Schmalz Family

9 Minute Cake

2009-12-22T17:54:00.000-08:00

9 minute cake. well 10 minutes which included mixing using my Pampered Chef Steam Rice Cooker. It is moist and yummy!! Mixed up a cake mix and put in the cooker and microwaved for 9 minutes. Just wanted to share. (I didn't have any frosting)

Harvest Hills 6th Ward Clothing Swap

2009-12-22T15:10:00.000-08:00

Are there clothes and accessories that you have stacking up that you are planning to donate to the DI or is there something you need for yourselves or your kids? Well then you are in need of a……

Clothing Swap

When: January 12, 2010

Where: Relief Society Organization Activity

Time: 7pm following the organization classes.

Question: What do I bring? / What do I not bring?

Answer: Please bring items that you would want to take home.

CLEAN**, unused, or gently used Nothing with holes or stains please!

Items for:

Babies, Toddler, Kids - Onesies, socks, shoes, shirts, pants, dresses, etc

Women’s Clothing

Accessories – jewelry, bags, scarves, hats

Coats and Jackets

**Please WASH your items you’d like to donate to swap.

Question: How does it work?

Answer: Drop off your items to Marianne Schmalz or Jill Turner any time prior to January 12. The earlier the better!! If needed, you can bring in stuff that night, 20 minutes before 7pm.

When the door opens then come in and “shop”. Please bring a bag, if needed, to carry your stuff in.

Use your best judgment. If you bring 2 things don't take 8 bags of stuff home with you :) If your kid is 2 years old don't take size 4 stuff just because it's "cute" or a brand name you like. Don't hoard stuff. Take what you need. Bring it back when you are done.

All items that are Not “bought” then we will donate to the DI. Or if this is successful save for another swap.

A slice of heaven

2009-12-14T09:24:00.001-08:00

This is my first home made bread from an oven, not a bread machine.

Thanks to my wonderful friend Sherian for the invite to her friends bread making class.

I recommend this site for all easy bread making.....

www.breadmadeeasy.com

Love it!!

Zach is 2!!

2009-12-10T12:24:00.000-08:00

Our Zach is now 2!

I can't believe that the time he has been with our family has gone by sooooo fast. He is a giggly smiley little boy. Who has the best smile and awesome eyes out there.

He still has his own language, although he understand what you are saying his responses are of his own. You can usually get the jist or just smile because he is so dang cute!!

Here are some things we love about him.

Zach is a good boy and is not into everything quite yet.

He loves Spongebob and laughs histerically when the music comes on.

He is an awesome sleeper and not only sleeps through the night but still takes naps!

He loves to spins around and get real dizzy.

He has the cutest laugh and mischeivious smile.

He likes to read. He looks at the book and "reads" to himself.

He loves to be held (which wasn't always the case). I am so glad that it finally is the case.

He loves going to grandma's and grandp's house. Both of them.

He loves his sister and brother very much and they love him. He is not too young to play with him.

Zach is the best little Zach any parent could want.

We love you very much!!

Thankful For -

2009-12-10T11:20:00.000-08:00

Here are some things I am thankful for (in no order)

My family - Ben, Sam, Jacob and Zach

My family - Mom, Dad, Bros and my sisters

My sister - Denise and Debby whom I love very, very much. It's great to be able to have sisters who are your best friends.

For our home that we have shelter from the elements of the world. I hate the cold and Ben and I check the thermostat every night. Mosty him to check on me to see if I have turned it up. Apparently we are supposed to suffer at 68* in our home. (Only when he is home, hehe)

For food on our table. May not be homemade but definately made/bought with love. We try to instill in our kids that we need to nourish our bodies even if we don't always like what we are eating. Seriously last night was like pulling teeth and took a couple of hours to finish the meal. Apparently funeral potatoes and ham bring on dry heaves and crying fits (Ben and I not included)

For the opportunity we have to live in a country where we can have our own thoughts and feeling and be able to live by them. Again, we try to let our kids know how lucky we are and that we shouldn't take this for granted. Without depressing them we let them know that there are other people in other country that are living off the land and in huts and shacks and have very little food.

For good friends that I appreciate and love! (Poke, poke)

For a job that allows me to work from home and be able to be with the kids. Believe me, I work an 8-5p work day, while doing laundry and watching my Zachy grow. I have fond memories of my mom being home with me and I hope my kids will have the same fond memories.

I am thankful that kids don't alway remember when we (Ben) are strick and they love us even after doing chores that are so unfair.

I love Ben for being able to work to support our family. He is so good to us!

I love his family for the support they have given us and that they think their son can do anything. (Literally....construction, electronics, cars, etc.. he is a working machine)

I love that Ben has a passion for biking and also for cars. I know he is trying to get me into biking and I already watch F1 racing with him.

I love the fact that we can just sit and be together. We are bestfriends and this will come in handy when the kids grow up and move out. We won't be bored! We love each other.

I love that we get to take mini vacation and that we have the support of family to watch the kids if necessary.

I am sure there is more and I will try to write them down.

So there is my post. Hopefully I won't go months and months again without posting.

Update on www.alice.com

2009-08-31T14:21:00.001-07:00

Well I tried out www.alice.com and I have to say it was a great deal on your non food items. I bought some Tide laundry detergent and I checked it against Smith's and Walmart and it was atleast between $1-$3 difference plus you get $1 off at Alice. You do have to pay taxes which you would at either stores and you get free shipping. I am impressed with this website and encourage all to take a look at it.

www.alice.com

2009-08-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

I was on vacation this weekend and saw a news story on CNN about www.alice.com. It is a website were you can buy household items on namebrand stuff for discounted pricing and the shipping is free. I guess with the economy people have been buying store brands, which is ok, but it looks like the name brands are wanting to help save you money and the shipping is free. I signed up but haven't bought anything yet but I thought all you coupon shoppers would like it. Again, shipping is free! See what you think and let us all know. I think that the prices look good but I am definately not a veterian in savy coupon shopping. Again, shipping is free!Thanks, Marianne

Fun Summer Activities for Kids

2009-05-27T11:57:00.001-07:00

I am looking to see if anyone knows of local summer camps, art programs, etc for Jacob and Samantha. Even though I am home during the day, I am also working an 8 hour job. I want to keep the kids occupied with fun activities. Any suggestions?

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T21:48:00.000-07:00

"Someone has coined a statement that has great significance:

'God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers.' . .

"From my experience, it would seem that faithful mothers have a special gift that we often refer to as a mother's intuition. Perhaps with the great blessing of motherhood, our Heavenly Father has endowed them with this quality, since fathers, busy in priesthood callings and with the work of earning a livelihood, never draw quite as close to heavenly beings in matters that relate to the more intimate details of bringing up children in the home. It might be described in this way: Father is the head, but Mother is the heart of the family home" (The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, p. 291).

Happy Mother's day!

Zion National Park Trip - May 2009

2009-05-08T10:29:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2009-04-08T15:32:00.000-07:00

I love my http://www.gatheringgrub.blogspot.com! Ok, so it is not mine but I can post, so that's cool, right? I love feeling energized to get my butt in gear for food storage. Not just long term but stuff I can use everyday. I love hearing of new sites to help you out.

Some I recently found, ok, so I didn't find but I saw on my friends sites are http://www.dealstomeals.com. Awesome and practical ideas and pictures!

Next site for food is http://www.foodco-op.net. Again, another awesome site. You can order monthly on items that you can buy from the grocery store but half the cost. You just needs to pick it up from your area pick-up site and to join you make a donation. There are locations all over the SL and Utah Valley. Check out the site!!!

I shopped the Smith's case lot sale and didn't get too much. 4 cases of Speghetti O's, 2 cases of water, 1 case of canned tomatoes, 1 case of flour. Slowly but surely!!

My next item I'd want, which has been for sometime now is a freezer, either deep or standing. I have posted to my http://www.lehifreecycle.com and see what happens. That is also a great website for free stuff.

Anywho, enough of my ramblings.........

Gathering Grub

2009-03-31T10:53:00.000-07:00

I am happy to post about a new blog called Gathering Grub. http://www.gatheringgrub.blogspot.com.

Sherian put it together, with prompting from a few of us friends and I love it. It is new so not alot of info yet but it is about food storage with ideas of how to get it started, what to add, case lot sales, recipes, etc. I am an author on it so if you have ideas let me know and I will add to it.

I am no expert but a few of us are and I love being able to see ideas and share anything I can or if you have ideas, let me know so that I can add to it.

Marianne

2009-02-09T14:40:00.000-08:00

Well, I am back. Sorta. I just have not been in the mood to blog but I love reading blogs. Where to begin....
The holidays were great. Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year...they were great.

We had 2 dinners this years, as we do every year. Thank you mom and dad, who are thoughtful enough, that with 8 kids, they schedule our dinner on the Saturday before so that those with in-law, won't be rushed from house to house. Thanksgiving was held at my house again this year for my side of the family. I always feel inadequate about hosting anything so I am glad that my family helps out with food and decor. I made the potatoes both mashed and yummy sweet potatoes. Both yummy thanks to Good Eats (the best cooking show ever!) and Ruth's Steak House which provided the recipe for the sweet potatoes. They should really be declared a dessert. That's it, I am declaring it a dessert. Almost all the family was able to come. 6 of 8 kids plus parents and a boat load of grand kids and spouses. We missed 2 brothers and sister that was not able to make it. I am sure all will be together next year.

We had a great dinner at Ben's parents house with great food and family games and time spent was wonderful as every year it is. A big bonus was that Ben could be there as well.

Christmas was fun this year because Zach was 1 and had fun watching the 2 other kids open gifts. He still didn't get the opening of presents for himself but had fun none the less. My sister Debby and her son Thomas and my parents and my family went over to my brother David's house for a yummy dinner. Dawn always puts on a great spread.

New Year's was spent at home this year. Which hasn't been like that in a few years. We always go to my parent's during the day and then over to Ben's house for fondue and games.

This year Rebecca, Ben's sister, came over to our house for the night. We had crab legs, pasta and fondue or as Samantha called it donfue. That kept us laughing for awhile!! Then we pretty much played Rock Band all night and toasted in the New Year with sparkling something from Ikea. Which reminds me, we still have the bottle on the deck!

The year has been pretty fair so far. New President (Obama) in the white house. Expecting change and progress in our country. Hopefully! With all the down turn in the economy, I feel that Ben and I have been very fortunate with our careers and really haven't felt it nearly as much as some. I could say we were blessed but it doesn't feel right when there are others just like us who may have lost jobs. So all I can say is that we are very thankful!

I have a new calling at church. Not an every Sunday one but a calling just the same. I am on the Enrichment Board/Committee. It sounds fun but I hope that I am able to do a good job. Although I am home during the days I am working an 8-5 job so I just hope that I can help out where needed. With this, the kids and I went to church again. They are excited to go, well at least to primary, sacrament meeting is boring to them. Oh well at least they want to go. Anyways, our ward split awhile back and I am glad we did. It used to be that you couldn't really hear what the speaker was saying even if you were lucky enough to seat up in the pews. There are just so many kids, which is great, a few of them are mine but it was nice to go and be able to hear the speaker. Plus I feel like I will be able to know or get to know more people. We shall see :-)

Last but not least...my family, the Schmalz' have started a weight loss challenge with $25/person. Winner takes all. % loss, which is good and fair. No second place just first with a prize. We started on Sunday. I had to email my weight to my sister in law who is keeping them secret for everyone but it still was a hang the head down, red cheeks kind of moment. I am doing well so far. I decided to do The Biggest Loser workouts and diet. My quads are killing!!!! Every time I have to go up or down the stairs it is excruciating! But if it doesn't hurt or your don't sweat it isn't good enough. Today, I just rode the bike to rest my other parts. The bounty will be nice but the knowledge that I will lose and hopefully slim down is even better! I am just trying real hard not to revert to Atkins diet. Which I think is wonderful if you can stick to it. I did it after I had Jacob with great success but it seems to be harder and harder if you stop doing it and try again. But like a drug it is pulling me and I am really trying to just eat responsibly.
What are you doing to live healthy? Really, I don't cook and I don't have a lot of ideas on food. Good thing Ben cooks :)

Well I will leave it at that for now, until we meet again.

Year of the Zachers

2008-11-28T17:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday my little Zach! We have had such a fun time with you in our lives and love you very much. You were a heavenly suprise and wouldn't have it any other way. You are alway smiling and in such a good mood. Even when you begin to cry, you make us smile. My heart flutters every time I think of you.

You are such a smart little boy with your early crawling and crusing and walking. Who doesn't love a little baby walking. Luckily you pretty much stay in the area you are at but sometimes that darn bathroom calls your name, only a few times have a caught your hand in the water. Good thing it was clean and baths are always available.

Even with you teething you have been good about it. Not much crying from it at all and I am in awe because they come in basically by two's, starting at 4 or 5 months.

Your eyes are beautifully blue like your dad and sister. Any you have crazy hair, good thing grandma was able to cut it. Thank you grandma!! It really reminds me of your sister Samantha's hair, all straight and fluffy crazy. I wonder if it will turn curly too?

Thank you for putting up with me everyday. You are very content with playing with your toys in our make shift hall/play area or watching Aristo Cats. You wake up from naps with a smile on your face, bouncing up and down in your bed or talking (some would say babbling) to yourself until I am able to get in there. You also like to let me know you are wake by either banging the blinds or banging and rattling your bottle against the slats on your crib.

Your brother and sister and daddy and I are very happy with you in our family and just want to let you know that you are very loved all around.

Love you lots,

Mom

Halloween Fun

2008-11-13T09:07:00.000-08:00

Halloween started off this year a church party and the kids loved dressing up. Then on Friday they had a parade at school to show off there costumes. I met Debby there and didn't recognize her at all. It was fun but long. I am glad my children were in the younger classes because there was a long intermission, like 15-20 minutes, between them and the older classes.

Who is this holding me? Mommy!

Then later we really enjoyed spending it with our family over at Ben's brothers house. We had chili and donuts and cake and the adults talked while Xandi too the kids out trick or treating while we ate and spent the time getting Zach to walk.

When the kids came back, I took Jac and Sam and Ethan over to my friends house next door. They totally love Halloween and it definately shows. When you walk up to the house there is eery music going. You knock on the door and it creeks open to a long hallway with fog and Frankenstein (Mike) coming down the hall with candy. It was great. The kids were right at my side. Awesome!!

Then Samantha wanted to go to her friends house on the other side of ours. I was walking a bit behind her and all the sudden she comes running back to me screaming and crying. She came face to face with this wonderful woman. Scary!!!!!

This took a while to take because Samantha would not look at her. Sherian made an awesome witch. To achieve this picture, she had to cover her face with a coat or something, let Samantha hear her voice, and then Samantha schootched back towards her and drop the cover. It was great! Is that bad to say? I mean, my little girl was sobbing tears and I am wanting a photo opp.

Then we went back over to the house and ate more and just had a good time. I think I loved and thought the most original costume came from Stacy's sister Kim. What do you think?

All in all it was a fabulous time, much better then just sitting at home handing out candy. Oh and by the way our neighborhood reall rocks out the candy. Full size candy bars. We never had that growing up. The older kids came back loaded with full size pillow cases filled to the rim. Luckily my kids only got less then a third and they were happy as clams! It cut down on the candy for Ben and I but oh well.

My absolute favorite pic this year was ..........

Seriously look at Samantha's eye!

Happy Halloween!!!!

Happy 11months!!

2008-10-28T19:11:00.000-07:00

Our little Pumpkin

Today is Zach's 11month birthday. I can't believe he will be 1 next month. It seems like yesterday I was having him. I hope it doesn't go any faster. I love him so much!

He is doing well, walking, a couple of steps, but likes to cruise furniture and walls. He sleeps through the night and eats wonderfully. He has become to that stage where he cries when Ben and I leave him. It is cute. I know he loves both of us very much but Ben is sweet and says that Zach just wants me all the time. Probably because he is with me 24/7.

Happy 11 months Zach. We love you very much!!

Corn Belly's

2008-10-28T13:53:00.000-07:00

Friday we took all the kids over to Cornbelly's at Thanksgiving Point. It was fun but getting cold. We bundled Z up and the kids wore their coats.

Everything was totally for kids. There was 3 corn mazes - A Frightmare one for night and a smaller one for kids and a David Archuleta face one. There was a pumpkin princess, which S just loved.

They had this big monster thing that you walk thru but only T wanted to go thru it, so Ben took him, but just after they walked in and got to the tonsils, they turned around. I think it was to show you in the insides of the monster. They had these bouncy pillows that you could jump on. and Car racing, tether ball, tons of slides, a maze museum and food stands. We were going to eat there but then saw the prices. Seriously $4 for a hot dog. Come on now! We thought it was nice for the kids but quite frankly not worth the price to get in $10.50ea. Whew! I know, ridiculous considering, but the kids had tons of fun and we did too watching them. We left about 8pm and went to Bajios. Yummy!!

Here are some pics of the day........

I'vE bEen TaGgEd

2008-10-20T13:30:00.000-07:00

4 random things I like about my husband:
1. He is super smart and very loving to me and our children.
2. Ben is laid back and we can just be together. I can honestly say he is my best friend.
3. He provides for our family any way he can and needs to.
4. I love him so much and I know he loves me, even when I am a stinker, sometimes :-0

The BEST!4 movies that I can watch more than once:
1. James Bond
2. Grease
3. Dirty Dancing
4. Aristocats.. and I do, everyday. Zach thinks it is hilarious

4 shows that I watch:
1. Days/GH (secret addiction that is not so secret anymore:-))
2. The Office
3. The Biggest Looser (I love it)
4. House

4 places I've been today:
1. Work
2. Home
3. Home
4. and Home

4 people who email me regularly:
1. My mom
2. Kari
3. customers
4. my mom, especially now that the presidential race is getting closer! Forward of a forward of a forward :-0

4 places I've visited:
1. Canada
2. Bahamas
3. Mexico
4. Kansas

4 places I would like to go:
1. Switzerland
2. Scotland
3. A cruise with Ben (Stacy, shall we go together?)
4. Anywhere with Ben

4 things I'm looking forward to in the next year:
1. Deck
2. kids back in school :-o Did I just type that. Seriously, how many vacation days do they have. I don't remember that many growing up!
3. Finishing back yard with grass and deck
4. Basement

So there you go and I tag all who wants to play.....

Families are Forever

2008-09-27T20:54:00.000-07:00

I love these people, I love this picture and I love my family. My parents were brave enough to have 8 kids and I was the caboose. I know, I know, I was cute, right?

Front Row (L-R): Marianne, Matt, Mike, Myron

Back Row (L-R): Dad (Don), Mom (Mary), Debby, Denise, Mark, David.

Serious, what year was this. We apparently wanted to be some sort of sport team. Ha! No really, I love my family very much and I just have the best memories growing up. My parents gave a lot for their family and I really appreciate that now that I am grown and have a family of my own.

2008-09-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

I just love this picture. I got it from my Uncle John's Facebook page. It is of my grandpa McGilvary, he is the one kneeling on the left, and his buddy's in Germany while serving in WWII.

I don't know a whole lot about my grandfather but I am was so moved by this picture I had to post it.

2008-09-27T20:30:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of Zach with Uncle Peter, Ben's brother. August 1st is Switzerland Independace Day. Obvoiously this is a late post but I really like this picture. They are cuties.

2008-09-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

This is my brother Matt (on left) and my brother in law (Xandi). Leanne, Matt's wife, sent it to me as a reminder of the younger days. This was taken in 1994, no later than a year after Ben and I started dating. I am sure it was at church ball or something. My brother Matt, well his wife, Leanne basically got Ben and I together. Yes, we have been together since 1993, that's 15 years ladies and I am thankful everyday for Ben and my kids. Thanks Leanne!!!

2008-09-22T15:12:00.000-07:00

"I just called to say 'I love you'. I just called to say how much I care".... Do you remember the old days of calling friends and family on the telephone to see how they are and what they have been up to? My brothers hate it when I email them, saying it is to impersonable, especially for family members. And you know what? I think that they are right...to a degree. I can't tell you how many time I check my friends and family's blog sites to see if they have added anything new or interesting or check my email or my facebook and on and on, when I could have just picked up the phone to see how they are doing. Sometimes it is nice just to get a call, even if just for a moment. That's all. Now don't get all "oh, what is wrong". Nothing is wrong. I have my kids and huband but it is nice to hear from someone else once in awhile. Another adult maybe. I just was thinking how crazy it all is. But I won't lie, I know that right after I push save and publish post, I will be checking out other blogs. One of my goals is to call someone every week or just once in awhile to see how they are doing. It just seems crazy how long I go with out seeing my next doors neighbors and the only time I really see my brother and sis in law and my own sister, whom live in my same neighborhood, seconds away, is at our parents house, in West Jordan, for crying out loud. Yes we are all busy but still that is no excuse to become hermits in our own homes. It'll be winter soon and then we'll all become like bears and hibernate. Oh well just some rambling thoughts........

2008-09-18T08:59:00.000-07:00

2008-09-15T18:24:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that at 6:13pm tonight Zach took 3 steps!!!!!! My friend Holly must have thought I was crazy, because I was calling her to send Jacob home for dinner and right when she answered it happened. I was screaming and excited and said "Zach took 3 steps just now" then I calmed down and asked her to send Jacob home. Whew, what a night!!

2008-09-15T09:21:00.000-07:00

If you ever wanted to know what I looked like when I was a kid, well here you go. Amber and I have been friends for as long as I can remember. I still remember everything from kindergarten until present. This picture was taken at a Scouting program for our brothers. The scout leaders then were very artsy. Their house was painted in all pastel colors on the outside and then inside the mother painted murals on the walls. Anywho, they had large tee-pees in their back yard, seriously, as tall as the house, therego the big head dresses and facepaint. I just love pictures that remind me of when I was young. (sigh...)

2008-09-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

I guess lunch time is a bit boring. It puts Zach right to sleep!

2008-09-14T22:04:00.000-07:00

A Day out with Grandma and Grandpa

This summers adventure with grandma and grandpa Schmalz for Samantha was Thanksgiving Point Farms. Samantha loves the day that she spends with her grandparents. They like to take every kid individually so that it is their special day. Because it is their day then they will take the child where ever they want to eat. Since there is not a whole lot of options , McDonalds was the choice and Samantha said she was hungry. So when they went in side to order and asked what she would like to eat, she ordered a sundae. That's all, nothing else. So of course that is what she got and when she came home she was happy as a clam and told us all about her great day at the Farms, looking at the animals, riding the pony and getting drenched at the water area. All in all it was a great day. Thank you mom and dad for taking the time to be with your grandkids they (and we) love you both very much.

2008-09-14T21:35:00.000-07:00

Park City 2008

Every year our family goes up to Park City with Ben's family. His parents are gracious enough to share their time share with the family and we always have a wonderful time. I thought this collage would be better then individual pictures. The hotel behind all the pictures is where we all stayed. I think we were on top floor and we had such a beautiful view of the Alpine slide area and the mountain. We appreciate the time we get to share with our family and hope the tradition continous.

2008-09-14T10:58:00.000-07:00

My grandmother was a big part of my life. We used to go over to her house every Sunday. Smells I can remember were bananas and spearmint gum. She is the best grandmother and loved her family very much. She was a faithful member of the church and I believe she served mostly in the primary, which would make sense since children loved her. She helped people out in any way that she could. She loved my grandfather and her three boys very much. I am so thankful for her for raising such a wonderful son, who is now my father and my childrens' grandfather whom they love very much.

(quote via my good friend Amber. I hope that it is ok that I used it.)

2008-09-14T10:56:00.000-07:00

2008-09-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

Don't worry I am still alive and kicking. I haven't been the greatest about this lately. I have just been busy with work since Ben has been here as much. And I have to admit a little just blaw about it. I have really cute pictures but they are soo past the date it would be the longest blog in the world.

Just an update, I suppose I'll add pictures later :-)

Samantha's birthday came and went. She didn't have a party this year but a family party. Ok the family party is every year but we've decided that a party every year is too much and Jacobs birthday is just 2 weeks after hers. He just had the family party too. I meant to give a friend party but I just didn't have time to put something together. I feel bad about it, although I think he is over it, I still wish I was a better mom that way. Next year for sure! Plus I don't mind having stuff for him through out the year. Maybe a sleep over with a friend. One at a time. Slowly but surely.

Zach is 9 months old and cute as ever. He has both his front teeth and loves to walk the furniture. He can stand a second on his own but then plops down. I think he is growing way to fast. Here is a scrapbook layout that my friend did for a site she contributes to. She is talented and a great photographer.

I just love this picture of Zach!! (btw: you can see her work on twopeasinapod.com)

Thanks for looking. I'll add more later

School Teachers

2008-08-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

Ok Ladies, here is who my kids have for school. I didn't really see anyone who has them so I am sad about that but if you know someone who does, let me know :-)

Samantha - B Track - Mrs Hutchings

Jacob - B Track - Mrs Cowley

Thomas (nephew) - B Track - Mr Cox

2008-07-31T16:13:00.000-07:00

I can honestly say that I feel yucky. Tried to be strong but I just can't do it and just really need to sleep.

I totally have not been keeping up on this blog lately. I have some really cute picture but just feel like I am too busy to post them. Although, I am not too busy to ready Sherian's blog, which by the way is so fun to read. I know, I should just do it but am not motivated. I have been busy with work so I haven't been able to during the day and then when night comes I am just to tired or to lazy! Oh well, I will try to see what I come up with tomorrow ;-]

2008-07-14T10:40:00.001-07:00

I don't have a picture yet but while I was feeding Zach this morning I can see 2 itsy bitsy little teeth coming in. They are his bottom front teeth. Boy, he is breaking the mold that kid. Crawling early, wanting to walk like no other, and now these 2 little teeth.

future teeth?

Standing Tall

2008-07-09T17:08:00.000-07:00

Jacob came into my office this morning to tell me Zach was crying in his room. I should be the one crying! Take a look....

He's growing up too fast!

Free Riding...

2008-07-08T23:29:00.001-07:00

Yes, I'm free, free ridin'. Yeah I free, free ridin'... Today, July 8, 2008 is a memorable day. Why? You ask. Today is the day that both Samantha and Jacob started riding their bikes. Who knew that when Ben bought 2 scooters for him and Jon that the kids would use them all the time and get their balance down. Jacob started yesterday and Samantha tried today with success! Here are the momentous occasions.

Samantha's bike riding event. We are sooooo proud of her!!

Jacob's ride....look at speedy, he just loves racing with everyone.

Good job, kids!!!!

2008-06-28T18:46:00.000-07:00

To my wonderful sisters and mom,

I love you all very much and don't know what I would do with out any of you!!

Catalina Island Boat from ship to Catalina Island.

My older sistas, Denise and Debby.

The 3 girls...best friends

You'd never know that there was such a huge gap in age between us OK between me and them. Either I look older or they look younger. I am going to stick with the later :-)

Here is the Queen Mary, the girls and the ship in the back. Yes my mom is the queen of our family, but the boat behind us is called the Queen Mary. It is thought to be haunted.

This picture was taken on the Queen Mary by the pool inside the ship. As I said it is thought to be haunted. It was wierd being in there. There was no sunlight and the lights were dim. Spooky enough for me!!

Me and Denise on a boat ride back from Catalina Island. Can you tell we are sisters? If you hear us talking then you'd know it for sure :-)

Mom and Debby on the same boat ride. It was raining that day, not very cruise like but we had fun anyways.

Denise, Mom and Debby. We went on a glass bottom boat and saw tons of fish. Don't say too may oohs and aahhs, really they bait them in under the boat with fish food.

All in all, we had an awesome time from the airport, to the crazy driving of our taxi van driver to the ship, which is another story in and of itself, to the fun time on the ship. We really need to go again! My mom loved it!!!! She really got into all the games and shows they had on the ship. Ok, that is another story by itself too!!!! Love you all!!!!

2008-06-28T11:14:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of Jacob! He started Tee-Ball this month and is really quite good for not playing much of any sport. I love the way he is enthusiastic about his games! He asks me early in the week what day it is and counts down the days to his game. The city puts the kids in teams by their school grade they are in at the time of sign up. Jac was in K at the time (because of his b-day being in September, which was a good thing if you ask me but that is another story) and his team is so cute. Their first game, as one parent described today, was "like herding cats", which I totally agree but it is still cute!! This game all the kids where there and all of them hit the ball quite well. We just need to practice catching and throwing. Jacob just wants to hit home runs and tag people out, which is what you are supposed to do.

Jacob playing pitch position

Up to bat..

3rd base, waiting to run home

High Five....
Snacks for a good game!!!
GOOD JOB JACOB!!!!!!!!!!!

And the grass grows greener still..

2008-06-27T13:33:00.001-07:00

Where we were.....

Monday June 16th...........

1 week later........

Where we want to be........

singing, singing all the way!!!

Apparenly we should be able to fertilize and mow the grass by the week of July 13th!!!!!

Beethoven???

2008-06-24T20:34:00.000-07:00

Seriously, do we have a Beethoven on our hands????

I just love this picture and Zach is having fun with his little piano. He is sooooo cute! Prejudice right? Oh well, that is the way mom's are suppose to be.

Sweet Peas and Chicken

2008-06-24T07:37:00.000-07:00

Today was my first official day with Sweet Peas and Chicken. As you can see by my face it was not the best food I have had but mom thought I was cute enough to capture on camera.

Cheese!!!! Or rather, Peas!!!!!!!!!!!!

Clean and cute as can be!!

Oh mom, good try, better luck next meal.......love, Zach

My tonsil story.....

2008-06-23T13:20:00.000-07:00

I am happy to report that Samantha has finally gotten her tonsils out. If anyone knows her, you know that she has had tons of sick days at school all due to strep throat! It was so frustrating to keep going back to the doctor over and over again and not be able to get them out. Which by the way, it is harder and harder these days to get them out. Even the ENT specialist was like " well you can get them out if you want." If I want, if I want...of course I want them out! Why would I be there? Samantha was excited for the day to come and we have been reading all about the surgery and procedure. I also told her my story of when I got my tonsils out. I thought she was prepared and she was, but apparently not for the aftermath. Walking up the hall after the surgery was a loud cry. I felt horrible and tried to calm her down the best I could. Finally the nurse gave her more meds thru an i.v. which sent her to sleepy land.

Now, since this is a blog about Samantha she would like me to show all pictures, including the tonsils themselves. So, if you have a weak stomach, then scroll down fast, otherwise here are some pics of the day.

PLAYING WITH ZACH BEFORE SURGERY

GRANDMA PHILLIPS CAME FOR SUPPORT. WE LOVE YOU! THANK YOU FOR COMING WITH US!!

One of the doctors for the surgery. He was the anestheseologist. He gave the option of laughing gas or smelly pizza. LOL!!

2 Nurses in the operating room.

C A U T I O N *** POTENTIALLY GROSS PHOTO AHEAD ********
C A U T I O N *** POTENTIALLY GROSS PHOTO AHEAD ********
C A U T I O N *** POTENTIALLY GROSS PHOTO AHEAD ********

*********************************************************************************

gicky, right??

**********************************************************************************

Waking up and being in that stage where you are not sure what is going on, plus my throat is killing!!!!!!

Wheel chair ride to the car for me!!!!!

Living it up on the couch watching cartoons and eating pudding and oatmeal!

Thank goodness it is over and we can move onto the next battle.

Jacob

2008-06-07T22:20:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd put up this picture of Jacob. This was taken the morning of school when they had their kindergarten program at school. He is so handsome.

This is Shyanne. Jacob had come one day and told me that she was his girl friend. I laughed and asked if he asked her to be his girl friend and he said no. He then went on to tell me that she had picked him to be her boyfriend. I asked why he thought she did that and then with a twinkle in his eyes he said that it was because he was the cutest. I have to agree that yes, he is the cutest. Good job Shyanne. I am sure one day he will like to see this, his first girlfriend. She is a sweetheart.

Bath Time

2008-06-06T16:58:00.000-07:00

I just had to add this picture. Zach is so adorable, isn't he?

Happy Birthday Ben

2008-06-06T11:14:00.000-07:00

Ben's birthday was yesterday, June 5. He turned 32. The kids wanted to suprise him so they made him a cake with homemade icing and made cards for him. It was really cute we sang happy birthday and at the end Zach started crying. It was so cute.Here are some pics of their cards. Zach's card with the help from my niece Vanessa Front of Samantha's Card Inside her card Front of Jacob's card Inside of Jacob's Front of Vanessa's Card Inside of Vanessa's Card Later that day we went to Bajio's for dinner and then we bought Rock Star PS3 Game. It is sooooo fun. We all love it and quite frankly if you are playing the drums it is a work out. All in all we have a great day!!

Mother's Day Love

2008-05-13T08:04:00.000-07:00

I love my family....I cried like a baby. I love how the kids signed the card, including Zach Squeek, squeek. Ben is such a good dad and husband. Did I mention that I love my family?

2008-05-12T08:51:00.000-07:00

In honor of Mother's Day this weekend, here are Jacob's uncensored and honest answers to a few questions about me, his mom. If he tags you, cut and paste the questions, add your own answers....you know the drill. Oh, and if you have a picture of you with your mom, post that, too. THANKS

1. What is something mom always says to you? No (seriously, how sad)

2. What makes mom happy? kisses

3. What makes mom sad? a scary show

4. How does mom make you laugh? tell me some jokes

5. What was mom like as a child? cute

6. How old is your mom? 32

7. How tall is your mom? 32 inches

8. What is her favorite thing to do? to play with me

9. What does your mom do when you're not around? do computer work

10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for? a rock star

11. What is your mom really good at? writing (obviously the first thing that popped in his head)

12. What is your mom not very good at? playing

13. What does your mom do for her job? computer stuff

14. What is your mom's favorite food? peanuts (oh boy)

15. What makes you proud of your mom? a true loves kiss (watching too much Enchanted)

16. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be? one of the chipmunks

17. What do you and your mom do together? do nothing

18. How are you and your mom the same? sames eyes (hazel)

19. How are you and your mom different? you do nothing, I play games

20. How do you know your mom loves you? because you love me. (breaks out singing, you love me)

Mom, can I go back playing my games.

Hmmm, got to work on that kid.

Tag: Deagan, Cori and Lexi, Delanie

2008-05-05T09:44:00.000-07:00

April 25-27, 2008 was another vacation to Moab. I went this time. We met up with some customers of ours and had a really fun time. 8 hrs on 3 trails meshing into each other. Jon came with us and we all rode in our Jeep. Our Jeep was pretty strong. It was funny because it seemed like they all thought that we were novice and keep giving Ben and Jon advise, etc, etc.

Here is our room at the Archway Inn. Yes, three queen beds. It was basically the only room left but I have to say that the beds themselves were actually comfy.

On our way up to the trail head. We start at Poison Spider which then hooks onto Golden Spike and ends with Gold Bar Rim.

There was 8 Jeeps in our group.

Right behind us you can see Moab. We are on the top of a bluff which drops off right behind us. No rails, just common sense to stay back from the edge. A child harness would make sense in this instance :-)

Here are some fun obsticles!!
Some were scary, hold on to the dashboard
others were get out and take pictures
Poor Ben. He probably wouldn't have needed the strap if he was guided better to cross over the crack.

WHOAA!!!!!!!
FYI to those who will venture over the golden crack...KEEP ALL PARTS OF YOUR BODY INSIDE OF THE VEHILE AT ALL TIMES.
You are not able to hold your car. That is what roll cages are for.
Everyone across safe and sound.

You don't realize how dirty you are until you get back to your room and have a ton of sand all over your car and you.

We had a fun time and can not wait to go again. We want to take the kids but just a mental note to all... 8 hours, No Bathrooms!!!

What do you want to do when you grow up??

2008-05-03T21:00:00.000-07:00

Samantha - Mom, Dad
Me - Yes
Ben- Yes
Sam- My teacher told me that if you are a doctor or someone that like works in a hospital you will get lots of money.
Ben - Sure, but do you know how long you have to go to school
Sam - How long
Ben - Well, after you are done with highschool, then you have 4 years of college
Sam - That's a long time.
Ben - Then you have another 4 years of medical school
Sam - oh
Ben - Do you want to be a doctor.
Sam - No. I don't want to go to school for 4 years..
Ben - What do you want to be?
Jacob - A cowboy
Ben and I smiled at each other....
Ben - what do you want to be samantha?
Sam - Hmmm... I think an Artist
Ben - Nice hobby, now what is will your job be...
Me - Why do you want to be an artist?
Sam - You can start when ever you want.
Jacob - I want to be a cowboy.
Jacob - Are we home yet? Is the pizza still warm....

Ahh, I just love our car rides home from grandma's.....

Family Photos

2008-04-15T12:27:00.000-07:00

Yummy!

2008-04-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

Lemon Fusilli with Arugula Copyright 2006, Barefoot Contessa at Home, All Rights Reserved
Show: Barefoot Contessa
Episode: Photo Finish

1 tablespoon good olive oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic (2 cloves)
2 cups heavy cream
3 lemons
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 bunch broccoli
1 pound dried fusilli pasta
1/2 pound baby arugula (or 2 bunches of common arugula, leaves cut in thirds)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the garlic, and cook for 60 seconds. Add the cream, the zest from 2 lemons, the juice of 2 lemons, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until it starts to thicken.
Meanwhile, cut the broccoli in florets and discard the stem. Cook the florets in a pot of boiling salted water for 3 to 5 minutes, until tender but still firm. Drain the broccoli and run under cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add 1 tablespoon of salt and the pasta, and cook according to the directions on the package, about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain the pasta in a colander and place it back into the pot. Immediately add the cream mixture and cook it over medium-low heat for 3 minutes, until most of the sauce has been absorbed in the pasta. Pour the hot pasta into a large bowl, add the arugula, Parmesan, tomatoes, and cooked broccoli. Cut the last lemon in half lengthwise, slice it 1/4-inch thick crosswise, and add it to the pasta. Toss well, season to taste, and serve hot.

Happy Birthday to me

2008-04-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

That's right, I am the big 32, although I still feel like I am 19, mentally that is. Physically, I feel like I should be collecting social security. LOL, but seriously, my body parts are giving out. My knees have been hurting for a while now and now my ankles are hurting and yesterday the top of my foot started hurting like someone stepped on it. Oh well!! I have had a fun weekend birthday anyways. On Saturday we got our new Oreck vaccuum!! I am so excited I already used it on Sunday and will probably use it again today. I love it!!! On Saturday night, Ben's parents took both of us to dinner. It was really good! We love and apprecite them so much. Sunday was a day of rest...for awhile that is. Around 1pm then some of Ben's brother and sisters came over for a movie marathon. The Bourne Identity trillogy. It was great. Rebecca made the most wonderful pasta ever. I just had some. I need to get the receipe and post it. My parents came over later that night and we had cake and stuff. It was nothing formal but it was fun. I got a call from Ronda, my friend, that I have not talked to in quite awhile and it was a pleasant suprise. I will be having lunch with another friend of mine on Wednesday. I guess people do read my blog. Rebecca and Sara gave me serving spoons, a gravey boat and a big white bowl. Later that night my friend Maelyn gave me some wooden spoons and whoppers. She is so nice and thoughtful. Debby gave me a beautiful Heart necklace. I just love her. Anywho, it was a really good weekend.

2008-04-11T16:18:00.000-07:00

We could just gobble him up!!!!

2008-04-11T14:23:00.000-07:00

LOST AND FOUND???

2008-04-09T15:12:00.000-07:00

Samantha has lost her tooth but it has not been found.

She was eating lunch at school and when she went to take a drink of her milk, which was in a thermos, her tooth was gone. She doesn't know what happened.

We think she swallowed it but the evidence is gone, or is it? hmmm...

2008-04-09T14:55:00.000-07:00

Rain, Rain, GO AWAY!! Seriously, when is it just going to be warm and sunny?

Samantha went on her field trip today to Thankgiving Point @ the farm. She had a lot of fun but it was a rather blustery there as well.

Apparently the highlight for the kids was when they saw a bull and cow. The cow was bigger and had bathroom issues. EEWWWEEE!!

Goats, duck, donkies, llamma???? They all had fun..

BTW... IT IS NOW SNOWING.....

Girlfriend?

2008-04-08T23:19:00.000-07:00

Jacob has made an announcement. He has a girlfriend. Sheyenne. I asked if he asked her to be his girlfriend and with a shy response said no that she announced that he would be her boyfriend. Apparently in circle time she leans her head on his shoulder.

Seriously, I find it very cute and funny and sad that he is growing up.

Isn't he cute? I love him soooooo much and just wish he would stay a little boy forever!!!

Vaccuum

2008-04-08T23:11:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for my birthday. Ben asked if I wanted to go out to dinner and wondered what I would like. I said YES, but not really to dinner just to get something. Now don't think I am silly but what I would really love for my b-day or any day really is a vaccuum. Wierd I know but ours is on the fritz and I am done with it!! I really would love an Oreck. They are awesome!!!! 8 lbs and awesome suctions plus they have a bag, which I find more cleaner than a canister. I have been borrowing my mothers and was sad to see it leave Sunday. Tears were quietly shed. Hope I get it, we will see

2008-04-08T22:55:00.000-07:00

Boy am I horrible at this. I have not written for quite awhile. Well this is whats been going down...

Easter Sunday..Samantha looked fabulous in her dress (I promise to post picture soon - again horrible bloggin) Her and Jacob stayed over at Grandma Phillips' house and went to church with them on Sunday then came home to go to church again with me. I know I am mean but I know that Samantha just loved it.
The Schmalz' came over for Easter Dinner. I was at church so Sharon said that she would cook and all that good stuff. By the way I really need more cooking utensils and serving dishes, etc. Anywho, it was good and I was happy to provide the house for dinner.

Zach was blessed on Sunday by my dad and what a great dad/grandpa he is. I really appreciate all he does for our family and am blessed with great parents. I now know he didn't feel good yet still gave a wonderful blessing to his grandson. Alex, his other grandpa, gave a touching testimony in church as well. Ben and I just love him.. He is wonderful. I do have to write and not to embarass but he said something like "many of you know my son Alex". Which I am sure one or two families might but highly doubtful since Alex/Xandi is in a different ward altogether. Oh well, I don't think many people know Ben so it was probably just cute to me. What would have been even funnier is if he said Alex and Stacy, then there would have been more confusion all around. All in all, it was a good day. Afterwards we had dinner at our home with sandwiches and potato salad and whatnot. Ben thought we should have just had dessert but who knows. My mother confirmed that I really do need the utensil/serving dishes. She is calling for a kitchen party to get me supplied. I have to agree.. not the party but the utensils. Maybe my next "party" I will be supplied with all the serving and cooking untensils one could ever have........til then...

Well it's about time...

2008-03-25T11:36:00.000-07:00

Finally the doctor is sending Samantha to an ENT specialist. This is atleast her 4th time having strep throat. We caught it early but he said "yeah, we need to get those things out" Durh!!! That is what we having been saying all along. Samantha is worried but I explained how I have mine out and all the sleepy details of surgery. Now the wait, her appt isn't until 4/14. Maybe I can find something sooner

Zach's Blessing

2008-03-11T16:01:00.000-07:00

We are planning to bless Zach on Sunday March 30th @ 1pm at our church. We hope that all can make it.

Yummy!!

2008-03-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

Well we made the Apple Dumplings this morning. Samantha wanted to be there when I made them and she was out playing all day yesterday. Anyhoo, I think that they are deliciouso. I don't have any icecream but you get the gist of the yumminess. I love the fact that at the end of the receipe the person said to pour some of the liquid in the pan over the dumpling and icecream and then head to confession. Seriously, she kills me. Well my camera is on the fritz so I can't take a picture just yet but when it is back working then I will throw it in the blog, randomly.

I'm doing it.....

2008-03-07T14:23:00.001-08:00

I am going to try to make Apple Dumplings from my new fav website - The Pioneer Woman Cooks! I got all the ingredients that I didn't already have today and I am going to try and attempt it. I wil let you know how it turns out but it should look something like this. I hope I can do it justice.

A couple of things......

2008-03-07T09:07:00.000-08:00

well it is official...I don't like the chicken and rice I made last night. I know, I know, I have made it in the past and it was good then but something is off kilter. The chicken seemed bland with the rice overwhelming with paprika and pepper. I was mean last night, so says my kids, and I made them eat a little of the chicken and the rice. Just because I didn't like it doesn't mean my kids will not like it either. So I just asked Jacob if he liked it and he said with a curious smile "yyeess" ( that is supposed to be a dragged out yes) and eyes that says to me " what do you want me to say?" He is funny and probably just said yes to not make me feel bad, although I must say that it is easier to get him to eat new things then it is for Samantha.

ok, on the the next subject. I am bored with the backgrounds and so I have changed it once again. I wish they had more choices or that I was computer savvy enough to find a cooler one on the net. Oh well. Also I need to be schooled on how to do lists and get some tunes playing, plus my friend Buffie has a slideshow album on her blog and I would like something like that..

Next...I haven't been to aerobics since last Thursday. I went out of town and when I got back on Tuesday I was sooooo tired and haven't been motivated. I will definately start back on Monday although I know that I will regret not going this week. I know I will be slow and weak. Oh well, just need to jump back into it.

I better get back to work. I do more than just blog or read blogs all day, although they make me laugh!!

What's cooking?

2008-03-06T19:25:00.000-08:00

Not me. Ok, I have tried 2 different receipes but they only come out ok. I tried meatloaf and it was kind of soggy but Ben said it was good. Good effort that is :) Ok that was just me thinking that. Tonight I tried chicken and rice. It is not as good as I remember it. I will have to see what Ben thinks. I think takeout sounds good.

So I have a cousin, 2nd cousin, and she has an awesome blog, well one that she is apart of. It is www.motherslounge.blogspot.com It has really good suggestions on receips, diarrhea cures - rice water - who knew, chore charts, etc. Anyways, it directed me to another website which I also like www.thepioneerwomencooks.com with receipes that I can even follow. Ok, so it has step by step pictures. it is great! I am excited to try some of her receipes and that is saying alot. Anyone who knows me knows that I do not cook, well not for fun, ok, does microwave cooking count?? but these look easy enough. We shall see what happens.

Anyhoo, thanks Nancy!!!

2008-03-05T20:41:00.000-08:00

Can you guess who this cutie pie is?

Friends List

2008-03-05T20:34:00.000-08:00

How do you do a friends list? I am still learning this, as you can tell by my pictures ranging from small to large. I would love to add like a playlist and a slideshow. Help!

Suprise Visit

2008-03-04T12:39:00.000-08:00

I suprised my sister this last weekend when I showed up on her door step with Zachary to see her and the twins and of course my nieces and nephew.

Bethany is 17 and a junior in highschool. As you can see she is a cheerleader and very good!

Casey is 15, I believe. I think this is the first picture that he is smiling. He is such a cutie pie. He plays baseball and football.

Vanessa is the youngest daughter (10) and very helpful. I am thankful she was there to help with the babies. She is a good sister!!

Here is grandma helping out with Leland and Hunter. They are so cute!!!!! I found myself just calling them the babies or bubas and not really using their names. I can tell them apart I just found it easier....or maybe I was just lazy. Either way we had lots of fun!!

Hunter is on the left and Leland is on the right.

Here we are on our return flight home. Grandma was able to ride back with us. Our flight was at 6:40am and had a layover in Denver for about 15-20 minutes.

With the time we had in between flights we got to go up to see the captain and sit behind the "wheel".

Hmmm..do we have a future pilot on our hands??

Moab Trip

2008-02-28T12:25:00.001-08:00

Ben and Jon went to Moab with one of Ben's customers. They had a great time. Here are some pics.....

Bens Moab Trip

2008-02-28T12:20:00.000-08:00

Play Time

2008-02-28T11:12:00.000-08:00

Where does the time go, really? Zach is finally playing and having fun with his toys.

I am 3 months!!!!!

2008-02-28T10:47:00.000-08:00

TODAY IS MY BIRTHDAY!!! OK SO I AM ONLY 3 MONTHS BUT THAT IS A LONG TIME FOR ME. WHEW! THANK GOODNESS FOR MY MOMMY AND DADDY.

Lunch Brunch

2008-02-23T08:23:00.000-08:00

This is so silly but I am excited to be going to lunch with some ladies from my neighborhood. Maybe it is just to be with people my own age but I can't wait.

2008-02-22T20:25:00.000-08:00

The day is winding down and I can honestly say that I love my family so much!! My hubby is such a great dad and friend. My sweet kids are great and love us. Samantha is growing into a wonderful girl, she is really wanting to help more around the house and being "older". Jakey is funny as can be all the time and Zach is such a blessing, I really can't see my life without him, without any of them. I feel very blessed.

2008-02-21T10:42:00.000-08:00

So the kids have been making up knock knock jokes and this one kills Ben and I everytime.

We love you Jacob. You make us laugh everyday!

My Valentine

2008-02-21T09:48:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows Ben will know that quite awhile back he would not give me flowers, specifically roses, anymore. Now, don't hate, I was getting crazy with drying them and I had them all over our house in AZ. Needless to say they are all gone to the dustbunny graves but last week when we had a black out Ben had to go pick up Jacob from his bus at the Smiths because they couldn't get up to our neighborhood. Anyhoo, in the morning, Valentine's Day, he went out to get the paper and brought in a great suprise......Roses.

By the way, Jacob has eluded to a some sort of suprise earlier that morning but I brushed it off by saying if it was a suprise then maybe we should wait and see what it was and whalaa

I love my family!!!

Nielsen TV Ratings

2008-02-21T09:04:00.001-08:00

Our house has been picked by Nielsen TV Ratings which is great because we are potatoes and love tv. They sent us 2 journals to fill out since we have 2 tv which is great because we are usually watching something and then recording the other. I hope to boost ratings on our favorite shows.

2008-02-21T08:43:00.000-08:00

Ben is over at her school right now to read with her. It's a reading date. She is so happy that he could go. Samantha loves when either of us read to her.

Ben just got back and said that Samantha was so excited to read to him. He had a good time. Thought it was short but was good.

2008-02-21T08:14:00.000-08:00

I love how Samantha is always smiling and how she is so animated. She talks with her hands alot and I think, ok know, that she gets that from me. She has been so excited lately about reading and telling me stories from her day at school. It is amazing how she can remember the story probably exactly from which she heard from school. She is a wonderful daughter and I love her to death.

Our little man....seriously

2008-02-20T16:51:00.000-08:00

Introducing our little man...Zachary Otto Schmalz. He was born on Nov 28, 07 and we all love him dearly. What a surprise but awesome addition to our family. Here is again probably a month later waving hello with a curious smile. Oh, I could just eat him up. Well Ben is calling me to make a bottle. Write you later.

First Time

2008-02-20T16:47:00.000-08:00

So this is my first time doing a blog but I know atleast 3 or 4 people who do it and a really smart lady said it is a good way to keep a journal. I hope that I am not too boring or lame. We shall see.