Gates Family

What a year!

2012-02-03T08:07:00.000-08:00

Easy*Bake Fun

This brings back lots of fun memories of being at my

Grandma's and making Easy*Bake

rolls, cakes and cookies

in my Aunt Linda's Easy*Bake oven

that she had as a young girl
maybe it was even Aunt Karen's I
don't recall. I just remember Grandma

plugging in the "green giant"

and making lot's of goodies for

all us cousins to bake in it.

Now my kids are baking in theirs and

making new memories!

My parents gave us a 50lb bag of wheat this year so instead of storing it

under someone's bed until it went bad, we went to work. Jeremy's parents lent

us their 30+ year old grinder they purchased early in

their marrage. It amazed me how well

it still worked! We ground all 50lbs and

we are now using it to make super yummy

bread, pretzels, pancakes etc.

our yummy pretzels !

There is nothing better than home made breadDuring Christmas break I took the kids to Gardner Village
to spend the afternoon. We like to go there but this time we
didn't take the car, we took Trax !! Jonathan was in 7th heaven

until we had to get off the train. He cried all the way home :(

Update

2011-12-03T20:35:00.000-08:00

It's been a long fun summer and with TONS of adventures at the Gates' home. I will attempt to do a short version update really quick so hang on here we go :) We all decided to be Pirates for Halloween. It was lots of fun. We also decided to put our own costumes together. So we headed for good old reliable DI (Deseret Industries) We found boots, belts, pants and old shirts. It was a lot of fun for to see the kids creative sides come out a little. Jeremy and Jonathan were the ship mates while the girls and I were buckeneers.

We got lots of compliments when we trick-or-treated around the neighborhood, school parades and trunk-or-treating. Halloween is our families absolute favorite holiday. We decorated the house to look like an old pirate ship with spider webs, pirate booty, gold dubloons, pieces of eight and our old dead Sea Captain "Mr. Bones" looking over things in the corner, with his map and treasure. We carved a lot of pumpkins and I mean A LOT. We LOoovVVE it! Halloween reminds me of when I was a kid and Mom would go all out with decorations, parties and costumes Ooohh and we can't forget old Aunt Hagatha! October was always the time that I would never get out of bed when the house was dark :) Aunt Hagatha was always standing in the corner watching EVERYONE!! Heidi and I got this brilliant idea that we wanted to process apples. So we found two neighbors who were willing to let us come pick some of their apples and we set the girls to work picking apples. And we picked and picked and picked. I'm not sure what we were thinking but we ended up leaving with 75 lbs of apples give or take a few. We spent an afternoon peeling, coring and slicing. We had the Girls work the fancy peeler, which they loved. They got to be pretty fast at it and really good helpsers. After a few apples we bottled 17 quarts of applesauce. Throughout the next week we processed the rest of it into apple pie filling and more applesauce. It was a LOT of hard work but we built up our food storage and made some fun memories. Our family also started another new adventure toward the beginning of the year. We bought chickens.... I know right, chickens for real??? But we had the room for them in our yard, we wanted to give it a try and the girls wanted "pets" if you can call them that So we got chickens, 9 of them and the kids ABSOLUTLY love them. In the first few hours they all had names; Lesheay, Chicky, Velvet, Carmel, Fluffy, Chicken #1 and Chicken #2, Sprinkles and I can't seem to remember the other but Jeremy calls them dinner :)

The Girls have turned out to be really good Chicken farmers. The do it all. Gather the eggs, scoop the poop, clean the nests, feed, water and of course theres the holding, petting, swinging on the swings with them and hypnotising them as well. If you ask me they are crazy but they love it and they make them happy. Chickens are funny things and fun to watch. They each have their own personalities. Pretty low maintenance with great rewards. We visited the Hogle Zoo quit a bit during the year. Thanks to Uncle Joe and Aunt Heidi for the year membership. Truely the best Christmas gift ever. This particular trip they had the fire department there. We got to go throught the fire engine, see the fighters gear and Jonathan even got to wear the captains singed helmet.

The Girls also started another school year. I can't believe how fast they are growing. I can't even begin to tell how much I love them and how proud of them I am. I couldn't have been blessed with a better family. Jeremy has been busier than ever this year with work. I got a new job and am so happy to have it. I get to get the kids off to school and be home when they get home from school. It's been a huge blessing. Best of all I don't have to work 10 and 12 hour days during the Holidays!! Hal a lu ya "It's a Christmas Miracle" Thanks for stick through that with me didn't really end up being a quick update did it. :) Thanks for reading our family blog and checking out our fun pictures.

4th Habitat for Humanity Fundraiser

2011-09-07T21:48:00.000-07:00

The band that played this year was "Mid-Life Crisis" They sounded great! Jeremy introducing Ed from Habitat for Humanity

Jeremy trying so hard to keep it all together. He was on a lot of drugs from his kidney stone and weak from no sleep and not eating for two days.

This is when the wind started to pick up and the thunder started to roll closer and closer to us. Than we started seeing the lightening.

And this year we had a GREAT, GREAT turn out of friends, neighbors and family and the rain had to ruin our fun. We thought the rain would just come, sprinkle and go away....BUT we where wrong so wrong. Not only did it rain it down poured for a good hour. We made a mad dash to get everything in the house, people, games, raffle prizes and bands. We managed to pull it all together and finish the raffle in the house. The second band "The Wolf Gang" didn't get to play but we are greatful to them for being there and supporting us and such a great cause. Thanks to ALL our fab friends and family who helped to pull off another GREAT year of helping those who are less fortunate than us. We hope to see you all there next summer.

Trama at the Gates House

2011-09-07T21:26:00.001-07:00

Jeremy ended up in the ER the weekend of the 20th. He woke up with a strange pain the grew progressively worse as the day went on. By noon he needed to go to the hospital. With his families history with their "guts" not working we worried it was his apendix or galbladder but it was a very large kidney stone. The pain was so different than the one he had in the past so he wasn't sure what it was. After 5 hours of being at the hospital and lots of tests, ultra sounds etc. They sent him home with LOTS of meds. 10:00 p.m that night I made a 911 call because he passed out and stopped breathing twice while sitting on the couch. I was scared to death. He turned white as a ghost and all limp. I tried waking him up over and over again. I pushed on his chest, I smacked his face, yelled his name. While I was explaining to the dispatcher on the other end of the phone, Jeremy took a really deep breath and than turned deep red and started sweating SO bad. He wasn't awake but he was breathing but only for a second and than he passed out again. The parimedics got there in no time at all even though it seemed like forever watching Jeremy go through hell. When they got there they checked his vitals, he was awake and telling me I over reacted! I think not.... he didn't want to ride back to the hospital in the ambulance so after calling my father-in-law to come stay with the kids I took him back to the ER. More test, EKGs and more test but he wasn't feeling better so around 4 am they finally admitted him to the hospital to monitor him more. I went home to

relieve my father-in-law and try to sleep. When Jeremy saw the Uriologist the next morning he was shocked at the type of meds the ER docs had givin him. He gave him the RIGHT meds and sent him home at Noon. It was a crazy few days and I feel truly blessed that Jeremy is better and that he is still here with us. And it's a good thing too because our 4th Habitat for Humanity concert was that day!! And he wouldn't let me cancel it. He is so stubborn!

Fun Summer Family Activities

2011-09-07T21:06:00.001-07:00

One Sunday Afternoon after church we decided to go for one of your "drives" and we ended up down town at Temple Square. Okay so it wasn't a coinsidence that we were there that particular day. It just happened to be mine and Jeremy's anniversary that weekend and the Conference Center was were Jeremy proposed. So I purposely drove us there to spend the afternoon. :) sneeky I know. Any way we had a great time. We toured the Conference Center and the Visitor Centers. It was a great afternoon and the kids loved it.

We also spent lots of time at The Hogle Zoo. Thanks to Uncle Joe who gave us the best Christmas gift ever. Jonathan LOVES dinosaurs so this was a special treat for him. The Zoo just happened to be having the dinosaurs visit for the summer. They scared him a little at first but he seemed to warm up a little by the time we left. The first few he would close his eyes and cover his ears with his burp cloth (he is kind of like Linus from Peanuts who carries around his blanket every where only it's a burp cloth for him)

This dinosaur sprays water from his mouth. The others roared or were hidding in the bushes. The Zoo is such a fun place and I love that it changes from time to time so that we can have a great time everytime we go.

Lemonade for Sale!

2011-09-07T20:58:00.001-07:00

This was one of Julia and Maia's favorite SUMMER afternoon past times. This particular day Julia made Maia a lemonade hat. It was so cute right down to the little umberella sticking out of the cup. Kind of like the crazy hats at the hot dog on a stick place in the mall. Julia is SO creative and Maia loves being the drama queen.

They are pretty good sales girls. I think they made $10+ dollars this afternoon!

Thanksgiving Point Dinosaur Museum

2011-09-07T20:45:00.000-07:00

We spent the afternoon at the Thanksgiving Point Dinosaur Museum one August afternoon. We had a FABULOUS time. If you haven't been we would highly recommend going. It's amazing, so much to see and do. The kids had a great time!

After we spent all the time we wanted wandering inside we headed outside to dig for Trilobites. We got our gloves, goggles, hammers and buckets and found a corner of the quarry to find our very own fossils to take home. ALL the kids walked away with lots of rocks and even with trilobite fossils in them. Jonathan LOVED it!

It was a super hot and sunny day, but so worth watching the kids.

Hannah and Julia digging in the rocks.

2011-09-05T22:23:00.001-07:00

I think I spend more time choosing the perfect background for the blog than I actually spend updating the blog. I will be better I promise. Our summer has been jam packed with fun and exciting adventures that I will updating you on :)

Summer

2011-07-31T21:41:00.000-07:00

It's been a long but fun summer so far. We've vacationed at grandma and grandpa's in St. George, visited with my brother Mike and his wife Kimmy in Vegas. We've been to movies the Zoo and swimming. And playing with friends ALL day long is the highlight of the Girls days. We have til the end of August until school starts again. Some days that seems like a long ways off but I'm sure it will fly by. We have also been trying to keep everyone busy so the summer time bordom doesn't set in. I tell the kids if they are bored than I could find them something to keep them busy (usually chores) when I say that it always reminds me of my mom :) She used to say things like that when we would play that game with her. And just like my kids we would find something to keep ourselves busy.
We are also trying like crazy to get our 4th annual Habitat for Humanity fundraiser put together. Saturday August 20th is the big day. It's always a fun time and would love to have the biggest turnout this year.

Celebrating Me

2011-03-05T21:16:00.000-08:00

Ok so this month I am celebrating "Me"or "Moi" in the words of Miss Piggy. Not only because it's my birthday this month but it also marks my 1 year journey to a happier, healthier me. I started this amazing program in the end of February of last year (2010) and 10 months later I was 100 lbs lighter! I know 100 lbs.... I couldn't believe it or be happier, I didn't have to starve myself , and I didn't have to kill myself in the gym. All I had to do was eat, I'm pretty sure I knew how to do that! And eat six times a day. AND it WORKED!!! Just look at me now. I'm sorry if this sounds concieded but I'm just so excited and proud of myself.
My kids give me hugs and love that they can reach all the way around me with room to spare. They think it's so cool and so do I. My hubby was inspired and has lost 80 lbs. I'm so proud of him. Even the kids are making healthier choises, it's changed our whole family. I can keep up with my kids when we play and I have more energy than they do now. Meet the "New and Improved" Heather :)

Fall Leaves and Smiles

2010-11-07T19:32:00.000-08:00

This is Halloween, This is Halloween!

2010-10-23T22:17:00.000-07:00

Spooktacular Times!A little Halloween trivia for you: Did you know that Snickers is the most popular treat? And one of the first things parents swipe from their kids treat buckets!

Another one for you: Did you know that 99% of all pumpkins grown are used for Jack-O-Lanterns at Halloween time. And over 2 billion dollars worth of candy is sold every year! That's a lot of Trick or Treating treats!

It's that awesome time of year again when we get to dress up in costumes, have our friends over and throw a party. Our yearly Halloween party was tonight. We had a great time with fun friends, ate some yummy food, grooved to some awesome tunes and played some interesting games. Thanks to all of you who came and partied with us!

Julia Is 11!

2010-10-23T21:33:00.000-07:00

For Julia's 11th Birthday we took a few of her friends to Wheeler Farm. We went through the corn maze, looked at all the fun farm animals, took a wagon ride and headed back home for some Arctic Circle "square pumpkin" kids meals and presents and cake. Julia and her friends; Mandy, Brooklyn, Bailee, Cordilia and sister Hannah all had a great time and loved celebrating with Julia.
Here they are on the wagon ride

going through the hay/corn maze

Going through the hay/corn maze
(I was a little disapointed with the maze

but the girls had a great time and didn't

seem to mind :))

All the cute girls smiling big one last

time for the camara.
Happy Birthday Julia, I can't believe

you are 11 already how

time has flown by.

FUN...FUN...FUN!!

2010-09-29T21:52:00.000-07:00

http://www.eighteen25.blogspot.com/

http://www.thecraftingchicks.blogspot.com/

http://www.prettydubs.blogspot.com/

Some of my new favorite blogs to visit. SO FUN!! Can't wait to try some of their fun ideas

A New Hobbie

2010-09-25T21:33:00.000-07:00

Jeremy has a new hobby! Yes canning, I know right..... REALLY, but yes. This has been a summer time past time for him which means me too. It's been kind of fun though. We visit a few farmers markets for our fresh veggies such as; carrots, beets, jalepenos, green beans, asparagus and eggs. I know their not veggies and we didn't get them at the farmers market but they are a favorite snack of Jeremy's so he wanted to give them a try too. When I was younger I remember having pickled beets, and green beans at my Grandma Greenhalgh's. So with a little help from my grandparents recipes and a few from on line we set out to try a few different recipes.

Eggs and jalepenos in the steamer I think they look kind of pretty

Below is the veggies sitting in their brine (salt water) for my grandmas famous mustard pickle. It's so very tasty. Red and green peppers, pearl onions, cucumbers and cauliflower are the veggies that go into this recipe.

After the veggies have sat overnight to soak, we added the ground mustard and other ingredients that give it that beautiful color. It taste so yummy with, maybe a Sunday dinner roast, grilled pork chops or even some chicken. It's a sweet mustard with a very mild tang. If you want to try it I would give you a bottle! :) My sister Heidi and I spent a few hours last week to bottle it up. We were pretty proud of ourselves that we were able to get it all done with no "grandma or mom help" Thanks for your help Heid.It's been fun trying new recipes and also some old family recipes that my Grandma Greenhalgh has passed down to me. Our absolutely, best of the best recipe that I grew up with and is now my little families favorite it's Grandma's pickled mustard. Just the smell brings back so many memories of being with my grandparents. It's delicious! And look how pretty it is.

I Fell In To A Burn' Ring Of Fire!!

2010-09-20T16:11:00.000-07:00

This was the view from our backyard last night. Scary isn't it! We noticed the fire around 5:00 yesterday when Jeremy was out starting the fire in our firepit so we could cook our dinner. Jeremy came in and asked if I had noticed the fire? I said yes I've been watching it. I went into the back to help get the steaks on and I said, "Look the mountains on fire!" Jeremy said that's what I just asked if you had seen. Ha Ha Ha well I thought he was talking about the fire in the pit..... Dumb Me, I'm a little slow I guess. Not to make light of the serious fire Herriman had last night though. Three families lost their homes. And thousands of others had to leave their homes for the night to find another place to stay. How scary would that be to have to only take a few things and hope and pray that your home wasn't destroyed by fire.

We were headed home from visting with Jeremy's parents when the flames started to reach the top of the mountain and make their way down the other side. We just happened to be listening to Jonathan's favorite song; "Ring Of Fire" by Johnny Cash. Better known in our house as "Uncle Mikes song". So were watching the flames get bigger and bigger as we are headed home, singing at the top of our lungs "I feeellll in to a burning ring of fire, I went down down down and the flames went hire, and it burns burns burns the ring of fire, the ring of fire"

Once we got home the kids hurried to get their PJ's on and ready for bed. It was so addicting to watch we couldn't drag ourselves away from watching it. We had the camera, we had our lawn chairs and we had the binoculars. We have friends who live up on the hill and were hoping and praying that they were getting out safe and that their homes would be saved. With the binoculars we could see the fire truck lights and tons of helicopters and planes flying above the area.

I think I have failed to make mention how the fire started. The army artillary men were out firing their machine guns their routine monthly practice. And I heard on the news that they name the fires so name "Machine Gun Fire" Seems fitting. Needless to say the army had many of their men helping to detain the fire. As it should be if you ask me.

I am happy to report that our friends homes were saved, thank heavens. They have expressed their love and thank for all the well wishes and prayers that were sent their way. But we continue to pray for those three families who lost thier homes and so many memories. Love to them!

Kneaders Three Cheese Cauliflower Soup

2010-09-02T20:57:00.000-07:00

My very nice neighbor called me today to let me know that "Good Things Utah" was featuring one of Kneaders soup recipes. It just so happens that it is made with ShirleyJ White Cheddar Sauce. I was so excited to see that, and that they shared the recipe with us. So I thought I would share it with you. But maybe I need to back up a little and tell You that for about 4 months now I have been an Executive Chef for ShirleyJ. I do in-home cooking demos to help introduce their products to home chefs, and change the way we cook. Make it easier, healthier and more economical. They really are amazing. And incase you've never heard of ShirleyJ. Read about it here or on http://www.myshirleyj.blogspot.com/. Or www.shirleyj.com/4316. It makes fixing dinner for our families fun again.

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Kneaders Three Cheese Cauliflower Soup

A Farewell To Summer Vacation

2010-08-24T15:37:00.000-07:00

So as you will see our summer has been filled to the brim with fun activities. Below are just a small part of the things we have done. Because Southland Elementary School is changing from year-round to traditional we have had an extra long summer break. While most morning while I was at work Jeremy would get the kids ready and make sure the chores and reading got done. When I returned home for the day it was nap time for Jonathan and usually play time for the Girls. Which meant that Jeremy could get his work done and I could have some quiet time/chore and house keeping time; such as ironing, folding laundry, working out, etc. Anything that was quiet to keep our extremely lite sleeper asleep! One of the things we did was

head off to the movie. Yep you guessed it we saw Toy Story 3 and LOVED it. Woody and Buzz are Jonathan's favorite. Boy did he giggle :)

We also did lots of backyard marshmellow roasting, hot dog grilling, tag, and Duck Duck Goose playing.

Jonathan roasted his first marshmellow and liked roasting them but doesn't really like to eat them cooked.

"1 little monkey jumping on the bed".....

Jonathan also had a big milestone happen this week. He moved into his "Big Boy Bed" I can't believe how well he has been doing and he is SO very excited to have his own bed.

Look at that smile!

I am the champion!!
So last week while Grandma Greenhalgh was in town, Heidi and I decided that on my day off of work (Monday) we would meet and take the kids swimming. As you can see in the pictures we are NOT swimming but bowling. Just as we were headed to the pool the craziest thunder and lightening storm hit and hit hard. It was raining cat's and dog's. Do you remember where you were when it hit?? We do, just getting in the car we got more wet than we would have at the pool. So because of that we headed back home to changed out of our suits and we went bowling instead. "All Star Lanes" offer free bowling for the kids during the summer. Jonathan was the big winner that day. He bowled a 160+ game.

Aren't those the cutest, and littlest bowling shoes ever!

Julia and Hannah, with cousin Brielle in the background.

One of the first activities we did as a family was to head to "Tracy Aviary" Jeremy and I hadn't been there since grade school. It was fun, and the kids had fun reading the info about the birds and seeing some really cool birds up close and personal. Here are the Girls in front of one of the rides that they have just outside the park. None of them had ever been on the big "Yo-Yo Swing" So with A LOT of encouragement from Jeremy and I they hoped on, and strapped themselves in. They were afraid of falling out :) I have lots of fond memories riding on a few rides just like this one. It was fun, and fun to look out and see the world from a different point of view. But the

were less than excited. You can almost see how white their knuckles are from holding on SO tight. So if you remember the ride starts out nice and slow working it's way up and the swings move out. Lets just say that neither of the Girls relaxed at all and their knuckles were just as white at the end of the ride as they were at the begining! I must be a mean mom because I took great pleasure in watching them on this ride and the looks on their faces were priceless. Boy I laughed and laughed..... MWAH HA HA HA (that was my evil laugh). They were scared but they concured a fear and ended up having a good time.

This is a big Emu. We saw this at the bird show. It was a great time with some very strange and interesting birds up close and personal again some flying right over our heads.

A beautiful Peacock. We waited and waited hoping he would spread his tail feathers. We decided to move on he was not cooperating. But he was pretty to look at.

Maia hanging out in the front yard enjoying the evening.

Jonathan loves riding in his "tiny car" with just his toes (that's his way of saying he doesn't want his shoes or sandals on) He makes me laugh. We enjoyed a lot of our summer evenings hanging out in the front yard with our kids. Watching them play and trying to teach tem how to do cart wheels, head stands, back bends and rollerskating. We also played a good old fashioned game of 4 square (mine and Jeremy's rules that we remembered from grade school). And woopn' their tushies!! :) he he he

Hannah loves riding her bike all around the neighborhood. She only biffed it twice. The first time she went off the neighbors ramp and jumped off it ok but didn't quit stick the landing. She was "triple dog dared" by her oldest sister and with out much thought of what might happen she went for it! Way to be brave Hannah!! Now that I've bored you with some of the few things we did together this summer, I just want to thank the kids for such a fun summer. I had a great time with them and had a relaxing time when they went to visit Grandma and Grandpa Greenhalgh in St. George. I'm so proud to be their mom and couldn't be more blessed to have such an amazing family that I enjoy hanging out with and doing so many fun things together. I hope they will remember them and have lots of fun memories of their childhood. They grow up so fast and before Jeremy and I know it and are ready for it we will be the uncool parents who just don't understand and they wont want to spend time with us. I hope they prove me wrong though! Here is to many more fun filled happy summer vacations! Cheers...... til next year :)

Hannah And The Removal Of Her Tonsils

2010-08-11T21:13:00.000-07:00

As you can see by the date on these pictures this is long over due. After many of her years and numerous ear infections and 10 cases of Strep throat we have finally won the battle of getting her tonsils removed. So early Tuesday morning of July 6th (her 1st offical day of summer break) with her bag o' things to do and her favorite can't live without animals, we were off to the Primary Childrens at Riverton Hospital to start our long day. I have to say that she was very calm despite her semi worried face in the first picture. Once at the hospital we were quickly escorted to a room where the nurse informed us that the anesthesiologist was running late because he went to the wrong hospital. We were scheduled for 7:30 am.

So while we waited she changed into her cute little scrubs/gown they gave her and her awesome rubber bottomed socks and we read her books, and we blew bubbles, and we watched "G-Force, and we created a fish craft, and than we colored a puzzle picture. She was getting very bored and very anxious to get this all over with. We had to try to keep her busy to keep her from remembering how hungry she was and that they would be cutting thing from her body! :)

Two hours later.................. we finally meet with the surgeon and anesthesiologist who gave us the low down of what would go down and what would be coming out. About 20 minutes later she was recoverying in the "wake up" room. Everything went really well and she even lost a tooth during surgery! Funny thing was it wasn't even a loose tooth.... sounds fishy to me too, even though they all insisted it just fell out :) but what do you do when it's out and in a cup taped to her bed.

finally awake enough to watch a little tv, the meds they gave her must be wearing off cuz that is just like her to want to watch tv. Over all our tonsil removal experience was a good one. The doctors and nurses of the Out Patient Primary Childrens Hospital were amazing, kind and very good at keeping us informed and in the loop. They took amazing care of Hannah and helped to keep a worried, nervous mommy, calm and reassured that all will be well. Needless to say the recovery was quick. A few days of a popcycles, jell-o and ice cream diet she was asking to ride her bike and play with her friends. She can now sleep through the night with out snoring, coughing and/or choking. She wakes up refreshed and with no dark circles under her eyes from the lack of a restful, deep sleep. I couldn't have been more proud of her for being so brave!

More Wedding Pictures

2010-07-05T22:30:00.000-07:00

My brother Mike was married in May. Jonathan and I were able to go to Las Vegas to be with him and be apart of His and Kimmy's happy day. Jonathan was apart of the wedding party. Jonathan even got to be in the pictures. Here he is posing in his favorite "chilln' " pose. And with the big boys of the wedding party; Uncle Joe, Uncle Mike and his friend Mike. So stinkin cute!

Here is Jonathan and cousin Brielle pushing their bubble mowers down the isle. They were all decorated with ribbons and flowers, and looking so pretty. Jonathan and Brielle stole the show. (At least until Kimmy walked down the isle.)Everyone ooohhed and aaawwed, laughed and coxed them down the isle. They were a bit shy of all the eyes and attention. But they made it and were quit proud of themselves too.

My brother Mike and his new wife Kimmy. They are such a cute couple and we are so glad to have Kimmy apart of our family.

Two of my "Cuties"

2010-06-12T22:00:00.000-07:00

Hannah and Jonathan

My Beautiful Hannah

Jonathan 2 years old

We've had this little tent for years. We get it out a few times a year, when the sun is shinning and the kids need a little shade. They have fun playing in it. Julia and Maia have out grown it and really Hannah too. BUT Jonathan is just the right size. Now that the sun is out more and we have had more good days than bad, we've spent more time outside. Jeremy and I can't really keep the kids in the house. AND I have NO complaints about that. We are constantly telling the kids that "when we were younger........" stories and how we would spend most of our days of summer vacation out playing with friends, roller skating, playing 4 square, running barefoot, and playing in the sprinklers. We wouldn't come home til dinner. And if we dared to say that we were bored, watch out. Mom would always be quick to say that she could find us some chores to do. That was all she needed to say to get us to scatter again. Aaahh to be young again. I loved my childhood and have very fond memories of my friends, siblings, my home, and the neighborhood that I grew up in. Such a great childhood. The carefree days of summer.

Lets just say I would be lying if I said that Jonathan didn't LOVE this. He is very much in to air planes, trains, tractors and yes even Monster Trucks.

Wedding

2010-05-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

My little brother got married!! And he married a great girl. We love you Kimmy. So Thursday morning my other brother Joe and Jonathan and I packed up the car and headed to Las Vegas. We had a great time parting with Kimmy's family, who flew in from New York. They were all very welcoming and fun to get to know. Heidi, Jeremy and Brielle let us stay with them at their condo so we could swim in their pool, and take the shuttle from the condo to the "strip" the next morning to see the sights. We went to the M & M shop and the Coca Cola store and bought him a hat that matches daddies. We got some pictures with the Coke Bear and an M & M. It was so fun hanging out and being with Jonathan. We had such a fun time together. His favorite part of the afternoon was riding up and down the escalators in his stroller. And riding on the shuttle bus.

Jonathan in his outfit at the wedding. Brielle and Jonathan were the flower girl and ring barer. They pushed little bubble mowers down the isle. It was so cute!

Jonathan and the Coke Bear

It was a long tiring day. Such a sleepy boy.

We met lots of famous people! :) Like Elvis, Michael Jackson, and Austin Powers.

Brielle and Jonathan with "Red"

My parents and sister Heidi with her husband Jeremy dancing.

Jonathan and cousin Brielle dancing

So Cute!

Uncle Joe and Jonathan all dressed up, waiting for pictures to be taken.

My Grandparents dancing. Joe the best man and the maid of honor dancing...

ShirleyJ giveaway! Follow the link below

2010-05-18T13:56:00.000-07:00

Shirley J Review and Giveaway

A few weeks ago Shirley J sent me some of their Universal Sauce to try out. I had heard lots of good things about this cream based sauce and couldn't wait to try it!

My sister, Julie and I decided to experiment with a few recipes. We made Gnocchi Gratin, Alfredo Chicken Pizza and Creamy Baked Potato Soup. I couldn't believe how easy the sauce made the cooking.

Universal Sauce is a cream based sauce that serves as the foundation to countless recipes. All you have to do is add water. It was super easy to make and was completely lump free. We didn't have to worry about having flour, butter, milk, etc. on hand.

I wanted to learn more about the Universal Sauce so I took one of the free cooking classes at the Shirley J head quarters. It was such a great class and the chef was very fun and knowledgeable! He cooked chicken enchiladas, tomato soup and macaroni and cheese from the Universal Sauce in less than 45 minutes. They were all delicious.

I think the Universal Sauce will become a staple in my pantry and food storage. It's so easy to use and it's 1/4 the calories as a regular cream sauce. It also has a shelf life of 20+ years.

I can't wait to try out their other products!

You can buy Shirley J products on the Shirley J website, through an Executive Chef(I'm an Executive Chef!) Contact ME. Heather Gates 801-520-6237 or email me hmgates01@yahoo.com

Shirley J
15 East 400 South
Orem, Utah

Monday through Friday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm

http://www.whateverdeedeewants.com/2010/05/shirley-j-review-and-giveaway.html

Jonathan "Big Boy"

2010-04-27T16:18:00.001-07:00

So yesterday was the "Girls" dental check up. While there Jonathan kept telling me that it was his turn. "my turn, my turn" he would say. He wanted to go for a ride on the chair and have his teeth cleaned. I had my doubts about him actually letting the hygenist do any work while he was there. BUT...... boy did he prove me wrong!

The light was so bright he had to wear some shades :) And I am a proud mom of 4 kids with sparkly pearly teeth and all of them members of the "no cavity club" yippy!

While cleaning out the van, Jonathan found one of Hannah's head bands and this is what he did with it. I think he looks like a little muscle man! Cheese

wearing daddies hat is a favorite thing of Jonathans and giving me the thumbs up is his second favorite. He's adorable

Spring Has Sprung!

2010-04-12T15:03:00.001-07:00

My Tree is blooming!!

AND....my lilac bush too. I'm so glad that spring is finally here. It's been a long cold winter and it's very refreshing to see the sun, see new life blooming on the ground and with the trees. We have already started working in our flower beds. Cleaning out the old and dead and getting ready for the new and beautiful. It's a fun thing for our family to do,(most of the time) :). One other thing we have been doing to get ready is to start our garden. The girls were very excited to pick out their favorite veggies to plant. So while at the local hardware store we picked up our starter tray and veggies and herbs that we want to have in out garden this year. We also learned a lot last year, such as don't plant the pumpkins by the air conditioner compresser. The vines like to wrap themselves around the hoses and pull them out. We went a very long hot day without cool air. And in the process learned that we will be planting other things in that area this year.

Heidi and I were scrapbooking one morning. Jonathan and cousin Brielle were playing upstairs in Jonathans room. After a little while of it being "a little too quiet". We went up to check on them and this is what we found. They are too funny. And it's proof that thay CAN play together with out fighting over space and toys. :) What little cuties.

A "STAR" is Born

2010-03-24T20:48:00.000-07:00

I think this just might be the starting of a long history of school plays for Miss. Maia. She absolutly LOVES preforming. She did amazing! We are all so proud of her. She and her class mates practiced very hard and it all paid off.

"The Adventures of Lewis and Clark" Southland Elementary Schools 2010 play.

The lights, the make-up and glam she's hooked :)

Maia is in the front row in the black shirt and black tights

She had such a great time singing at the top of her lungs

More Birthday Fun

2010-03-14T22:11:00.001-07:00

We celebrated with a big family party today. The Gates and Greenhalgh families all gathered to eat dinner, play and watch Hannah open gifts. We have a good time and love having everyone together.

Hannah got some great gifts. Some super cute clothes, a new bike helmet to go with the new bike Jeremy and I got for her. And even a friendship braclet making kit. Thanks Uncle Joe for the great gift with hours of fun.

Cookie-Lollie-pops in the shape of flowers and butterflies. I have such a great time creating a menu for the dinner and the desserts. Whether its a simple theme to a more complicated one, I enjoy it all. Happy Birthday Baby Girl. I love you!

Happy Happy Birthday!!

2010-03-14T21:46:00.000-07:00

Happy 6th Birthday Hannah!

We celebrated with Hannah's friends with a "Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs" movie, pajama party. We had Sketti and meatballs for dinner.

We also had Sketti and meatballs for dessert!!

Hannah with her friends; Ayden, Chloe, Justin, Noah, Gavin, Brooke, Kate, Mercedes, Olivia. They had such a great time.

I Have THE Cutest Little Man EVER!!

2010-02-28T14:41:00.000-08:00

So Jeremy and I were at "Lowes" this week pricing out some of the on-going projects that I would like to have done. And Jonathan thinks that the Car Carts are the best thing ever, cuz he gets to drive them.

He found some XL playground binoculars.... "I see you" he would say

My Little Helper while I was working on his room.

He just couldn't get enough of the ladder. "Workn' Mom, I'm workn'"

He's been saying so many new things lately. His newest phrase just breaks my heart, and makes me smile at the same time. When I get home from work he gives me a big hug and says, "Missh you, missh you" (I missed you) He's my sweet little Boo, Cutie Patootie.

Lookie What I Made!

2010-02-28T14:36:00.000-08:00

I just have to say how proud I am of myself. This week I painted Jonathan's pink bedroom to the cutest browns and blues. He actually has a little boy room now. It only took my two years! :) I even hemmed Julia, Maia and Hannah's curtains for their rooms. AND.... the super snazzy curtains in Jonathan's room I actually made all by my little ole self. YIPPY Me. (I've been patting my self on the back all week) I DID IT :)

What Kind of Cup cake are you??

2010-02-28T14:20:00.000-08:00

http://www.teennick.com/quizzes/quiz_main.php?id=3518

Fun trip to Grandma and Grandpas

2010-02-27T10:51:00.000-08:00

St. George was definatly the place to be the week of Valentines. I skipped a day of work so we could leave early. We spent lots of time playing games, making cookies, going bowling, going to the movies and playing at the park. And we took many trips up the big hill to watch the airplanes. That was Jonathan's favorite part I think. We even visited some of the "churches" historical sites. The Girls really enjoyed hearing all the stories. The kids had Grandpa making lots and lots of smoothies. Jonathan and I got to visit with some friends, were he had tons of fun playing with all the toys. Jeremy and I even got to go on a date. Thanks to my parents for babysitting for us. It was nice to have dinner with uninterupted conversation :)

Prayers for Bronson

2010-02-06T15:34:00.000-08:00

Please take a minute a read this heart wrenching true story. You can find it at http://www.stakerzxposed.blogspot.com/. The story begins on Feb 1st, so scroll to that first post. I grew up with the Mom of the little boy who needs all of your prayers.
Her story is touching so many people. She and Bronson are affecting mine. Helping my testimony to be stronger. Helping me to feel SO blessed for my beautiful, healthy children. Please send your prayers their way. Bring your kleenex's, you'll need them.

More Birthday fun

2010-01-29T14:48:00.001-08:00

Our Cowboy mustaches! They were so fun. Lots of laughs :)

Jonathan's birthday gift this year was his car. He loves it, He gets in and says "bye bye" and off he goes.

Cousin Brielle sharing the car

Jonathan turns 2!

2010-01-16T15:32:00.000-08:00

WOW how time has flown by. Our little guy is 2 now. We celebrated with all his little buckaroos coming over for some grub and horsey cupcakes. It's a blast watching him grow. He is a joy and the sweetest little guy ever.
Thank you to everyone who celebrated with us. And to all of you who sent Birthday wishes.

Merry Christmas

2010-01-01T15:59:00.001-08:00

We had a great Christmas filled with happy times with family and friends.

Happy 2010!!

2010-01-01T15:45:00.000-08:00

Lets make it a great year :)

After I got home from work I bundled the kiddies up and took them sledding. They hadn't been before and I hadn't been in years... any way we had a great time. We took two of the neighbor kids with us, Grace and Maddux. Jonathan loved going down the hill with Maia and Hannah. We came home after 2 hours of playing in the snow and had some hot chocolate. So far we are starting out 2010 with some fun memories.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-24T21:43:00.000-08:00

From our family to Yours.... We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Spent with loved ones and filled with love and fun memories! Much Love, :)

Family Pictures

2009-11-05T15:31:00.000-08:00

Hannah's 1st Field Trip~ The ZOO

2009-10-22T11:23:00.000-07:00

Hannah just couldn't wait for her 1st bus ride to the Zoo!! Every day she would ask is it Zoo day yet.... it couldn't come quick enough for both of us :) I was excited for her too. So excited that I decided I would be a chaperone, and go with her. So we packed our lunch and waited and waited in the classroom waiting for the bus to show up. It was LATE and trying to get kindergarteners to understand time is not easy but her teacher did a great job at keeping them all occupied. We found out that the bus was late due to the Highway Patrol stoping it for a inspection. Needless to say we had a very safe bus. Fall time is a great time to go to the Zoo. The animals were very active, it's not crowded and the weather couldn't have been better. Hannah's class later in the week did a Zoo day, where each child dressed up like their favorite animal and told some facts about that animal. Hannah picked an elephant. So she colored some paper plates and I stitched them onto a head band. She refused to let me make her a nose though.

Julia turned 10 this week. 10!! I can't believe it.... She wanted to have a friend party so she invited 10 friends to come for a costume party. EVERY ONE came! We had a full house. But she had a lot of fun. They played some fun games, decorated cupcakes and danced. We went as a family to have dinner and help her celebrate a little more.

We also had our family pictures taken. My family came from St. George, and Vegas to have them done. It was fun to spend time with every one. And the pictures turned our wonderful. Thanks to Suzanne Southam and her wonderful talent of capturing my children so beautifully.

Fun in the Sun

2009-09-03T15:51:00.000-07:00

We went as a family to Kennecott Copper Mine one Sunday afternoon. Maia went there on a field trip a few weeks earlier and I hadn't been for many many years. So I packed them all in the car and 15 minutes later we were there. Jeremy and Jonathan couldn't get over the X-Large trucks and how small they looked. Jonathan's only reaction was "Wow" , "Wow"

It was a very very windy day!

Jonathan loved all the trucks and tractor models in the cases and kept saying "out, out" he just wanted so badly to play with them. Checking out all the different minerals and rocks through the binoculars.

My 3 beauties.

Jonathan new summer love is corn on the cob. He wasn't too sure about picking it up to eat it. So he tried using his fork. It just ended up frustrating him though, and he finnaly dived right in.

Swimming in the lake at Day Break. It's a great place to go. The kids love playing in the water, I can sit on the beach with real sand, and soak up the sun. Jonathan likes to wade his feet in the water and play in the muddy wet sand. It's only 10 minutes from our home so we pack a lunch or dinner and than play in the sand and water til the sun goes down. It may not be the REAL beach but it works for now! :)

Weeding the flower beds

2009-08-23T11:56:00.000-07:00

Jonathan here with Annie our dog. She is so good with him and the Girls. She wants to get out and play. Instead Jonathan just ran up and down the fence line while Annie followed him. Too funny!

Jeremy and I have decided this summer that, if the Girls do something wrong that their punishment is weeding the flower beds. It's worked pretty well. It's amazing how many hours of weeding they can rack up in an afternoon. On the up side to that our flower beds look pretty good. Thanks Girls for keeping up on those pesty weeds!

They don't get too much done with all the bug collecting and friends that like to drop by.

Jonathan even likes to get in there and help. We have to keep the bugs away from him though. They think he's sweet. Than he ends up with swollen eyes! See below pics

Playing in the water

2009-08-23T11:46:00.000-07:00

The kids love the neighborhood water park. Just a short drive and they can spend the day playing in the water. And the best part.... it's free!

Julia, Maia and Hannah think this is the coolest water fiture. They call

it the egg. And their favorite part about it is they can breathe under it!

Mowas, Bubbas, Wawa, Kaaka....New words!

2009-08-23T11:32:00.000-07:00

Jonathan's favorite things..... the lawn mower, bubbles, vaccume, water, water hose, playing in the water, making a mess in the water. What a big helper!

Jonathan and I were out enjoying the nice summer evening, when a misquito bit him right on his eye brow. It made his eye swell shut for three days, darn bugs. Day one after bite.

Day two after bite

Lazy Days of Summer

2009-08-19T18:22:00.000-07:00

Jonathan got his first real hair cut the other day. He looks so cute with his big boy cut. Here he is sitting like a big kid. Aunt Heidi did a great job!

Jonathan and I were hanging outside Sunday afternoon enjoying the nice weather. Here he is giving his mommy a kiss. I love you baby! Such a sweet boy.I too like to mess around with the camera. Maybe it's a little vain, but I liked how these turned out.

Summer Fun

2009-07-25T10:27:00.000-07:00

Jonathan's new favorite thing to do while outside is play with the hose. He gets all wet but it keeps him cool and he's too funny with it! We visited the dentist this summer before school starts. It was Hannah's first time and she did great. No cavities....yippy! She has three more weeks before she starts kindergarten, she's very excited to start learning how to read.Julia's dentist trip was a good one too. No cavities for her either. She even got to assist the dentist. She loved every minute of it!Jonathan and Mommy blowing kisses. We love playing with the camera :) I just can't resist kissing his face. Heidi and I took the kids to the neighborhood water park. We had lots of fun playing in the water and staying cool.

Hello Friends and Family

2009-06-10T15:19:00.000-07:00

Well we have had an eventful last couple of weeks..... Jeremy is doing some great work for Habitat for Humanity! We know you are all probably getting tired of hearing about it but we feel very passionate about this great cause. There is only two weeks left until we hope to see all of you at the benifit concert being held Saturday June 27th from 6-9 pm. It will be lots of fun, with lots of things to do for the whole family. And don't forget to add your names in the raffle for a chance to win some great prizes, such as; "Bees" tickets, "Hale Center Theatre" tickets, a nights stay in Wendover, gift baskets and so much more. There will be 2 live bands "The Wolfe Gang" and Jake Epperson. Mayor Applegarth will also be attending. And don't forget to have dinner with us while your kids are getting their faces painted or while at the craft table. So many fun things to do. Come out bid your friends and family for some great prizes at our silent auction table. Please come support us and Habitat for Humanity!! Jonathan is recovering well from his "staff" infection that invaded his cheek two weeks ago. Poor little guy, but he seems back to his happy self once again. He loves being outside and screams when we have to bring him out of the sun or rain. Maia was student of the month for her class. She was nominated for being a great friend to all her classmates. We are very proud of her. Hannah is now ready to go to Kindergarten in August. She is very excited and asks every day if it's time for her to go :) Our family is growing fast and we are trying to enjoy every busy moment. We love you all and hope you are doing well and also hope to see you soon xoxo

Just some fun things we've been doing lately

The "Girls" love when Jeremy jumps with them but it always seem that someone ends up hurt..

Family time on the trampoline. We have lots of fun.Jonathan's first haircut. I think it was harder for me, but boy did he scream and cry!No more pictures Mom....please

Jonathan's new found love- Watermellon

Jeremy's pictures he took while at the cemetery

We enjoy walking through the local cemetery's with the kids. We spend hours wondering and exploring. It's not demented... is it?? :) It's good exercise and it's a cheep family outing. We may have even spotted a ghost once (spooky hu)!

Habitat For Humanity Volunteer Day

2009-05-30T15:51:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who came out today to support our cause; Tray, Bill, Jolene, Stefanie, Chad, Steve, Andy, Sandra, Wendi, Jeremy....and the good folks at Habitat for Humanity!!!

Habitat For Humanity

2009-05-16T16:23:00.000-07:00

Keep your calendars open!! June 27th is the big day..... We hope you will all be there, it's going to be tons of fun, you will miss out if you don't come, so come!!! :)

2009-05-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

Jonathan at Maia's 8th Birthday partyWe have had a lot of rain the last few weeks. This is one of the many rainbows that has appeared after the rain. They have been so bold and very pretty. Jonathan keeping busy in the kitchen while I prepare dinner. Rolling Easter eggs. This is the first year we have done it. I have so many fun memories of rolling eggs when I was younger, I thought it would be fun for the girls. It was a very cold day and we had a hard time finding a good hill. Regardless the Girls thought it was great fun to play with their food! :) Good times, good time....

My Beautiful Girls Easter morning 2009

Jeremy, Jonathan, Julia, Maia and Hannah the morning of her baptizm. What a great day for Maia to be baptized on her birthday. What a beautiful eternal family I have. We are so blessedThe kids Easter morning 2009 Maia and Daddy on her baptizm day May 2, 2009We visited the Army museum on the U of U campus. We had a great time together and exploring the machinery. Jonathan May 2009

Happy Mothers Day

2009-05-13T14:16:00.001-07:00

I hope all of you moms out there had a great Mother's Day! I did. I have a great family, who helped me to feel loved. Thank you. Well it's May already and boy am I getting lazy about updating my blog. I think about it all the time but finding a minute sometimes is tough. Our Habitat for Humanity fundraiser is fast approcing and we are working hard to get everything in line. We hope you can all make it, it's always a great time and a great cause we are raising money for. Saturday June 27th is the big day, from 6-9 pm 13369 s 3970 w South Jordan. We hope to see you all there winning the big raffle prizes!

Hannah went to the doctor on Monday for her kindergarten check up and count them 4 shots! By the time the nurse came back in the room with the shots she was yelling "I don't want to go to school" over and over again. It was sad but funny at the same time. She just doesn't like those darned needles. Poor thing.... Julia was able to go with her class to "This is the place" monument on their field trip. I wish I didn't work so that I could go with them. Maia was baptized on her birthday the 2nd of May. What a special day for her. She also was able to go to activity days with Julia, She thinks she is the bees knees now it's so fun to see her with the older girls. She loves it. Thanks to all our family for their love and support on her special day. It's always fun to get together. It seems we are all so busy and don't see each other as often as I would like. Jonathan is growing way to quickly. I can't keep the little guy in the house he wants to be outside all the time. He loves pushing the baby stroller up and down the driveway. I can't keep his hat on though he keeps throwing it off. I wish I had some pictures to post but the lap top is out of commission and I haven't been taking as many lately I need to be better.

2009-03-27T14:41:00.000-07:00

My little Hannah isn't so little anymore. Here are her new pictures we had taken for her 5th birthday! I still can't believe it :)

Happy Spring

2009-03-18T15:18:00.000-07:00

WOW I can't believe it's March already how the time has flown by since I last posted. Hannah is now 5 and growing so fast, I just can't believe it. I am a year closer to 35 and so not looking forward to that, oh well life goes on.....right??? I love this time of year the flowers, grass and trees are coming alive again the air smells good. So many beautiful things happening. Julia and Maia are doing great in school, they love their teachers and their many friends, always wanting to go play. We have started next years registation for Hannah to start Kindergarten. It just blows my mind. She had such a great birthday. Thank you to all her friends and family who helped us celebrate our special days!! Jeremy is busy writting his 4th book, and just sent off this 3rd to the publisher....I am so very proud of him, he is so talented and amazing. You can check out his books at amazon.com; just do a search by name and it will pull them up. "A Day In The Life Of A Fool", and "The Rise And Fall Of Eric Hamilton" both are very good reads I highly recomment them. We hope all of you are doing well and for those who we haven't seen lately I hope we get to. Take care, The Gates Family

Happy 1st Birthday Jonathan!

2009-02-15T16:00:00.000-08:00

What a fun party we had for Jonathan. It was snow man themed, we pinned the face on a snowman and had a great time watching him devour his cake. Thank you to all of you for the great gifts and helping us to make his 1st birthday special!

Happy 2009!!

2009-01-08T16:22:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to you All. We wish you a happy and prosperous one! It can only get better right. Things here are changing my baby is ONE! I can't believe how fast this last year went. Jonathan is a joy to be around he keeps us all laughing. He is getting closer to walking on his own, he is getting more daring with his steps. Something else that is new; I got a job, with the United States Postal Service, I will work in the Encoding Center here in Salt Lake. Very excited and scary all at the same time. Our lap top is not working right now so I have no new pictures to post but hopefully we will be able to get it up and going soon.

The many faces of our addorable Jonathan at one years old!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-05T16:38:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone's Thanksgiving was good. We had lots of fun visiting with family, eating yummy food and playing Scum! We will have to continue our game at Christmas time. We are getting our home ready with decorations, the Girls have been helpful with getting them up and Jonathan has been helpful with taking them back down again. :) He is getting so big. He has been pulling himself up to the standing and walking along the couches. He is a good boy very mellow, which is a nice change to the Girls. He has been lots of fun. He looks a lot like my dad. Strawberry blonde hair, bright blue eyes and my dads nose. At least I know he will be a handsome! That's for you dad.

Twilight- The Movie

2008-12-02T14:20:00.000-08:00

I am a sucker for movies like this. I loved the books and really loved the movie. I like seeing the characters come to life. It was very well done. Brovo!! I'm ready for the next one. It's going to be too long.

2008-11-20T13:07:00.000-08:00

Maia in her ghost costume. We thought it was pretty funny to put her glasses on the outside of her costume. She loved it.Jeremy and I love to dress up too. Here we are as the "Crow" and a black angel. Just for one night it fun to be bad! Heidi and I took the kids trick or treating at Grandma's new home. She thought it was so fun. We had a great time.

2008-11-20T12:34:00.000-08:00

Well our Halloween was a blast. We had a great party thanks to all our friends and family. We all went trick or treating in our costumes and got more candy than we can eat but we had a great time. We also had a great evening of raising money for the Salt Lake Valley Habitat for Humanity. With lots of friends and family fun music, face painting and food. There were lots of raffle items to be won. Julia placed a bid on one of the fun gift baskets in the auction and was so excited when she won it. She also won a fun movie basket in the raffle. Thanks to all our family and friends who helped make it a success and we look forward to doing it again next year.
Now it's almost Thanksgiving I can't believe how fast this year is going. Before we know it Jonathan is going to be a year and than the next thing you know he'll be leaving on his mission. I am not ready for that by any means but love looking back over our year and reminiscing about the fun things we have done together. We as a family have so much to be Thankful for. It makes prayer time awfully long but it can't go unnoticed, we are truly blessed.
I am almost finished with my Christmas shopping I can't believe it, but the second I get a few dollars I'm off to the store so it doesn't get spent someplace else. I am really looking forward to Christmas, I love this time of year and hope that I can make it fun and memorable for my kids. I want to focus our Christmas more on Christ this year and hope to incorporate a few things to add to our family traditions. I want my kids to get the true meaning of why we celebrate and that it's not all about presents. They are still pretty young though so I'm not expecting too much. Julia asked me the other day if I believe in Santa and I was able to tell her "absolutely" I love it all I love that feeling when you wake up Christmas morning and the look of excitement on the kids faces. I do believe in "Santa" and the magic he brings.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all.

Happy Halloween!!

2008-10-17T07:13:00.000-07:00

Hello All! What a busy month we are having. October is always a busy time of year in our home. Halloween is almost here and I still haven't finished decorating our haunted mansion. Hannah has strep throat and I've had a head cold for the last few days and haven't felt like doing a whole lot. But this weekend is Julia's birthday party with our family and I have a cake to make, decorations to put up and many other things to finish. Jonathan is now crawling and pulling himself up onto things. He is so cute and I can't believe how fast he is growing. All of your kids are growing too fast, how do we make time go slower. They are all getting to be and wanting to be more independant, which is nice but also bitter sweet.
I have to figure out how to make some Halloween costumes, Julia wants to be clopatra, and Maia wants to be a ghost which will be the easiest of the two. She likes the Charlie Brown ghost with the sheet and two holes cut out. Jeremy and I are trying to talk her into being the "pigpen" ghost with all the holes cut all over it. We thought it would be funny but maybe not every one would know what she was trying to be. What ever they decide to be it will be fun for them, Jeremy and I love Halloween and try to make it fun for them.
Our Habitat for Humanity fundraiser is fast approching and I still haven't sent out the info I promised. It will be in your mailboxes soon. We hope you can come help us raise $25,000 for a great cause. Saturday November 1st 5-8 p.m. raffels, auctions, face painting, food, live music and much more. We hope to see you there.

2008-09-23T10:39:00.000-07:00

Julia and Maia on their first day of school. It was a beautiful bright day.

Fall Is In The Air!

2008-09-23T10:06:00.001-07:00

It's that time again, can you smell it in the air? It's when our lives become that much crazier with the Holidays approaching. At our house Halloween is a big holiday. It's a favorite to all of us. I'm already planing costumes and parties. I have recently taken on a few new jobs. I am watching my friends daughter once a week. She is so cute and the same age as Jonathan. They are doing a good job to play well together. Hannah is a great helper. I have been trying to help Jeremy with his fundraiser he is puting together for Habitat for Humanity. It will be November 1st in our backyard with food, music, a band, dancing, face painting and other fun things for the family. We will be selling tickets for those of you who would like to come and donate some much needed money for a great cause. Will will also be auctioning off some great gifts. If you are unable to come party with us you are still more than welcome to donate what you can. I will get more info out soon.
Julia and Maia have been in school now for a month. They are having a great time learning and playing.
Hannah is having a playdate for all her neighborhood friends starting Wednesday September 24th from 10:00-11:30 a.m. for kids and their mommy to come play and mingle! They will meet again on Oct 8th for the next play date.
We have had lots of fun this summer. Our most recent family outing was to Ogdens Dinosaur park. The Girls thought they were so cool. Maia's favorite was the pterodactyls and the volcanos. There was a great park to play at, lots of grassy areas to have a picnic. We recommend it to families if you haven't been it's worth the trip.

Friendship

2008-08-25T16:33:00.000-07:00

I just have to tell all my great friends thank you for all your great words of kindness through blogs, text messages or what ever the form of kindness has come. I love being your friend and hope I will always be there for you when you need me. I feel so lucky to have the friends I do. Not only do I enjoy spending time on the phone with you or shopping (not so much lately) stamping, hanging out with our kids, movies, hours of laughing, but you help me to stay sane in my crazy world. You help to make me feel more like Heather and not just mom, housekeeper, chef, taxi driver, maid....etc. Thank you for making me feel important and needed. I wish I could see you all more often but I cherish the time we do get to have together. I have never been that great with words, my thoughts all running together making it hard for me to get my point across. If I have rambled and haven't connected my thoughts correctly please just know that I am very glad that YOU are my friend. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!! Your Friend, Heather

August

2008-08-13T15:02:00.000-07:00

The return to school countdown has started! 5 days to go. We are all excited for our own reasons. It's been a long break. We have done lots of fun things during the summer. We went to St. George a few times, and to the park a lot. The "Girls" have done a lot of jumping on the trampoling with the sprinkler. Playing with friends has stopped because they are some of the few that aren't at school. Now I just hope I can keep Hannah busy enough. I hope to start some school time of her own, she has one more school year before she starts kindergarten.

Firsts!

2008-08-05T15:21:00.000-07:00

Well Jonathan is going through some "firsts" and I don't think he is enjoying most of it very much. He is trying juice for the first time and he's liking that, he's trying carrots for the first time, he's a little unsure about them. He is cutting teeth for the first time, his bottom tooth is popping through, but not enjoying that too much. He has learned how to dance (bouncing up and down) and clapping his hands is a first too. He likes to clap his hands and giggle at me when I am singing and dancing in the kitchen when I cook.
Julia and Maia are getting ready to go back to school. It has been a long summer. I think they are ready to get their brains going again. Julia will be in a 3rd/4th grade split class this year. Maia will be in 2nd grade. They are both doing very well; they are in the top of their classes for reading. We have some smarties! I'm very proud of them. Hannah wished she was going to school this year. She keeps reminding me that when she goes to kindergarten that I'm going to cry, and the sad thing is she's probably right. I wouldn't say cry but I will definitely get chocked up. She knows her ABC's and is starting to recognize quite a few of them. She knows how to write her name as well. I hope she follows in her sisters foot steps in school. She is really starting to enjoy primary or "kid sacrament" as her friend Megan calls it. And loves her new teachers. She even walks from sacrament to the primary room by herself. She is growing up so fast I'm not sure I'm ready for that. They all grow up too fast.

What a fun show. Two thumbs up....

2008-07-31T10:20:00.001-07:00

New Things!

2008-07-19T12:20:00.000-07:00

Jonathan has had a busy month of trying new things. He is sitting in a high chair now and liking being a part of the family a little more at dinner time.

He is also eating new foods like; biter biscuits which he loves. He makes a big mess but he cries if I take them away from him, sweet potatoes, and oatmeal and bananas. He doesn't like those yucky bananas very much.

He is also sitting up by himself he really likes that too. Here he is with cousin Brielle. They are getting to be good friends.

Happy News!

2008-07-12T18:29:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to congratulate Mike and Kimmy. Their engaged!!! I am so excited for them and wish them every happiness. Welcome to the family Kimmy.

Is It Hot Or What

2008-07-09T09:45:00.000-07:00

The Girls got their faces painted while we were at Hogle Zoo.

They really liked the big elephant that sprays you with water. It helped keep them cool.

We are having a great summer. We've gone to the Zoo and we made another trip to St. George, that was lots of fun. And boy was it hot. Jonathan went for his first swim while there. He liked it after he got over the shock of the cool water. We went for a hike and saw some awesome Indian writings of the rocks, we also went to wild life museum. We love spending time with Grandma and Grandpa.

It's June Already!

2008-06-02T10:50:00.000-07:00

Hannah and Megan May 20th

Hannah and her friend Megan made a hut/tent at the top of our stairs and played there for hours. They have a great time together.

Julia, Maia and Hannah in Grandma's tub. What fun!

Kite flying in St. George

Well it's been a little while since I've updated so I thought I would take a minute to do so. We had a great time in St. George, we flew kits, visited with my parents, watched the Girls try to catch some giant lizards. It was a very relaxing trip. It made us want to move back some time.

Yard Help

2008-05-15T09:05:00.000-07:00

It looks like a picnic but it's not.
Maia was a great helper with getting the weeds to the dumpsters
They got so full we had to smash them down
Even Hannah helped
These are some monster weeds.

Wow has our yard needed some help. Ever since the paving slurry truck tipped black tar all over our yard it just hasn't looked the same. But Saturday we had lots of help weeding the dandilions. We filled both of our garbage cans full of dandilions. Thanks to all of you who came to help. It really does look better.

I wish I was a cowboy!

2008-05-15T08:40:00.000-07:00

Brielle and Jonathan all squished in her bouncer.
Just 2 months apart but already good friends
Jonathan loves his new horsey!
Jump, Jump, Jump

Good morning. I took the cutest pictures of Jonathan yesterday in his new horsey jumper. He loved it. Julia and Maia couldn't get enough of him in it. They thought he was so funny. Julia was so excited for today to come. Her class is going on a field trip to the Sweets Candy factory. I think she was the first on ready for school this morning with her lunch made and everything. I love that she is so excited for school. Both her and Maia are in the Advanced Reading group in their classes. And doing very well with it. They only have a few weeks left of the school year.

2008-05-14T12:58:00.000-07:00

Ok well I think I am starting to get this figured out. I hope you all had a nice mothers day, I did. I have very thoughtful children. Hannah asked if I was having a nice day, I said I was and she said "we did it because we love you". How cute is she! Have a great day, until next time.

A First Time For Everything!!

2008-05-12T17:41:00.000-07:00

Hello all of you who may be visiting our family page. I hope I can get this all figured out and have a great time updating you with all the fun we have as a family. This last year has been full of lots of changes for us. With moves from St. George to the "Big City" again, to new jobs, another new job, and finally the leap that Jeremy has been waiting for what seems to be a life time for his own business; Salt City Home Designs. He is working really hard to make it a great success. I know he will succeed at what ever he puts his mind too. He is having a great time spending more time with the "Girls" and with our new little man. He is a wonderful daddy to all. It's been an adjustment for all of us to have him home but also a great blessing. We know Heavenly Father is watching over us and pray that all will work out for the best. I hope to update this often so keep checking back with us. Love to you all!