Ever Bloomin'

First Day of School !!!

2011-08-16T15:30:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was our boys first day back at school. They were craaaazy excited, waking up at o'dark thirty. They got dressed quick, ate breakfast and were in the car before 7:20 am. That will probably NEVER happen again, but I love that they are still at an age that they like school. Jarom had a great first day. The best part for him was recess. Playing with all his friends from last school year, a.k.a 2 months ago, was fun for him. No homework also was on his list of favorites. Michael was a little tougher customer. He got in the car and when asked how his day was said, "kindergarten was NOT what I expected." Upon further investigation I learned that he was bummed they didn't "learn" anything and only went over rules and classroom procedures. He also didn't get to play on certain playground equipment since its reserved for 1st graders. Oh the injustices suffered by the kindergartners. On a funny side note, Michael told me that a kid got lost IN the bathroom for 10 minutes. How does that happen? Please comment your most likely reasons below.

Overall, the day went well. I am glad that they love learning and like their new teachers. Everyone was happy to go the second day, but honestly it was a little more work getting them out the door.

Happy 4th!!!

2011-07-04T08:13:00.001-07:00

We hope that everyone has a great family day planned. The boys are super excited to shoot fireworks, and Jason is pretty amp'd to grill. All of this after we do a few house projects. I love the 4th, it's a day that helps me take a second to remember all the freedoms that I enjoy. I know that sometimes as Americans we fail to see the many opportunities that we have here. It wasn't until I went to college and started making friends with people from other countries that I really saw all the many opportunities that we have. I am grateful for that. Not saying this is a perfect country, there are none, but I am glad that I live in the USA. I am thankful for are military servicemen, like my brother, who risk their lives to protect freedoms that I hold dear. I think we all have alot to be grateful for on this Independence Day. I love the quote from the Gettysburg address that says,
"That we here highly resolve, that these dead shall not have died in vain. That this nation shall have a new birth of freedom."

We hope that everyone has a happy and safe fourth !!

p.s. If you like the subway art in the pic you can download it here for free. Courtesy of the AWESOME blog eighteen25. Enjoy!!!

Happy Birthday SAM ! ! !

2011-07-04T08:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to our sweet Samuel!!!! He has excited to go to Cars2 and open presents, of course the boys are more excited for him to open presents than he is but once the presents are out fo the box that will change, lol.

We are so happy that Sam joined our family 3 years ago. It was a super scary delivery, but we now see the way he entered the world as indicitive of his personality. He is always high energy, and has zero fear. He tumbles with the big boys and cuddles Luke like a second mom. He has a smile that lights up a room and reminds us that nothing is really that bad. We love you Sam and are so glad that you share your light with us. Happy Birthday Love!!!!

Best. Dad. Ever.

2011-06-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful day yesterday remembering all the great men in our lives. The boys were really excited to make, and give Jason presents this year. We bought him his very own crown. We wanted him to feel like a real king in his castle. He got a "top pop" bucket filled with things he loves that have the word "pop" in them. Popcorn, soda pop, poptarts, pop rocks, tootsie pops, and lastly ring pops. That last items was really something that the kids could have so they wouldn't bug him for everything in the bucket, lol. Trust me they tried. Jason also got a hammock, which is something that he has wanted for some time now but we never had trees for it to attach too. I made him that beautiful green shirt that he is wearing that says, "Best.Dad.Ever". In my opinion Jason is the best dad ever. I know that EVERYONE says that about their spouse, or father, and I want to clarify that what I mean is that he is the best dad for OUR children. He is so loving and patient. I know that they test limits daily and sometimes just for fun, but Jason always does his best to show them that he is still there for them even when the battle lines are being crossed. He is a great teacher to our boys as well. With devotion I see him tend to their tiny spirits the seeds of testimony that they will need as they grow.

Jason was taught how to be a good father by his father who was great in many ways. On Sunday the boys asked Jason question after question about his dad. It was nice to see their eyes widen as Jason told them about the things that Dave liked to do. You could see them recognizing similar interests and passions that they have with things that he liked. My boys have quickly forgotten the man that loved to hold them as infants and read them stories while wrapping them in his large arms. The grandfather that wanted nothing more than to watch them grow. Dave was a good grandfather and we know that he watches them from another vantage point with the same intensity and love.

The boys were also excited to talk to Grandpa Train, my dad. They love to tell him what they are doing and listen excitedly as he responds to them with his trademark positive tones. A cherished book is one that my dad recorded himself reading. They love to listen to his voice as he reads them that story. Its like he's right there with them. Sometimes they will ask to listen to the same page over and over just to hear how he says certain words. I know that sounds weird but they like it, so hey, we oblige them :)

As we finished out the day we all felt lucky to have so many great men in our lives. We love you dads :)

Jarom's Baptism

2011-06-06T19:39:00.000-07:00

So a good friend, lovingly reminded me that I needed to update ye ole blog. Thanks Tisha! It has been a super crazy six months and I swear I was just putting up the Halloween decorations. Since then some exciting things have happened but our most favorite thing that happened was Jarom's baptism. On February 12, 2011 Jason and I watched as our oldest son chose to be baptized. Of course, Jason got a much better seat than I did since he was the one baptizing Jarom. Jarom has been looking forward to baptism since he was two. Literally. He came up to me one afternoon while we were living in Wymount and said, "Mommy I want to get batman-tized". I chuckled, but felt of his sincerity. He loves to learn about our religion, sing Primary songs and be a super example. I am so glad that he made this choice. I know it was his to make alone, but I am glad that he made it. I love this gospel with all my heart. It literally saved my life. I hope that Jarom grows in his love for his Savior. I hope that he always walks a live centered in Him. Jarom we love you and know that you are loved by more than just your earthly family but by our dear ones on the other side.

Mr. Luke

2011-02-11T14:59:00.001-08:00

Just posting these because he's growing so fast!

Happy Birthday JAROM!!

2011-02-02T22:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to our favorite groundhog!! Jarom turned 8 today and is pretty excited about everything that comes with turning 8. He has decided that he wants to be baptized, and chose Tremonton as the place that he would like that to happen. He asked to have his ward family around him as he takes this step. Of course, we are happy to oblige him since we have loved all that Tremonton, as small and silly as this town can be, has given our family.
For his birthday dinner, which is the picture above, he wanted to go to Chili's which surprised me since he wanted Cafe Rio just before we left for Logan. Anyway, he got Madden 11 for the Wii, Ben 10 Legos, Star Wars Walkie Talkies, and a chain reaction kit. Best gift of the day was by far the walkie talkies. As he opened them his face just lit up and he was so excited it made me think of my first walkie talkies, they were Care Bear, thanks for asking ;). Jarom and Michael played with those all afternoon. Some of their conversations were priceless.
We love having Jarom as a son he is thoughtful, kind, generous, and a great helper. He is such a great person to be around loving and accepting of others. We know that as he gets older that every great quality will just evolve even more. We love you Jarom and hope that you felt as special as you are!!!

Merry Christmas-time :)

2010-12-22T19:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary US!!

2010-11-24T17:13:00.001-08:00

I wanted to post a Happy Anniversary to Jason and I! I know that sounds cheeky, but I want Jason to know that I love being married to him. I have loved our journey with all its twists and turns. In ten years of married life I think that we have seen and experienced more than many do in an entire marriage. Thank you for always allowing me to be me and loving me just the same. I appreciate all that you do for me and our family. You are the bees knees, or snickers knickers ;).
I know there is so much more in store for us and I am so happy to have you by my side. I love you Jason!!!

Sweet Baby Lucas

2010-08-08T14:26:00.001-07:00

I present to you Lucas Aaron Edwards.

Summertime Edwards Style

2010-08-03T20:52:00.001-07:00

It's that age old Primary question, What do you do in the Summmertime? Well, if you are part of our Edwards clan you draw mustaches on and act out sinister play plots. You may not know this but according to Michael you can get away with more stuff if you have a mustache on and no one will know you did it! Well said, EXCEPT he is the only redhead in our house with sticky fingers for banana muffins and whatever toy his little brother has..hmmm. He'll have to rethink his statement, but for now there are mustaches abounding and keeping us throughly entertained. I would like to thank Sephora for making the perfect eyeliner for play mustaches.

Now back to the original question, What do YOU do in the summertime???

1 year

2010-07-03T22:01:00.000-07:00

Forever in our hearts.
Forever our little boy.

Happy Birthday SAM ! ! !

2010-06-24T17:07:00.000-07:00

Happy 2nd Birthday Samuel! We are so blessed to have you in our family. We love your sweet face and high energy. Everyday is an adventure with you, constantly on the search for something to discover. We thank Heavenly Father for trusting us with you.

Happy Birthday little one! Hope its a good one :)

Holy Cannoli's

2010-06-18T19:30:00.001-07:00

Jason and Jarom recently went to NY for our sweet niece Ella's baby blessing. They had a a seriously fun time and poor Jarom hated to leave his NY cousins. Trust me many tears were shed as he left Angie and Abby. We can't wait to see them next year. The best part of their trip is that my sweet husband brought me back my favorite cannolis. yum. Just the thought of them now makes my mouth water. I first had a "real" cannoli when we went out for Abby's blessing in 2004 and well, I have missed them. I just couldn't enjoy their yumminess and not blog about it. This was also the first time that Michael had a cannoli. It was also love at first bite. He wanted to stay up and eat the whole thing. That may have been just a strategy to get to stay up later, but it didn't work. He went to bed and Jason and I enjoyed our own cannolis in peace. It was HEAVEN. If you are ever on Long Island make sure to get yourself a yummy cannoli, you can thank me later ;).

p.s.
I do in fact know that cannoli's are sold ALL over, especially in that part of the USA, but it wouldn't be the same as THIS cannoli and you would be sad. True Story!!

Mom this ones for you :)

2010-06-07T15:34:00.001-07:00

Missouri Trip :)

2010-06-01T20:20:00.000-07:00

I know, I know this post has taken me faaaaar to long to post. I honestly have had good intentions to post this sooner, but you know what they say about good intentions right? Well, do ya, cuz my excuse is short without it ;)

We had lots of fun going to Missouri. The boys were psyched to see cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. The airplane ride was a little tense on the way out, I'm sure that was fueled by the excitement of just getting there. The weather was great. We took the boys to Liberty Jail, The Pony Express Museum, The Nature Museum, Fishing, and we had an family Easter Egg Hunt. They were so sad to leave exclaiming, "we need to stay for 20 more weeks." They are already planning our next trip!

Happy Mother's Day !!!

2010-05-09T16:20:00.001-07:00

Just a little funny for all our mom's and moms-to-be :) Enjoy your special day !!

Just WRONG!

2010-04-10T20:27:00.001-07:00

This is what my kids had for lunch today BEFORE I read about a little experiment that Baby Bites creator Nonna is doing. This picture above is of a Happy Meal that get this, just celebrated its first birthday away from the golden arches that gave it birth. Oh gag! Writing this is making my pregnant stomach turn. She says that even though this meal of joy has been out for one year it has yet to decompose in any way. It doesn't smell or show signs of aging, if we could all be that lucky ;). Here is the link to her blog . I think that you will find it just as disturbing as me. I challenge anyone to read that and STILL find McD's appetizing.
Alright, I have to step away from the screen at this point. ugh :(.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T08:02:00.001-07:00

Dyeing Easter Eggs

2010-04-03T20:21:00.000-07:00

I love dyeing Easter Eggs. Its one of my favorite Easter traditions. I think the creative part appeals to me. Its so fun to see my boys get all precise with their colors and what goes where as they layers the colors. I am all for a solid color. I love purple so you'll see that my egg is just that, purplr :) That color makes me smile. Anyway, the boys had loads of fun coloring eggs. We got a little bit of a late start since we waited for Jason to come home from Priesthood session. He said it was one of the best meetings he has ever gone too. Bonus!
we each got an egg with our name written on it. My mom use to do that with a white crayon when we were growing up. I think it was to make sure there weren't any fights over who had who's egg. After they picked the colors and dyed their name egg they were given an additional egg to color as they chose. I will be honest I have heard that other families do about two dozen eggs for a family of four or five and I cannot stomach the thought of eating that many eggs so from now until I am not longer able to dye eggs my limit is two per person :).
Once we were done with eggs we had to get ready for bed, but the boys were really excited for the Easter Bunny to come to our house.

This season is my favorite for so many reasons. I love the renewing of plants and life around you. It reminds me to have hope in the redemptive power of the Savior. Seeing green after months of cold and white blanket covered surroundings gives me a physical reference for the feeling of the love of God. I have so much around me to witness the power and grace of God. This Spring and Easter in particular my thoughts are on the ones that I have lost who now dwell in peace with He who gave His life so willingly. I am grateful for that gift and thankful to my Heavenly Father for blessing my heart with a spring of its own after feeling the biting cold of loss and sadness. I could have never imagined having as full a life 9 months ago and I am glad that I put my faith where it belonged and let the Lord work in His way to heal me and my family.

Viking Sam

2010-03-30T16:56:00.000-07:00

I just LOVE this little smile. Of course, I love all my kids smiles, but Sam has just recently learned how to "cheese" and it is sooo adorable.
Sam is a little bit of both his Grandpa's and a sprinkle of his Great-Grandpa Edwards. He is also blessed with a sweet disposition. Our family loves watching him get big.

Happy to Announce

2010-03-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

We have kept this under wraps for many reasons, but today we went to the Perinatologist and he gave us the thumbs up to breath a little easier. As you can after our stillbirth and loss last year we were finding it hard to get excited about this pregnancy, sad but true. We found no joy in telling people and really have told only a very small group of people. There was no rhyme or reason to who we told, so hopefully no offense is taken. I was well into my second trimester before I told MYSELF that this was actually happening, lol. We felt like if we were worried that our friends and family might worry as well and given our loved ones situations in life we chose not to add any more concerns to their list. We are happy with our decision and even more so since our little boy is perfect, or at least that is the word they used to describe him. Perfect we will take :). As for gender we are OVER the moon excited to welcome another sweet boy into our home. We have tentatively chosen a name, Jacob Aaron . For those that know my Joseph Jacob is a family name and we love family names. we also felt it fitting since we have a Joseph to go with Jacob since it generally follow the first name Joseph in the Mollus household. We will always remember our sweet Joseph and what better way to ensure his role as a big brother than to give our next son a name that follows his so commonly in my family. I jsut realized that was a really long explination for something simple, sorry :). I really am beyond excited and my lack of succinteness is evident, sorry.

We finally told the boys today that we are expecting and their reactions were priceless. Jarom immediately said, "we're having a girl, yeah!". To which I had to dash his hopes and say "no!". I'm not sure I have ever seen him so disappointed. He came back at me with, "well, maybe next time." I was stunned that I couldn't respond, Jason did and his response was perfect. Michael's mouth just dropped open and he was so excited. Sam of course, had no response, and that was perfect he just went on playing. What did you expect he's 21 months old, lol!!!

Above all we are feeling really blessed. We can't think of words to express how truly thankful we are to have this opportunity again. We have appreciated all the continued words of encouragement, thoughts, and prayers for our family. We love you all and hope that you feel it.

Quote for the day

2010-03-21T20:27:00.001-07:00

"A government big enough to give you everything you want is a government big enough to take from you everything you have" President Ford

Erin Go Bragh!!

2010-03-17T07:29:00.000-07:00

Happy St.Patrick's Day friends! We hope that everyone has fun activities planned for the day. I'm breaking long-standing family tradition and NOT having corned beef and cabbage in the traditional form. I have instead decided on a making a version that is more acceptable to my picky eaters, and that is corned beef and cabbage in a calzone form. No red sauce, but they will "think" they are eating pizza. I pray that my Irish roots don't shrivel for the lack of giving them something so Irish-American in form. However, I am fairly sure that my ancestors had to adapt many a recipe to the change in availability and so forth :)

Jarom went to school today with a homemade Leprechaun trap. It was funny to watch him pull the string and laugh when he would catch something in the trap. I asked him what he would do with a Leprechaun if he ever caught one and he said, "play with it!" We had a quick lesson on the nature of a Leprechaun, and that ended the desire for a Leprechaun playmate. I am very interested to see what they do in honor of St.Patrick's Day at school. It should be fun. We have some activities planned for later, and I will post those pics tonight. In the mean time have a great day and to a special boy lucky enough to be born on this great day Happy Birthday to B.G.M who turns 8 today!!!! Mayn happy birthday wishes!
I sign off with an irish quote/blessing:

May you live as long as you want, and never want as long as you live.

Lovely Lady

2010-03-16T07:45:00.000-07:00

Who's that Lady? That lovely lady? That's my Mom! The mother of ten children. A wife of nearly 53 years, and a fantastic cook. My sweet sister took her in for a little spruce, which everyone one needs here and again, and she looks FABULOUS!!! I found this cute little poem that makes me think of my mom.

MOM RECIPE:
50 cups of Love
1 cup punishment
15 1/2 cups caring
4 1/2 cups helpfulness
3 tablespoons hugs & kisses
1 teaspoon sadness
3 cups of cheerfulness
1 cup fun
20 cups caringness

Mix all together and add some Sugar for sweetness then pour into mom maker, in 15 min you have a 99% Mom Because no one is perfect <3

I really love the ending it reminds me of my mom's wit which she lovingly passed down to all her daughters. She also gave us strength and courage to face all of life's many bumps. She taught us to smile when being teasded and then gracefully tell them to "eat rocks". I honestly, think that was her favorite expression when dealing with people who were not very nice :) I don't think you ever stop learning from your parents. Whether its learning what doesn't work for you or watching two people grow more in love as they enjoy their autumn together. All lessons are still being received.

Thank You Mom for continuing to teach some of life's most important lessons to me.

Next Lesson:
Being defeated is often a temporary condition. Giving up is what makes it permanent.
-- Marilyn Mach Vos Savant

~~~She'e HERE!!!~~~

2010-03-03T08:39:00.000-08:00

Glenn and Nat had their baby yesterday!! I don't want to give out too much info since my blog isn't private, but I am so happy that Ella is doing great for being so early. Prayers for my sweet Natalie are appreciated. As any women who have had a baby can attest having some babies isn't easy and man this one wasn't easy ;) We are so happy that she made it into the world safe and that Nat is getting good care. We pray for the NICU staff to take the best care of Ella and for the Post-Partum nursing staff to take the best care of momma possible.

What was important then is important now!

2010-03-01T11:44:00.000-08:00

Happy March Everyone! I wanted to share this video that was shared with me. I have to first state that I am not one to share video that is gloom and doom backed, but that I found this video so rooted in things that I see and feel about the current direction of our Country that I couldn't avoid sharing it. I think its so interesting how relavent it is 45 years after Ezra Taft Benson's first addressed the congregation. I know that whatever side of the party line you fall on we all love America and enjoy the freedoms that it affords us. Enjoy.
Happy Monday!

Have you ever wondered

2010-02-18T12:17:00.001-08:00

what space exploration has ever done for you. Click here.

The photo is just for fun :)

Do you miss him yet?

2010-02-17T11:20:00.000-08:00

I was talking to a good friend of mine this morning about the Constellation and Ares program benefits ( click here ). Anyway, she mention to me that she had heard about a billboard in Minnesota that featured former President George W. Bush with the caption "Miss me Yet?". All this with his trademark grin. I have to say that I wasn't terribly happy with some choices that he made in the last year of his term in office, but I wasn't someone crying out for radical change (see Obama in your dictionary for that one). I wanted to "see" this sign for myself and found the sign and an accompanying article one the CNN Politics website here . It was a pretty interesting article when they made the statement,

"U.S. News and World Report noted earlier this month that even the Obama Store, located in tourist-filled Union Station, has closed, in what "may be the most tangible sign yet that the [Obama] honeymoon is over."

and then I wondered, is the honeymoon over? Do American's feel differently than they did a year ago? For me, I honestly, hope that mid-term elections reflect more balance. Any thoughts in the back of my mind that he would change things for the better are completely gone. Yes! It takes time to see what good a president has done, but out-sourcing manned space flight to Russia, and extra taxation to small business owner's hardly endears me to him, and that's just a start to list of ills that I find. Is it wrong to want to employ American's? Feed American children? House American children? Why is that wrong? Why are you considered Ethnocentric, or close-minded if you want to see your neighbor down the block attain his version of the American dream? Heck, what's wrong with wanting your neighbor down the street to be able to retire BEFORE he/she is too old to enjoy it? I'm not talking a luxury car in every garage or even that every American should be a millionaire and we should be a powerhouse in the global infrastructure of anything. Why can we just be?

Another question: Can someone help me down from this soapbox? Its a little to real up here.

**Don't get me wrong I am smart enough to know why it is that we can't just focus on the problems of our country, its a rhetorical statement. **

Happy Valentine's Day !

2010-02-14T16:05:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day all!! we hope that everyone is having a wonderful day remembering the people they love and what they love about them. The boys all got cookies with their names on them and Jason got some yummy Ande's mints. My sweet husband of course, bought me a dozen red roses. As beautiful as the roses are I am more excited about the delicious dinner that Jason is making. We are thinking about all of our family today as we center our thoughts around all the wonderful people in our lives. Those that are here and those that are past. I think fond memories and chocolate go well together, how about you?

Lawrence Welk

2010-02-13T19:28:00.000-08:00

I remember going over to my grandma's house on sunday and she would flip on PBS. Across the screen was a full band playing the opening to a grandma-friendly program, Lawrence Welk. I'm not entirely convienced that she actually LIKED that show, but I knew it wasn't the same as when she would turn to Golden Girls just to make my dad uncomfortable. Anyway, the first time that I saw this spoof on SNL I nearly peed my pants laughing so hard. Take a second and savor this take on a classic family program.

Oh! and the bubbles at the end are my favorite :)

Happy Birthday JaRoM !!!!

2010-02-02T14:17:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to our bright, and brillant biggest brother!!! We are so happy to have Jarom in our family. He is an excellent helper, great friend, and loving member of our family. We can hardly believe that Jarom is 7 today. It feels like just yesterday we were having him, and thanking Heavenly Father for such an easy baby. We can't wait until next year comes and He can get "Batman-tized" :)
We love you Jarom enjoy this special day !!!!!!!
<3
Mom, Dad, Michael, Sam, and

Happy Groundhogs Day!

2010-02-02T06:48:00.001-08:00

Puxatawney Phil saw his shadow and the sentence is six more weeks of winter. Of course, we were excited to see Phil it means that its Jarom's bday (post to come). I wonder how much stock we should take it his prediction. Anyway, here is a link for the kids.

Oh! and a shout out to "uncle" Joe since its his bday too. Nat, pass that on ;)

The Hap Ki Do Kid

2010-01-23T22:11:00.000-08:00

Jarom passed his yellow belt test!!! He was so excited to not have to wear the white belt anymore. He lovingly passed that on to Michael who must now refer to Jarom as "sensei". Jarom is having alot of fun and learning lots about discipline in sports. He loves to "practice" his moves on Michael, at least thats what he calls it when he gets caught! Michael has decided that he wants to quit tumbling classes and go to Hap Ki Do, despite the fact that he would be the youngest and smallest person in class and the chance of getting kicked on accident are pretty high. We shall see. I wasn't sure that Hap Ki Do would offer the same benefits as Karate, but for Jarom it has. He is learning about confidence, respect, and control. All the things that we were hoping for. He loves his instructor and enjoys learning every week.

Year End Letter

2010-01-04T08:09:00.000-08:00

Formerly, known as the "Christmas Letter". I tried really hard to get these out before we left for our trip, post to come, but it didn't happen with all my letters. My family in MO. didn't get their letters so that is why I am posting it on my blog. It would probably have been more "green" to only post it here, but that didn't happen either so maybe next year, lol! So here it is:

It never seems to fail that every December I think to myself, “Wow! This year has gone by quickly.” It’s that time again to publish the yearly family letter. I promise that none of our children found a cure for cancer or flew to the moon on a rocket they built out of macaroni and glue. This won’t be that kind of Christmas letter.
I will give a quick rundown on what the Edwards Family, Utah branch, has been up to. Jason is continuing his work at ATK Launch Systems and enjoying every opportunity to use his skills to do what he loves. Mindy decided this fall to reduce her work schedule at McKay Dee Women’s Imaging in favor of spending more time with the boys. Jarom (6 ½) is enjoying the 1st grade. He lost his first tooth this year and we had to convince him that pulling his teeth out would in fact NOT be a lucrative business move. Michael (4) is a joy to have around, but definitely keeps Mindy busy. He is happily taking a tumbling class and says he feels like a “Jedi Knight” when he jumps on the mats. Samuel (18m) has really grown. I guess that’s what you expect from a baby, huh? He has learned to walk and is jabbering away. I wonder where he got that gift of gab…hmmm.
As many of you are aware our family has experienced many losses this year. In May, Jason’s mother passed away as a result of long battle with various health concerns. In July, our son, Joseph, was born seventeen weeks early, and still. November brought us the loss of one more loved one as Jason’s grandmother passed away from breast cancer. I write this to neither sadden, nor make anyone feel pity for us, but rather to say to all the many people who prayed for our family and shared your love with us, “Thank You!” We have felt so strongly Christian love for our family. We can bear witness that with each loving act we felt the love of our Savior and our Heavenly Father for us. His Spirit worked through many and your kindnesses will never be forgotten.
We pray that as the New Year begins you and your families may be blessed with good health and many opportunities to enjoy your loved ones.

Speak UP!

2009-12-16T06:53:00.000-08:00

http://www.capitolconnect.com/boeingspace/default.aspx

Happy Birthday NaTaLiE !!!!

2009-12-12T16:03:00.001-08:00

Happy, Happy, Happy Birthday Natalie! I hope that you enjoy 30! I love your sweet face and all that you are and do! You are THE BEST!!!

More birthday stuff, lots of pics

2009-11-29T19:22:00.003-08:00

I wanted to add some additional pictures, so here they are. The flowers were a pre-birthday gift from Jason, and they smell better than they look. I got alot of great gifts; a new CHI flat iron, a Cropadile (for scrappin it up!), a much needed Wilton icing tip, a new Featherweight bag (for cake deco), my super wonderful Flip cam., and my gift to humanity was that I bought myself a pair of Spanx :). I loved everything and especially all the sincere birthday shoutouts on FB have been wonderful, as well as the emails. Thanks so much everyone for making a great birthday exceptional !!!

Happy birthday to ME !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-11-29T12:24:00.000-08:00

I took this video on my new Flip cam that Jason gave me for my birthday. He followed all of my subtle hints, like "hey I want a Flip for my birthday." and "Jason I would love you to buy me a Flip for my birthday." I know, it seems really forward, but Jason needs the less than subtle hints, and honestly I believe that if you want something you should say it and not just expect your spouse to figure it out. Annnnyway, I have been having a great birthday despite the fact that Sam gave me my present in the form of vomit as I was getting ready to leave for Church. Michael was puklicious yesterday so I asked Jason to keep him home today. I felt awful that they have been sick, but I am prone to believe that it must have been some sort of odd bug, bc after they get sick all the boys have been just fine. I hate seeing my boys sick, especially since they are all such active kids.
I will post pics of my bday cake that I am working on later.

Turkey day

2009-11-27T21:42:00.000-08:00

I hope that everyone had an awesome Thanksgiving. Our family went to Ogden to meet up with Aunt B and Uncle Ben. We had our Thanksgiving a little early due to the fact that Ben was on duty that night, he is a Murray City police officer. So instead of dinner we had a magnificent Thanksgiving lunch. It was a little sad to be at Grammie's without her. I could feel her watchful eye over my shoulder as I prepared the mashed potatoes. She was usually in charge of the potatoes and green bean casserole. She was a great cook and she was definitely missed. Ben asked if he could make the turkey since he had never done one before. I have to say that I had zero quams about him doing it. Jason and I have been making it for the last eight years so someone else doing it was a relief :) He did a fantastic job and the turkey turned out wonderful. The kids played games while the adults, I use that term loosely, talked over dessert in the kitchen. As we were talking I thought for just a moment, wait when did we become the adults?? It seems like it wasn't that long ago that I was eating my Thanksgiving meal at the "little kids" table while my brothers squeezed mashed potatoes out of their thin pressed lips.
I can recall all the work that went into Thanksgiving Day at our house growing up. My mom would be up late prepping all the things that went into her amazing stuffing. It wasn't until late in high school that I really learned what went into that stuffing. I won't post it online, but it tastes much better than the ingredients would indicate. My sister and I would clean up the house, while my brothers pretended to be cleaning. When everything was cleared off we would set the table and side buffet. I can remember how warm the smell of the turkey was. My older sister was generally caught picking at the turkey skin claiming that she was just checking for quality purposes. In elementary school, the holidays carried a wonderful feeling. Not only was there no school, but there was also great food, and laughter. I hope that with all that has happened in our last year that my kids still experienced a bit of what its like to be surrounded by loving family and great moments. I pray the memories that we are creating are ones that reflect the true gratefulness we hold for this years opportunities. Never in my life would I have imagined that I would have had a year like this. One that would allow me the opportunity time and again to re-affirm my faith, and my love for the Savior.

I have always like Emerson and I think that he expresses it best when he says,

For flowers that bloom about our feet;
For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;
For song of bird, and hum of bee;
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!

Everything that we have is a gift. Every moment, every breath, and yes every life that silently ends is a gift. I appreciate all that I have, and all that my Heavenly Father sees in me. Especially the things that I am too clouded to see in myself. Hope. He has some for me so I should have some in Him.

HaPpY bIrThDaY mIcHaEl !!!!!!!!!

2009-11-21T06:54:00.000-08:00

Happy 4th Birthday Monkey-Moo!!! Michael was up bright and early to see what presents he got. For his brithday Michael got two new outfits, Handy Manny's Toolbelt, Legos, and a remote controlled Bounce n' Go racer. He is taking a friend to Toad's, indoor rec area, for some go-kart racing and tons of fun!
We are so happy that you are in our family. You are such a fun little man with lots of energy and smiles. We are excited for all your future birthdays. We love you Moo!

To Grammie with love

2009-11-07T23:37:00.000-08:00

I am standing upon the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength. I stand and watch her until at length she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come to mingle with each other.
Then someone at my side says: "There, she is gone!"
"Gone where?"
Gone from my sight. That is all. She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side and she is just as able to bear her load of living freight to her destined port.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her. And just at the moment when someone at my side says: "There, she is gone!" there are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout: 'Here she comes!"
And that is dying.
Henry Van Dyke

I found this poem and instantly thought of Grammie Hazel. She was never one to think herself "beautiful", but I found her to be the most beautiful person on the inside. She was a loving grandmother, caring and thoughtful. She recounted a few days ago with Jason about our first meeting in May of 1996. I had nearly forgotten that we asked her to lunch and she was unable to attend. Since then I have laughed with her. Learned from her. Mourned with her. Rejoiced with her. Any finally, just enjoyed her. Serving her as a caretaker was easy because she was so thankful. Sometime there were challenges as she would resist help, not wanting to be a burden. I would tell her that it was no problem, and for her nothing was too difficult to do. In my heart it made me happy to hear that she would not let others help saying, "I'll wait for Mindy." Knowing that she could depend on me felt good. It was when I KNEW that she considered me every bit of family as her own bio grandkids. Not an easy feat. She loved her family and cared about their lives. I have to say that in my heart she has created a template for an attribute that I aspire to, enduring to the end. She would be in agonizing pain and just "buck up". In her last few days her eyes were more telling about the level of pain that she was in, but her mouth wouldn't utter it. As I wiped her tears today all I could say was that I was sorry she hurt. It was difficult to look at her without feeling a wash of overwhelming compassion fill your heart. Truly elect in many ways. She chose to live everyday without complaint. I think that is why up until the very end she could smile. I know she knew she was loved. I hope that she watches over me and my family with love and tells Joseph all about his family on earth. She is beloved to me and will always be my Grammie Hazel.

Delivery Date

2009-10-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

Today was suppose to be the day that I delivered Joseph. Instead of waking early and going to the hospital I got up early and took a white rose to his graveside. I brushed the snow off and was immediately filled with warmth. He is much loved always.
I miss you son.

Carving Up Some Fun

2009-10-27T17:54:00.000-07:00

Our annual Monday before Halloween FHE is pumpkin carving and we had the best time ever. I usually save this activity until the week before Halloween because if you do them to early you end up with a nasty moldy pumpkin and some seriously disappointed trick-or-treaters. We made this mistake as newlyweds, and it will not be repeated.
Michael braved the cold and picked out his pumpkin, a 20 pounder I might add. He really wanted to paint his pumpkin and was absolutely adorable about the whole affair. When he was done he set his pumpkin out to dry and this morning went to "wake it up". I even caught him talking to it. It was hilarious, and went a little something like this:
Michael: I missed you last night
Pumpkin: (silence)
Michael: I painted you don't you remember?
Pumpkin: (silence)
Michael: (now speaking in a low voice to the pumpkin, but acting like they are having a conversation)
I thought it was terribly cute that he wanted to protect his new friend from the evil clutches of Samuel the Destroyer ;)
Jarom had a great time pulling pumpkin guts out of the huge family pumpkin. I have to admit that the goo in there was making me a little queasy. ick. Just typing it makes my stomach turn a bit. Anyway, Jarom decided to carve his pumpkin into a TIE Fighter. He is waaaay excited to be a Jedi Knight for Halloween so it just make sense, right? No, okay well then we are on the same page, lol. Jarom's pumpkin was given to him by the PTA since tomorrow is their Harvest Festival. All the pumpkins will be entered into a pumpkin walk and judged. I'm pretty confident that most of the other pumpkins will have either been painted or stuck with Mr.Potato Head parts, smart parents. Jarom had to go old school. He had a great time and that is all that counts.
Jason is still working on his masterpiece so pictures will be coming later. The insider tip is that its going to be a ghost, he could always switch it up who knows. I love experiencing the holidays with my kids. I was never huge on Halloween. I hate to be scared, but my kids make it so fun that its worth all the people dressing ridiculous and trying to scare someone. The boys can't wait to put their costumes on and be transformed into actual Jedi Knights. That part of Halloween is the greatest, morphing into a character and assuming that identity. Good fun. Thankfully it only lasts one day :)

Special Evening

2009-10-25T19:08:00.000-07:00

This is a recent photo of Jason's grandma, Grammie Hazel. Many of you have asked about her and she is plugging along. We went to visit her yesterday. She had some work for Jason to do. While we were there Barbara, who visits most Saturdays, mentioned that Grandma's neightbor was coming by tomorrow to give her a blessing. In our Church a blessing given by a Melchizedek Priesthood holder, by the laying on of hands and by inspiration, to one who is sick or otherwise in need of special counsel, comfort, or healing. If the blessing is for the sick, if you are familiar with the bible its spoken of in James 5:14-15.
Now Grandma is a baptized member of the LDS religion but has never really praticed, she married a man that was a self-proclaimed atheist. Not to say that either were.are bad people, just not religious in any way. So as you can imagine this news sort of shocked Jason and I. We talked on the way home and Jason was resistant to coming back today to either assist in or be present for the blessing. I think that he has mixed feelings since she hadn't asked for the blessing herself he wondered if it was what she really wanted, yada, yada. In my mind I just kept thinking she never said no and she is VERY capable of saying no to the things that she opposes. I really didn't give him an option I told him that it was important for him to be there and so I just made the plans accordingly.
We left our house about 3pm and drove to Ogden. The boys were in pretty decent moods considering that they know when they are at Grammie's house there is no shortage of rules. Jason was able to explain a blessing to her while we waited for her Bishop to arrive. Four o'clock came and went and her Bishop and Home Teacher were no-shows. Jason called her Home Teacher, who is her neighbor, and asked were he was. His wife said that he was out visiting his aunt. I called her bishop and he didn't even know this had been planned. He, her bishop, contacted another neighbor of hers M.Johnson who was more than happy to assist. He was very nice and reminded me a little of my dad, not to serious, but no to off the wall either. Jason and M.Johnson put their hands on Grammie's head and Jason gave the most beautiful blessing I have ever heard in my entire life. I seriously cried. Jason was inspired to tell Grandma about all the people who love her not only in this life but the next. She was blessed that as the time came for her to choose to leave this life that she would be greeted by those many spirits who love her. But the part that really made me tear up was when she was told about how the Savior loved her and all the physical pain that she feels from her cancer that Jesus bore that exact pain in Gethsemene. He bore it for her because he loves her. In that moment I was reminded how greatly blessed we are to have had such a loving example in our lives. Grandma hardly ever shows emotion. Her neice says its a proud Engelke family trait. However, after this blessing she and I looked at each other, and I felt a real warmth. Grandma's eyes were red. I knew she was about to cry. I have seen that look on her face many times in the last year and a half. Its was that look that I saw when I told her that I felt she had Breast Cancer. It was that look when I told her that Mary had died. It was that look when I told her that her cancer had metastasized. It's a clear view of her raw emotion. I'm pretty sure she had that same look on her face when her own father died of cancer. Grandma has seen, and lived alot, but tonight I think was the first time that she realized that someone has loved her ALWAYS. God. I know this last year and a half has been tough on her. Her beloved son is gone when she needs him most. She has steadily lost nearly all her ability to care for herself, and the things she loves. However, she has never acted like the weight of the world is upon her, but rather bucked up and plugged along. I know that her passing isn't far off. Its a sad reality. Her death will no doubt have me to my knees again and again. I love her so much. She is as loved in my eyes as my own grandmother, who despite herself, was loveable. She is such a caring person, and now I see where Jason's dad learned to be so attentive to his wife. Hazel was FOREVER an attentive wife and mother. She devoted her entire life to the comfort of her family. I hope she feels that its being paid back to her in her advanced age. I hope she realized that she is the crown jewel of the Edwards Family. I pray to have a little more time with her. To hear her nervous giggle one more time or to be told yet another story about how she wanted a particular item and Jack wanted another and of course, she ultimately "didn't care". Of course, when she goes at least I know that she will be greeted by a host of people who have loved her for her entire lifetime and more.

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

2009-10-14T19:49:00.000-07:00

In a heartbeat –
a life is stilled,

a dream dies,

and heaven

becomes amazingly real.

In rememberance of Joseph, and our recent Angel Baby I ask that all my friends and family reading this blog hug their children, thank their parents, and smell a rose or two. Take steps that my children will never take and appreciate this day you have. Life is so short and memories one day will be all that we have. Make some today, remember them with a smile tomorrow!!

*To all those that are remembering their Angel/s my heart and love goes out to you and your family <3

Wave of Light

2009-10-14T14:21:00.001-07:00

Please, Please, PLEASE don't forget to light your candles tomorrow at 7pm your time!!!

Walk To Remember

2009-10-13T06:23:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, our family participated in the annual "Walk to Remember" for Utah Share Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support. Utah Share came into our lives only moments after our son Joseph died. If it wasn't for their gentle encouragement I might have missed the only opportunity that I had to hold my son. Marci, was the first to swaddle up Joseph and present him to me like my son. Up to that point my nurse was extremely cautious with how she touched Joseph. She, my nurse, was very respectful of the fragile nature of his body, but Marci made him feel like a real newborn. Utah Share also provides monthly support groups for grieving parents. I will always have a special place in my heart for UtahShare .

Back to the walk, it was in Layton at the Ed Kinley Amphitheater. Despite my doctor's recommendation I knew that I needed to participate. It was a very cold morning, but the boys were all excited to do something in memory of Joseph. It was nice to see them get so excited about walking. Michael was more excited about riding in the stroller and of course, Sam was excited there were balloons. Jarom had a great time hunting through all the names of babies on the back of my shirt to find Joseph's name. There was a short program. A poem was read and a song was sung. To be truthful I was more moved by the poem than the song, but both were presented with love and thats what counts. Once the song was done we all walked the ajoining trail carrying blue, pink, or white balloons. The trail passed by a little pond and the boys loved looking at the ducks and the swans. When we made it back to the seating area they waited for everyone to make it back and then read the names of the babies gone too soon. It was hard to watch the balloons sail away. Each balloon represents a baby gone and a mother's dream on hold. One mother released SEVEN balloons and they weren't from a multiple gestation. I watched her bawl as she let go of the strings. The pain on her face was tangible, her tears so familiar. They got to our babies names and we let our balloons go. I wrote a message and attached to my balloon. I know it seems silly but it felt good to write a letter to my children. It made them more real. It's hard to describe, but sometimes I feel like my loses never happened. Events like this help me to remember and heal.
After the walk, we took the boys to DQ, which they LOVED! We then went to Grammie's and started to winterize her home for her. It was a long, but successful day.
Thank you Share for a wonderful event, and for being such a great support.

Untitled

2009-10-08T09:23:00.000-07:00

I took this picture a month ago, when I excitedly announced to Jason that we were expecting again. I always wanted to tell him in some really cute way. In all truthfullness, I have never made it out of the bathroom with the test before blurting it out. This time I wanted it to be different. Special. With consideration for all that he has been through I wanted him to have a pleasant surprise for a change. He came home and saw the cupcakes and a note that read, "Thanks for always keeping me 'POSITIVE'!" The look on his face was enough for me. A genuine look of excitement. For anyone who truly loves, to see your spouse with that "look" it sends a jolt through your body. Our new family adventure began that day.
Sadly, that adventure ended today. Just shy of eight weeks long, it was a cautiously hopeful time. I have to thank my dad for injecting into my DNA his "Pollyanna" attitude. If he hadn't given me that genetic gift yesterday would have ruined me. After a night of wrestling with the idea of going to the ER, or waiting it out I decided at 11 am to go to the ER in the town where I live. My symptoms had increased and my doctor was out of town. I marched into the ER, the only patient in sight, with my mother's "get it done" attitude. I gave my information with zero emotion. I hate being a patient! The ER tech tried to draw blood. It was a decent effort given the fact that I had already had two sticks on that arm in 48 hours, and I was dehydrated. The PA came in and asked if I was in any pain. Do that have medicine for a mother losing another child? Is there a pill for a dying dream? The words came out of my mouth, "no, i'm fine." This is the point where I wonder why my mouth betrays me. I routinely allow all the questions, probes, pokes, and comments to wash over me. There is really nothing anyone can do to hurt me. I am starting to realize that a pity-party is forming in my heart. Its like a weight. I think off all the negative experiences that I have had in the last year and a half. I wonder what I did, what I need to learn, where I can change. Lighting strikes! Mindy, I have to actually say my own name, what about all the GOOD that happened this year. What about all the POSTIVES of this year. There are so many and they outweigh all the negative. I literally have to stand back from myself and look at the picture. Right now it feels like I am staring dead in front of a Monet. Its disgusting to look at, the colors make no sense and the balance is off. Of course, if I step back its a " A Pathway in Monet's Garden at Giverny". Rows of beatiful moments shadow a path that I am walking. Am I sad? Yes! Am I down for the count? DEFINETLY NOT! There are so many bright days that a day of rain is no match for. The sun shines again and to quote my mother, "Tomorrow is a new day!" All I have to say is I'm in the mood for tomorrow.

Something Fun

2009-10-04T17:54:00.000-07:00

I found myself yesterday morning with the urge to sew something. I have been hesitant to actually sew since late June. At that point, all my focus had been centered around cute baby blankets and other crafts. I went to JoAnn's before the first session of conference and saw this fabric. I immediately thought off all the wonderful handmade blankets that my mil had made for my boys. I found myself getting a little sad that there would be no more blankets sewed with GrandMary's love. We have lots of family and lots of people love my kids, but I cherish a blanket that my Grandma Mollus crocheted for me.
Anyway, this quick blanket was made for my sweet nephew Trevor. He was born one month after Joseph. When I think of him I can't help but think of my little boy as well. So, it took no time to create something with love for him, since I can't make it for mine who is no longer with us. I hope it becomes a much loved cuddle blanket. It's the hug I would give Trevor if he were near. What a special little man.

Check it out!

2009-10-01T15:16:00.000-07:00

I have to put a plug in for a crafty and talented friend of mine. She just launched her own site, click here, and well frankly, she's gifted. Her items are all handmade and created with love. My personal favorite are the reuseable snack bags. They are adorable and definitely eco-friendly. These little gems are lined with vinyl, and have a velcro liner. Wipe, use, repeat, ENJOY!

Greyson's Gift

2009-09-13T20:12:00.001-07:00

I've seen alot of Blogs about demise since I lost Joseph. There are lots of women that find amazing ways to reach out after the lost of their child. I came across this blog,click here. I am posting this in honor of her Greyson.

Each new life...
No Matter how fragile or brief...
Forever changes the world.

Posted by Meryntha
I am looking for your help. Hospitals all across the country are in need of small, very small, baby blankets. In cases of fetal demise, babies are so tiny, even the smallest nursery blanket is much too big to wrap around their tiny bodies.

I know how parents feel when they are presented with their tiny baby, for the first and last time. Having to deal with a large blanket that doesn't fit, is a distraction. And, unnecessary.

If you can sew or crotchet/knit, would you please help me to supply blankets for these mothers?

My doctor informed me that 30% of all pregnancies end in fetal demise!

I know we can make a small yet, dramatic difference in the experience these mothers and fathers have in the hospital. It is heartbreaking for the nurses to try and present these tiny babies in the best way possible to grieving parents. They are extremely appreciative of any donations we can give.

If you can sew a straight line you can do this :) Hey, it doesn't even have to be a straight line when you sew it with love. I received some really beautiful blankets when Joseph died. I remember the nurse coming into my room at like 5 am with a soft fleece blanket, creatively edged. She tucked it under my pillow next to my head and said, "the Young Women made this for you." I pretended to sleep while my heart ached. Did they make this blanket specifically for me? no. But I could feel that they made it with love for someone who needed that love.
This is a good cause. If you're looking for something for your axillary to do, this is it! If you just want to do something good on your own, this is it. Hospitals will take donations of ANY number you don't have to have exactly 48 to do this. If you are gifted with crochet this is something that is very nice as well, http://www.touchinglittlelives.org/fetaldem.
Remember a time when you needed love and someone stepped in. The blanket I recieved I slept with for the first two weeks after Joseph's death. It soaked all my tears, and was held to my heart while it ached for missing my son. No gift is overlooked.

Silly Sam

2009-09-01T19:42:00.001-07:00

This is so typical, but still soooo funny!

2009-09-01T12:18:00.001-07:00

Jarom was beyond excited for the first day of school yesterday. He was, of course, up at the crack of dawn and was more than ready to go by 7 am. I think the most exciting thing to him was being able to eat lunch AT school. Jarom is happy to be back in school and we're happy that he likes school.

Happy Birthday JASON :)

2009-07-29T07:25:00.001-07:00

I know that I am late posting this since his birthday was Saturday July 25th, buuut in my defense we have been super busy (at least thats my story ;)) .
Saturday, Jason celebrated his 31st birthday with a super fancy breakfast made by, who else? McDonald's! Anyone who knows Jason knows that he has a deep rooted love for the Sausage McMuffin, much like egg McEdwards. We had lots of fun eating our breakfast and then Jason opened presents. He was so funny to watch open presents, because I'm pretty sure that after 13 years of getting gifts from me he knows what I am going to buy him, lol! He acted surprised. His sister Barbara watched the boys so we could go to The Boondocks and play. We mini-golfed and Jason on his last swing got the golf ball in the kimono dragons mouth and it spit out fire. It was truly awesome. Then we went inside and rode the 4-d roller coaster. As if all that wasn't enough we had gotten some free token so we played video games and Jason won big on Deal or No Deal. I thought it was impossible for the day to get any better, but sure enough Jason took me, on HIS birthday to my favorite scrapbooking store. He truly amazes me everyday. The last thing that I would want to do on my birthday is watch international soccer, but maybe this year i'll have to give it a try since he was so generous with his day.
Through out all our many ups and downs these past few weeks Jason has shown me more love and compassion than I every imagined a human body could demonstrate. He has wrestled with three boys, made dinner, cleaned house, washed laundry, fielded phone calls, organized childcare, confirmed dr. appointments, held me while I cried (countless hours were spent in this pursuit), all this while still maintaining his normal work schedule, and working out his own grief. I always knew that Jason was someone special. There has never been a doubt in my mind that he was perfect for me, but feeling a little like Lois Lane, I never realized that he was a Superman until he showed me. Thanks Jason for all your love and strength! I hope you had a WONDERFUL birthday, and I hope to share many more with you :)

<3
Mindy

Learning every day

2009-07-22T19:09:00.000-07:00

The last three weeks have been a beautiful blur. My heart feels wonderfully buffered by my support system. I read this list today and thought of all the essential truth it provides. I wish I would have taken it to heart sooner:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.

17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.

18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Overprepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.

38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

45. The best is yet to come.

46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

48. If you don't ask, you don't get.

49. Yield.

50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

My new heart, the one God gave me after the other one broke :), tells me that its okay to have a simple pleasure kind of life. Before Joseph died I was so focused on all the "stuff" that I had added to my days. Mainly good things: job, kids, church callings, extra kid stuff (soccer, tball, swim lessons, etc), housekeeping, personal enrichment, and anything else I could cram in there. These things in addition to the other things in my life were where I derived a sense of satisfaction for a job well done, or better yet, they made me feel accomplished. After Joseph died I was laying in the hospital bed and all I wanted was my boys. My arms literally ached for them. I wanted to feel their hands in mine, or their small voices whispering " i love you". I wanted to kiss Sam's chubby fingers, enjoy the breadth of Michael's smile, and feel the comfort of Jarom's hugs. My new heart knows that my smallest treasures are my greatest joys. I am re-evaluating the important things to me. I think everyone does this now and again. I feel like that is what is great about the life God gave us you can change your mind or your course however, and whenever you want. I hope that I can look back at this experience in my life in five, ten, or fifteen years from now and say, "that is when I started living my BEST life."
I think that's Joseph's legacy to our family. What a great gift!!!!!!

One Week

2009-07-11T18:15:00.000-07:00

I want to use my blog as the forum for telling as many of you as I can that we really appreciate all the kind emails, comments, and sweet thoughts that have come to us in the last week. It has been a really hard, but great week, filled with really sweet moments but some especially difficult lows. On Monday, what I refer to as my "monumental worst day" we had to go to the funeral home and select Joseph's casket and headstone. I wanted to go for nothing more than to be close to my son. They gave us back the blanket he had been swaddled in and they dressed him in clothing that was hand-made by a very thoughtful woman. As you can imagine this was tough. The worst part came after we had made all the arrangements and I started to have a panic attack in the mortuary. My chest hurt so intensely and the room started to spin. I ran for the closest exit. All I could do was sit in my van and bawl. I started to wish that I could talk to Natalie. Luckily, she was thinking of me too and my phone rang. Her sweet tone and kind words were exactly what I needed. When I got home I just had to sleep and thankfully Jason was able to field and make calls. He has become more beloved to me than ANYTHING. I always knew that I loved Jason. Now I know that Jason owns my heart. I think that is another post all on its own :).
Tuesday, we buried Joseph. I couldn't handle the thought of this event to I asked Jason to come with me to the Temple. I wanted to feel light all around me. Goodness, grace and God's mercy was what I needed to feel, and I felt that there. I love my faith, and I am so grateful for my parents giving me the seeds of my faith. I don't think that without it I could handle this experience. I don't know any other person better than God, who lost His beloved son, to walk this path with me. He has carried me, and at times instructed my heart. After, the Temple Jason and I went to the garveside and put down white roses. I did better than I thought I would.
Wedensday, Michael was extremely sick high grade fever, vomitting, and well other less plesant stuff. Oddly, I was so happy to hold him and care for him. Michael's sickness reminded me that, while I should be gentle with my expectations of myself, that I do have three other children and they need their mother. Wedensday was my turning point. God would worry about healing my heart, and I will find a new normal.
Thursday, I spent the day on my newest obession, trying to find the right sculpture, painting, picture, or craft item that I can have to memorialize Joseph. This is a common stage with grieving mothers, obesessing over making sure that your child's memory is never forgotten. Jason and I have decided that those who love us will remember him, but we don't expect them to make as big of a deal out of him as us. I found some really great things and got some wonderful ideas. It was my first time out of the house without Jason, and that was scary. Which surprised me. I love people that is why I chose the profession that I am in, but now the thought of people makes me nervous. I'm sure that to is a grief stage. I hope so. I had to call Jason half way through shopping, which I now don't care for either-Jason's pretty cool with that though. I hated bothering him at work. He had a nasty little deadline, and I didn't want to bother him. He was great about it, of course, I went home after that. I just needed to be in my safe place.
Friday, I went to the florist and got some new flowers for Joseph's graveside. I was happy to be greeted by a baby butterfly that was floating around Joseph's site. I cried, and thanked him for giving me the gift of being his mother. I talked to him for awhile and then drove home. I left with my heart smiling. That's a good day.

That's pretty much what we have done this week. We are again very grateful for the sweet thoughts that have been shared with us. Our hearts are mending and we are finding immense comfort in your support. I truly think that each one of us are God's hands to do for others what He would want. Thanks for putting those hands into action for my family.

Joseph David Lee Edwards

2009-07-04T20:19:00.001-07:00

JOSEPH DAVID LEE EDWARDS
July 3, 2009
12:15 p.m.
4.2 oz
7"

I tried to find a good image, and given his size I didn't want to offend any of our viewers. I wanted to first write and say thank you to all of Jason's siblings for allowing us to bury Joseph at the head of Grandma and Grandpa Edwards grave. I don't think that you can comprehend the measure of comfort that this provides knowing that he isn't just out there all by himself. I know his spirit is with them so it seemed appropriate that his body should also be there. We feel very strongly that it was GranMary who received him and we all know that she loved to hold a baby. We are grateful for your love and especially your kind words. Please don't feel bad if you don't know what to say to us. Truth be told we are trying to figure out how to respond given the circumstances, and most of the time we are without words as well. The most comforting words that we are hearing, are "i love you!".
While we are sad our comfort is family, friends, and our beliefs. Joseph's death, while very heartbreaking, gives us something to strive for. Jason and I want to be good enough to have the chance to raise our son in the next life. Having seen his sweet face makes us want to know him. To hold him again.
We are looking forward to happier times ahead, and again we want to thank Super Auntie Barbara for being so great. I know that this distracted from your plans and you didn't hesitate one bit which made a tough time, especially for the boys, a whole lot easier. THANK YOU!!

First Hair Cut !!

2009-05-27T19:27:00.000-07:00

Today, Sam got his first haircut!!! I was planning on waiting until after his birthday. I actually, really hate to have my kids hair cut because then they look so much older to me :(. Anyway, my stylist Kelsey is going on maternity leave next week so I had to act fast ;). Sam cried at first and was gripping onto Jason's shirt like a little kitten. Once he realized that this wasn't actually hurting him and his binkie was securely placed in his mouth he was just fine. In my opinion he looks like a totally different baby. As a treat for his first haircut he also got his first few licks of a lollipop which landed in a hair pile on the floor so he literally on had a few licks!!

Funny Sam

2009-05-26T10:38:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist taking this picture of Sam. He had just had dinner and I thought that I cleaned his hands really well, but apparently I hadn't. He just looked so I cute that I could hardly tell myself no to this semi-embarassing picture. Luckily, he was only minutes away from bath time. Tomorrow he gets his first haircut and I am starting to get a little nervous, because he's still so little to me, but as you can tell by the picture he has hair to spare. Lets just hope that is always the case :)

Peace Lily

2009-05-26T10:33:00.000-07:00

This post is for my mom who wanted to see the plant that was sent in our family name to the viewing for my mother-in-law. Its hard to tell because the camera is angled down but this plant is actually taller than my 3 yr. old. The plant is also wider than he is tall. He wanted his picture taken with what he called the "plant-tree".
Thanks again for the beautiful plant, family :-)

Tooth Fairy Frequent "Flyer" Miles

2009-05-17T17:35:00.000-07:00

The Tooth Fairy doesn't need a map to our house! On Thursday as we were driving home from the airport Jarom proclaim from the back seat, " I lost a tooth!!!!" We were so excited for him. I have to admit that seeing him wiggle his tooth made me more than a little queasy and it isn't just because I'm pregnant, I think its just nasty-ick! The dental assistant actually told him to wiggle it when I wasn't looking because in the office I was turning green.
All that aside Jarom was eating dinner tonight when he again screamed, "My tooth!!" Now, he's pretty pumped about losing the tooth and getting more money from the tooth fairy, but Jason and I are amp'd about the fact that we don't have to pay a hundred and seventy dollars to have the little sucker pulled!!! At first, Jason's mom thought that a dollar was a little steep to give a kid for a lost tooth since apparently he only recieved a quarter, but a buck beats a heafty dental bill!!
The best part is watching Jarom's amazement at they fact that he is losing teeth. Every milestone that he reaches is a leap for my heart knowing that one day he will be all too grown up.

Gone A Baptizin'

2009-05-03T17:08:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Michael decided that he needed to take in a homeless rollie pollie, potato bug, whatever you want to call it. At first, I gave him my standard mom statement,"bugs live outside so lets keep them there." This did not appease him so he thought he would sneak it into his jacket pocket. Hmm...I totally saw that mister. I figured it was a losing battle and offered up one of my jam jars to the cause. Michael went about picking the perfect weed for a home slash food for said bug. Then I noticed so leaves from my rosebush were in the mix, at that point I figured why not as long as he wasn't going to smash the darn thing I was cool. Later, Jarom noticed that there was a jar with a bug in it and asked if he could add one to the mix. Again, why not? I already was outnummbered by both bugs and bug lovers alike. Jarom added his bug and then they promptly forgot about the bugs. This afternoon however they caught a glimpse of the jar and noticed that one of the bugs was "sleeping". So, Jarom took the bug out and fearing for its eternal salvation set about to "baptize" the bug. The conversation went as follow:
J:I baptized my bug!
Mom: What??
J: It was dead so I baptized it.
Michael: Its with Heavenly Father now
Mom: Jarom how did you baptize the bug (at this point I am getting nervous)
Jarom: I held him under water for 14 seconds and then I threw him on the roof!
Mom: (laughing too hard to talk)
Jarom: what? he was dead!!!
Mom: point taken.

He SURVIVED!

2009-04-01T07:00:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, was a big day for any employee where Jason works. Because I'm not 100% on whether or not it violates any rules about blogging about the company I'll just call them "work". Work needed to reduced its workforce and yesterday was the "axe day". We have about fourteen or fifteen people in our neighborhood who work at the same company as Jason. All have different jobs but all are their families breadwinners so to speak. On the floor where Jason resides there were seven people who lost their jobs. Some volunteered others were surprised. I can't imagine what that would have been like to have to go home without a job in a downturned economy. My stomach was in knots until about 9:30 am when Jason emailed me an all clear message. I know that work will be tense for the next couple of years as contracts end and they try to win new ones. Jason LOVES his job and wants to be there FOREVER. I have to say as his wife I love sending him to a job he loves, and is good at. I know that he feels accomplishment as he ends his work day. I wish I could say the same everyday that I leave the hospital ;). Work has been good to our family and what we are carving out here is something that not all families in America have. The chance to live in a small town with all its perks, the county fair being the number one perk to Tremonton. There are things that we hope to change by contributing to the community and growing with it. We will always have Missouri in our hearts, but Tremonton is getting under our skin, in a nice way. To those that lost their jobs yesterday, we wish you the very best, and pray for your quick re-employment! For those that kept their jobs, savor it, give it all you got! We feel blessed by Heavenly Father for helping us to survive this reduction.
Here is hoping that the next cut in the fall is less severe, and that contracts sought for are gained!!!!

Twilight "the movie"

2009-03-23T09:15:00.001-07:00

From this moment on the Twilight movie will be just referred to as, "the movie". I will say that I was VERY nervous to see the movie. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the books and they are soooooo good in my head that I was worried that I would have a difficult time divorcing myself from the book and its movie adaptation. That being said. The movie could have been better. They could have spent a little more money on special effects, not just CGI. The acting was good, don't get me wrong. The ENTIRE cast played their parts really well. For the most part you could see EVERY actor/ess as their character. I need to say that I didn't like some of the artistic liberties that they took. For example, James, Laurent, and Victoria don't kill a guard at the factory, and I was distracted by that. I know why they did it, but it just didn't sit well with me. I know, I know, tiny detail. At one point in the movie I started to wonder if for Stephenie Meyer watching this movie being made was a little like sending your firstborn off to Kindergarten. I would love to ask her that. I am not turned-off to New Moon and am looking forward to Jacob's transformation. Like I said good movie, would love to see them spend a couple extra bucks on special effects. The speed thing for Edward should look a little more flawless, imo! All the HP films have these outstanding effects and Twilight movies would definitely be elevated by this one factor. Oh! and I really liked the pace, regardless of what it left out, you'd be there all day if they were true to the book :-)

Twilight Saga

2009-03-15T18:57:00.000-07:00

So it took me exactly four days to rip through these books!!! They were fantastic!!!!!! I can't believe that I hesitated for so long. My patients have been reading these books for some time now and I just didn't seem interested. At first my thought was, "these are kids books". Then I rationialized not reading since they were about vampires and werewolves...umm...okay. I finally couldn't take all the buzzing. I hate when people are all talking about a book and I haven't read it. I feel out of touch. So I decided to go to my local library, which is shaky at best and reserve the one copy of Twlight they had. It came about a week after my reservation and I picked it up. I was in the middle of a so-so book called Moose: A Memoir of Fat Camp. I read the first chapter of Twlight and I was HOOKED. I couldn't focus on anything else. Working, eating, breathing all seemed silly if I couldn't get on with the book. Its a beautifully written love story with bite <--pun intended! Stephenie Meyer weaves a great story and unlike J.K. Rowling she doesn't leave a character unexplained. Don't get me wrong J.K. is awesome, but Stephenie is closing ranks. The story is set in Washington town called Forks, with its lush green setting and dreary forcasts. Forks is the perfect town for some "vegetarian" vampires to live and co-habitate with humans. I don't want to give too much away I want everyone who reads these books to soak them up with no preconceived notions. They are magical like a Rowlings book, inherently lovely like an Austen story, and fun to read in a way that is so very Stephenie Meyer. Besides who can't appreciate a book by a Cougar (Rise and Shout!)!!!!!

Touched By An Angel

2009-03-02T15:46:00.000-08:00

Touched by an Angel

We, unaccustomed to courage
exiles from delight
live coiled in shells of loneliness
until love leaves its high holy temple
and comes into our sight
to liberate us into life.

Love arrives
and in its train come ecstasies
old memories of pleasure
ancient histories of pain.
Yet if we are bold,
love strikes away the chains of fear
from our souls.

We are weaned from our timidity
In the flush of love's light
we dare be brave
And suddenly we see
that love costs all we are
and will ever be.
Yet it is only love
which sets us free.

Maya Angelou

Thanks Jason, Jarom, Michael, and Samuel! Also, thanks Maya for putting my exact thoughts into words.

INTRODUCING.......

2009-03-02T09:04:00.000-08:00

SARAH

I don't want to give out to many details since my blog isn't private, buuuut I had to share a photo of my newest niece Sarah! We have been waiting for her for quite sometime now and after all the prayers here she is :-)
She is proof that God hears our prayers and answers in His time when it works into His plan. I am so grateful to Grandpa Mickey for the photos. I am sure that the Bransons are on cloud nine along with my parents and the newest Mollus parents!! Enjoy her guys! Draw in every sweet breath, and bathe in every gentle smile. She is litle for now. I have to say that I am excited for you two to have all the learning experiences that being a parent affords you. For me being a parent is an instant connection to Heaven. A newfound partnership with a loving Heavenly Father. I can't imagine what you are feeling right now, but seal it in your heart, cherish it! We love you and want to congratulate your sweet little family on a job well done!

FHE- on Tuesday :-)

2009-02-25T07:50:00.001-08:00

This weeks Family Home Evening was really fun. We talked about keeping our house in order, and how when we have a clean home we are all happier and the Spirit can be felt. Our general rule is to pick up what you can when you can, and leave the rest for saturday when our usual house cleaning day is. However, I can't think when my house is too cluttered. It is so liberating to get rid of junk, and yes we ALL have junk in our house that we really can do without. So, for the activity the boys built their own house, well more exactly a bunny hutch since that is what Wilton had to offer. They got to decorate it with candies, and frosting. It even came with three little bunnies that we names appropriately after each of them. One bunny is going into the house so that is why it looks like there is one with no face, lol! We talked about a job chart, following it, and consequences for not doing your job. The thought of not picking up after them is like heaven to me. They sometimes are good about making sure that their clothes are picked up, and of course, when Jarom wants to earn a few bucks he'll ask to clean his bathroom. I would love for the cleaning to be instinctive. I realize that they are still little and learning, but a mom can dream, right?

Hugging <3

2009-02-23T10:44:00.000-08:00

Hugging is natural, organic, naturally sweet, free of pesticides and preservatives. Hugging contains no artificial ingredients. It’s 100% wholesome. No calories, no caffeine, no nicotine. Hugging is nearly perfect. There are no removable parts, batteries to wear out, no periodic check-ups. It consumes little energy while yielding a lot.
It’s inflation- proof. It’s non-fattening. There are no monthly payments. No insurance requirements. It’s theft proof, non-taxable, non-polluting and fully refundable. And it costs very little. Hugging is healthy. It assists in the body’s immune system, it cures depression, it reduces stress, it induces sleep, it invigorates, it rejuvenates, and it has no unpleasant side-effects. Hugging is no less than a miracle drug.

Pretty Cool

2009-02-21T07:52:00.000-08:00

I was in between patients yesterday, and happened to catch a little bit of Studio 5, a.k.a. The Chicklet Show <--you would get that if you saw their teeth ;-). Anyway, they had a really creative chic on there, Kristin McKay. I thought that her designs were AWESOME. I have done the altoid tin thing, but I have NEVER seen anyone make jewlery with fabric and epoxy. There have been sooo many fabrics that I have seen that I thought would make really cute beads. She makes it a reality. If you have a second check out her site www.kmckaydesigns.com you won't be disappointed. NATALIE check out her Family Planner. Her downloads are FREE!!!! Tell me who doesn't love free??

Enjoy :-)
Thanks Kristin for sharing your creativity !!!!

Do You Feel It??

2009-02-10T18:28:00.001-08:00

The tangible excitement in the air!! I can't tell you how excited I am that Natalie is a mere 38 hours from my presence!!!!!! I am so pumped! I miss her sweet face! She is beyond loved in our home and her sweet little family is priceless to us! Have a safe trip Edwards Family!!

Sam UPDATE-THANK YOU!!!!

2009-02-08T20:51:00.000-08:00

I wanted to take a second and post a "thank you" to everyone that has said a prayer for Sam, or even had his health on their minds. We have been so blessed! Sam is doing really great his breathing is FANTASTIC. He hasn't had more than a sneeze since he left the hospital. The dr. when he released us told us to expect a pretty horrible wed. but wed. came and went without an incident. Jason stayed home from work to keep the boys from messing with him too much, but it really seemed like Sam wanted to play with his brothers, and just be part of the group. I can't express my thankfulness enough! I feel so cared for and more watched over than I deserve, but I will take it with a happy heart. Sam really is a light to me. I think hearing his resp. distress caused me to just suspend my emotions, but watching him smile, and blow raspberries allowed me to exhale. He is perfection in a bottle! Having Sam in my life is a gift !!!
So just to let everyone know he is doing great, sounding great, and eating like a linebacker :-)

Little J turns 6!!

2009-02-08T20:25:00.000-08:00

Not only did the Groundhog see his shadow last Monday, but Jarom turned 6!!! He was so pumped to say goodbye to 5 that he woke up at nearly 5:30 A.M. I wish I could find a way to emphasize the early nature of that wake-up call!! It was hard not to give in and let him tear into his gifts. Around 6:30 a.m. Jason came into the bedroom and gently nudged me to get up and I went downstairs to find one jazzed kid, so waking up was more fun seeing how excited he was. Jarom got a Nintendo DS, Mario Party game, and Michael and Sam also got him Star Wars Legos. He was so happy to get a DS. He has been begging for once since before Christmas. I was put off by the price, but then I started to think about how awesome our kids have been these last few months with Grammie's cancer, and we haven't had the same amount of quality time, so he won me over with good behavior. There is also a bonus for me, if he happens to have bad behavior the DS is the first to go. Let me tell ya that gets him in line FAST!!! He also got a suit for church from Grammie, money from my parents, a card filled with stickers (thanks G&N family :-)). He was a walking live wire ALL day. It was really fun to watch him beam! On saturday Jason took Jarom and five of his friends to the bowling alley. I couldn't stress over a party this year so thankfully the bowling alley was available. At the last minute we allowed Michael to go and he brought his friend E with him. She actually has a "real" name, but told me yesterday that she is just going to go by "E" when she goes to real school. Kids are to funny!!
Anyway, Jarom and his friends had a blast, and Jason had a good time too. I can't say enough good things about Jarom. He is such a bright child, with his fathers sensiblities. I thank God everyday for blessing me with him. I couldn't have asked for a better child to usher me into the world of Motherhood. I remember distinctly the moment he was placed on my chest after he was born. He lifted his head and his eyes were wide open as they made contact with mine. I felt a rush of fear, anxiety, and then the most calming sense of gratitude that I could be trusted with such a being. I wondered in my heart if I could really teach him anything. What did I have to offer something so perfect? I was blessed shortly after his birth to be able to put my newfound devotion to the test as Jason and I carefully attended to our sick newborn. For days Jason and I held him, never putting him down for more than 15 minutes. We rallied as his Bili levels climbed dangerously high, and celebrated as they finally fell below 15. It was in that time that I learned my love for Jarom was in its infantcy as well. As he grew I KNEW my love for him would flourish. It has. I think the bigger he gets, the bigger my heart gets. I hate to think of him ever getting to be to big for me. So for now, I will cheer him on as he takes on the world and cherish every kiss while its still okay to kiss mom good-night.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my number 1 !!!

This is for my Ute loving Neighbor!

2009-01-28T20:53:00.001-08:00

I am a little nervous about this post since my Ute loving neighbor also happens to be my dentist, and anyone who knows me understands that I hate the dentist more than a colonoscopy :-) Thats okay I'll just pay for more nitrous oxide if he doesn't find this pic as funny as me. Bawh!

Thought For The Day

2009-01-28T20:46:00.000-08:00

The joys of motherhood are never fully experienced until the children are in bed.

Thanks Aunt Kelly!

2009-01-26T14:45:00.000-08:00

Firday's Funny-Late but not forgotten !!!

2009-01-26T14:26:00.000-08:00

So, I know that I have been really lazy about posting my "Friday's Funny" posts, but truthfully as my boys get bigger they are increasingly funny and picking just one moment or statement is getting really hard. Then I worry that my blog will turn into a blog fest, whats a blog for, right? Anyhoo, this one was too funny and MUST I repeat MUST be recorded for posterity.

Michael (the source of most of my funny moments) decided that it was okay to throw a toy, wait strike that, he dedcided to chuck will all his might a toy across the family room and it landed squarely on my new keyboard. Now, we have an unwritten and highly spoken rule about throwing stuff in the house. I have a totally rational fear of things flying around the room and hitting me in the face. That is a whole other post though.
So, the known punishment for throwing toys is time on the "Naughty Step". Michael is no stranger to the step and frankly tries to use his cute to get out of it. Well, this time he conned us into believing that Jarom did the crime. After a few minutes on the step Jarom started to cry out that an injustice had been heaped upon him. This started a whole trial, so to speak, as to the guilt or innocents, of Jarom. Finally, Michael looked at me and we had this conversation:
Me: Michael did you throw that toy
Michael: No!
Me: Michael are you telling me the truth? Remember, you get in more trouble for a lie than you do a truth.
Michael: I didn't throw it (flashing cute nearly tearing eyes at me)
Me: Is that the truth?
Michael: No, I threw it.
Me: Michael you know the rule go to the naughty step. You do the crime you do the time!!!
Michael: (without missing a beat) No! I do the crime! YOU do the time!
Then as if he had practiced in front of a mirror he flashed me the sweetest face like he was too cute for hard time. Too bad I don't play that. Save it for the big house captain!!!!!!

New Years Day

2009-01-03T13:12:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year to everyone reading!! I wanted to post this pic of our little fam on New Year's Day. Its our family tradition to wear pjs all day long watch an endless array of movies and eat endless amount of junk food. There is something in there for everyone ;-). This year we decided that it would be more fun to go and see a movie at the MegaPlex 13 at the Junction in Ogden. Orginally, Grammie was going to be our honored guest, buuuuut at the last minute she decided that her days of going out to the movies are over. It was a little sad, but we opted to honor her wish and not pressure her. We had a blast!! The theater was packed to the gills with movie-goers and the movie we picked "Bedtime Stories" was hilarious!!! As far as Adam Sandler movies go this was up there with Happy Gilmore. Clean humor, funny little guinea pig, and some serious throw back 80's tunes. Jason and I took turns holding Sam in the far aisle. He was pretty well behaved considering the sound was beyond normal theater loud. The movie is about believing in your dreams and making your own dreams come true. We are all our own heros. Pretty basic Disney formula, but none the less very cute and the boys loved it. The grown-ups were laughing too. This is one Edwards tradition that will be honored year after year.

**The guys are all wearing coordinating track suits. I know it sounds dorky, but they looked so cute and it really added to the family togetherness theme we were going for :-)

Our Christmas!!!

2009-01-03T07:43:00.000-08:00

This is a really late post! Christmas is almost two weeks past, buuut in our defense we have had a ton of family stuff going on. More on that later. However, our Christmas was really nice. We tried to show our boys that Christmas isn't just about gifts and gimmie, but about Jesus and all the beautiful symbolism that Christmas ushers in. We had some special family home evenings where we made treats and shared them with neighbors. I will say that this year brought us a record number of neighbor treats, and some really creative Christmas cards. One family home evening we talked to the boys about giving of our substance to the poor. Then we had the boys go through and collect things that they could give those that are less fortunate. Our family adopted a little girl for Christmas, and all she wanted for Christmas was a warm blanket. How sobering is that!! We selected a Disney Princess blanket, and I can't tell you how nervous I was to give a blanket to someone for a gift, I felt like I should have given more. Her father was beyond grateful and was teary in his acceptance of all the gifts for his family (the family was adopted by a co-worker). I don't blog this to make us so wonderful or better than anyone, but to display that there are simple gifts that we can give that make a difference in the lives of others. For this family it was the mere thought that someone else was thinking of them, and wanted them to receive a gift. It made me think, "how thankful am I for the simple things that I have?" When you stop to look around you really have more than you imagined. Even the poorest person on this earth has something to be thankful for.
Our many experiences this Christmas have also brought me to a better understanding of the tender mercies of the Lord. On Christmas Eve, Jason's grandma, a woman I consider to be my own grandmother, told me that she had a lump in her breast. Now, being a mammographer I examined her and felt a sick in my stomach that I NEVER want to feel again. Crying all the way home from her house I couldn't help but think why God would give her breast cancer at her age, given her circumstances. The same script ran through my mind, "the God I know and love is caring, tender, and understanding this is NOT real" or "I am going to wake up". As my mind raced to a fever pitch a very gentle feeling came over me and in my ear I heard, "peace be still". John 14:27 a scripture that I am sure all Christians cling to in hard times, "Peace I leave with you , my peace I give unto you, Not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart, neither let it be afraid." Has come to play in a very real way. In this past week and a half we have discover, diagnosed, and generated a treatment plan for her breast cancer. So as you can imagine it has been a very incoherent passing of days. The Lords tender mercies have been expressed in the loving actions of our neighbor Margo who took our boys for five hours so that we could drive down to Ogden and be available to Grammie during her surgical consult. My co-workers who stepped up and covered me when we were beyond over booked so that I could make sure that Grammie was properly diagnosed and understood what was to come. His mercy was definitely upon us when my doctor that I work with decided that she would rearrange her schedule so that Grammie could be seen first thing instead of having to wait for her scheduled appointment over a week later. Everything has echoed the mercy that God has for His children and the gentle care that he provides when others listen to His spirit.

Needless, to say that we believe more lessons will be forthcoming in this year but we/I am very thankful that as the year ended I was given a sweet reminder that just as the Lord was mindful of a young virgin in Bethlehem he is mindful of this mother of three in Tremonton. Please take a moment to remember Him. The season has passed but the wonderful feeling we get from helping His children lasts throughout the whole year.
Have a Happy, Healthy, and Loving New Year!!!!

That Explains A Lot ! ! !

2008-12-20T09:59:00.000-08:00

Check out that beautiful Thyroid!!! It isn't mine. I forgot to ask Wendy to print mine, but this little gem is what I had scanned on Thursday. I guess I should back track a little. Since about September I have been experiencing dizziness, fuzzy thinking, headaches, and some other things. Finally, after my 30th b-day I decided that I should get this checked out. I went to the doctor and he ordered several tests. I later got a call from his receptionist that he wanted me to come back in. I went back in only to be told that I have no thyroid function and that my doctor wanted to rule out cancer. He suspected cancer, and I am happy to report that there is NO cancer. When I had my thyroid scanned they found two adenomas (clinically silent tumors). The largest measures 2mm so a biopsy isn't necessary at this time. I am feeling really good about my physicians plan of treatment. Currently, I am on meds and I will have my TSH checked again the beginning of February. The best part is that actually having a diagnosis explains why I have been having all these crazy symptoms that nothing seems to touch! I really LOVE modern medicine!!

Get Well Soon !!!

2008-12-15T10:17:00.000-08:00

We are posting a Get Well message for Grandma Mary who is in the ICU. Hopefully, by the time that this is posted she will be moved to a regular medical floor. The boys send their love and well wishes as do Jason and I. You are loved and we hope that you know it. For those that have extras to go around a few well placed prayers would be appreciated, not only for her but for her family as well. Thanks friends, and Get Well Soon Mary!!

Happy Birthday NaTaLiE !!!!

2008-12-12T20:24:00.001-08:00

HaPpY bIrThDaY nAtAlIe!!!!! I wanted to post to a happy birthday to someone totally special. Natalie, you are a fantastic friend and I am so glad that your mom gave birth to you ;-) I am even more happy that Glenn found such an amazing person to bless our family with. I am lucky to have such a friend like you. I hope that you have a day filled with fun, sweet memories, good food (lots of good food that is 2 pts. or less), and many best wishes!!! I love your sweet, skinny face :-)

Bye Bye Bratz!!

2008-12-04T17:01:00.001-08:00

I read this today and I couldn't be happier!!!

"LOS ANGELES (AP) - Shares of Mattel are soaring today after a
big court victory for the toy giant that could leave a lot of young
girls upset.
Yesterday, a federal judge banned rival toy maker MGA from
making and selling its hugely popular Bratz dolls.
The pouty-lipped dolls with almond-shaped eyes appeared in 2001
and were an instant hit. MGA took the original four dolls developed
by designer Carter Bryant, and spun them into a line of more than
40 characters, complete with accessories and related lines,
including Bratz Boys, Bratz Petz and Baby Bratz.
MGA has made millions in profits, while sales of Mattel's Barbie
have slid.
But yesterday, U.S. District Judge Stephen Larson ordered MGA to
stop making Bratz after a jury found that Bryant developed the
concept while working for Mattel.
The toy maker will also have to get the dolls out of stores, but
not until the holiday season is over. "

There are sooooo many reasons that I am glad to see these dolls go. The first and foremost reason is that I am so tired of seeing little girls having only unrealistic images of what the mainstream believes is acceptable dress for a little girl. The target audience for these dolls is between 6-10 years of age. Now, I only have little boys so I doubt my children will ever ask for a Bratz doll. However, I do have nieces and I wouldn't want them to emulate the appearance of these cheap looking dolls in any way, shape, or form. How many girls in that age range should be wearing make-up like that? If you saw a little girl with that much make-up on or even dressed that way what would be your immediate thought?? I know it may sound trivial but I think it sets a tone for behavior. Now, I know there are plenty of dolls that don't depict women in the most correct light, and there really isn't enough time to go through them all. I believe that Bratz dolls are the worst offenders on the "doll" list. Anyway, I am glad to see them go, and I won't shed a single tear this year as they are yanked from the shelf.
I will step down from my soapbox now. Thank you! for your time :-)

Comments

2008-12-03T07:19:00.000-08:00

So as a few of you have mentioned the comments on my blog were somehow disabled. I have worked on it and you should be able to post comments if you want. Sorry 'bout that!

Thanks,

Managment

Major Tom to Poison Control!

2008-12-01T15:29:00.000-08:00

How long have I been a parent now? Something like 5.75 years, 70 months, 2125 days, and so forth, you get the point right. Well, NEVER have I had to call Poison Control! Unnnnntillll today. Michael decided to bite on a glo-stick, and whaddya know, he bit right thorugh it. I didn't realize it until I saw all the glowing stuff on my carpet. I called poison control and Sandy was very nice. She offered to send me a packet on teaching my children not to drink yucky things...um...thanks! She added that the packet had stickers and of course I changed my tone. I was told that the stuff inside a glo-stick is a lot worse looking than it actually is harmful. I was advised to have Michael drink 4 oz. of fluid and all I had around was Diet A &W so that should teach him to never drink nasty stuff, right?? In the end all was well, but my streak of good luck in the Mr. Yuck department has been altered!

Hello Thirty!

2008-12-01T06:51:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, I turned the big 3-0 !!! It started with a call from my mom, which always makes me feel good. Its not your birthday really until your mom calls, right? After she called my sweet Nat called! My boys gave me their gifts, flowers, sweet huh? Jason made me my favorite breakfast, Maple-Brown sugar Life. He gave me the best gift, sleeping in until 9 am. My mom gave me a really cool scrappin' gift. I also got some really cool handmade frames from a local craft boutique. I'll post some pics later. As a family we went to Ogden to have lunch at Rubio's. I highly recommend the HealthMex on whole wheat tortilla. Anyhoo, the best part of my birthday was the indoor skydiving experience that Jason got for me. I am seriously afraid of heights and this had my palms sweating. I don't EVER, I reapeat, EVER, doing anything that could possibly result in bodily harm. This had me signing a waiver of death, accident, or dismemberment...ummm okay! I figured what better way to greet this new phase in my life than with something that I would have never normally done. I can't explain how awesome this experience was. You aren't falling your floating in 160 mph winds as every ounce of fat or loose skin on your body is sucked back and flapping in the wind! At one point I was tandem flying with my instructor and we got about 20 feet off the "ground". I was going up this large metal tube and all I could remember was the part of the Willy Wonka movie were they drink the fizzy-lifting drink and are faced with sure death by fan blades. Yikes! At that moment I was so happy that I went to the bathroom BEFORE I got into my flight suit. I had a seriously silly perm-a-smile on my face in the video of my flight, but I can only maintain that it was from lack of oxygen. I was having so much fun I forgot to breathe! I can't wait to fly again. After, indoor skydiving our family went to see Grammie Hazel. She was happy to see us, and the boys were excited to do puzzles at her house. We got back to Tremonton around 6 p.m. and Jason started dinner. He made my all time favorite food, Penne Rustica. He got the actual recipe from Romano's Macaroni Grill from topsecretrecipes.com. It tasted just like Macaroni Grill's!!! Good work Jason! I took my picture with my boys and had a super time trying to get them all to smile and cooperate that we just stopped trying after four shots, and I just figured that it truly represents their stage in life! Once the picture was taken we put the boys in bed and watched "This Christmas", the Tyler Perry movie, it was sooo funny!!
Truly it was a full day! I was a little nervous about turning thirty. In my mind thirty was the age in which I considered no longer "youthful". I know its dumb. I have had that stuck in my head since high school and it just stayed. My twenties were so filled with growing experiences, wedding, graduations, moving, births, home ownership, new cars, new jobs,more births and everything else that life has thrown our way. I can't even imagine what thirty even has to offer me except enjoing all the things that twenty gave me. I really am so blessed and happy to have my life! I couldn't ask for a better life to enjoy during thirty!! Now, forty will be a whole other story ;-)

Goodbye 20's!!

2008-12-01T06:46:00.000-08:00

What better way to say goodbye to my twenties than with Blue-Steel. Thats for you Elizabeth!!!

** I just realized that I look kinda sad in this picture. More sad puppy than blue-Steel! LOL! Anyway, good-bye twenty you served me well!

Cute Pics of Sam !!

2008-11-27T20:30:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to share some cute pics of Sam. He turned 5 months on our 8th anniversary. We are all still so smitten with him. What a wonderful personality. I really look forward to seeing how he develops and finding out who this emergent little being that looks out from behind those crystal blue eyes really is!

Thanksgiving Day !!!

2008-11-27T19:53:00.000-08:00

This photo is of Sam and Grammie Hazel. Samuel really loves Grammie as do all the boys. Thanksgiving was really great! This was the first year that I didn't feel one ounce of stress over the food, cleaning, or anything. Nada! All was wonderful. This has to go down in the books as the most stress-free holiday of my lifetime!! Our Turkey Day started with me sleeping in, wahoo!!, and Jason cooking the traditional Edwards holiday breakfast food. His dad always made Egg McEdwards on holiday mornings and that pretty much how you knew it was a holiday ;-) . After breakfast we played games with the boys and they helped us clean up, which was nice considering that 99.9 % of the messes that we were cleaning had their root in our kids making them. I had my turkey in the oven by 10 a.m. and pretty much it was smooth sailing from there. Grammie Hazel and Auntie Barbara came up at 1 and brought with them not only food, but games. Lots of games! B brought Guitar Hero, and the Nintendo Game Cube bongos. I am so glad that Uncle Ben is a gamer, we really benefit from that. The boys were so excited that B was coming they asked ALL ding-dongin' morning when she would get here. Then at one point they started pretending that she was in the driveway so they could look out the door. Mind you it was 30 deg outside today and I was not a fan of the door being open, and shut, and open, and shut!! I am glad that they love their auntie though. Anyway, we had a great time eating, playing games, and talking. I have a lot to be thankful for this year. Every year I should admit! I and very thankful for my family and all that we have been through this year. I am thankful that my mom made it through her surgery well. I am also thankful that her ward took care of dinner for her. What a relief for her to not feel obligated to make Thanksgiving dinner for her family!! Get well Mom!

I know this post is a little scattered, it could be all the tryptophan talking! Anyhow, I hope that everyone had an AWESOME Thanksgiving and that you had a second to think about all the blessings in your lives. If you start to count them you'll find a reason to smile!

Mom said there would be days like this !!

2008-11-16T15:52:00.000-08:00

See that face? He's cute, right?? Yeah, that's my lovey Michael. Have I ever mentioned that he is the source of my GREATEST joy. He is such a happy little fellow most of the time, and he REALLY enjoys bringing a smile to others faces. He is a lot like his mom in that he enjoys making others laugh. Well, my little comedian decided that he had a new favorite word, and Sacrament Meeting was the appropriate time to debut said word. So as loudly as his tiny little voice could muster my child, my shinning star, yelled, "PENIS!!!" for the ENTIRE congregation to enjoy. Oh! wait! you were about to think he did it only once, right? No, not twice, yep! THREE TIMES!!! The story only is enhanced by the fact that our family traditionally sits behind the Bishop's. Luckily, for us they are down to earth people and realize that it is in fact an anatomically correct word. Needless to say, Jason removed Michael from Sacrament and gently reminded him that while the word is, in fact, correct there is a more appropriate place for this, and as the Sacrament is being prepared is not the right time.

Oh! The joys of motherhood swell in my heart at this moment :-)

* I should add that our good friends the Tacketts were more than amused and well what are we if not accomadating to good friends in need of a laugh ;-)

Just a Reminder

2008-11-13T07:21:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I need a reminder as to where my focus should be. Personally, I get caught up in all the "work" that is life. I forget so easily that God's plan for me is truly simple. Love Him, teach His children about Him and His son, and just enjoy the blessings that He has given me. I love this time of year. The change in the trees. The smell of the air. The gentle way that God trasitions from season to season reminds me that in my life He has placed many quiet reminders as to how He would have me transition from one event in my life to the next.
I loved Julie Becks address to the women of the LDS faith. I truly believe inspiration lead her to this topic and inspiration will lead us all our ultimate destination of happiness and a fullness of joy. Take a moment to enjoy the transitions in your life, that is where I am learning the true lessons of the Spirit are given.

Happy Halloween

2008-11-02T07:27:00.001-08:00

This was our delicious Jack-O-Lantern pizza. It was yummy, thank you Papa Murphy's ;-)

Jarom and Michael were so excited to get out and trick-or-treat that they could hardly sit for pics!

Jarom as Raphael, Michael as Handy Manny, and Samuel as our favorite little Skeleton.

We had some early trick-or-treaters, our friends the Tacketts. They were our first little spooks to knock on our door. Our family had so much fun trick-or-treating this year. All of us went down 1 west in our town, which a pretty long drag, but there were lots of people that wanted to see Sam in his costume so I obliged. Once our tour down 1 west was done I came home to pass out candy to our trick-or-treaters, which was fun to see all the kids from our neighborhood all dressed in their full costumes. Jason took the boys around our neighborhood, and then when they said they were tired of walking they came home. I thought that they would be out longer but they are still little and haven't quite learned the joys of running your parents around town ragged, thanks guys!! We really had more fun this year than we have ever had in the past, and I LOVE watching my guys really get into it. I know that for some people Halloween is a silly tradition, but I think it is a fun holiday that really rewards kids for their creativity. Long live Halloween in our house!!!

Painted Pumpkins

2008-11-02T07:19:00.001-08:00

So this year I decided, oh yes and executive decision, that we would PAINT not carve pumpkins. It seems like EVERY year the boys want to carve pumpkins and then the majority of the work goes to Jason or I. Sooo in an effort to make this more hands-on for them, see how I spun that, I thought painting would be more fun. It was a huge success and the boys had sooo much fun. I on the other hand was a little nervous about all that paint going everywhere. You can tell that just by looking at the picture. I made the boys paint without shrits on so that they wouldn't get pain on them and I was so careful to wipe their arms when they crossed over the paint plates. Well, all my efforts paid off beautifully in the kid dept. but somehow I got paint on MY favorite shirt. Duh Mindy! Change your own shirt! I hadn't even thougth about it, lol! Anyway, it was a lot of fun and we are sure to rinse and repeat next year ;-)

Need a pick me up? Here ya go :-)

2008-10-12T19:39:00.000-07:00

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us, it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine,we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear,our presence automatically liberates others."

Friday's Funny

2008-10-05T15:37:00.000-07:00

This weeks Friday's Funny comes to us from our favorite Apostle, L.Tom Perry. Okay, I should say that we don't really have a favorite, but Michael loves L.Tom Perry. On wed. we decided to get out the pictures of the 12 Apostles along with the First Presidency so that we could brush up before conference. The boys lined up the pictures in their respective orders and then decided it was more fun to play with the Apostles. So Jarom chose a few, Richard G. Scott, Pres. Monson, and he refuses to let Pres. Hinckley go as a Prophet so he was kept in the batch. Michael chose, of course, L. Tom Perry and Elder Wirthlin. As they were having conversations with their pictures and playing pretend games I say to myself, "hey now would be a good time to start the dishwasher". Everything was peaceful, and then I hear the loudest scream coming from Michael, "GIIIIIIIIIIIIVE MEEEEEEEEEEE L.TOM PERRY". I could hardly hold back the laughter. I mean honestly we have had minor disagreements about toys before. One person has a Lightning McQueen car that the other wants, or a Batman toy. Never and I repeat NEVER have my children fought over Apostles of the Lord. Finally, they settled on Jarom could have Pres. Monson, and Michael could retain possession of his beloved L.Tom Perry. On a side note, it was funny to hear my two year old tattle that his brother had, "Stolen his prophet so he wasn't talking to him anymore." Gladly, all was settled in the end and happy children resulted, but I found the whole thing more than funny. Another parenting moment I thought I would never have had- Fighting over Apostles. I'll file that one with the others namely, Don't put your brothers fish in the toilet and the classic Stop touching your brother :-)

Fridays Funny

2008-09-28T19:34:00.001-07:00

Okay, I know that this is a tad late but man oh man we have had a busy weekend. This weeks Fridays Funny comes to us from the far corners of Jarom and Michael's room. It is the nighttime ritual that after scriptures the boys go upstairs brush their teeth, and then go to their room where they sing the bedtime song (a special song written for each of the individually by Jason). Well, the other night Jarom decided that not only did he want to sing his song but he wanted a joke as well. The joke goes as follows:

Joke: Why did the chicken cross the road?

Answer: To get to his Chick

I know that some of you are probably looking at the screen and thinking, what? I don't get it or is that all? I however, laughed my buns off and then my future home in the Hollywood Hills flashed before my eyes. I am sure that when Jerry Seinfeld was a small child he started with chicken crossing the road jokes. Now look at the man $10 million to star in commercials for Windows Vista. Of course, if you are looking for more reasons why the chicken crossed the road look no further ----> http://philosophy.eserver.org/chicken.txt

Friday's Funny

2008-09-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

I am introducing a new segment to my blog called, Friday's Funny. For my first installment I want to share a Michael Funny with ya'll.
So Michael and I were sitting on the couch. He turned to me and this was our "serious" conversation.

Michael: Do you want to touch my red hair?
Mom: (holding in laughter) why yes, sir, I would love to touch your red hair.
Michael: Its really cute
Mom: (full gut busting in progress) Yes! it is!
Michael: (Super cheesy grin)

This was the funniest thing, since he was so dead serious about the cute-a-tude (made that up special for ya) of his lovely red locks!!

Stay tuned for more Friday's Funny :-) With my boys there will be no shortage of hilarious moments.

First Day Back

2008-09-04T20:46:00.000-07:00

After three months off for maternity leave, I went back to work today!! I was a little nervous since I wasn't sure how I was feeling about leaving Sam. He is still so little! However, he did awesome at Dixie's and the boys told me that he was really great for her, and that he was happy. Knowing that he was with someone that we trust left me free to do my job. Speaking of, I had a serious moment of forgetfullness as I was working with a patient. Its a great thing that my Heavenly Father has blessed me with the gift of gab, because I was able to get the patient talking until I remembered what the protocol was. How embarassing :-S!! The ladies were great and we stayed busy ALL day. I have decided that if I can make it to lunch I am so set for the day! It usually all downhill after that, right? Jason picked the boys up and I got home shortly after he did. It all went so smoothly that I think i'll go back tomorrow ;-)

I can relate

2008-08-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

DELETED to spare offense!

Ever Bloomin'

First Day of School !!!

Happy 4th!!!

Happy Birthday SAM ! ! !

Best. Dad. Ever.

Jarom's Baptism

Mr. Luke

Happy Birthday JAROM!!

Merry Christmas-time :)

Happy Anniversary US!!

Sweet Baby Lucas

Summertime Edwards Style

1 year

Happy Birthday SAM ! ! !

Holy Cannoli's

Mom this ones for you :)

Missouri Trip :)

Happy Mother's Day !!!

Just WRONG!

Happy Easter!

Dyeing Easter Eggs

Viking Sam

Happy to Announce

Quote for the day

Erin Go Bragh!!

Lovely Lady

~*~*~*She'e HERE!!!~*~*~*

What was important then is important now!

Have you ever wondered

Do you miss him yet?

Happy Valentine's Day !

Lawrence Welk

Happy Birthday JaRoM !!!!

Happy Groundhogs Day!

The Hap Ki Do Kid

Year End Letter

Speak UP!

Happy Birthday NaTaLiE !!!!

More birthday stuff, lots of pics

Happy birthday to ME !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Turkey day

HaPpY bIrThDaY mIcHaEl !!!!!!!!!

To Grammie with love

Delivery Date

Carving Up Some Fun

Special Evening

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

Wave of Light

Walk To Remember

Untitled

Something Fun

Check it out!

Greyson's Gift

Silly Sam

Happy Birthday JASON :)

Learning every day

One Week

Joseph David Lee Edwards

First Hair Cut !!

Funny Sam

Peace Lily

Tooth Fairy Frequent "Flyer" Miles

Gone A Baptizin'

He SURVIVED!

Twilight "the movie"

Twilight Saga

Touched By An Angel

INTRODUCING.......

FHE- on Tuesday :-)

Hugging <3

Pretty Cool

Do You Feel It??

Sam UPDATE-THANK YOU!!!!

Little J turns 6!!

This is for my Ute loving Neighbor!

Thought For The Day

Thanks Aunt Kelly!

Firday's Funny-Late but not forgotten !!!

New Years Day

Our Christmas!!!

~~~She'e HERE!!!~~~