle:

Running over mommy's house plant with a walker:

Singing:

And more singing:

And more singing still:

And yet more singing (she really likes to sing these days):

And swinging:

As you can see, we have had a month full of growth and development! Everyday is more fun with these two turkeys! I am so blessed to be mommy to these sweet, little spirits!

This girl is ready for a nap!

2008-01-22T20:30:00.000-08:00

Usually my Sophie is all smiles, but when she is ready for a nap, her face turns to this:

Saying prayers with Julia

2008-01-22T20:26:00.000-08:00

After reading an article about spirituality and children in Parents' Magazine, I decided to try to get Julia more involved in saying her prayers so she would enjoy it and want to say them. I have been asking her what she wants to pray about. She usually replies by naming pretty much everyone she knows. Tonight however, she changed her request. I asked, "Julia, what should we pray for tonight?" Her answer, "Candy." Oh, the mind of a two year old!

Who the heck is is Tom Tancredo?

2008-01-21T21:31:00.000-08:00

I don't even know who Tom Tancredo is, and I sure as heck don't support Hillary 51%!! I think this test must be flawed! :-)

76% Tom Tancredo
69% Mitt Romney
68% Fred Thompson
66% Mike Huckabee
64% John McCain
60% Rudy Giuliani
55% Bill Richardson
51% Hillary Clinton
50% Barack Obama
49% John Edwards
49% Ron Paul
46% Chris Dodd
45% Joe Biden
32% Mike Gravel
28% Dennis Kucinich

2008 Presidential Candidate Matching Quiz

Not to toot my own horn, but...

2008-01-20T21:11:00.000-08:00

TV Reviews

Melissa and I rockin' out!

2008-01-10T14:29:00.000-08:00

We visited my sister and fam in Gilbert last weekend and had a great time playing Ben's new Guitar Hero III! Here is me and Melissa rockin'! Melissa might be mad at me for posting this picture in her jammies with hair in a pony and no make-up, but she still looks better than me, so I am posting it anyway! :-) I love you Melissa! Thanks for letting us crash at your house!

Welcome to the world Nathan!

2008-01-04T22:15:00.001-08:00

One of my very best friends (and longest friend I have ever had!), Cindy and her hubby, Chad had a beautiful baby boy on December 13th! He was 9 lbs, 4 oz. I can't wait to meet him!! Welcome little Nathan!!

Happy Anniverary, despite the Sun Devils smackdown!

2008-01-04T21:32:00.000-08:00

Well, the game was a bust, but at least we didn't get beat as bad as Illinois or Hawaii! Despite getting our rears handed to us and the freezing cold temps way up in our seats at Qualcomm, Seth and I had a great anniversary in San Diego. We stayed at the Hyatt right by Sea World and had an awesome view! We started the day after the game at my new favorite place in Pacific Beach, the Belgium Frie (delicious waffles!!), went to the beach for awhile then headed to Sea World. It was great to spend some alone time with my hubby, but by the end of the day, we were both ready to go see our girls! That is one of the things I absolutely adore about my husband! He is as big a girl as I am when it comes to missing our kids! He is such a great daddy and has a heart of gold! I love you babe! The past five years has been great, and I wouldn't want to spend it with anyone else in any other way! I am looking forward to 50 more years in this life and an eternity in the next with you Seth!!

Christmas slideshow

2008-01-04T20:58:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas! Leah (Chachee to Julia and Sophia) and her boyfriend, Stew came down to Yuma, and we spent Christmas Eve and Christmas day with them, my mother-in-law (Mi Ma to the girls), and my father-in-law (G-Dog to the girls). For Christmas Eve, we played all kinds of fun games including snowballs (eat a ball of icecream with a candle in the middle without letting your flame die), and we made crazy masks with some kits Mi Ma gave us! We had a great time!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T21:46:00.000-08:00

A new look for the new year! Thanks to Tangie for the cute digiscraps! I am back to creating in PowerPoint. Maybe PSE for my birthday (apparently, Seth did not read my previous hint). Yesterday, I cut the coupon from Costco out ($30 off making it only $49.99!!) and said directly, "This is what I want for my birthday." We shall see if it works...

A little late, but watch it anyway

2007-12-30T14:19:00.000-08:00

My cousin, Tangie, posted this on her blog. Although, I am about a week late, I thought it was too funny not to share! Make sure you pause the player at the bottom of the page before playing the video.

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas!!

2007-12-26T17:59:00.000-08:00

A must watch!

2007-12-19T22:21:00.000-08:00

Another great find while blog hopping today! Check it out here! Thanks for sharing Michelle!

Annual White Elephant Party

2007-12-19T17:12:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the Talbots who hosted this year!

Hilarious, must read!

2007-12-19T13:57:00.000-08:00

A friend blogged about this story, so I had to check it out. I thought it was too good not to share. Read it here.

Mary Poppins!

2007-12-10T23:51:00.000-08:00

Julia got to meet "Mary Poppins" at Disneyland last week. I am pretty sure she wasn't fooled though. Her expression says it all. She knew these were imposters! I will post more pics of our trip when I gather all the pictures. I know my father-in-law got some great ones (camera happy Ernie!!). We had a great time despite the chilly, rainy weather! We were lucky to spend two days at Disneyland and one day at Knotts Berry Farm with the entire Lopez fam (and Leah's boyfriend and Eli's girlfriend...hopefully, they will be part of the Lopez family soon)!

Oh Sophia!

2007-12-10T23:47:00.000-08:00

How can you not be absolutely in love with this girl?!

"Click here for a free Book of Mormon"

2007-12-10T21:11:00.000-08:00

No joke, I just saw this ad scroll across the top of my yahoo page!! Looks like Romney's speech is sparking some interest!! :-)

Baby Boutique

2007-12-03T23:36:00.001-08:00

Man my family is talented!! Check it out here.

Christmas Devotional

2007-12-03T18:33:00.000-08:00

I don't usually do this, but I just wanted to write a few of my thoughts. I didn't really get to watch the entire 1st Presidency's devotional last night (anyone with children can relate), but what I did hear could not have come at a better time. I have been really troubled lately about the state of our country, the world, and society in general. Between Glenn Beck's show and my visit to Ross the other day, I have seen enough! :-) I went to the Yuma mall last week, walked into Ross, and had to walk out two minutes later. I just could not bear to watch all the little mamas!! There were probably close to a dozen LITTLE GIRLS with newborn babies! I am not sure why, but teenage pregnancy just really hits a nerve with me. What are these girls thinking?! Here I am at almost 30 with two little ones, an unbelievable daddy for them, and an unbelievable extended family to support us, and I still struggle with the day to day needs of my girls! How then, can a girl who has not even finished high school possibly fulfill the needs of a baby?! Not to mention, her window of opportunity just became more like a peephole! That is not to say that motherhood shuts out "better" opportunities (there is nothing better than being a mother when the time is right), but at 15 or 16 without a father in the picture, what choices are left! I just want to find out who is teaching these girls and what are they telling them? What happened to morality?! It is as if they don't even care. I know immorality has been an issue (plaguing sin of our generation), but at least when I was in high school, people felt bad about it, and recognized it as a sin. It seems as if there is just no thought about it whatsoever now! It is as if you are a freak if you aren't having sex! This lack of morals and the impending "holy war" in the Middle East make me wonder what chance my girls have. It has been really bothering me lately. Then, yesterday at church, the lesson in Relief Society was entitled, "Christ will reign again on the earth." The whole lesson was so comforting. Imagining that millennium of peace brought me to tears. And, top it all off with the Christmas devotional last night focusing on the Savior and peace on earth. Just what I needed to hear so I could actually sleep last night! :-) I am so grateful for the knowledge that Christ will come again. I don't know how people can live in the world today and not have that hope and faith! Anyway, if you missed the devotional, you can download and watch it here. Highly recommended!