Livin' La Vida Loca!

My Birthday Boys!!!

2011-01-13T22:30:00.000-08:00

I am so behind in about every area of my life right now! I feel like I'm always saying that, but just coming off the holidays, my brother's wedding, and back into the swing of life, I just got around to posting about Walker and Harry's birthdays! Walker's birthday was actually December 17th, and Harry's January 7th. Hey, at least I got around to it....more than I can say for most of the other years:)

Harrison is 10! Come again?????

2011-01-13T21:33:00.000-08:00

Totally aware this looks like an engagement pic, but I started taking a picture of just Harry, then Ava swept in and just hugged him like this! So appropriate because they are inseparable, and this is a great shot of Harry...do you not agree?

I was looking for Harry's birth certificate in a box of stuff I've kept for him through the years yesterday. It was a melancholy experience. I don't like at all how time is just flying at the speed of light. I know I shouldn't be so negative because there are so many wonderful things about kids getting older, but when I came across pictures of him at 1,2,3,4,5 etc. I just longed to be able to pick him up, and hold him so close like I used to. I had Harrison all to myself for 4 years. He was my little side kick. Some of my favorite memories when it was just he and I (okay, Scott too but you get my drift) were of snuggling in EVERYDAY for 3 hour naps. He could only fall asleep if our noses touched. It might as well have been heaven, as far as I was concerned, every single day holding that little boy. Also, on a not-so-heavenly note, Harrison has been a great source of worry for me over the years. Not worry for myself but worry for him, for his life and worry that he can remain confident through the challenges that he has been given. He really struggles with Dyslexia. School has been a challenge to say the least. We've done so many different things with him. Every new year brings new challenges and new adventures. And with all of the changes he has been through he is always so upbeat and teachable! Which brings me so appropriately to the TOP 10 reasons I just adore HARRY!

1) He is an eternal optimist. If he says even one negative comment about anything...you know it had to be so so bad!

2) He doesn't see differences in one single human. He literally would be friends with ANYONE. NO ONE freaks him out, is unapproachable, too dirty, disabled, ugly, you name it. I know without any doubt that I could introduce him to some freak from the 'Ripley's Believe It or Not book' and he'd be like...'Hey, what's up? I'm Harrison!"

3)He has never once been willfully disobedient. Has he done stupid things?...uh...YA! But when I've told him not to do something, I'm 98% sure he'll never do it again. (notice I'll leave a margin of error?)

4) He is SO funny! Especially to the younger kids. I'll hear Ava in the back seat say...Harry, make me laugh!

5)He is a pro at delayed gratification. If given an option that is immediate but not as good as the long term option, he has no qualms with waiting.

6) He rarely complains about anything...which has proven to be my sanity at times. While I'll have other children convulsing on the floor for myriads of reasons...I'll be on the brink of an explosion and I'll look off into the distance and see my one shining example of a go with the flow, easy going child off in the distance kindly smiling at me amidst the chaos and I can keep it together for 3 more minutes.

7) He is a peacemaker. He will give up almost anything to make a younger sibling stop crying. Which is HUGE for me! There are others (who will remain nameless) that delight hearing the sobs of siblings that want what they are playing with. THANK YOU BUD!

8) He is a pro at perseverance! He has an incredible ability to keep at something that is difficult for him...which happens to be most everything:( Sad but true. I always tell him that even though things are tough for him now, he'll be able to out work anyone because not much has come easy to him.

9) He is the earliest riser you know, and has the energy of I don't know what! He can function on a minimum amount of sleep and still be cheerful all day. He gets that from his dad...not me by a long shot!

10) Harrison is just plain happy all the time. My big line for him is:

LIFE IS A BOWL OF CHERRIES FOR HARRY!

So you can clearly see how incredibly awful our lives would be if we did not have his kind, happy, good natured kid in our home. Thank you for making these last 10 years of our lives the best ones! We love you Harrison!!!!

Walkie is ONE...is this gonna be fun!?!?!?!

2011-01-13T20:55:00.000-08:00

This little boy has brought so much joy and fun into our crazy home. Although, I swear since he turned 9 months it has taken a dramatic turn to even crazier. It literally scares me what this child could be capable of in the coming year. He has the highest pitch scream that he tends to use for everything from 'I'm tired' to 'I'm super excited' to 'I need a drink' to 'I pooped!'. Help me Rhonda! He is my only kid who posseses a sixth sense to know when someone accidentally left the toilet lid open. He is my only kid that I've even had to worry about shutting the stupid lids for! He opens, touches, licks, crawls into, walks on top of...EVERYTHING! Okay, but all that said, now I have roughly 20 hilarious little scenarios that are coming to mind that he's done that make him so irresistable, it has allowed him to not be shipped off to Siberia yet. Seriously...look at this face...

THE #1 REASON I LOVE WALKER IS......

(and yes, this is just me...hello, I'm his mom and I'm writing the post so I get to choose the best thing about him)

Whenever I enter a room, no matter the occasion, tTime of day, if I've just been in the other room, or away running errands and haven't seen him in hours, he shreiks with joy, then does this whole body crazy dance thing and high tails it from wherever he is in my direction. I think I might just be his fave! How great is that?

We all love you Walkie Talkie...even if you're wild and uncontrollable:)

Dashing Through the Snow!

2010-12-15T22:25:00.000-08:00

Harrison was PETRIFIED of going down the first day...now he goes down backwards!

Story of his life!

Regan insists on going down herself, but always needs help coming up..Ava to the rescue!
So sweet!

Ava was nuts from day one! Now it is not uncommon for me to look over and see that she has recruited a new friend to sit on the back of this contraption to slide down with her! I think she got discouraged after Regan and Harry had turned her down time and again. This girl will get her way somehow!

Notice this is a toboggan built for 3? The kids went down together the 1st couple of days, then it became a fight as to who's turn it was to 'go alone'. Thank you costco for having cheap sleds!

Our cheeks are nice and rosey and comfy cozy are we...yes he's gone down too...with me...I'm an idiot! About half way down I think to myself...What am I doing? I'm hauling down this hill at light speed with a 1yr. old in his pj's. Hopefully no one from CPS was looking!

Ava's 6! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

2010-12-04T18:44:00.000-08:00

A little toad she found while at our family cabin trip....ugh!

This is her clothes for the next day....are you dying????

I know this is so cliche but I really do rember holding her tiny newborn body in my arms like it was 5 minutes ago! She has honestly been such a pleasure to parent (thus far;) I am sickened that time is flying so incredibly fast. Her birthday was November 24, so I'm a little behind but here are 6 reasons I love AVA:

1) Her personality and zest for life bursts at the seams. She literally squeals with delight at ordinary everyday events. You should hear how she greets Walker in the mornings;)

2) She is totally service oriented. She wants to make everyone around her feel happy. Especially babies...it still amazes me how much she dotes on Walker, I call her my nanny.

3) She will draw endless pictures and notes for any and everyone with one main theme...rainbows and hearts and the signature 'i love you' written with a heart then her name.

4) I call her 'Fern' as in Fern from 'Charlotte's Web' because she loves animals so much she belongs on a farm! Nothing grosses her out...NOTHING!

5) She dresses herself and does her own hair (except Sundays I draw the line!) She now has started dressing Regan...heaven help us all! But her style makes me shake my head and smile.

6) She has a sincere desire to choose the right. I hope that lasts for the rest of her life:)

I love you Ava more than you will ever ever know! Happy Birthday:)

Love,

MOM

My name is Jill Smith and I have a PROBLEM!!!!!

2010-11-04T15:04:00.001-07:00

So I started this morning off like every other morning determined to eat no sugar and stick to fruits, veggies, and good carbs. My brother's wedding is in December. Okay, so I know I'm not the bride, but hello....pictures galore! I thought that this would be incentive enough to be strong.

Obviously not! Anyhow, I was secretly relieved that I couldn't find the scale this morning to see what a month of eating what I want and not moving could do. By noon, it was as if some unknown force was leading me as I was stirring a pound of melted butter into 3 cups of sugar in a trance like state making what??? More popcorn balls!!! For no reason other than I had finished all of the other ones from Halloween, and 'needed more'. Hey I've got an idea, why don't I just skip the chewing part and stuff them down my sweats (that I sport daily) over my butt and thighs? The chewing takes longer... I paused and thought...no, I really do have a problem. Why was I making another batch of popcorn balls? Scott and the kids don't even eat them for the love of everything holy! Harry would, but he just got braces! What kind of mother am I?

For those of you who see me in the flesh on a regular basis and may read this, the next time I complain about weight loss...like its Walker's fault or something, do me a favor...SLAP ME! I just took my camera right now, and without touching a thing this is what was laying around a 3 ft. radius. Enjoy...but trust me, you won't as much as I have:)

The forsaken balls....

To wash them down. At least its diet! Heard it helps with cellulite...perfect;)

My faves...low fat!?!?!?!?

Have you tried these? SO GOOD! They only come out once a year!!!

I proceded to peer into the fridge...oh, looky here!

I love love love egg nog...I'm noticing a trend...large quantities of low fat stuff

Mmm pudding... Do you love how far back the tomatoes are? I don't even remember buying them!

NO, your eyes are not deceiving you, there are 2 ice cream boxes and yay, 2 MORE scoops:) The tin foil thing on top? Used to be twice the size before last night. It is frozen cookie dough from my visiting teacher...bless her. At roughly 10pm I showed Scott the treasure and he, without hesitation ordered me to fire up the oven. I believe in being an obedient wife. Visting teaching truly does bless lives.

REAL QUICK...

What is that building on the horizon...oh I think I recognize it...why yes, it is the gym. If I threw a rock I'd hit it. They don't know me there:( Yes this is taken from my backyard...shameful!)

Why a December wedding???? For the first time in my life I can't wait for the pressure of December to be over, then I can actually eat this stuff and enjoy it! Until then, I'll just eat it:)

I LOVE HALLOWEEN!!!!!

2010-10-31T22:31:00.000-07:00

Greg downing some 'spooky juice'....yikes! Love Jamie's decor....how bout that brain? (Today)
The 'BRAIN SURGERY'!

oooooooohhhhhh.......so creepy!

Don't you love this???? Like father like son...both CRAZY!(Friday)

Nothing like a popcorn ball that DID smell so sweet on a Sunday morn:)

The ALWAYS happy spectator...WALKIE TALKIE:) (today)

4 Halloween Hopefuls.... (friday)

What was Regan's costume anyways? I bought her garb to be 'Jesse' from TS2 (her fave this year) and this is what she insisted on wearing...I know it looks like a witch but try~ a black shirt with black sweats and Ava's dirty skirt that she wore that day....then throw on a hat...whatever...LOVE HER!

My careful cutter/peeler.... (today)

Okay, I'm exhausted and so happy. Scott is asleep on the couch, the kids skipped baths and went straight to bed they were so tired. This is my favorite time of year...September thru December cannot be beat. There are so many memories to be made in those months and I'm a sucker for fun family traditions most of which include lots of baking and eating food that is so far beyond NOT good for you it should probably be illegal.

So, Halloween. I think it is a crime that people dislike this holiday because of the perceived 'dark side' of it. I never see that side...I guess maybe I choose not to see that. I love all of the happy decorations, the happy feeling I get thinking on 'Happy Halloweens past'. It to me is such a bright cheery time of year

I always start this month off with some sort of halloween pj's, and the only movies the kids can watch in the car are halloween related. I think Harrison was ready to scream because most were of the 'small child genre' like, 'Cliffod's Best Halloween Ever' etc.

Our festivities this year started Friday night with our church's 'Trunk or Treat'. It was great and the kids had a ball! Then yesterday, the morning was CrAzY but by 5 we didn't have much going on, so we loaded up the kids, went to a chocolate shop and delivered candy to a couple of families that live around us. We got home late, but it was a fun bonding time...I felt like we were Christmas carolling, sort of.

Saturday night was our church's Trunk or Treat. The kids LOVED it. We all had a great time. Scott even dressed up this year to be a 'mad scientist' with Harry. So adorable! Lookin' hot in those glasses honey!

Now today. Scott is gone very early Sundays so it is just me and the kids most of the day. I still wanted it to feel like halloween from the moment they opened their little eyes so...we started the morning off making popcorn balls...to die for (thanks Denise, I will not devulge the secret recipe;) then the carving of the watermelon brain...so fun! Then after church, we went to my brother Greg's house on the other side of town and ate soup, and drank spooky root beer (with dry ice YAY) and ate some of the popcorn balls and yummy halloween cookies. I feel like throwing up just talking about all we ate....I've neglected to mention all of the trick or treat candy I've been sneaking out of the kid's bags too....sick!

To summerize my thoughts tonight, I love being a mom. I know we all do. There is nothing like seeing the world through the eyes of a child. To me it rivals even being a child!

Well, goodbye Halloween 2010:( I'm sad that you came and left so quickly. You are coming and going faster every year.

P.S. sorry about the photo mix up at the top...I'm so bad at rearranging these dumb pics I just posted them they way they came out! Hence, the dates.

We love BOO and PARKER!

2010-10-31T21:50:00.000-07:00

Suzy and Paker posing on Harry's 4 wheeler...don't worry Nate...no ER trips:)

Regan and Parker...lovers, and fighters....mostly lovers:) This picture makes me cry.

Suzy and Parker

Just an FYI, ever since our whole family can remember, my sister Suzanna has had the nickname BOO. She'll never shake it.

Almost a month ago, I called my sister on a Monday morning and said, I just miss you! She replied with the same emotions. We hadn't seen each other since Christmas. I think with age and especially with the passing of our cousin, one realizes that life is precious, short, full of unexpected trials and tragedy. Sometimes logic and reason must fly out the window when the need arises to want to see each other. Miracles occured and with many saved airmiles from wonderfully kind doners, Suzy and Parker (her to die for son) came for almost a MONTH! So much fun! She was able this year to make the family cabin trip! Yay! We laughed, we cried, we hugged, we randomly hugged and cried just so happy to be together! (you are allowed to barf...but its true) It was so great to get to know little Parky better. It made me sad at the beginning of the trip how he would look at me like I was a complete stranger. By the time he left he would come to me and just sit and snuggle...okay just once, but if you knew the energy this kid had, it was a literal miracle!

I miss you Suz, but I have faith and hope that you will be my neighbor someday;) Thank you for coming and thank you for being such an amazing sister. I love you.

Until We Meet Again.....

2010-08-22T20:40:00.000-07:00

Merin, Mike, and baby Ysa

Mike and Merin

Merin and her mom Cheri

Merin and her older sister Eden

You are are both so loved and will be sorely missed

The last few days are a complete fog. I will have literal seconds when I'm doing something and I forget, then like a blow to the stomach, I am reminded that my sweet cousin Merin and her husband Mike are no longer here.

Friday night was a dark night for our family. My dad called around 10 o'clock and told me that Merin and Mike were involved in a fatal car accident on the way home from a wedding that the whole family had attended. He told me that Merin and Mike were pronounced dead upon arrival of the paramedics, and that their sweet baby 'Ysa' (7 weeks old) survived the crash. The sadness and emptiness is overwhelming.

Merin was a piece of heaven on this earth. Anyone who had the privilege of spending time with her, no doubt felt of her greatness. I can't picture her in my mind's eye without a smile. She never demanded center stage, yet ironically had it in many aspects of her life namely ballet. She was an accomplished ballerina who has spent time dancing in many areas of the world and has won numerous awards for her unique abilities. She danced at all of my married siblings weddings. Watching her dance was a perfect expression of who Merin is. Merin is grace, poise, polish, beauty in and out, softness, loveliness, and devotion.

She has left a beautiful legacy. One her daughter will be so proud of. Baby Ysa will spend her life on this earth in the arms of Merin's amazing sister Eden along with her husband Daylan and their children Deacon and Aubrie. This is certainly not the way I saw Merin's future unfold, but it is times like these that I am so grateful for the knowledge of our Savior in who has born all of our sorrows and knows us each by name. He knows Merin and Mike and they now will rest in his care......until we meet again.

I love you Merin

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Jolly? Really?

2010-04-02T19:18:00.000-07:00

I remember pictures of myself as a baby in a contraption similar to this. We call it the 'JOLLY JUMPER' In my pictures, I must say, I did appear Jolly. Alone, attempting to jump in a jolly manner with no one there to break my stride. Poor Walker, not so sure how Jolly he could be being bounced up and down sporatically. I'm pretty sure this thing is meant for the growth and development of the baby's large motor skills, not for the baby's sisters to torture him. Oh, and did I mention the DrAmA??? Oh the pure drama of who gets to push Walker and how it should be done! It seems as though everything they do when it comes to Walker becomes heated. Judge for yourself. I'm not just saying this because they are vicious on this video, but honestly, Ava and Regan are such good little friends, but I swear caring for Walkie Talkie brings out the worst in both. I swear, If Walker lives to see his 1st birthday, he will be able to weather any storm that life may throw at him...trust me!

Bronchiolitis BITES!!!!

2010-03-30T10:11:00.000-07:00

So this is what we've been up to for the last little while! I have done everything to keep this from happening (not going in public for the last 3 months) but to no avail! 'Little Guy' (our new name for him) is so sick and I cannot wait until he is back to being himself:( His bronchiolitis is now pneumonia and he is such a little trooper! It has been a little scary at night, but I am so incredibly grateful for modern technology, wonderful doctors who devoted a large part of their lives to school just to tell me what my child has, and medicine. Get better soon little guy, the world is not right when you are sick:(

Happy St. Patty's Day to all!!!

2010-03-17T22:16:00.000-07:00

This quite possibly could go down as one of the best St. Patrick's Days ever. And the crazy thing is that we didn't even eat green or wear it purposely. Okay, confession, I think because it is spring break for my kids, I completely forgot about the green stuff. But by accident we celebrated fully with....A SLEEPOVER! With whom you might ask? Oh ya, my two brothers and their families who live here in the valley! It was just a hair brained idea that we followed through with and may I just say, we had a blast. I'm exhausted but the good kind of exhausted. We took the kids around the neighborhood on the four wheelers (I'm sure our neighbors loved us tearing up the little green belt at the park...all for the love of small children...who were in pj's the entire day!) No one wanted to ride with any other adult, they all wanted to ride with 'uncle Eldon', I wonder why??? Then when the kids got home, they were so hot Harry asked to put his feet in the pool, and ofcourse it only took a milisecond until the temptation was too great...in minutes, all the kids minus 'the little guy' were neck deep. It was borderline disturbing watching them jump in then stop breathing for 30 seconds because of the arctic like temperatures. Thank you Greg and Eldon for finally giving in and potentially taking a year off of your mortal lives jumping in with the kids. THE WATER WAS FREEZING!!!! Kids couldn't care less about hypothermia! Anyhoo...the only thing missing ofcourse were our other family members on both sides. Scott and I always marvel at how blessed we feel to love each others families. It is truly heaven on earth having your family close~ Let's do it again soon guys!

Miss 'O' (Olivia) cruisin' around being her cute adorable self amidst utter chaos:Yes, the children took a dip in sub-zero temperatures. Literally, after the initial jump, their heads would surface and they couldn't take a breath for 30 seconds I swear! Yikes!

I know Jodi will kill me for posting this picture of her prego but I had to get the adults supervising the chaos!

Greg also took an active roll in supervision before the big splash;)

Uncle Greg and Walkie Talkie (yes I swore I would never call him that, and I do...LOTS)

Miss Regan freezing in her Dora get-up!

Adorable kiddos! I pray Max and Andy never check this post as teenagers!

Eldon grilled up some mean chicken kebobs and steaks...YUMMMMM!

The kids just playing on the 4-wheelers one last time before bedtime!

THE BEST GIFT

2009-12-22T11:13:00.001-08:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

He's Here!!

2009-12-17T19:55:00.000-08:00

Hello all, this is Jill's sister posting. Smith baby boy #2 (can you tell he doesn't have a name yet?) was born today at 2:28pm. He was 8 lbs 10 oz and is healthy as a horse. He's got a ton of dark hair and, I think, looks a lot like Regan. Jill is doing well and was super high when I saw her, thank goodness for modern medicine! Her c-section went as well as it possibly could have. We are thankful that it is all over with and that all went well. Enjoy the pictures of this sweet little angel who came fresh from heaven. More to follow soon.

Here we go!

2009-12-17T09:58:00.000-08:00

I'm off to the hospital right now to deliver our new baby boy! Really nervous but as my mom says it is the only surgery in the world that has such a magnificent prize at the end. I will be VERY HAPPY 4 hours from now!

Thanks so much to my dear friend Cheri who has changed my blog background to such a merry scene. And keep your eyes peeled, she has also consented to doing a montage for little guy today or tomorrow!

Stay tuned!!!!!

Happy Birthday to PHYLLIS! THE BIG 60!!!!!

2009-11-06T15:12:00.000-08:00

For the very few of you who don't know....Phyllis is my beloved mother! Yes, ever since high school I got in the bad habit of calling her Phyllis. To some it is repulsively disrespectful, to me, I don't know...to me it is my term of endearment to her.

True story, every time she comes to visit me, or I go home to visit her, I spend many nights laying awake shedding some tears, wondering what my life would have been like, or would be like without her. (dysfunctional I know...but if you saw what she did in a day for me and my family you would too!)

Her life has not been very spectacular to say the least. She has overcome many hardships, become very strong in areas she never imagined possible, and through it all is my greatest example of positive thinking and perseverance. If I had to choose one quality I loved most about her it would be her ability to make everyone around her (especially her kids and grand kids) feel like they were the best humans ever born to planet earth. I truly remember never ever worrying about bringing home a report card, because no matter what the grade, I was still the smartest individual breathing. I never worried about gaining weight or looking weird in any given outfit because she really believed I was a raging beauty no matter what I looked like. Because of her, I did believe that anything was possible.

Thank you mom for your unconditional love, your priceless example of strength through opposition, love of simple pleasures, open mindedness, humility, feistiness, encouragement to think outside the box and not let the opinion of others sway you for anything. Thank you for singing U2, Counting Crows, or Pearl Jam 'church style' while folding laundry, for not giving a rat's butt about what anyone thinks of you, for letting your grand kids come and all but ruin your house with a smile the size of Texas that says you are loving every minute of it, and mostly for giving us the security of knowing that no matter what you'd always follow through with your word, and love us no matter what.

Happy birthday and I hope I can live up to your example...frankly I wish you could raise my kids for me. I mean I'd help and everything.....

I LOVE YOU MOM!!!!! My only wish is that you could bless our lives with 60 more years:)

(Phyllis gave me & Suzy the CD with this song 'In my Daughter's Eyes' a while back and ofcourse I love it because it reminds me of her!)

Thumbody Loveth Thumthing!

2009-09-08T17:09:00.001-07:00

Look out world, here comes Ava the ballerina! This is honestly been a long time coming...she has been waiting since she was 2 to do this. And she would tell you in a heartbeat it was worth the wait. SHE LOVES IT!

I swear I put off lessons as much as possible. Call me lazy! Harrison has tried everything because he was my only child for so long. Now that I have to cart around a baby and toddler, the thought is more exhausting than fun as it once was. I applaud my mom who always had us in something. Here the whole time I thought she was torturing us and now I find out what torture really is...being the taxi!

But seeing her twirl around laced in pink from head to toe made my heart melt. I guess its now my turn to be the taxi and I'll love doing it to see this kind of stuff!

Don't hate me because my husband ROCKS!!!

2009-09-05T11:47:00.000-07:00

Every Saturday morning while I'm still lazily attempting to wake up, Scott gathers all the children and thoroughly cleans and organizes the playroom. (Trust me after one week the place looks like it has been hit by a tornado) And as if that is not enough, he then proceeds to have them do their individual little chores like making their beds, vacuuming, etc. I wake up to a spotless home:)

You'll find this hard to believe but I swear I've almost needed therapy in years past because of the pressure I put on myself to have the place clean because he is so type A. But now after 13 years of marriage I've let that go and just let him go right ahead and do his thing without feeling like I was supposed to have had it done already. And here's the crazy thing....I now realize that he wasn't kidding when he would tell me 'I'm not cleaning because I'm trying to teach you a lesson, I'm just trying to help.' He really could care less that I'm still in bed he just for his own sanity wants to get the job done. BRING IT ON!

Thank you honey...for being my wonderful "Type A" hubby...I love ya for it:)

It's a........DRUMROLL PLEASE.......

2009-08-12T15:38:00.001-07:00

BOY! So I just got back from the Doctor's office and needless to say we're back into blue! Scott said that just bought him 18 more years of camping, and when I picked Harry up from school he ran to me asking if it was a boy or girl. When I gave him the news, his answer honestly made my heart leap. His body was uncontrolled and he yelled...YES! Ava was literally devastated but she has already come around.

I'll be honest, I'm still processing the info. This is the honest truth. Aside from the fact that I have every bow and legwarmer ever made, as well as every shade of pink in every item of clothing and accesories...so equipt for another girl, I'm bummed that this little guy and Harry will be almost a decade apart. I feel as though with my boys I'll never be able to just throw them in a room and let them go nuts with bob the builder toys, as I do princess tea party stuff with the girls.

Other than that, words cannot express how grateful I am that the most important things are in place. The baby thus far looks completely healthy and who could ask for more than that?

But if any of you have any words of encouragement, personal stories of having a good relationship with a sibling of the same sex a decade apart from you with siblings of the opposite sex in the middle of you, I welcome any stories. WOW I sound negative. I'm thinking of not even posting this.....but I will. Because it just wouldn't be me not saying everything unholy on my mind now would it?

Playtime Cut Short!

2009-07-23T13:30:00.000-07:00

So I took Harrison on a bike ride while Ava and Regan were upstairs playing happily. My mom and my sister were just downstairs doing whatever and I told them we'd be back in a half hour. No sooner had Harry and I walked in the gate, my mom said "Stay there". She ran in and came out with Suzy holding Regan awaiting my reaction. We all were in complete shock and laughed our heads off....can anyone say MULLET?

This is how it all went down: I guess after a while my mom decided to run upstairs and check on the girls who were unusually quiet. The bathroom door was locked and Ava REFUSED to open it. My mom got a pin, opened the door and beheld brown locks covering the ground and gasped...the rest is history. Ava said that Regan couldn't see because her hair was covering her eyes. Oh she'll be able to see just fine without aid of any ribbon or pigtails for literally MONTHS. Perhaps it is my white trash roots, and perhaps when I'm getting her ready for church this will hit me harder but I can't stop smilling and since I pulled this trick on my cousin when I was 4, I guess I just expected it to happen at some point with daughters. I'm so bummed Regan was in such a foul mood when I was trying to get her picture. It was right before naptime and she wouldn't smile. Maybe she knows more than she lets on. Someone has a very promising career in her future don't you think?

"My Home and Native Land"

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

Hello to all from the beautiful North! The kids and I have been in Canada for almost a month now and it feels like we just got here. We are having so much fun and the kids keep telling me they never want to go home....DUH! We are officially living in the 'no rule zone' with Nana letting the children run amuck. Life here consists of midnight walks with Mitzi the dog, going on bike rides, late park runs, swimming at the wave pool almost daily (we bought a month long pass) and now we are frequenting many famous 'Calgary Stampede' events like free pancake breakfasts and lunches which are riddled with bounce machines, petting zoos, live bands you name it. I'm sure this sounds like major bragging but most of you know the crazy year I've had and honestly it's like breathing in wicked amounts of sanity being here. It's like neverland (MJ has been on the brain..sorry) I needed it and the kids needed it desperatly. My sister Suzy and her little guy Parker are here for a month...I am telling you does life get any better than this? (Okay, if all my sibling could be here) ALSO... We are LOVING Scotty being here for 10 days. He is loving the 'zero stress nap when you feel like' it mode as well. He took the kids to the zoo yesterday and to a movie tonight. What a guy! He and I are looking forward to going back to the Cardston Temple (the temple we were married in) for the first time since that momentous day in a couple of days...can't wait!

Hope your summer is going great. Let us all renew our spirits in time for crap to hit the fan come first day of school! Why in the tarnation do I still dread that forsaken day? LOVE TO ALL:)

3 Lucky Chicks!

2009-05-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce Blackie, Goldie, and Junior. Our dear friend Brandy Treguboff was doing photo shoots for our girls camp fundraiser with baby chicks for easter. Every child was smitten but most especially Ava who I affectionatly call 'Fern' because she belongs on a farm. I buckled under pressure and ordered 3 baby chicks and Brandy agreed to take them in a few weeks to her parent's farm when they got too big.

My choice for the title is hyperbole in its most extreme form. Actually, okay, when it comes to being adored and loved, yes they are lucky. But the constant mishandling is nothing short of a complete shame. Regan loves to be a little mother hen but somehow holds them by the neck. We've taught her how to hold them from the feet but she still will revert back to her original grip every once in a while. Yesterday, Harrison screamed upstairs, "Mom this is really serious, Ava threw Blackie over the fence!" Okay, our fence is like 9 feet tall. I yelled...'Why on earth would you throw Blackie?" She said, "I'm teaching him how to fly!" I let her know under no uncertain terms that the poor thing was probably taught how to die not fly. But darned if the little thing wasn't pecking for bugs joyfully on the other side of the fence! Heaven help us all....especially Blackie!

PREGO AGAINO?????

2009-04-27T20:37:00.001-07:00

Can we say....a tid bit surprised? What do they call these again....oh ya BLESSINGS! So it was Thursday April 23, around 12:30p.m., I was sitting down with the calendar setting a dentist appointment for Harrison when it dawned on me that I should have started my cycle by now. Luckily because of mass paranoia I had an extra test from a multi pack I bought a few months ago from another 'questionable' month. (I know at this point you're all thinking...sex ed. 101 people so to ease your curiosity, yes we do use birth control;) I layed Regan down for a nap and casually took the test. As all positive tests go, I start seeing a light pink second line appear. In complete and utter shock, I place the test on the bathroom floor, run to the phone and call Scott. In a calm voice, I ask him where he is. As tender as mercies get, he was available to meet me at a middle location for 'lunch'. He asked why the urgency, and I just told him I had to talk to him in person. I woke Regan from peacful slumber, loaded her dishovled body as well as Ava's into the car. I speed down the freeway to the mall to find Scott waiting on the curb in a state of panic thinking something was severely wrong. He crawls in the car with me to find a parking spot and begs for the reason I came. With a car at a complete stop I say....I'm pregnant! He said WHAT?!?!?! How did this happen? Then he put his head back on the headrest and smiled, then he said, okay, I thought something major was wrong. So glad its this. YOU'RE PREGNANT? That sums up the feelings we've had over the last few days. We really thought we were done because my doctor told me my uterus was so thin I really shouldn't have any more but that I had a 95% chance that everything would be fine if I did choose to have another one. I figure 95% is a dang good grade in school right? Here's to hoping we're not the5%! Barring any misfortune....welcome Smith baby #4! (Harrison said he'll be 'ticked' if it's another girl!) Oh yes, and if my calculations are correct...this baby is due Christmas day! The kids call it the Christmas baby. Ava is always bringing me stuff and saying, can we get this for the Christmas baby? Adorable!

Operation SHOCK & BLOG!!!!!!!

2009-04-10T16:50:00.000-07:00

I'm so positive no one will ever read this simply because my track record for keeping updated is so obviously HORRIBLE! But a new day has come...and I'M ALIVE (as we can celebrate by listening to the beautiful Celine)

Truly. For those of you who don't know, our little family made a little move only 10 minutes away from our old house. One would think that shouldn't be that traumatic seeing as I still shop at the same stores, I'm still close to friends etc. etc. etc. But it wasn't as smooth a transition as I had hoped. Okay, I knew I wasn't a real champ with change, but I think I surprised myself and my family with how nutty I've been the last 8 months. Don't picture me sitting in a corner in the fetal position or anything...but I did have a little battle with mental sanity for a while and I really feel as though I've turned a corner. I've been feeling 'normal' (don't laugh, okay as normal as possible) for about 2 months now...a big accomplishment wouldn't you say? I really think it had alot to do with this house not feeling like our home yet. And that does take time! You need to experience a few birthdays, the Christmas season, having friends over, basically breaking in the new house to make it feel like it really is your HOME.

Okay enough! I just thought I'd post my reason for being gone so bloody long. But actually, one of the biggest reasons for my minimal computer use is HUGE! Our computer is now upstairs, still in an open area -so as to keep from losing any family members to the dark side of adult web sites if you get my drift;) But our computer is no longer in the kitchen. So when I get the kids down, I immediatly go downstairs to pick up from the day etc. but the computer is no longer in a place that beckons me to it. Therefore out of sight out of mind. I'm horrible with email too but my drive to keep a journal for my children is putting me back in the game.

I am keenly aware that this will be a 'test' period as I'm sure no one believes that I'll be consistant, but I'll just have to prove myself. And just you wait...I will!

Okay, now I have to buckle down and do my talk for Easter Sunday on the resurrection....HOLY COW I feel like Spongebob on that episode where he was asked to write a paper for driving school and he just would sit there pencil in hand and think of every single distraction on the planet to procrastinate. Interesting.....I'm so disappointed in myself now. But hey, this was a necessary distraction do you not agree? Once Scott can figure out how in the heck we can get my pictures to download on our computer you'll get to see how the kids have all grown 10 ft. YOU'LL DIE!

And lastly, the exciting thing about me starting to blog again is that I'll start back into catching up with you...my dear friends and family and I'll finally be able to tell my sister, YES I did check out her latest and greatest post about Parker and that yes, he is the most perfect, adorable, and highly intelligent child on the face of this earthly green planet. I love that kid!

HAPPY EASTER TO ALL! Oh, (sorry- self-diagnosed ADD kicking in...) dont' you think it is so appropriate that I have to speak about the resurrection and then relating that directly to my blog..............HMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!

Summer 2008- a recap:)

2008-07-27T21:49:00.000-07:00

Wow! I was reviewing the pictures since we've been back, and there could be about 200 seperate posts. So I've decided to just post a bunch of pictures and put captions underneath! For those of you who didn't know, Harry left for Canada to stay with my mom until we came. What was going to be just a week-long gap turned out to be a month. Harrison loved being the center of attention with Nana and grandpa, and only mentionned missing us about 2 days before we left. Can I just say...I love Canada! The summers are so beautiful...and long! It really doesn't get dark until around 11pm every night. I especially want to thank my mom and dad for all of the love and time they spend with each of the kids. It really is a second home to them. Now we're back home in AZ. So great to see Scott again, even though it has been in minute increments. To me, coming back is bittersweet because we have to get into high gear right away with moving and Harrison starts school on Monday. AHHHHH! Who knew as a parent you would hate to see the summer come to a close just as intensely as when you where in school yourself! Goodbye lazy summer days!

Regan's 1st Birthday...June 12th:)
I cannot believe it's been one whole year! Time flies too fast.
But on the upside, perhaps I'll be more mentally stable for her
second year of life...here's to hoping!

Kids getting ready for Canada day parade:)

CANADA DAY!!!! July 1st!
We had a great day the kids were in a
parade and Scott was there with us..so fun!

STAMPEDE TIME! Here are the kids at one
of the infamous 'stampede breakfasts'. My
nephew Anderson was with us...love that
little guy!

Swimming Lessons at Acadia Pool
Harry & Ava took swim lessons at the same
pool I did when I was growing up.
This was the teacher they both had, but
they were in seperate classes. They had fun!

The wave pool! I took the kids here
about 10 times sometimes twice a day! They
loved it. By the end, Ava was hauling down
the big dark tunnel slides by herself. Harry
was totally self-sufficient EVERYWHERE!
They were both fish in a previous life I swear.

Jumping on the tramp in the rain!
The minute they heard thunder they'd run
out to the trampoline. Safe? Not sure. Fun? For sure!

'If the Savior stood beside me'
Harrison and Ava sang in my parents' ward
and sounded awesome if I do say so myself

Ice blocking in Rexburg! On our
drive home we had some extra time and I
hadn't been to Rexburg in years so we pulled off.
Thanks to a nice family, we joined them in
ice-blocking. A new experience for the kids.

'HONEYMOON SUITE!'
So the ONLY room left in ALL OF REXBURG
was a honeymoon suite entitled 'Planet 10'
Harrison was in heaven, my mom and I were
creeped out! This was the lava rock tub.
The rest of the room was filled with stars, and
planets ofcourse. If you turned off the lights,
fiber-optic stars would cover the ceiling! Yikes!

Visited the infamous 'Bear World"
This place is awesome. It is in Rigby, ID. You drive around in your car
and there are literally live bears all around you.
Then there were rides, a petting zoo, and treats for the
kids after wards!

Petting zoo at bear world

'Three bears cafe' in Kanab, UT
A must see if driving thru. I love the ice cream...
obviously the kids do too!

24 Hour car ride! I cannot thank my mom
enough for having all the patience in the world
driving from Canada to AZ. It was a little anxiety
ridden especially when we took Ava to the urgent care
in UT and found out she had hand foot and mouth virus.
No wonder she was cranky! But honestly, my mom and
I couldn't get over how good the kids were. Good enough
to plan on doing it again next year. The scenery is
breathtaking. I don't ever want to fly there unless its
in the winter time! Too dangerous!

FORGET WALDO! WHERE'S JILL?????????

2008-07-16T22:52:00.000-07:00

CANADA my friends...Canada! Here we are in Canada for our third straight summer keeping out of the inferno called AZ! We are having so much fun doing the usual, wave pool, swimming lessons, walks with Nana's dog Mitzi (we pray every summer that she'll still be around) stampede fun, parks, rain storms, trampoline with sprinkler underneath, reunions with extended family, you name it. Are you surprised that the kids don't want to go home in a week? The only thing we need here is Scott...who is busy getting ready for our stake's trek, and the move to our new house. We miss him terribly.

So much has happened since my last post! Scott and I just celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary. Two words...time flies! Okay, three more words...love that man! Regan celebrated her first birthday. Some thought she may not make it with Ava constantly hovering over her minutely but she came through and is such a sweetie to have around! She honestly gets cuter everyday and since we've been in Calgary, she's now not only walking, she runs in every direction! And may I just say in the most family friendly way possible...I'M NOW OFFICIALLY DONE BREASTFEEDING!!!!!!!!!!! Oh blessed day! Anyone who knows me knows how I do it and I don't know why I do it because I hate it! Okay, hate is a very strong word but you love something that keeps you craving junk when you want to lose weight! (I act as though I have no control over the matter, but it feels that way) I would have quit sooner had the little munchkin ever took a bottle! Okay, next...my sister Suzy has moved to Kentucky for Nate to start med. school. I can't stand the thoughts of returning to AZ and not having her there:( As mentionned above, we have bought a new home not far from our current one. It is truly bittersweet. I literally cannot stand the thoughts of leaving my ward and neighbors. If I think about it too much I get depressed. How stupid, I'm going to be 2 minutes away...but it is just not the same. Anyhoo....onward and forward. I am getting major help from my sister, and sisters-in-law with the home decor aspect of things. I knew before that I wasn't a guru in home design, but I am now certain I know nothing. It is a daunting task choosing paint colors, etc. but I'll be fine. You know your life is pretty darn good if you're stressing about home decor....

Well, I'm writing this not having a photo available to post since I didn't bring my camera wires and my mom's computer only is equipped for those so I'll post tons when I get home! There are alot of great ones from this trip!

That was short lived!

2008-05-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

I'm not a quitter I swear! So we brought Rocky home and it was great...at first. Come to find out I am allergic to rodents...who knew? I get to feeling the same way I do around cats...when I breathe it feels weird and I cough. But anyways....main reason to let go of Rocky was that he brought out some friends to our home that I wasn't aware of MICE! I will not be offended if you never visit my home ever again!!!!!! I honestly think it was the hamster food. To make a long story short, my good, dear, wonderful, friend Tina who talked me into this insane idea in the first place, is temporarily babysitting him for us until we get the mice thing dealt with. I had the pest control guy come today to place traps EVERYWHERE. But he said he couldn't find any signs of life (droppings etc.) around so maybe they were short term visitors. Since we took Rocky to Tinas..no sight of his buddies anywhere. But the rodent man will be coming every 2 days to check the traps. We have 2 open lots and a couple empty foreclosed houses around us which he said they could be coming from. I guess my neighbors have seen some too! SICK! Scott thinks I'm insane to publish this. But I am not proud, this is my life and a big part of it right now thank you very much!!! Wish us luck! ARE YOU DYING????? I'll keep you all posted. (no pun inteded)

A new family member for the Smiths

2008-05-08T10:55:00.001-07:00

"ROCKY LOVEY SMITH" is the newest member of our family. I hope to sound excited but frankly, my blood pressure is sky high. We brought him home yesterday around 3pm and in less than 24 hrs. I literally cannot count the number of times I have made references to death...whether it be about Rocky or my sweet children. Harrison chose the name and at first Ava was fine with it, but then when given enough time to think about it decided that it should be named "Lovey". So this little hamster has a full name now and everyone is happy. I was so scared because the pet store people kept telling me how much they bite, but my friend Tina (who inspired me to get one for my children...who swears it is so much easier than a dog) said they don't that much. This little rodent (ew!) has not bitten the children once! He is so friendly. And that is a bloody miracle after watching Ava man-handle the poor little guy. They want to sleep with him and play with him every living second. Taking turns is so painful. Wish me luck that we don't lose, or kill him in the first week. What was I thinking??????????????????

KIRK'S HAS ARRIVED!

2008-04-27T21:41:00.000-07:00

Kirk in all his glory and PHX shirt no less loadin' up!

My 5 dollar find (picnic table) was a hit with kids of all ages!

boys and girls alike!

action scene

Well, my youngest brother Kirk has arrived at last from Provo to spend the summer with us! The kids could not be more thrilled...hopefully my other bros don't read this....he seems to be the fave! How could you not love an uncle that plays guitar, video games, outside, everything the kids want to do he will oblige. I love this kid! He will be the office "gopher" for lack of a better word at Scott's work this summer. He got here today around 3pm then Boo & Nate with little Parker, Adam (Scott's brother) & Joanna with little Kate, and ofcourse Phyllis, who is still here thanks to divine intervention, came tonight for a WELCOME dinner. We missed Eldon, Jodi, and Max so much they couldn't make it. Words cannot express how fun it is having family live in the same town as us. I used to dream of this and now my dream has come true. I am going to try to max out family time before Suzy and Nate leave to West Virginia for med. school. We have 4 out of my 5 siblings living here in AZ, plus Scott's brother and his wife who live 15 mins. away and we are so close to them as well. Life is good. Family is the best and as close as you can be to friends and I do love our friends dearly, I'm sure you all agree...there is just something about family that cannot compare! It's like breathing sanity:)

It's My LIfe!

2008-04-24T20:24:00.001-07:00

Literally minutes before...I was taking this pic because I thought I'd do a post entitled "rub a dub dub" then things took a turn:)

Miss Ava in her own choice of beautiful clothing!

Nothing wrong with sword moves when feelin' the beat! Notice little cutie pie in the background...she's no walflower!

So I'm officially posting this on my blog so I can add even more pressure to myself! My gloves are off and I've finally decided to go for the gusto and get this baby weight off! I started my diet and training Monday. I'm doing this the good old fashioned slow and steady way so don't expect to see miracles in a month. (I'm just saying that for myself...again!) But I'm kind of excited about it and I've already lost 3 pounds this week! Even though that is extremely exciting...frankly, I'm not surprised at all. For the love of Pete I've been eating literally anything and everything that is in front of me, my kids are far too familiar with every fast food joint in the country, and when you wake up to your kid eating a sleeve of Oreo cookies and instead of punishing him, you join him...you know there's a problem! So I knew that even if I thought about diet and exercise I'd lose weight. Well...today on my exercise program I was told to do 60 minutes of cardio, and I could split the time between machines if I wanted to. Well, I did, 20 mins. of biking, then 25 mins. on the treadmill and realized I wasn't going to have enough time to hit Sam's club before picking Ava up from preschool, so I promised myself I'd do something for 15 mins. later. As per usual, the day got away on me. I was giving the kids a bath and it dawned on me that I hadn't done anything and I knew Scott wouldn't be home tonight for me to leave. So, I pulled out the infamous Bon Jovi hit "It's my Life" (Phyllis' fave-my mom) and I'm not even kidding the kids and I danced our brains out! They started off buck naked (straight out of the bath) then Ava brought out a church dress and princess shoes. Harry would have been completely content naked, but I made him throw on unders. (Hello...you're 7 let's not dance nude okay??) Even little Regan was going nuts. I just watched their little bodies flayling about and thought...I cannot forget this moment. And hey...I swear I sweat more swinging them around than I did doing my stupid 45 mins. on machines and let me just say, I had WAY MORE FUN! This particular form of exercise I highly recommend. And just a plug for "Jon" the song is highly inspirational!

PARKER ERIC HICKS is here....and safely thank the good heavens!

2008-04-18T21:57:00.000-07:00

Suzy's baby shower on March 22nd, 2008.
(not a moment too soon!!!)

Parker Eric Hicks born 4.14.08
4:00a.m. 5lbs. 12oz. 18.5 in.

Somebody likes the chupie!!!!!
(He'll be in good company in this fam!)

Here is the picture of the most perfect little man, my nephew Parker! He is a special boy this one. There is no doubt he is meant to be here in this world right now. It is such a long story but in a nutshell, a week ago, my sister Suzy went into the hospital with complaints of a sore back. They hooked her up to monitor the baby's heartbeat just as a precaution only to find out that it was at a 60 (should be between 110-180) They rushed her to the operating room. Suzy said it was like the movies. Luckily his heart rate recovered before they cut her open. This happened a few more times before he was born. Suzy continued to be in major pain with her back. Fevers and chills set in. The Dr. said he couldn't figure out what was wrong. All her blood work and other tests came back negative. Finally, even though they didn't think it would help, they took an ultrasound of her back to find out that both her kidneys were infected and FULL of fluid. When I went in and saw her, I was shocked. Her face was swollen and red. All she kept asking for was something to drink. She couldn't get enough. I said I wouldn't make this long.....so Scott and Nate gave her a blessing that reassured she'd be ok. She got a tube inserted into her kidneys that allowed the fluid to drain. They also put her on major heavy duty antibiotics. By Monday morning, they decided to induce her labor. Basically her first major contraction the baby's heartrate took a major dive. Nate said the room looked like a hornet's nest with nurses and the doc racing around. They finally did a c-section and were shocked when they cut her open. Their doctor said in all of his years being an OB (and head of the OB dept. at Good Samaritan...for all those of you who aren't familiar with the hospital...people come from far and wide with every concievable problem, so he's seen it all) this is only the 3rd time he's ever seen this situation. Suzy had what's called "vaso previa" From what I understand its where the umbelical cord is attached to the amniotic sac instead of the placenta. Usually this condition is detected well before the baby is born and the mother is on bed rest and close watch. Because if her water would have broken, the baby would have surely died.

Our whole family has felt so humbled as we have watched the hand of the Lord in this whole affair. It is times like this that you really stop to reflect on your life, the lives of those you love and how important it is to cherish literally every moment you spend together. This particular situation reminded me again of how much I love my sister. On Sunday night before he was born, I just bawled begging the Lord to make sure that if someone needed to die to spare her life if possible. Such a desperate prayer! I realized that he was in charge and that there are people all over the world who lose loved ones everyday. I just knew I was not ready to lose her. The Lord was merciful, heard my prayers and the prayers of everyone and not only were their lives spared, they are both doing wonderfully well. To say I was grateful would be the biggest understatement ever. These are pics from tonight of little Parker going home. Notice there aren't any pics of Suzy. She refused to let me post her pics. To put it in her words, she looks like a crack addict with her roots being so long. She was going to get her hair done this week.

But when I walked into the room after her fever had broken, and she'd had the baby, she looked like an angel to me...far from a crack addict. She'd been through so much and she was doing well and that was all that mattered. I took a thousand pics of her.

This is my longest post ever. I guess it should be since I haven't posted for 2 months and SO MUCH has happened. Hopefully I'll get caught up. But this was so post worthy and a time in all our family's life we'll never forget.

Welcome home baby Parker and Boo...there just aren't words to express how much we love you and are so relieved and happy you are both healthy and well. But oh no....here comes breastfeeding...can she survive that???????? Keep the prayers comin'!!!!!

Love is in the air:)

2008-02-13T18:46:00.001-08:00

Sorry I've been such a neglectful blogger lately! Phyllis (my mom) has been here for 2 wonderful weeks and is leaving tomorrow (boohoo!) We've had so much fun and she has helped me TREMENDOUSLY! I have not even touched the laundry once! I love you mom!

Here are the kids before church this past Sunday somewhat festive. And then, in the other picture, Harry and Ava are holding a little treat we made for our neighbors, Harry's teacher, and my visiting teachers. They were fun to make (cookie and chocolate flowers) but the projects are always so fun to imagine and start, but somehow by the end, the kids are covered in sugar and instead of feeling the "Valentine's spirit" if you will, I'm yelling at them as they're running out the door to deliver them with my blood pressure and anxiety through the roof. I pray that I'm accomplishing my deep desire for them to have these fun little traditions to hold as childhood memories. But I fear they'll only remember me screaming, "Get your grubby little fingers out of that!" and "I cannot believe you just dropped all the sugar on the floor!" May the good Lord grant some amnesia for those moments and only let them remember the happy moments during the journey, and ofcourse the happiness delivering the finished product.

Remember that we love you all so very very much. Happy Valentine's Day!!

MOOAH! XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

Yesvember it is!

2008-01-18T20:24:00.000-08:00

Ava is such a crack-up. Everyday it astounds me what she knows and is learning. Okay, so today, we were in Sam's club shopping, we passed the "birthday cake section" and Ava screamed..."It's my birfday, I want a birfdaycake!" With all the recent talk of birthdays, (mine on Jan. 5th, Scott and Harrison's on the 7th) birthdays are on the tip of her brain...obviously. So I say to her, "Ava, your birthday is in November, can you say November?" she copies me and we practiced a couple of times. A few minutes later she looks up and says, "Not NOvember, YESvember!" I had to have her repeat what she said because I couldn't believe she made that connection. I tried to explain to her that November was the "name" of that month and gave her examples of the other months, but she would have nothing to do with it. So thus, Ava's birthday from here on out is...YESvember 24th! She kills me!

What the Heaven? HARRY'S SEVEN!

2008-01-15T20:21:00.001-08:00

Our little guy is not so little any longer. It absolutely kills me to put him into the "big boy" catagory now. I realize he's still young, but he's my first and I can feel myself requiring more of him and expectations are greater as he gets older... I suppose that is the way it is supposed to be. We haven't had a party yet, I'll do that at the end of January. But I did bring these "transformer" cupcakes to his school on his actual birthday. (Jan. 7th)

I get so emotional thinking of how his coming into my life (our lives ofcourse) but me as his mother has changed who I am and how I see the world around me. I remember after I had him, I felt like blinders had been removed from my eyes. The love I had for every child around me suddenly grew because my heart had learned to love in a way that was completely inconceivable to me. Through Harrison I've been able to see the world through the eyes of a child, and he's taught me so much about pure love and pure sweetness. This kid is something else! I'm so glad that he is our first child because he's such a wonderful example of how to be, and I'm so glad he's mine!

Seven Reasons we love Harrison:

1) He is pure...Scott compares him to Nathaniel of old, he has no guile.

2) This child can laugh! He has such a great sense of humor and laughs so easily and heartily.

3) He is so patient. Anyone that spends any time watching he and Ava together calls him a saint!

4) He is accepting. Doesn't matter if you're green, blue haired, cross eyed, or clinically crazy, this kid will love you up and appreciate you no matter what. He is a friend to all.

5) He is sensitive. You can explain anything to him in terms of how it makes someone feel and he will make sure he doesn't hurt anyone's feelings. He is very empathetic.

6) He is wild. Some days this could drive any sane human to jump off a bridge, but this kid is crazy!

7) He is completely uninhibited. He would greet you at the door tomorrow singing at the top of his lungs completely naked and not bat an eye.

Thank you Harrison for being you. We wouldn't want you any other way. You are perfect in our eyes!

Oh! HOLY NIGHT!!!!

2008-01-08T19:59:00.000-08:00

A little hockey...

A little wrestling...

A little lovin'...

The grandkiddies: Ava, Max, Andy, Harry, Regan

A little blasphomy??? (Our manger scene, heaven help us all...we laughed so hard we cried!)

Hope you all had a great Christmas! Ours was wonderful and white in Calgary, Alberta, Canada...did I mention we were all sick every last one of us the entire time??? But despite everyone feeling a little under the weather we still managed to find time to be immature and crazy, eat great, gain weight all absolute musts at any "Sniderpalooza". Every night was a late one with lots of deep meaningful conversations, tons of laughing, cracking great jokes that only we get for sure, and ofcourse, guitar playing and loud singing! Loved it all! Here are just a few pictures.

Ava is 3..YIPEE!

2007-12-18T23:17:00.000-08:00

Our little Princess turned 3 on November 24th. And as per usual, I was not on the ball enough to have her party on or near her birthday, I finally had it today. Actually, I've got to give myself credit...Harry didn't have his first birthday until he was 4! She told me she wanted everything pink and princess and by darn that's what we did! She HAD to wear her worn out princess costume and her princess crown. I just had to smile getting her all dolled up!

TOP 3 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT AVA:
1) Her beauty from the inside out! Everyone notices Ava. Not only because she is truly beautiful but because she is so fun, outgoing, crazy, wild, and sweet. All of that combined just makes her a true beauty!

2) She is a pistol! You never have to wonder where you stand with her or what she wants. She will let you, everyone around you, and their brother's uncle know what she's thinking.

3) Her tender heart. She is the first one on the scene if anyone is crying. She's the best at giving hugs and kisses. Scott loves coming home just to hear her squeal at the top of her lungs and run 90mph straight into his arms.

Having her around is dispells any darkenss, she is the sunshine in our lives. We could not possibly love you more Ava.

Harrison's Christmas Program

2007-12-18T23:05:00.000-08:00

I must say that little Harry did a fantastic job at his school Christmas program. He sang every song word for word and with much expression I might add:) Everyone always says how much Scott and Harrison look alike. I can see it too, but the night of this program...I don't know if it was the shirt and tie or what, but it was creepy. He looked like Scott, stood like Scott, sang like Scott, truthfully, it freaked me out!

Here comes Santa Clause!

2007-12-11T20:22:00.001-08:00

Can I just say, the kids are beyond pumped about Santa this year? It is so fun now that Ava "gets it" and they can just dream together about the wonder and magic of Christmas. They have come up with some pretty funny stuff. They are always looking for the reindeer "practicing" outside at night. These pictures are from Santa coming to our church building last week. It was so funny to watch Harry and Ava's eyes sparkling waiting their turn to sit on his lap. Harrison had an envelope with a list the size of Texas waiting to give him. When asked what they wanted Harrison said a "quad" and Ava said "pwintheth thtuff" aka princess stuff. It was priceless... and good luck with that Harrison. Hope Santa's elves were extra busy, otherwise that quad is a no go my friend! Watching Christmas through the eyes of a child is priceless!

THANKSGIVING....Thank heavens for Family!!!!

2007-12-01T20:46:00.000-08:00

This year we had almost all of Scott's family, a couple of members of my family, as well as my good friend Mariellen for Thanksgiving. It was so much fun! Life would be 100% dull without good friends and family. That along with good health and blessings beyond measure, we definatly had good reason to celebrate Thanksgiving to the fullest this year. Thanks again to everyone who took the time to travel to see us. I still cannot get over how well the kids got along. Harrison was so sad to see his buddy Eli go. They all got along famously! Maybe one day we'll all live closer. It's my dream that I refuse to let go!

GET A WIPE!

2007-11-01T14:14:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's poop on the rock!

So busted!

There are many benefits to breastfeeding, but the one negative is what can happen with the other children while you are feeding your baby. So I'm feeding Regan, and Ava runs up says..."I go pee, I go pee!" AKA I've got to pee this very instant! So I tell her to run to the bathroom, but she insists that I come with her cause she's scared to go alone. Flustered because ofcourse, I'm right smack in the middle of nursing, I tell her to take her pants off and run outside and pee in the rocks. She is thrilled and strips down in a half a second. A few minutes go by, and all of a sudden I see her head peek in the door and she says.."Get a wipe!". I ask her why, and she repeats again, "Get a wipe!". Finally after some coaxing I get out of her that she pooped...I've never seen a grin so big! I had to capture this hysterical moment! Miss Ava, you never can be sure about what she'll do next! Gotta love her!

4 Months already...STOP GROWING!!!!!!

2007-11-01T12:07:00.000-07:00

After shots...not a happy camper:(

Okay, my little baby is ENORMOUS! She is growing way too fast for my liking. Don't you wish we could just keep them all in a box and never let them grow? We just finished our 4 month well check and she's perfect in every way! She is by far my biggest baby weighing in at 15 lbs. 4 oz. She's in the 60th percentile for weight, 75th for both height and head circumference. The doctor asked about how the feeding was going, before I could answer he said "well obviously fine, she's a chunk!" I have to say I've always dreamt of having a chubby baby, and here she is and I'm loving every minute of her cuteness! Just eveyone keep your fingers crossed that the doc doesn't make that same comment when she's 16! We love you Regers Macgregers!

TRICK OR TREAT!

2007-10-31T22:01:00.000-07:00

What a fun Halloween we had this year. As per usual, it seemed to last for the entire month of October. I swear with all the school, church, and friend parties, I really wonder if my kids really understand that Halloween happens on October 31st...lucky little devils:) Anyhoo...I have had this Halloween's costumes planned since before I knew Regan was a girl...I was going to do a BYU theme for the kids. Once I found out I was having a girl, I went and bought two cheerleading outfits, pom-poms, and a BYU jersey for Harry. As the big day started approaching I began talking with the kids about how fun their costumes will be. Both Harry and Ava inform me that no, that is SO not what they want to do. Ava wanted under no uncertain terms to be a "Pwintheth" (princess) and Harry HAD to be Optimus Prime. After I bawled a river (can you imagine, I'm kidding) I gave in because they are only kids once with big dreams of what they want to be for Halloween. I guess they can wear the BYU garb on game days. Although I did get the girls to wear their uniforms to the church party where the costumes could really be appreciated, but I couldn't talk Harry out of being Optimus. I'm so grateful Suzy, my sister could come from Chandler. We miss her and Nate so much! What an amazing aunt! I love her. We had a great time with our neighbors. They brought out a portable fire pit we roasted marshmellows etc., along with other food before and after everyone trick-or-treated. We got to go out with our good friends the Turners again this year as well. We feel very blessed to be surrounded with such wonderful friends, neighbors, and family. Hope you all had a great Halloween...until next year!

Guess who got her ears pierced?

2007-10-25T13:53:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true! Miss Regan Susanna got her tiny little ears pierced. I've been planning on doing it anyways, but it ended up being a spur of the moment thing today. Suzy and I were at Target, we looked at the clock and decided to see if we could race to the mall before we had to pick Ava up from pre-school. Mid-drive there we realized we wouldn't have enough time. However, with 45 mins. to blow and since Suzy and Nate are moving out of our home this week (SO SAD! I'll do a seperate post for them) I said, let's go get Regan's ears pierced! Contraversial as it is, I like doing it when they're young for this reason....they don't know what the heck is going on! Literally, she pierced one ear at a time really fast, Regan cried for less than 30 seconds and bam- done! She'll thank me later!

CABIN TRIP 2007

2007-10-21T23:43:00.000-07:00

Every single year I love our family cabin trip, and I never think they can get any better. I'm happy to announce, this year takes the cake! Can I just say....I LOVE my family!?! I am ofcourse crazy about my own little family, hubby and kidlets, but I feel so blessed to still feel so close the family I grew up with. I have wonderful parents who live for us, and I feel like my sibings were handpicked...our personalities have always blended unusually well. What is so nice is they've all (excluding Kirk...but we expect great things in the near future) married people that fit into our family like a glove. We grow closer every time we're together, and every year we seem to keep adding adorable kidlets to the scene. We're busting at the seems and loving it! Each year for the cabin trip we also get to have Scott's brother Adam, and his little family come too...wouldn't be the same without them! This marked our 5th annual cabin trip to the mountains of Utah. We stayed in a great cabin in Brianhead. It was huge and beautiful. We had so much fun doing the usual. Eating, talking, quading, hiking, going on walks, did I mention eating? We've decided that from now on we're going to take the family pix at the beginning of the week because in 7 short days we each gain a minimum of 10 pounds....I wish I were kidding. But truthfully, that is the time of year I can honestly say I am the happiest. I love every single waking moment we're together, and get a pit in my stomach as the week comes to a close. I feel like the luckiest girl alive to have so much love in my life everywhere I turn. I wouldn't trade my life with anyone for anything. I feel like I just returned from an awesome EFY, but it's so much better, I get to do it again and again for the rest of my mortal life! The Lord has been good to us!

SISTERS...a built-in best friend!

2007-09-29T12:02:00.000-07:00

Ever since Regan was born Ava has been her pseudo mommy. I thought like a new toy, Ava would want to hold and play with her non-stop for a week, then be over it. Au contraire! She is livid if I change Regan's diaper without her, she always wants to hold her, and take care of her when she cries. The only problem I have with the constant hovering, is the fact that Ava cannot handle it if Regan is sleeping. No matter what I threaten, I'll look over and there's Ava right by the swing AGAIN, eyes and mouth wide open, a grin the size of Texas screaming (much like the first picture featured below!) she'th wakin' up! Oh, yes Ava she's wakin' up...thanks to you my friend! I feel so blessed to have these perfect little angels in my life. What a gift for them to have each other. I don't know what I'd do without my sister. I'd be clinically insane! Now I just need a brother for Harry. I've told Scott he's gonna have to step up like never before with all of the estrogen raging within these four walls!

"A sister is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit, a golden thread to the meaning of life."

-Isadora James

Guess who's Baaaaack!?!?!

2007-09-26T13:12:00.000-07:00

Okay, the postpardom crazies are beginning to settle and I am ready to be a responsible blogger. I've never been an organized type to begin with so even creating this little ditty was a lofty undertaking. I am going to be more diligent however as I'm going to start using this as my journal and printing pages off every week. Regan is now 3 months old and growing like a weed! She is a perfect baby and spends the majority of her life in her carseat. She officially has taken on the name Regers or Regarino. Blessed child. Harry and Ava funny enough are the reason for my sanity AS WELL AS my insanity. Go figure. But they are so much fun. I love just being with my family. This is the best time of my life hands down...I'm trying to savor every moment, they are growing way too fast!

Regan's baby blessing

2007-09-26T12:09:00.001-07:00

The Family!

My youngest and yes okay, smartest brother Kirk, holding baby Regan. Aren't they both adorable???

Kirk, Greg, Scott holding Regers, Eldon, and Nate

What an amazing weekend! A little crazy, but most memorable. We got home from Canada two days before the event. Family began flowing in the day after we got home. We're so grateful to the family members who were able to be there. Unfortunatly, not everyone could come, but as the family grows, every single event will be hard for everyone to attend. So the new theme for everyone is...here's the date, come if you can! Miss Regan is so beloved by everyone. She looked precious in her blessing outfit and in one word, the day was PERFECT! Oh, except for the fact that we almost missed the blessing because we were late...did I fail to throw that in there? OOPS!

Left to right: Kirk, Jodi holding Max, Eldon, Mom holding Anderson, Scott, me, Jamie, Greg, Boo, Nate, with Harry, Regan and Ava up front!

The cousins! Harrison holding Regan, Max, Ava, and Andy!

Time with the Smith family in Utah!

2007-09-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

On our long drive back to AZ from Canada we stopped off in Pleasant Grove, UT to stay with Todd (Scott's brother) , his wife Dani and their 3 cute kidlets Eli, Isabel, and Asher. Grandma Sue came and we all had dinner in the backyard. It was so fun, time to catch up on everything and eat awesome food as Dani is famous for. Thank you Dani for introducing me to berries covered in cream! I seriously eat it probably daily now. But I use the frozen berries from Costco, and fat free 1/2 & 1/2 instead of heavy whipping cream. Not as good, but if I ate the whipping cream, I'd stay clinically obese forever!!!! We had so much fun. I feel so blessed to truly LOVE my in-laws. They really are like my own family. And I love that the kids each have someone their own age to play with. Thanks Smith Crew for your fabulous hospitality!

Grandma Sue holding baby Regan (2mos.)

Ava, Isabel, and Asher getting ready for dinner!

Eli and Harry

Oh Canada!

2007-08-04T18:38:00.000-07:00

My mom & dad with the kidlets at the Calgary Stampede breakfast.

Harry & Ava gettin' down with the country music!

Precious Regan...1 month old! I love her!

Scott & Harry went canoeing and hiking around Banff.

We took a little day trip to Bragg Creek area in Canada...beautiful!

Sorry it has been so long since I've posted anything. I'm in Canada with the kids recovering mentally, physically, and spiritually, from the delivery. Hang tight for a week or so until I get home to get pix from this vacation. The kids have had a blast. And Regan has grown so much! She is smiling and starting to sleep in longer stretches....YAHOO! For the love of everything holy, the newborn stage is miraculous and wonderful, as well as overwhelming and physically draining. But I wouldn't trade it for the world. A special shout out to Phyllis, my mom, the most patient, loving, kind human to ever walk the planet earth. Scott and I both know that our lives would be utter bloody chaos if it hadn't been for her tireless help these past 2 months.

Coming home from the hospital

2007-07-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

Here are pictures of Miss Regan coming home! She is now 3 weeks old, and despite the fact that she loves to party all night long....we are madly in love with her and have decided officially to keep her forever! Welcome home little angel!

Coming home from the hospital

2007-07-01T17:52:00.000-07:00

She's Here!!

2007-06-13T22:08:00.000-07:00

Regan Susanna Smith, arrived June 12, 2007 at 8:03 in the morning weighing 7 lbs 12 oz, 20 3/4 in long. She's perfect in every way, and we're crazy in love with her.

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Summer fun

2007-06-04T16:39:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the kids having fun with our neighborhood friends! These are events from just this past week. Are the kids having some serious summer fun or what? Enjoy it now before baby comes my kidlets! Just click on the picture of Scott and Ava to see more. Also, look below to see a slidshow of Harrison's kindergarten graduation! Enjoy!

My Slideshow 6/4/07

Harry's Kindergarten Graduation

2007-06-04T15:50:00.000-07:00

It's official! Harrison is no longer our little kindergarten king! He is a big first grader and very excited about the prospect. Here are some pictures from the graduation. I wish you all could have been there....he did his part in the play like a pro! He was a bug and I might add, the best and most adorable!

Our first posting

2007-04-07T15:57:00.000-07:00

Hello everybody! Welcome to our new family blog! Frankly, I cannot believe I'm starting this, I wanted to get it going before baby # 3 comes to town! This is to keep all of you, our beloved friends and family up to date on our everyday lives. Check us out as often as you can or want for that matter! At the very least, your lives will feel much more sane and organized getting a glimpse into ours. Pictures to come very soon! (As soon as my friend Cheri shows me how!)

Love to all!
Jill