Charityn'kids

Brighton is 14!!!

2012-01-30T23:39:00.001-07:00

So again I am late posting a birthday. I am really sucking at this.

Brighton H. Gunderbuns is 14 and I can not believe it. It is hard to imagine that I have been a mother for 14 years. I still feel 21 most of the time. Ok enough about me.....On to the girl who rules our home.

Brighton rocks! Seriously she is a great kid and a joy to be around. Most of the time. She has her teenage moments. I have wanted to beat a few kids this year, mainly large teenage boys who like and then don't like my beautiful daughter. If this is just the beginning of teenage love I think I will quit now. Not fun for Mom. But Brighton is having fun. She has a ton of cute friends and lots of cute boy friends too. They spend most weekends at the movies and we Moms get to play chauffeur. Brighton is as always an awesome big sister. It kills me to know (from personal experience) that the kids wont remember much of her living here. She is so good to them. Boston snuggled with her today for over an hour while they watched a movie. It was so sweet I told her to forget her chores for now and just enjoy the moment. I certainly did. Avery loves when B wants to paint her nails or put make up on her. They have a blast being girlie. Lincoln follows her around in the kitchen and tortures her while she unloads the dishwasher everyday. It is maddening for her but a little fun for me to watch. I can see what a great mother she will be about 15 years from now. I love to hang out with B anytime we can sneak away. We can usually find an excuse to get out and get to the mall. Shopping with B is not very fun, she is still very picky but it is the only alone time we get so I will take it.
Brighton's favorites right now....I am guessing on a few of these. I am sure tomorrow she will correct me.
Color: Grey
Food: Hot wings with lots of Blue cheese dressing
Candy/Treat: Amy's bunny mix she is a salty girl
Book: Hunger games??
Animal: Tiger??
Movie: The Scarlet Pimpernel
Sport: Basketball, tha'ts what all the cute boys play
Holiday: Halloween
Special Talents: Looking cute :)
Hobbies: texting, texting, texting
I love ya so much Brighton! You are a wonderful young woman and I am so proud of you!

Boston is 5

2012-01-04T17:12:00.002-07:00

I am a few weeks late due to some computer issues, but BOSTON turned 5! I can't believe my baby boy is 5. I feel like he was turning 1 five minutes ago. But alas he is growing like a weed. Boston is the sweetest kid I know. He is always very concerned about his siblings and wants everyone to be happy. Especially Avery. I am so happy to say they are still the best of friends and it melts my heart everyday how kind and nice they are to each other. Boston is still obsessed with Dinosaurs. And I thought it was a phase. Boy was I wrong. He will happily tell you all there is to know about them and wants to watch every dino documentary he can find on Netflix. He also will tell you that he wants to be a paleontologist when he grows up and knows just what that job is and cant wait to do it. Boston loves school and is learning a lot very quickly. He loves to write his name and any other word he can see. He also likes to write letters in the air as he sees them. Boston is always asking questions about words and numbers. The math he is doing at preschool is not challenging enough for him so we have been working on it at home and he is so smart and so eager to do more. Right now we are working on addition and he is doing great. It is so fun to be able to teach him.
Here are a few of Boston's favorites:
Color: Blue
Food: Meat of any kind
Candy/Treat: Chocolate
Book: Dinosaur Facts
Animal: Tyrannosaurus
Movie: Land Before Time
Sport: Football
Holiday: Christmas
Special Talents: Dino impersonations
Hobbies: Lining up all of his Dinosaurs and creating "set ups" of them.
Boston is such a great kid we are so blessed to have him in our home. I love ya little man!!

Best Buddies!

Happy Birthday Dean!!!

2011-12-06T14:38:00.000-07:00

Today is Dean's 34th birthday! I can't believe he is sooo old. Ha ha ha ha. It's just means we are both getting old. Dean is the most fabulous husband in the entire world. He works 2 jobs, at least 60-70 hours per week so I can stay home and raise our children. His hard work is paying off, our kids are happy, healthy, smart, and a blast to be around. Way to go DAD!
The other passion in Dean's life right now is his blog. brassmonkeyshow.com I may cringe at times and remind him that our mothers are reading it. But I admire that he puts up what he wants and has little thought for who may or may not like it. It is his and I am proud of him for all of the fun/crazy/beautiful things he writes. Dean is so talented. I love that the world finally gets to be in on what I already knew.

I never believed in Soul Mates until I met Dean. From the moment we met I knew something amazing was about to happen. I know now that during the years of waiting and wanting a partner, Heavenly Father had been preparing Dean and I to meet. When we met we were both ready to be together and continue this journey together. A dear friend of mine recently told me that I was the happiest married person she knew. I attribute that to Dean. He is the most wonderful, kind, sweet, loving, putting up with my PMS, pregnancies, baby blues, and "issues" kind of fantastic hunk of hot man I know! I am privileged to be his wife. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the man of my dreams, then and now!!
Love ya babe!

2011-10-29T15:35:00.001-06:00

Disneyland was AWESOME!!!

We had so much fun and it was worth all the saving and waiting. We decided to leave Lincoln home with Grandma Ross and I wasn't thrilled with the idea. But it was a great idea. It was so nice to be able to do whatever we wanted and not worry about naps or a grumpy baby. We drove to Cali and it was a nice pleasent drive. We drove all night to get there and it was hard on the parents but great for the kids. The first day (Tuesday) was spent sleeping and hanging out at the pool. Wednesday Deans parents flew in and the Disneyland fun started. We went 4 days in a row. A lot I know but we still didn't get it all done. Boston loved the Jedi training experience and the Matterhorn. He was so serious when he was picked to fight Vader it was awesome! Avery and I waited 2 hours to see the princesses and Rapunzel. She was in heaven and happy to wait. Avery loved the teacups and made us ride them a few times. I do not love the teacups. Brighton was happy to have Erin (Dean's sister) there to go on rides with. They left us a few times and had fun. Brighton loved Indiana Jones and Space Mountain. Dean loved Toy Story and Buzz Light year. He was thrilled to have the highest scores. Of course he took Boston on Star tours a few times. I was just loving it all. The kids got a long great, my in laws are awesome, we enjoyed every little moment. I cant wait to go back in a few years and take Lincoln. The kids will be older and able to go on more rides and it will all be new again. Here are a few pics. :)

The Little Blue House Preschool

2011-09-21T23:18:00.001-06:00

Oh say it isn't so! Boston has left me and gone to preschool. We found a cute school taught by a girl Dean went to high school with and Boston is loving it. I however am not loving it. I cried when we took him to register, went school clothes shopping and the first day. His poor teacher assured me he would be ok, and I replied that I knew he would be great. I was the one who didn't know what to do with myself without him. It is such a big step to let your baby go on to school. Now his days will be filled with more than just me and the kids. Teachers, friends, play dates, and even girls will start to take over. I am sad that I wont be his whole world cause for so long he has been my whole world. He loves it though. Every day he jumps in the van and tells me all about school. Avery is so jealous that she tries to get mad and not listen. So life moves on so fast I cant believe it. At least I still have Avery and Lincoln 24/7! ;)

Stinkin' Lincoln is 1!!

2011-09-21T23:06:00.001-06:00

I cant believe it has been a year since our sweet baby boy joined our family. A year ago I was in some pretty gnarly (unmedicated) labor with this kid and he has made every pain I went through totally worth it. Lincoln is the happiest kid in our family. I am asked all the time if he really is happy allll the time and well he is. He is sweet and easy going 24/7. The perfect caboose for our family. Heavenly Father certainly blessed us with his sweet, happy, and loving spirit in our home.
Lincoln loves to grab any remote he can get his hands on right now. He is really fast and knows exactly how to change channels. Which he points it at the TV and tries to do before you can grab it away from him. It is co cute yet so annoying. I can always count on him to give me "love loves" that is when he puts his arms to his side and puts his head on my shoulder. I love it! And tonight I got my first deliberate kiss from him. It was so cute. Anytime a door is open to the outside he is heading for it. He loves to play outside and get away from me as fast as he can. Lincoln has no fear, which makes me nervous. His poor little head is always bruised and bumped. He will run anywhere, roll off of any couch or bed, and is great at falling into things. Just yesterday he fell and split his top lip open so bad it has been swollen for 2 days now. He looks a little like Homer Simpson with the huge top lip. Poor kid, it only slows him down for a second then he is off again. Boston and Avery love to pick him up and try to carry him. This never turns out well and as soon as they come for him, he starts running away and yelling "no, no, no" to them. Boston is the worst at this and i am always telling him to stop it. I know it is because he loves him so much and just wants to squeeze him. Avery is only about 5 lbs heavier than Lincoln so she usually just grabs him by his collar and makes him sit and play with her. He doesn't really like that either. Brighton and Lincoln are both born on the 21st day of a month and share a sweet bond because of that. She loves him so much and he loves her right back. Brighton is so good with him and such a good help to me. Although I think she puts diapers on him terribly so I wont ask her to do it as often. Sound about par for the course with a 13yr old. Lincoln also loves his daddy.. Every morning when Dean comes down to leave for work Lincoln starts waving and runs to the door to give dad a leg squeeze before he leaves. Then he turns around and starts right back with whatever he left doing. Lincoln also waves at everyone he sees. Today we went to the zoo and i am pretty sure his arm got tired form waving at all the kids he saw. Man do I love this kid! He is such an angel. Happy Birthday sweet boy! I love you!!

Hanging in Richfield

2011-08-15T22:20:00.000-06:00

My Mom and her hubby Doyle live in Richfield which is about 2 hours south of Salt Lake. Not to far but we miss her up here with us. Brighton went down for the week and we got to go pick her up. The kids had a ball on our quick trip. We rode the "wheelers" a few times, and got to go to the Sevier County fair. The people watching was epic. The kids dug the Australian animals and the bounce houses. We went to the Ideal Dairy for a cream slush YUMMM! Played at the park with our new cousins (Doyle's grand kids) and even got to go to Steve's Steakhouse for the Steak ends and beets! Thanks for the fun G & G Cutler!

Cascade Springs

2011-08-15T22:08:00.000-06:00

Cascade Springs is up American Fork canyon, and is a lot further away than I remembered. It was a long drive but once we got there the kids had a lot of fun walking along the boardwalks, reading EVERY sign, touching the water and just enjoying the outdoors. All was well until the ride home..when Boston and Avery got car sick and were throwing up one right after another. So been there done that and wont be going again until their little bellies can handle the canyon drive.

Lincoln wasn't happy about having to be in the stroller. Poor little guy.

Splashing around!

2011-08-15T21:55:00.000-06:00

We love a Splash pad! That is where you can find us at least once a week. Lincoln started walking right at the end of July and he has loved being able to "play" with the big kids! Boston was to fast for me to catch with the camera this time! Did I mention how cute my Stinkin' Lincoln is???

Lagoon!

2011-07-27T10:17:00.000-06:00

We took the kids to Lagoon on Stake Lagoon day for a fun filled day and a little dry run for Disneyland.
It was a lot of fun and we got a good idea of what to expect when we make the big trip in September.
We learned to force feed Avery before she gets on any rides, that even if she is a little nervous she will still go on the ride and maybe even like it. We also learned that Boston will go on anything and love it! Oh and to bring lots of water, and money for Nachos!

7.4.11

2011-07-05T10:02:00.000-06:00

Happy Fourth Of July!!!

My Boys

2011-06-24T11:02:00.000-06:00

I swore I would never be "that" Mom, but I couldn't help myself!

Yup matching outfits. I am now that Mom!

The Princess Festival

2011-06-24T10:56:00.000-06:00

Since Avery turned 3 we decided it was time to give up the "Silkie" blanket that goes everywhere she goes. So it was very convenient that the Princess festival takes silkies as an entrance fee. Avery put on her princess best and we headed out to see the lovely ladies. When we got there it was a little emotional for her as she handed over her precious blanket, but that was the fee. Once inside it was magical, the princesses were beautiful and so kind to all of the little girls. Avery was a little shy at first but warmed up as the day went on. She was able to get all of the princesses autographs and lots of pictures with them as well as see a few live performances of her favorite shows. It was a day fit for a Queen!

Summer fun

2011-06-24T10:40:00.000-06:00

Summer is finally here!

The Rodeo

2011-06-24T10:37:00.000-06:00

The Herriman Rodeo is becoming a little tradition for the us, thank you Kristan. We went again this year and it was the first time Dean and the kids had ever been to a rodeo. Crazy huh. It was fun, the kids really enjoyed the mutton bustin'. I liked the bull riding and people watching.

The Zoo

2011-06-24T10:25:00.001-06:00

Been to the Zoo Lately? The new Zoorassic park is pretty amazing! Boston is in dino heaven with the new Dinosaurs at the zoo. We have already been several times and will go a whole lot more I am sure.

Avery is 3!!!

2011-06-24T10:13:00.000-06:00

My Ave-baby is 3, I cant believe it! Last week was crazy. I went to Girls camp for 4 days which was awesome as usual, and came home to Avery's birthday parties. So forgive my late blogging. We were able to get a great deal on a bounce house and Cotton candy machine to celebrate Avery's bday. We had 2 parties one for the kids in the neighborhood and one for our extended family. They were both a lot of fun and the kids were in heaven!
Avery is quite the princess at our house. She can melt your heart with a sweet glance or show you her spunk with another. She is very determined and likes things to go her way. Boston and Avery are still the best of friends and don't really like to be apart. I hope this continues for a long time. Avery is also the best big sister to Lincoln. Whenever he cries she breaks out in "his" song, and she tries her hardest to sing louder than his cries. Which is fun in its self. :)

Happy Birthday Aves!

Tulip Festival

2011-05-04T22:33:00.000-06:00

The Tulips were amazing, the kids are crazy, and it was windy! We had a lot of fun and missed Brighton. She is way to cool to come hang out with us and we miss her.

Thanksgiving Point fun on the farm

2011-05-04T22:26:00.000-06:00

We have a membership to Thanksgiving point and we use the heck out of it. I think we are there at least once a week. This was our first time checking out the baby animals this year. It was a lot of fun, we always love it when Daddy has the day off and he can join us for our adventures!

Easter 2011

2011-05-04T22:16:00.000-06:00

Here we are dying eggs, and searching for the goodies the Easter bunny left us. Then it is off to church. Brighton got a stomach bug and so we never got a family Easter picture. :( Some how we didn't even get a pic of Lincoln in his Easter duds. Oh well such is life at the Johnson house. Happy Easter!

Fun around the house

2011-05-04T22:07:00.001-06:00

The kids are having fun now that Lincoln is mobile. They LOVE to play with him, on him and around him. I spend most of my days trying to keep him alive. But on the bright side he LOVES his brother and sisters. Avery loves to mother him and talk to him like he is her baby. She also like to sing him his song every time he gets upset. It is so cute to here her sing "I love you a bushel and a peck". And it always works to calm him down. Boston likes to scream in his face and roar at him, so that is fun, (not really). That is only when I can get him off of the Ipad. Boston is totally addicted. Brighton is the best at playing Peek a Boo with Lincoln. His face lights up whenever she is around and he just waits staring intently at her till she starts to play it with him. Lincoln is such a joy and the sweetest smiliest baby. He is perfect in every way except for the whole sleeping at night thing. But hey sleep is highly over rated, right?

Girls and Kids night out...

2011-05-04T21:40:00.000-06:00

During General Conference the Priesthood session, we all got together at the Johnson's house to eat a little food and let the kids be crafty. Grandma Johnson is the best at having fun crafty things for the kids to do.
They painted eggs, and made cute little bunnies. It was a lot of fun.

Best Friends

2011-05-04T21:18:00.000-06:00

Avery got her first little black eye. The park is to blame!

Boston and Avery are the best friends. They are so cute and have so much fun together. I love watching them play together and they both have the best imaginations. Here are some pictures of March of the kiddies. And the latest family pic!

Happy 13 Brighton!!

2011-01-22T19:55:00.001-07:00

Well I am a day late and a lot of dollars short...Teens are pricey these days! Happy Birthday to one awesome kid! I can't believe 13 years ago I became a mother. Brighton is one amazing kid! She is super smart, nice, kind and too witty for her own good! I love her so much and am so grateful to her for all she does to help me and the family out. This year she has straight A's, is an SBO, swims a few times a week, and is the Beehive Pres of her class. All of this while texting 24/7. Who knew she would get a phone and I would lose my baby to that drive me crazy beeping alllll day long. I love ya B!!

Happy Birthday to you!!

Happy Birthday Boston!!

2010-12-16T17:33:00.000-07:00

My dinosaur is 4 today!! I can't believe it has been 4 years already. Boston is the craziest, wildest BOY I know. He loves to act like a Dinosaur all day and insists on watching a Dino movie everyday. He is so smart and can tell you about every dinosaur at Thanksgiving Point. I am blown away by all he knows, names carnivore, omnivore, herbivore, and all kinds of information. He and Avery are the best of friends and love to be together. If you separate them for to long they are just not ok until they are back together. I am so happy to spend everyday watching my sweet kids grow and love each other. Boston also loves his Lincabuns (Lincoln) and is always showing him all of his dino toys. He can't wait until he is older and can really play with him. Brighton and Boston love to wrestle and kick each others cans. Boston is too tough and usually it is B who is left crying. I love Boston so much and know that he gives the best kisses in the house. Happy day to my baby boy who is now a big boy!!

First Big Snow!!

2010-11-21T08:41:00.000-07:00

Halloween 2010

2010-10-31T21:11:00.000-06:00

New Kid Pics!!!

2010-10-06T20:28:00.000-06:00

Lincoln Thomas Johnson

2010-09-26T19:28:00.000-06:00

He is here! Lincoln Thomas Johnson was born at 1:04pm on Tuesday September, 21st 2010. He weighed 6lbs 12 ounces and was 18.5 inches long. Our smallest so far. We are so happy to have him here and the kids are loving him every chance they get. Thanks for all of the well wishes and kind deeds done on our behalf!

What a kid will do....for a Dinosaur!

2010-08-30T21:00:00.001-06:00

Boston has been a thumb sucker since birth. And I have been agonizing over how to get him to stop. Honestly I hadn't tried anything because i had heard horror stories form my MIL about getting Dean to stop. My sister Kristan was able to cut up her daughters binkies, and she was doing just fine without them. I joked that I would have to cut off my kids thumbs. That night I told Dean that we needed to try to do something about it. My genius husband told Boston he could have the Dinosaur Train toy he wanted so badly if he stopped sucking his thumb for 7 days. Of course Boston eagerly agreed and I thought ya right this is never going to work. Later that night we put him to bed and about 15 mins later he came in our room with his blankies and said he had to give them up in order to fulfill the deal. Well it has been 8 days and he has done it! No one is more shocked than me. Gave up his blankie and his thumb in one week!!! And all we had to do was get him a toy! Had I known this I would have done this months ago. Now he is asking Avery when she is going to give up her blankie for a princess doll.......she will not be so easy!

Charity's Birthday!!

2010-08-01T20:57:00.010-06:00

Happy Birthday Charity!!

You are the most amazing wife and mother, and you are mine forever!!! We went up Millcreek and had a hotdog, hamburger and S'More dinner, followed by playing in the creek and then eating Charity's LAST pregnant cake (thanks mom!)! Charity is the reason our family rocks and everyone is so polite and happy and loved. I could never have dreamed of a more perfect woman, mother or wife. And she still looks hot even/especially when she's pregnant (for the last time)!!

Love you babe!

Also, Avery's version of Happy Birthday is the bomb.

July pics!

2010-07-24T12:50:00.005-06:00

Here are some random pics from our latest adventures

Happy Birthday Avery!

2010-06-18T14:31:00.003-06:00

2 years old! I can't believe it. Avery is the sweetest, girliest girl ever. She is so cute and loves anything pink. Avery also loves her babies and is so excited for her baby brother to be here. Yes she is finally ok with having a brother, she says that she has a baby sister in her belly so the boy in mine is ok now. Boston and Avery are the best of friends and I am so glad we had them so close together. They love to play together and also love to bug each other. Well Aves does more of the teasing than Boston.
Avery is so smart she amazes us everyday she can count to 10, has been potty trained for a few weeks, and loves to sing songs. She also can have a full conversation with anyone she feels comfortable with. She is our little genius. We love her so much and are so blessed to have her in our family! Happy Happy day to you Avery Rae!!

Memorial Weekend

2010-06-09T22:17:00.004-06:00

Memorial Weekend I took the kids to a family Reunion in Richfield. We had a lot of fun and Brighton helped out so much. Dean had to work and was missed by all especially me. 3 kids pregnant and a road trip is tough without dad. It was fun to see my family and take the kids on a mini vacation. Here are the highlights...

My dad's headstone with the kids

Avery loves her Grandma Ross

Getting candy and money in the sawdust

Silly kids

Lovin Breakfast at JB's
Avery carsick, she was prepared about 60 seconds later she puked.

Avery is a big girl!

2010-06-02T14:26:00.004-06:00

Potty Training day 2 down and no accidents. Avery is officially a big girl! No more diapers for 4 months! I and our bank account will be enjoying the short break!

2010-05-24T22:57:00.004-06:00

Boston and Avery went to the Primary Safety activity and with Brighton's help had fun learning about Stranger Danger and had a bike parade. Boston just got his first bike and is still trying to get the hang of it. Thankfully Brighton came to the rescue and helped him out. Avery got nervous and decided to sit this one out. It was a fun activity!

Brighton graduated from the DARE program at school. They had a graduation ceremony and she got to go the the DARE Lagoon day with her friends. We are so proud of her!! She had a ton of fun at Lagoon, which she deserved. She is always helping and it was nice to be able to reward her efforts with a fun day with her friends.

Oh and this is a typical morning at our house...oatmeal and lego guns for breakfast....

2010-05-24T22:43:00.004-06:00

So....we have been busy being, sick..yes everyone except Boston has had the stomach flu. It started with Avery last week and has slowly gotten us all. (April I hope it didn't get you guys!) Somehow the preg-o mama got it the worst. NO FAIR! But I am better and ready to talk of better things.

We have been loving our membership to Thanksgiving Point. We have been to the gardens and the museum almost once a week lately. It has been fun to get out to the Gardens on the sunny days and to the Museum on the not so sunny days. Boston could look at Dinosaurs all day every day so he is in heaven. I can't wait for B to get outta school and come join us. Although I am not sure she is as excited to hang with Mom and the babies. Friends are starting to take over. Oh well I will take what I can get. Here are some pics of our adventures.

It's a . . . . . . . . !!!!!!!!!

2010-05-06T19:33:00.002-06:00

Finally a post!!!

2010-04-24T16:23:00.000-06:00

So the best excuse I have for not blogging is this lovely pregnancy. Since my last post February 1st I believe, I have been sick as a dog. I have tried every prescription, they all work great on the pukeyness but the side affects have been TERRIBLE. So up until this last week it has been hellish. My poor family has been very neglected (I am surprised my children are still alive). But at week 17 I am finally feeling much better. Enough complaining.... Here is what we have been up to.

After a year of being out of work Dean got a job as a store manager for Oreck Vacuums. He is learning the ropes and doing great. What a relief it has been. Boston and Avery have had a hard time adjusting to dad not being here every day. Especially Avery who constantly tells me that she needs her dad. It is so sad, but fun to see how thrilled she is when he does get home.

Brighton is doing amazing in 6th grade, still getting straight A's and we now have to ground her from her books. All she wants to do is read. She is in YW's with me and is having a blast, except for when she thinks I am embarrassing. I think I am fun, but she thinks I am nuts. I guess that's how it goes when you are 12. We both can't wait for Girls camp in June. And as always she is the best help to me with her brother and sister. Boston loves to tease her but she is kind and puts up with almost anything, except her room....that's off limits to any one under the age of 4.

Boston is doing great, he is in Sunbeams now and driving his poor teacher crazy. He tries, but sitting still is just not his thing. He is too smart for his own good and loves to talk about Dinosaurs. He knows the names of a lot of them and loves to tell anyone who will listen all about them. He is a good brother and is always looking out for Aves (as he calls her).

Avery is to cute and is as girlie as they come. She loves her babies and anything pink. She is also too smart and can carry on a conversation with anyone she feels comfortable with. If she doesn't know ya she is still pretty shy. She loves to ask why and at 22 mos needs as much info as you will give her about everything. She loves to sing and can sing all of the words to Twinkle Twinkle, Jesus wants me for a sunbeam, and a host of others. I am constantly amazed at how smart she is.

Today we went to Thanksgiving Point and saw the baby animals. Boston loved them and Avery was a little afraid. It was a blast here are a few pics.

Timmy and Talen came too.....so cute in the little cow!

We're Expecting something fun!

2010-02-09T23:18:00.001-07:00

Come September our little family will have a new addition! We are very excited and can't wait!

Happy Birthday Brighton!!!

2010-01-22T21:27:00.001-07:00

WOW!! My baby girl is 12. I can't believe it! She is the most amazing young woman, I am so blessed to have her in my life. 12 years ago tonight, I remember sitting alone with B in my hospital room. Looking at my tiny (5 lbs) little girl I knew that we would be doing this on our own and that I could take care of her by myself. 6 weeks later we were on our own. With the help and support of some awesome people I raised her alone till she was 8. We had so many special times just the two of us. Driving to San Diego, sitting at the Sushi bar at Mizumi 2x a week, swimming everyday every summer, soccer, many apartments, Cricket, sleeping with me whenever she could, and taking care of each other. Brighton made me the woman I am today and I am so proud. Brighton is kind, loving, wickedly funny, smart, witty, a little shy, independent, and a fabulous example to me and her brother and sister. They worship her and she is so kind and sweet to them. Happy Birthday B!!! We love you so much.

Christmas....

2010-01-07T21:59:00.001-07:00

Christmas was so wonderful this year. Even without a job we were sooo blessed!

BOSTON is 3!!!!!

2009-12-15T22:31:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to the sweetest little man! Boston is such joy to our family. He is always looking out for his little sister and can't wait to go to school with his big sister ("Cause she needs me to Mom"). Today he got a card for his birthday in the mail and when he opened it some money fell out on to his lap. The look of pure glee come over his cute face and he said so excitedly "I want to put this in our vacation fund!". He can't wait for all of us to go to Disneyland and the beach. He is so kind and always wants to take care of everyone else first. We love him so much and are so blessed to have him in our family! Happy Birthday Bos-Man!!!

Kids....

2009-11-17T22:54:00.000-07:00

Life is crazy! So here are a few pics of the kids to prove they are still alive.....they are. We are just BUSY!!! But I will return to my blog.....as soon as I have time....Anyone know where I can get some of that?????

Happy Halloween!!!

2009-10-30T12:32:00.001-06:00

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Star Wars In Concert!!!!

2009-10-25T17:37:00.001-06:00

For Dean's early birthday present we went to Star Wars In Concert last week. Anthony Daniels, who plays C3-PO, was the host and intro'd every piece of music. He really was delightful, and very entertaining. The symphony and choir were amazing. There were explosions on the front row and when the fire balls would erupt, you would feel the heat before you saw it. And the movie screen that they played clips on was impressive and massive.

The greatest thing there was seeing all of the little kids running around dressed up, and kinda sad seeing all the adults running around dressed up. All in all a great night with awesome music. Posted by Dean

These are some of the pics of the props from the movies:

Our Special day!

2009-10-11T21:02:00.000-06:00

Friday and SATURDAY were awesome! It was a neat experience and emotionally exhausting. But it is official we are an eternal family. Here are a few pics from our day!

Out of the mouth of Babies???

2009-10-05T11:55:00.000-06:00

Dean: "Boston, where do babies come from?"
Boston: "Jesus Christ puts them in Mommy's belly and then they grow big, then they come out and say thank you. DUH!!"

No we are not announcing anything, just funny

It's official!

2009-09-01T13:40:00.005-06:00

Dean and I got our Temple recommends to receive our endowments and to be sealed with our kids!! YEAH!!!!! We will be going to the Temple in October!!!!

Leland Taft Teeples

2009-08-26T09:44:00.003-06:00

My sweet Grandpa passed away last night after a long battle with health problems. He was a great man and will be so missed by our family. I am so thankful to know he is with our Heavenly Father and so many relatives.

The Potty Train

2009-08-09T21:42:00.008-06:00

Grandma and Grandpa Johnson took Boston on the "Heber Creeper" on Saturday as his reward for being Potty Trained. We have been talking to him about it since December (when he was potty trained) and were able to go this past weekend. Boston and Avery were in heaven!! It was nice and chilly just the way Grandpa Johnson likes it. The kids loved it, they were laughing and singing the entire train ride. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for a wonderful day!!!

New pics of my babies!!

2009-07-31T19:38:00.003-06:00

FACEBOOK????

2009-07-26T20:55:00.002-06:00

Ok so I need some advice...to Facebook or not to Facebook. I have been lurking around on it with my sisters login (tx Candi-pants). And while I do see the point of connecting with friends and family, what do you do after you have connected? Chat back and forth on what to me seems like an open email for the world to see? Or do you just snoop into peoples lives? I kinda feel it is a little snoopy. Do I really need to know what my old friend from Junior high had for dinner? Or what Aunt Joan scored on some random quiz? Then again I do see the pluses, I would like to see who has kids now, who married who and there are some people I would love to find on FB and go out to lunch with. I am stumped.
I like my blog cause in my humble opinion it's a fun nice way to brag about your kids or just let friends and family know whats going on in your world in your own terms. So I am asking for your opinions my fellow friends in the blogging world.....to Facebook or not to Facebook???

"Mommy, Avie needs boobs!"

2009-07-23T23:03:00.004-06:00

The 4th

2009-07-08T22:54:00.003-06:00

Well we did the carnival, parade, family pics, swimming, a BBQ and Fireworks!! Crazy but oh so fun!

Girls Camp

2009-07-08T22:25:00.001-06:00

Well I survived Girls camp and it was AWESOME!!!

Girls Camp Hike

2009-06-20T16:09:00.004-06:00

River 1st Girls rule! We went on our hike for girls camp this last Wednesday...and I had to post the pics because the girls in our ward ROCK we were poured on and muddy but we still had a blast!!! Thanks for making it so much fun ladies!!! Brianna, Eve, Bailey and Aysia!

Happy Birthday AVERY!!!

2009-06-18T22:23:00.002-06:00

Avery Baby is officially 1 today!!

More Summer Fun

2009-06-09T22:03:00.007-06:00

The Herriman PRCA rodeo, me and my brother being obnoxious, (sorry Kristan & John) Love ya Timmy!

Brighton at Heartlands Dance Festival and as Teddy Roosevelt

Teeples Family Reunion

This is The place....We love it!!!

Brighton's School Video Project

2009-06-07T23:55:00.005-06:00

This is Brighton's school video project. We had no idea we had a scientist AND a news anchor living with us. Way to go B!!!

3 years, 3 kids & Taylor Swift?

2009-05-26T13:46:00.004-06:00

Yesterday was our Anniversary! Yeah 3 years, I cant believe how fast time has gone by. Yesterday we went to a BBQ at my in laws, the kids had a blast. They played with squirt guns and a slip and slide. Need I say more. Dean and I went to Benihana's for dinner (my favorite). Dinner was wonderful as usual and it was very nice and quite. Until we were finishing up and suddenly the mostly empty restaurant filled up with some pretty stylish looking people. Dean and I commented on how they must be way cooler than we were, when suddenly I saw Taylor Swift look right at me as she walked up the stairs and past our table to the back of the restaurant. The teenager in me got silly with excitement. I quickly got on my cell and called Brighton who BTW thought I was joking. Nope there she was cute as ever in the flesh with her huge entourage. Part of me wished I could be a rude fan, interrupt her dinner and run over to get an autograph for B. But the adult in me and my husband (who thought I was out of my mind) told me no way. I finished my dinner (stared a little) and we left. Pretty exciting day all in all!

Baby Avery

2009-05-20T15:17:00.003-06:00

Our sweet quiet little Angel.....has turned in to a Sassy loud little girl. Out of no where Avery screams when she doesn't get her way, wont let anyone but Mom hold her, and has a little attitude. So if you see her walking alone at church, ...look a few feet behind her, that's as close as she will let us be.

Fun in the Sun

2009-04-22T21:22:00.004-06:00

Sooooo....Dean was laid off last week, and after the shock and dismay we decided to have some fun in the sun.

Seriously.....keep us in your prayers and if you hear of any great jobs, let us know!

Easter

2009-04-13T15:09:00.003-06:00

Easter was great except.....My Brighton went with her dad to St. George and we missed her terribly! She came home sun burned and exhausted, I guess she had a lot of fun. So here are the pics of the little kids minus the big sis.

Ever feel like this????

2009-04-13T15:02:00.008-06:00

I just got called to be the 2nd Counselor in the Young Woman's Presidency, and although I am very excited..I also feel like this...

Wish me luck!

Mom it Forward

2009-04-01T14:16:00.010-06:00

Brighton and I did a service project at the Christmas Box House last Saturday that was really fun, and was a great experience! I have recently joined a group called Mom it Forward. They are a great group of mom's dedicated to improving the lives of others. I really wanted to do something to give back and this group has some great ideas, and projects. At the Christmas Box house we decorated a tree with spring Ornaments. When children enter the Christmas Box House, the first thing they see is a large Christmas tree surrounded by teddy bears and all kinds of stuff animals. Decorated each month by a different organization and based on a theme fitting the month, the Christmas tree is a welcome surprise for these children. The gift for them? A safe place to live and a brand new stuffed animal to keep them company during their stay! Marie from Make and Takes partnered with Mom It Forward to decorate the April tree. It was a great experience to have with Brighton and way to give back to our community. Thanks Jyl and Marie for making it happen. If you are interested check out their website.

Avery's Walking!!!!!!

2009-03-23T21:55:00.002-06:00

She did it! Avery walked 7 steps to her mommy today!!!! Yeah Aves!!!!

Happy St. Patricks Day!!

2009-03-17T10:49:00.001-06:00

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Boondocks!!

2009-03-16T18:40:00.005-06:00

Yup thats me!

Charity = 1 in a 1,000,000

2009-02-27T09:46:00.002-07:00

According to the U.S. Census Bureau (http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/49/49035.html) I can prove that my wife is 1 in a 1,000,000.

There are 2,550,063 people living in Utah as of 2006. 1,000,000 people living in Salt Lake County. Out of that 1,000,000, 50% are women, so the number drops to 500,000.

40% of the remaining 500,000 are under 18 years old. So that leaves us with 300,000.

Of the remaining 300,000 women, 35% are over 40 years old.

Of the remaining 195,000 women, 10% are foreign, 15% are disabled, and 15% aren’t High School graduates.

Of the remaining 117,000 women, (http://www.sltrib.com/ci_2886596) 41% of them are LDS.

Out of the remaining 69,030 women, 50% live in Salt Lake County.

Of the remaining 34,515 women, and this is all me here, 1 in 5 are attractive to me, based on my obvious high standard of what a woman should look like:)

That narrows it down to 6,900 women left. Of those women I had to find a woman that was –

Hot
Willing to watch Star Wars, The Matrix and countless other “stupid” movies
Put up with my . . . opinions
Thought bald was sexy
Was willing to arrange their living room to accommodate a TON of DVD’s
A great mother
Wanted the LDS lifestyle for our family
Ready to settle down
Hot
Forgiving
Loving
Understood that Star Wars is an acceptable reason to spend money
Was gentle with children
For some reason thought a big belly looked good on a nerd
Willing to help and wait for me to find a “family friendly” job
Hot
Know that 26,000 songs on iTunes is not enough
Understand that you HAVE to catalog and organize EVERYTHING!!
Brilliant
Has her own opinions and beliefs
Holds everyone around her to a higher standard
Hot
Will fight for her beliefs
Wants nothing short of the best for her family
Is a FANTASTIC cook
Made CUTE babies
Is stunningly skinny
Funny
Hot
Let me love her in my own way
Loved me back
And above all . . . Deemed that I passed the Brighton acceptance test

So mathematically, the number of women just dropped into the negative range, proving that once and for all I married above my class and truly have a wife that is 1 in a million.

Love you Charity!!!!
Dean

Brighton Wins Breaststroke At Swim Meet!!

2009-02-21T19:44:00.005-07:00

Here's Brighton swimming like a pro at her latest swim meet. She took third in the back stroke and freestyle, and ROCKED IT in the breast stroke!!! We are so proud of you B!

Trouble

2009-02-17T08:25:00.003-07:00

Avery's favorite toy...really. I about had a heart attack the first time it was half hanging out of her mouth. Now it's an everyday thing.

Chocolate ice cream cone

TROUBLE!!!!

Tag

2009-02-11T13:30:00.005-07:00

Erin tagged me and my kids are both asleep!

I am... a good Mom
I know... so much more than I did 5 years ago
I want... new clothes and to loose those pesky last 10lbs
I have... a beautiful family
I miss... Heather
I hear... Mommy, Mom or Mamma all day long
I smell... my favorite Vanilla lotion
I crave... everything fatty!! I am sick of dieting
I search... quietly behind my sisters profile on Facebook, I should just join
I always... cook dinner
I believe... that I have never been happier
I sing... like a rock star when I'm in the car or with the kids, but whisper when I'm in church
I lose... chapstick, and my keys
I win... being the best wife to Dean, right babe
I never... want anyone but my kids to hug me, ever
I listen... to music every afternoon, no TV aloud till after dinner
I am scared... that something will happen to my family
I need... Clothes that fit
I am happy... when Boston needs me to kiss any and all boo boos

I tag... anyone who is kind enough to read my silly blog.

Last potty post I promise!!

2009-02-10T08:25:00.007-07:00

So it officially took 1 week, some pee on my floor, and for me to give up for Boston to be....drum roll please POTTY TRAINED!!!!! On Monday I had had it with the pee on the floor. I knew he got it but half the time he just looked at me and peed on my floor, aaaggghhh. So I finally got mad, took off the big boy spider man undies and put on his diaper. And that's all it took. Really. He hasn't peed in the diaper once, not during naps or at night. But he wants to wear it, and tell me when he has to go potty. Oh and he doesn't want to use the small potty he only wants to use the regular potty. Only my kid I swear!! Yeah to have only one kid in diapers!!!!

2009-02-05T14:24:00.004-07:00

Potty training day 2..... so far so good! I am starting to accept the naked buns all over my house! If you come to visit I will wipe the tiny butt prints off the couch for you. Dean this pic's for you baby.

The Dentist.....

2009-02-02T22:53:00.003-07:00

Today I had to make appointments for everyone to go to the dentist. Brighton is having some tooth pain and I just love to have my teeth cleaned! (really I LOVE it!) So I decided that I needed to take Boston for his first time. I called the childrens dental office right next to our house and got him an appointment later in the day. So with very little prep, I put the kids in the stroller and walked to the dentist. Yup it is so close we walked. I was a little worried that Boston would be scared but the minute we walked in all my fears were gone. He smiled at the assistant jumped in the chair and opened wide. She asked him how he was and Boston smiled and said "oh I'n awesome", she almost fell out of her chair laughing. He got his teeth cleaned like a champ and has great teeth (despite the thumb sucking) no problems to report. The dentist even asked me how old he was because he couldn't believe he had just turned 2. He acted and talked like he was so much older. Boston got 3 toys outta the dentist because he was so impressed. I am so proud of my baby! As Dean says Boston and I are having a love fest lately I just can't get enough of him!

Brighton is 11!!!!

2009-01-22T09:54:00.005-07:00

Yesterday was Brighton's Birthday and despite everyone being sick (except her) it was a great day. She opened one present before school (a new outfit to wear that day) and many more later that night. We have a rule that you only get "friend" birthday parties on even birthdays and family parties on the odd birthdays. Great rule BTW. So we got together with Dean's family on Saturday and my family last night. Grandma Johnson made B the cake of her dreams, she really wanted a madhatter type cake and Grandma Johnson is the cake wizard!

Brighton is such a great kid! I know sometimes it is hard for her to be surrounded by babies (we have 2 and her dad also has 2). But she is the best big sister, and Boston many times wants to be comforted by her and no one else, and Avery just giggles whenever B holds her. Brighton is such a smart kid she is always thinking of art projects and new things she wants to create. She is also very sweet and always thinks of others and doing what's right. She has really matured over the last year and has had many experiences learning about the different choices people make and how living the gospel is truly the way she wants to live her life. We are so proud of her and the young woman she has become!
Happy birthday B we love you!!!

Brighton's birthday fun

2009-01-08T16:13:00.008-07:00

12 days until my birthday. I can't believe I will be 11 my favorite number. If you have any ideas for a family birthday party or cake please post them in comments. If you would like to get me a present I would like clothes from Hollister or Aeropostale, shoes and an Itunes gift card. I also started school on Monday morning. I woke up on time and everything. I've been wearing my new bumpit in my hair every day. See you soon -brighton :)

Potty hilarity

2009-01-08T13:55:00.004-07:00

So Boston said he wanted to use the potty this morning.....I thought what the heck, took off his diaper and let him run free for a good hour. Suddenly he had to use the potty.... he looked at me with desperation in his eyes and said he had to go. I put him on and waited, waited some more and even gave him a book. Then he jumped up and asked, no begged for his diaper. I said no it's okay just sit down and use the potty. He sat down and again jumped up and begged for a diaper, only this time the poop was on it's way out and landed on my floor....then he proceeded to pee as he was running towards me. So I don't think we are quite ready yet....but it was a moment that I will certainly never forget!!!????
Sorry for the pic...I couldn't resist.

2008-12-31T17:24:00.002-07:00

This girl is mobile!!!

2008-12-29T21:57:00.002-07:00

Christmas was fabulous!! The kids got to many presents and had way to much fun. Brighton got a new bedroom set and clothes, Boston got tons of Star Wars stuff, and Avery got her first purse. I was spoiled this year by my darling hubby with a pair of diamond earrings. He is the best! We also got a much needed freezer from both our parents. Now we can't wait for New Years and staying up all night. Till then!

Avery

2008-12-18T18:40:00.003-07:00

Avery is six months old today!!! She is starting to babble a lot and can roll all over my house. She gets up on her hands and knees and can crawl backwards but not yet forward, she can also sit up from her belly. We love Avery so much she is such a sweet cuddly baby! Happy half birthday Aves!

Happy Birthday BOSTON!!!!

2008-12-16T09:14:00.004-07:00

Today is my sweet boy's birthday!! I can't believe 2 years ago we had our beautiful baby boy. Boston is such a sweet little boy, he is so kind to his family and despite smacking his little sister on occasion he hugs and kisses her at least 10 times a day. Boston is so smart he is already speaking in sentences and loves to repeat every word we say. He is also very polite, he always says thank you and bless you when anyone sneezes.
His favorite things are: STAR WARS, STAR WARS, and STAR WARS, Chocolate anything especially chocolate milk, fishes, Curious George in the morning, noodles for lunch and going to church. He also loves to see his Grandmas and Grandpa, and asks me daily if we are going to see them.
We are so blessed to have such a wonderful sweet boy in our family, who I tell everyday that his Mama loves him the most!!

Avery's present from Daddy

2008-12-09T13:52:00.002-07:00

Dean came home last night with a present for Avery....sponge curlers. How many dads even know what those are! So we put a few in the top and I don't know whats more cute...the curlers in or after?? I think the curlers in!

2008-12-08T22:11:00.004-07:00

This past weekend was busy. Dean turned 31 on Saturday and we had a fun day with the family. First we had breakfast and then I made Dean open his gifts. I was too excited to wait. I took the kids to get their pictures taken in their Halloween (star wars) costumes way back in October, and have been dying to give them to Dean. It was totally worth the wait he was so excited to get them and totally surprised. Yeah me!
Then we took the kids to see Santa and some reindeer. Very fun and to our surprise no one was freaked out by Santa. That night we met up with Dean's family and along with everyone else in Utah, went to see the lights at Temple Square. It was so crowded and busy that it was not very fun. I felt bad for planning something that was such a nightmare. Next time I will try to use my brain a little and realize a nice Saturday night in December is not the time to go to Temple Square. Oh well.
Next up is Boston's Birthday! I can't believe he will be 2, time flies when your having fun!!

We're done!

2008-12-04T16:40:00.004-07:00

So we braved the crowds and shopped our first Black Friday. I have to say it wasn't that crazy, there were some good deals, but the best part is that all of our Christmas shopping is done!!!!! Yup that's right I said DONE!!! I am so glad to have it all over with. Now we can enjoy the next few weeks till the big day.

I have also been getting ready for our December birthdays, Dean's is on the 6th and Boston's is on the 16th. SO this month is a busy one for us.
Here are a few pics of thanksgiving and making Ginger Bread houses at the Johnson's. The Ginger bread houses are such a fun tradition! Brighton made ours this year cause Dean had to work and I had to watch the babies. She did such a great job I love it!!

Avery and her cousin Kenny

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2008-11-26T12:19:00.001-07:00

May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey plump,
May your potatoes and gravy
Have never a lump.
May your yams be delicious
And your pies take the prize,
And may your Thanksgiving dinner
Stay off you thighs!

Brighton's Number ONE!!!!!!!

2008-11-21T13:04:00.007-07:00

Brighton is in lane #2

Last night was Brighton's first swim meet and she was AWESOME!!!!! She took 1st in her heat for the Freestyle and 2nd in her heat for the Breast Stroke. Not too shabby for the first time she has ever swam competitively. I am still not sure who was more nervous me or her. I am so proud of her, she has worked really hard the past couple of months to get ready and she was definitely ready for last night!

"Carried" Away

2008-11-20T11:18:00.005-07:00

Last night was Awesome!!! Brighton had swim practice so we got there a little late and missed most of the opening band, sad. But Carrie Underwood was so great, that girl can sing. Grandma and Brighton were the true fans and knew all the songs, they danced and sang as I watched. She sang "Go Your Own Way" by one of my favorite bands, Fleetwood Mac. I really showed my age as the most of the crowd singing stopped sadly the teen girls had no idea what the song was. She also did "Paradise City" by G N'R another classic. The best was the last song "Before He Cheats" the crowd went crazy and we all sang and danced. It was so fun to spend girl time with my 2 favorite girls!
Thanks again Grandma YOU ROCK!!

My MOM Rocks!!!

2008-11-19T09:15:00.001-07:00

Guess where Brighton and I are going tonight????? Yup, to see Carrie Underwood all because my mom rocks! I will post pictures tomorrow. Yeah we can't wait!!! Thank you Grandma!!

Teeth!!

2008-11-18T18:25:00.003-07:00

I have had it with Teeth today! Last night Boston was running as usual and fell flat on his face on our tile floor. One scream and lots of blood later he put his bottom tooth through his top lip. It looks nasty but the kid cried for about 1 minute and then he was fine. I on the other hand was panicking....hospital, stitches, doctor??? No, he's fine just a huge lip. The cutest part about it was when I asked him this morning how his lip was he sad "My lip feel funny" how he learned that one is new to me. But I guess his lip feels funny!

Now for my darling Avery who is trying to grow up to fast! Her first little tooth broke through today! She is 5 months old today and there it is, a tiny little tooth. My baby is growing up, I am so sad. Oh and she is already trying to crawl, yes I said crawl. She gets up on all fours and has started rocking. She has mastered going backwards like this but not forward yet. I can't believe it! Next comes prom I swear!

BTW I have mastered the art of the Jedi.....Dean is so proud. I can even make the noises when we play. The joys of motherhood.

Husband Tag

2008-11-14T17:33:00.004-07:00

Husband Tag

1. Where did we meet? At The Point After in the sports mall

2. How long did we date before we got married? 18 months

3. How long have we been married? 2 and a half years

4. What is your favorite feature of his? his eyes

5. What is your favorite quality of his? I can never get too mad at him because he makes me laugh every time I try to stay mad

6. Does he have a nickname for you? Doll

7. What is his favorite color? blue

8. What is his favorite food? Costco hot dog...GROSS!!

9. When and where was your first kiss? Neither one of us can remember, isn't that sad!

10. What is his favorite sport? Nothing! That's one of the reasons I married him!

11. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple? Somersault contests ;)

12. Do you have any children? 3

13. Does he have a hidden talent? The ability to make me laugh no matter what!!

14. How old is he? almost 31 he is so old!

15. Who said "I love you" first? Me, that is a sad terrible story!!!! (let's just say thanks was involved)

16. What is his favorite type of music? Everything!!!

17. What do you admire most about him? He does what ever it takes so I can stay home and raise our children...including working till 3 am!

I tag: Whoever wants to brag about their husband! :)

Brighton the Fish

2008-11-14T09:23:00.002-07:00

Brighton's first swim meet is Thursday @ 5pm!!! She is nervous but excited. Anyone who wants to come call me for the details. Go Brighton!

Our Fabulous Life

2008-11-06T09:20:00.003-07:00

I have come to the realization that no matter how many times I pick up toys my house will look like this for the next couple of years......

But with moments like these who could complain! I love staying at home and raising my kids! There is nothing better!!!!

Watching Toy Story together...I forgot how cute that movie is.

My Jumping Bean

Halloween

2008-11-04T15:13:00.008-07:00

Yeah Halloween! This year was a lot of fun. Boston had a blast getting "Candy Bars" at all of the houses as Avery sat grumpily in her stroller. She was not a fan! Brighton went with her friends this year and had much more fun with them.

Corn Belly's, Bull Riding and Witches

2008-11-04T14:59:00.011-07:00

We wanted to take Brighton to a haunted house but after checking the prices are our tolerance for a ten year old wanting to sleep in our room... we decided to take B and Gabby to a corn maze instead. For those who have not made it to Corn Belly's, so cute I highly recommend it. We left the babies with Julie and went to have some fun! They have a ton of stuff for the kids to do and after getting bored in the corn maze Dean talked me into riding the mechanical bull. Yes I even posted the pictures... Way fun, kinda painful!

I also got a little girl time with my SIL's and MIL at Gardner Village's Witches Night Out. It was way fun and next year I will be prepared with a great costume like my inlaws! They looked awesome!

Annual Pumpkin Carving

2008-11-04T14:50:00.006-07:00

Every year Dean's Granny has everyone over to carve pumpkins, which is great no mess at my house! Dean and B did all the carving and they did a great job! Boston would have nothing to do with it cause as he says "Mommy eww gross" Love that kid!

Trunk R Treat

2008-10-26T21:03:00.008-06:00

Spoiler Alert!!! If you do not want to see my darling kids costumes until Halloween look away now....

For those who guessed incorrectly on my poll ...have ya met my Star Wars Fanatic husband?? Our Punk Fairy, Yoda and Princess Leia loved Trunk R Treating with the ward, it was so fun to see all of our neighbors and our cute primary kids. I did my best dress up with the Witch's hat and Dean was a hit with the kids in his Zombie make up. After the treating was done we all went inside for some soup and a magic show. We had to leave early to get to my aunt Preal's 50th birthday party (yeah Preal!!) but it was still fun. I can't wait till Friday!!!

Road Trippin'

2008-10-19T17:05:00.011-06:00

Friday we all piled into a rented mini van (Deans idea to convince me they are fabulous, BTW it worked I can't wait to get one) and drove to Richfield to see my dad's headstone. The van was great the kids watched DVD's and had plenty of room to enjoy it. Our family, my sisters and mom all went down for the 1 year anniversary of my dad's passing, and to visit my mom's parents. It was nice to be there as a family, sans Timmy he had other commitments. My dad's headstone is really nice. I hate that he is buried so far away, but that's always been the plan. My mom did a great job picking out the headstone. It has a swimmer on my dad's side and a rose on her side which is perfect. And I love that she picked pink. As she says he went first so she got pink....not my dad's first choice to say the least. All of the kids names are on the back and I have to say it is a little weird seeing your name anywhere on a headstone. We all went to Steve's steakhouse for dinner, which is amazing and then back to the hotel for some swimming. It was the first time Avery got in a pool and she loved it. Boston was a wreck from not napping and all of the fun, on the way home he crashed hard. Till next time.

The Haunted Train

2008-10-19T16:49:00.011-06:00

Thursday night we went on the Heber Haunted Train with Good Things Utah (I love that show). It was cold up the canyon but the train was like a steam oven. The kids had a blast especially Brighton and her friend Whitney. They screamed every chance they could. Boston was quite scared, I didn't think they let the scary people on the train...but fair warning they do. He spent most of the ride clinging to Daddy or Papa Johnson. I highly recommend it to anyone without small children, 5 years and up would love it!