Butikofer Family

Great to be 8!

2011-08-08T12:15:00.000-07:00

The statement holds true... It really is great to be 8! My precious Tess Abigail Butikofer was baptized this past Saturday. She had been anticipating this day for quite some time. July seemed to come and go in a complete flash and before I knew it she was turning eight and getting baptized all in the same week. Since Tess is quiet by nature, she normally doesn't get overly excited about things BUT she had the countdown going from the time we got back from Bear Lake and was completely going crazy by the time Friday got here and her "Grandma by the Temple" and Idaho cousins and Aunt showed up.

It was such a wonderful experience to see her all in white with her glowing skin and charming smile. There were two other kids from our ward who were getting baptized as well. When we went back to the font and Brother Spencer told the order which they would go, Tess was the first. Her little hands started to tremble and she told me she needed to use the bathroom. Once we got that over with a she proceeded through the doors into the font, a peaceful calm took over as her daddy reached for her hand. Once she came out of the water, the smile on her face spoke volumes about what she was feeling. With so many loving Uncles, her Grandpa Earl, Brother Spencer, and Tim placing their hands on her head to give her the gift of the Holy Ghost my heart was pounding out of my chest knowing how lucky she is to have that much love and priesthood support.

There are times in your life that you can reflect on and see the "bigger" picture. I know this was one of those days; surrounded by family... witnessing the beginning of a young and beautiful girl's future!

Short Sassy Six

2011-06-01T21:58:00.001-07:00

Little Miss Mia Louise turned six years old this week. She has been such a blessing in our lives and was the baby for almost six years. From the get go this kid has done things her own way.

I was scheduled to be induced with Mia on June 2nd. After supervising an all night graduation party and a long week of festivities back in 2005, I came home to "rest." My body was so uncomfortable and really resting was out of the question. We went down to my mom's for a memorial day bbq. After eating lunch I carried my plate into the kitchen to wash it and put it in the dishwasher. As I bent over I felt an excruciating pain and couldn't stand back up. Tim immediately told me to get in the car so we could go to the hospital. His biggest fear has always been that I would have a baby in the car. So, we headed to SL. We got as far as Mt. Dell Golf course and I told him to turn around that I was embarrassed to call the doctor in on a holiday. He ignored me and continued down the canyon to the hospital.

When I checked in I told them "my husband thinks I am in labor." Once I was checked by the nurse she confirmed that I was indeed in labor and needed to get the epidural before it was too late. We left Ellie and Tess with everyone back home. When we called to tell them what was going on they were all halfway to the hospital. Good thing everyone was ready to meet Mia because she arrived one hour after we got to the hospital.

She hasn't stopped surprising me since that day. This year of kindergarten proved to be no different. Between the shoe incident and the love notes from her "boy" that is a friend she has kept me on my toes.

I was worried how she would react to the baby since she had been our "baby" for so long, but again she has surprised me. She loves Evie and wants to help all the time. She loves reading, playing the violin, and is quite the ballroom diva. We love our Mia Lousie and know she will go far in her life! I am so proud to be her mother.

Sunrise Sunset

2011-04-11T15:59:00.000-07:00

CLICK ON THE PICTURES, Obviously I am not technologically savvy!

Is this the littel girl I carried?... When did she get to be a beauty? ...Wasn't it yesterday when they were small?... (I have been in song mode for over a week) I also have been dieing in anticipation of these pictures. We had them taken while in St. George. I think it was way worth the wait. What do you think? Then there are the rest of my girls, we couldn't stop with just Evie! Hard for me to believe this was my baby once upon a time. I am so amazed and impressed with her. I will say that her outer beauty is stunning BUT her inner beauty will take your breath away! When she was my baby, the world seemed just right. She was an adorable baby, her older sister loved her, and I was in a good place. Now she is preparing for baptism and entering that next phase of life. Her gorgeous looks are paired with her scholastic abilities and endless talents. It is a blessing to be her mother. There are many words I could use to describe my world when Mia was my baby. We were building a house, Tess was only 20 months old, I had three kids in day care. It was a nightmare! But everytime I would hold my sweet little baby, she would snuggle up in my arms and everything seemed right. Her looks will steal your heart; along with the 15 kindergarten boys who write her love notes and bring her flowers from their moms yard! She was my sweet baby for almost six years and I loved every minute of it. And then when you think your heart can't possibly love anything more..... this happens. > I couldn't love my life and my babies anymore. Since this IS my baby for life, my cup runneth over with love! Thank you Tim for giving me four beautiful babies! You complete me! (I know cliche but true) Sunrise, sunset quickly fly the years..one season following another, laden with happiness and tears.

Click here if you want to see more amazing pictures of the session, Valerie was amazing.

Evie's Pictures

2011-03-01T17:45:00.000-08:00

About 1 minute after entering the big bright world!

BTW: Evie had the pinkest skin from the time she came out.

Her score was 9.9= OVER ACHIEVER!!!!!

The three sisters waiting to see the result. Nothing but cheers and smiles.

Official weigh in 6lbs 130z

Ready to be big sisters!

I thought she looked chubby but she is my typical little bird!

Thanks to all who came to see us and who have made wonderful meals. We are so blessed to have you all close and part of our family.

Love, Tim & Billie Jo and the 4 girls!!!!

It's A...........

2011-02-24T05:53:00.000-08:00

GIRL! Evie Fae Butikofer made her arrival on Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at 2:06 pm. We could not be more excited and pleased that we are now parents to FOUR beautiful daughters.

With all the anticipation and anxiety that I have been going through the last little while I was beyond ready to meet our baby. I had been saying the entire time that I truly hoped we had a girl. Most people tried to tell me that it was a boy and he had been waiting for 12 years to join our family. While I would have been happy to welcome a baby boy, I am OVERJOYED to be the mother of 4 girls. I know many people who have four girls and my grandmother Louise started out with four girls. There is something about girls that I just love! So yes more pink, more hormones, more dancing, and more joy at the Butikofer home!
In case you are wondering about her name, I will offer some explanation. I am very into names that have meaning to both Tim and I. This name evolved from both of our grandmothers'. Eva is Tim's grandmother Burtenshaw's name and also his mom's middle name. Fae is my grandmother McNeil's name. We feel like Evie has spent time with both wonderful woman while waiting to join our family. By giving her a part of these legendary women, it will define who she is and how strong she will be. Her potential is limitless!
Thanks to everyone who called, text, and came to support us. We love you all and can't wait to be back home with all of our daughter's living the good life on Country Lane.
Picture will come soon!!!

Farewell 2010

2010-12-31T16:33:00.000-08:00

I know it sounds cliche but where did this year go? The last few days I have thought a lot about the year 2010. It certainly had its highs and most definitely had some lows. All I know is that this year has been a season of change all around. Let's start with my kids.

As you all know little Miss Mia started school this year. While I was a little worried about how she would act (following Tess cannot always be easy) I will say I am not at all surprised! Yes even the phone call from the teacher, NOT SURPRISING!!! She has many friends but seems to have a love/hate relationship with one special friend named Hunter. Again, no surprise! I didn't feel like I had spent as much time preparing Mia for kindergarten like I had the other two. I have mixed emotions about Kindergarten. On one hand if you teach them everything and have them "reading" before kindergarten, they are somewhat bored and feel like school is just a social avenue. The other hand being you have some pride knowing your child is one of the top kids when you go to parent teacher conference and they already have everything marked off. So as usual with this kid I just let the card fall as they may. I have been so surprised to see how things have turned out. She reads better than either of the other two did at this point and she is constantly surprising me with how "grown up" she has become. I will admit she might have a set back come February and I stop carrying her around like my "little" baby. For now, I will get as much cuddle time as I can. Mia also started violin when school started this fall. Batting a thousand, she has shocked me with how well she is doing. I absolutely LOVE to hear Mia and Tess play duets, even if it is Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. So to sum up the year for Mia I would say, Little Miss Attitude Rocks the Kindergarten World!

Moving on to the middle child. Tess has had a wonderful 2010. She started playing the violin in February and took off like a rocket. Her teacher would tell me what a perfect student she was and how pleased she was with Tess each time she came to lessons. This is how Tess goes through life. She finished out first grade winning her class spelling bee (they don't go any further in first grade) and when she left her first grade teacher we ALL three (myself, Tess, and her teacher)shed many tears. Mrs. Flinders set Tess on the educational track like I have never seen an educator do. I was so worried about how second grade would then go down. Fortunately, she continues to thrive. She also finally has her good "friends" in her class. They have lots of fun and Tess has found more joy in school than ever before. She also started ballroom this fall with the return on Aunt Giselle. As a result she is constantly engaged in performing. Serious ballerina, showy Jazz dancer, dynamic acrobat, and now social butterfly ballroomer! She and Luke did a great job at the Christmas show and this upcoming year will be bigger than ever for Tess. She is moving to level 2 on violin, getting a new sibling, as well as preparing for baptism. To sum up the year for Tess, the shy quiet child is blossoming into a beautiful outgoing belle of the ball.

Talk about growing pains! Ellie had quite the 2010. Ellie began playing the guitar in February. This proved to be the perfect match for Ellie and her personality. I have no idea how to play the guitar or anything that goes with it. I can figure out violin fingering and music but guitar is way out of my league. Ellie listens to songs and figures out the cording and plays has a great ear. Ellie also participated in her first year of comp team. None of us even knew what a show stopper Ellie could be until she starts into her hip hop mode. Watch out! She gives new meaning to "attitude." She did her first solo and was amazing! She also finished up elementary school and moved onto middle school. SERIOUSLY, I have a middle school student. Her bus comes at 7:05 in the morning and she is always ready and going. She has matured so much this year and it scares me to think she will be entering Young Women's this year! She got an ipod (touch) for Christmas and acts like your typical teenager. To sum up her year I would say, winds of change. (Oh some of the greatest music came from my high school days!)

Tim and I just celebrated our 14th anniversary. Neither of us can believe that at this time in our life we are adding our 4th child. There was a time when we both thought that 3 children was our lot in life. 2010 seemed to change my mind! Between life, death, and the pursuit of eternal salvation... I realized we needed to expand our family. This was not an easy decision given how crazy our life schedule is. However knowing we are weeks away from meeting the final member of our family brings me great joy and complete satisfaction. Since we never found out the sex of our other children I could not let my track record fall. We all have our days thinking it is a boy or a girl and for various reasons but whatever this child is it will complete our family. Tim and I also were called to go on the Stake Trek this year. I will say that of the things that took place in 2010, this had to be one of my highlights. Not only did I grow an obscene appreciation for my pioneer ancestors, I also developed a stronger love and testimony of my Savior, and more importantly a deeper and more amazing love for my eternal companion. It was on the trek that I realized I was pregnant and how lucky I am to have such a wonderful man for the father of my children. We still have so much learning to do but hopefully together we can make it. Our careers are both doing wonderful, (thank heavens Giselle returned to me this year) and Tim has never been so busy/successful with work. I think a highlight for Tim this year was the addition of the tower to the boat. He not only loves wake boarding but spending time with family and friends on the water. I think he wishes the season were a little longer around here. I just remind him all the snow means full reservoirs this summer. To sum up our year.... BLESSED!

We have so many things to be grateful for this year. Good bye 2010, thanks for the good times, the bad times, and our times with each other!

Tales from Kindergarten, Mia Style

2010-09-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

And so it begins! Probably need to document these things right now so some day in the future I can laugh about it... someday!

Her "natural" pose!-Kindergarten 2010

I have been so blessed to have all my girls in school this year! We run a tight ship around this place and between the 7:05 AM bus time for Ellie, violin and guitar, and piano lessons in the morning, and then 7:58 AM bus time for Tess and Mia we get up early. Not a problem in the past. My two older girls are morning kids, they jump up and get going. Not so much with my third. She has been a different story from the get go. Call it head strong, call it stubborn, call it moody, just call it MIA! Each morning she has a different "drama." Many times it goes like this.

Mom no one will play with me on the playground. They think I am four because I am so little. My reply, logical of course- Well you can explain to them that your birthday is May 30th and you are five. There is another cute girl in your class named Kaylie who is about your size. Try to play with her.

The next morning

Mom how do you spell KC. My reply: K-C. Tess the spelling bee champion and family nark chimes in. It's probably C-A-S-E-Y. She is writing a note to her boyfriend mom and wants to spell his name. Again my logical reply, Mia we don't write notes to boys and your only boyfriend is your dad. (Has she not learned anything from the Jamison episode in preschool!) Later in the day while doing laundry, I find a post it in her pocket reading

KC + Mia

One day as I walk up to greet Mia at the end of the Country Lane bus stop, she gets off holding one sandal in her hand and one on her foot. When I inquire she tells me (one hand on hip and a smile) Kaleby ripped my shoe off and broke it on the bus. My inquiring mind wants to know-Mia what is your shoe doing in Kaleby's face? No reply!

Then this morning. Seemed to be starting off great, in fact she got dressed before Tess and had eaten three raspberry muffins before 7:00! Moving on with the routine, we went in her bedroom to make her bed ad get her shoes and socks on. LET THE GAMES BEGIN. She balked and cried and whined because she does not like wearing brown shoes to school. Last week she didn't like her mary janes because they showed her socks. Today it was the brown shoes didn't match her blue pants. I gave her the speech and we proceeded to doing hair. The fireworks continued and as a result she was spanked and sent back to bed. 20 minutes later it seemed the tantrum was over and we advanced to finish up mode. I took both she an Tess to school knowing there wouldn't be much time for mommy to help with homework tonight so we did reading before school and left at 8:30 AM. Dropped them off at school and headed back home-flash forward 20 minutes and the phone rings. Caller ID indicates -South Summit Elementary. "Hello Billie Jo, this is Mrs. Blazzard. Mia didn't have ANY shoes on when she came to school today! She told me she left them on the bus accidentally, so I called the bus garage and they radioed her bus driver. He said Mia didn't ride the bus. I then told Mia the bus driver said you didn't ride the bus today, and she replied; oh yeah I came in my mom's car. I must have left them there. Are her shoes in your car?" Running down the stairs to check my car, I tell Mrs. Blazzard. "I could guarantee they are in her book bag but let me check real quick." Surprise NO SHOES IN MY CAR. And to think I have 13 more years of this!!!!!!! Can you say boarding school.
In other new, Tess and Ellie are loving school, loving life, and loving wearing their shoes!

Tess, 2nd Grade

Ellie, Middle School 5th Grade

Seven Years of Joy

2010-08-03T14:05:00.000-07:00

Today my middle child turned 7! I can hardly believe that in those seven years so much joy has been given to me just by being this child's mother. It actually took Tim a while to talk me into having another child after Ellie. I was busy with my career, he was busy working and going to school, and we had a beautiful little girl. Seemed like our life was complete. Ellie had her fourth birthday and I decided it maybe was time to get going.

The entire nine months I was pregnant with Tess I had to be on medication to prevent me from throwing up all the time. It also was the hottest summer on the record books and we had NO air conditioning. Needless to say, I could not wait for this little child to get here. It was a very peaceful Sunday morning when I went to the hospital to have her. As usual, the ENTIRE room was full of people waiting for the arrival. (See how much fun it is not to know if you are having a boy or a girl, everyone comes to the hospital to find out!) The doctor even joked about setting up some stadium seating for the many spectators. From the start everything was easy with Tess. I think I pushed twice, about as hard as blowing up a ballon and out she came. A teeny, tiny, hairy little girl. She had so much black hair we could put a barrette in from the start. Even though Tess started out at 6 lbs 4 oz. she chubbed right up and put the gerber baby to shame. She always had the biggest cheeks and a soft little smile. Tess is very shy but stubborn. She decided when she was ready to be potty trained, she decided when she would talk, and she decided that it was fine to be a big sister at 21 months old!

I don't think I need to recount the day we went in for her kindergarten test and she kicked me out of the evaulation. Just proving to me that she can do everything by herself. She started reading early, she started playing the piano at 5, and picked up the violin at 6. Her music teachers tell me she is gifted with a great ear. (Of course look at her "superior genetics".) Tess also was the star speller in her class this year and completely won her teachers heart. It was a very teary day when she left first grade.

Tess is also a wonderful caring sister. She loves Mia and Ellie and can spend all day playing with them. What a joy she had been for these seven years. I am so lucky to be the mother of this child of God. Happy Birthday Tess- my cup of Joy!

And I say to myself....

2010-06-11T13:24:00.000-07:00

Well mother nature has once again shown us who is boss (like every good woman). Just when I thought I could enjoy summer and work in my yard, BAM 49 degrees. So instead of cleaning inside, I sat down at my computer to check on a few friends. I should warn you now, I am already crying so prepare yourself!

I have a dear friend, Becky, from college, I hadn't seen or heard from her in over 13 years. One evening I got a call from our other mutual friend letting me know that Becky had been diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. Immediately my thoughts turned to her husband and children. How can some one so young (my age) have something so devastating happen. Through the power of the Internet I have been able to keep close tabs on how she is doing. We also attended a fundraiser event in her honor back in April. I just have to tell you, she has absolutely taken the high road with this. She has allowed it, the cancer, to bring her closer to her Heavenly Father, her family, and her friends. When I just checked on her this morning, she had just reported on her mastectomy procedure. And again, I say to myself...... to young! Go here to see what an amazing person she is!

Over the last few months I have been able to spend a little more time with my sweet ten year old. She had a big year in school this year. When I say big, I mean BIG! Through it all we discovered that she may need a little help moving forward in her education. Some how the stars aligned and we found a wonderful program to help us out. It requires a lot of time and training on her part and mine. But as we take each step and level I can see what a wonderful talented daughter I have been blessed with. She is changing right before my eyes both mentally and physically. And I say to myself... pre-teen what?

She has also discovered a love for the guitar. Her guitar teacher tells me she is the most talented guitar student she has. Ellie surprised me the other day when she heard a song and went to her guitar and figured out the cording so she could play it.

I am sure many of you have heard, mostly heard me complaining, Tim and I are going on the Stake Trek. We were called as Ma's and Pa's. It really is a calling! So for six months we have been going to meetings and training and somehow the time is at our back door. In the meantime, I have been trying to prepare myself spiritually for this Trek. I have such an appreciation for the Pioneers and my ancestors. I am beginning to feel excited for the experience. Instead of complaining about my "summer vacation" being spent in sagebrush-ville Wyoming, I have realized it is going to be a perfect week for me. NO CELL PHONE, no computer, no tv, no distractions. Just my sweet loving and gorgeous husband and I spending all day everyday together! (Minus the ten children pushing the handcart) but still. And I say to myself.... Charles Ingles!

Last but not least, you may know if you are a face book freak. I AM NOT! But, if you are friends with my sister Giselle you know that she and Noah are moving back to Utah!!!!!!! I have been begging, pleading, crying, screaming, more begging, and praying that Giselle would return to me. Just when I had given up, the heavens opened up and brought her back. I can not wait for fall, BMDC has been growing and I have been killing myself trying to keep up with it. NOW the dynamic duo will take on the world. And I say to myself.... worth the wait!

These are just a few of my random thoughts while "enjoying" today's weather. And here are a few pictures of my adorable children because after all that is what I have been doing, being the mom!

AND I SAY TO MYSELF..... WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD!

Beauty Mark???? and the Price of Beauty

2010-03-15T17:40:00.000-07:00

Every since I can recall, I have had a "beauty" mark on my right cheek. With age, and a whole lot of sun loving, I had more and more "beauty" marks pop up. About four years ago I had a few moles scrapped off. It was NOT a lot of fun! On a scale of one to ten of thing I would never want to experience... it would be a 10. In fact I think I would rather give birth to all three of my kids again, with of course the help of modern medicine.
Over time the "big beauty" on my lip has resurfaced and I had to face the decision weather or not to have it scrapped off again or let it take over my face. (I can just imagine all my cute little boy nephews squirming as their old and smelly Aunt Jo Jo comes over to kiss them with her big ugly mole.) So in order to save myself some emotional pain, I decided to take on the physical pain once again.

This morning my stomach started spinning as I remembered the feel of the needle injecting numbing agent into my upper lid. It was by far the worst part the last time around. Since the mole and now scar tissue have grown into my lip. The Dr. made the decision to cut into my lip and remove it entirely instead of just scrapping off the top. I made sure Tim was around this time to drive me to an fro. If you can imagine the intense pain you experience when you accidentally bite your lip, just imagine the feeling of the tip of a needle going into it three times. (Again, wishing they made epidurals for your face!) My eyes did water up again and my toes managed to slice through the leather covered surgical chair. Tim choose not to watch the procedure, probably best for both of us! There was a point and time when the nurse asked him if he was doing ok. Even though I was numb I could feel the tug on my lip while the sutures were being put in. 45 minutes later I walked out of the office looking like a mummy. Hope the price of this "beauty" was worth it. Thanks to all of you for prayers, meals, and calls of well wishes. We will post an after picture in the next few weeks once the stitches come out! Right now this should give you a good laugh.

Happy Birthday Mr. Idaho

2010-02-20T06:20:00.000-08:00

I thought this looked like a model pose!

Another year has come and still I wonder who this young strong hot guy is that I wake up next to. With each passing year my love for him deepens. (I usually am not a fan of the list, but this post would go on and on so I had to LIMIT it to 35 things I love about Tim!)

1. Just watching him with the girls, especially when he smells their clean hair. He loves it and he truely loves them!
2. His desire to give me whatever I want. (except the TV in the bedroom)
3. His STRONG work ethic.
4. His desire for clean things and his ability to clean.
5. His dedication to any calling he has.
6. His bowed legs!
7. The way he loves my cooking and tells me what a good cook I am.
8. How he walks into our bedroom or runs up the stairs not to flatten the carpet.
9. The way he eats HUGE scoops of peanut butter out of the jar. (and still stays trim)
10. The way he takes a drink and gives a refreshing AAAHHH at the end.
11. His bright smile.
12. His singing, even though he doesn't do it publicly.
13. The way he can spend hours fixing something til it is fixed the right way.
14. How he smells when he kisses me good-bye in the morning. The smell lingers for a while and I LOVE it. I smell that on his pillow on the nights he is gone.
15. His support to endless hours of dancing!
16. His trust in me. (Like leaving the new boat in my care for a week while he was gone!)
17. His priesthood abilities anytime we need them.
18. The way he plays with the girls when they want some attention.
19. His sensitive side when we watch movies or hear a cute story.
20. How he worries about his mommy.
21. How he is willing to incorporate some of my silly traditions in our family.
22. Filling up my car when I have let it drop below a quarter tank.
23. How he loves Lady GaGa songs!
24. His ability to make everything perfect!
25. Calling me ten times a day while he is gone to check on me.
26. How he takes care of others. (even a pregnant waitress)
27. The image I still have of his Wrangler back side.
28. His thick hair. Thanks heavens he has passed on those great genes to my girls!
29. Which leads me to the tolerance he has, or has to have, with the amount of hair on the couch, floor, bathroom cupboard, clothes, etc.
30. The crepes he make for his girls!
31. His passion about things he believes in.
32. The way he loves smelly things. (Must be a Butikofer trait)
33. How hard he works to provide for our family.
34. Snuggling with me (even though it is forced!)
35. Just trying to be my everything!

Again I could go on and on. Happy Birthday Tim, you are the best husband, father, partner I could ask for. You complete me!

This is how we do it......

2010-02-15T09:06:00.000-08:00

I hope you are all singing that tune right now. (I know you are Chelsea)

Valentine's this year was perfect. I had a huge week (surprise) and it all came to a conclusion with the thing I love most... time with my family. Tim surprised me Saturday when he called to tell me "get ready and be in Park City by 3:00 for a massage at Massage Envy!" (Trumpets, playing dadadadah!!!!!) He got me a 3 month membership. Best present EVER! He then brought the girls over and we all headed to Olive Garden. This seems to be the girls favorite place to eat. We came back home and stopped at Cold Stone in Park City for dessert.

Sunday morning I made heart shaped pancakes and eggs. (I promised myself I would use the molds if I bought them!!!) It seemed to make the pancakes more delicious. I wouldn't normally blog about silly heart shaped food but the end of the day brought a funny little event which I thought was blog worthy.

The girls had called their Grandma Butikofer to wish her lots of LOVE. She and I were talking after and Tim brought a chair right next to me on the couch. (Background story: Tim has been asking me for a week if I thought I could stand on his shoulders and change a light bulb on the vaulted ceiling) Next thing I know he had Ellie on his shoulders. While I explained to Janis what was going on she QUICKLY prompts me to get off the phone and get them down. What do I do... Grab the camera! They still weren't tall enough so Tim found my old antique shipping crate and boosted them up enough to get the job done. Maybe Tim will be getting a ladder for his birthday this week??????

Winter Fun

2010-02-06T09:52:00.000-08:00

Despite most people's dismay with the snow, we found there are many ways to beat the white stuff. This Christmas and winter gave us many reasons to celebrate. Between tubing, skating, Ellie and Tim's ice fishing trip, and feeding cows with Grandpa Mac and the McNeil cousins; we find our winter fun is only part of what we are up to!

Our kids are really loving life and learning new things. We have quite the routine around here. The girls are up to their necks in all kinds of lessons: DANCE, school, DANCE, violin, ACRO, guitar, and even a little more DANCE. Since Ellie got her guitar for Christmas we had to take the next step and get her in guitar lessons. Tim and I both love the violin and have wanted to have a child who could play it. So with that in mind we found a teacher that could instruct Ellie in guitar and Tess in violin. It is really exciting to see the girls learn new things and find new talents. The routine for us however is a little grueling.>
With all the girls taking every dance class available to them (and why NOT) our after school schedule is jammed. So we do piano, guitar, and violin before school! They do not complain at all and even beat me out of bed on some mornings. As long as I have Tess' clothes laid out for her the night before we are all good to go. So what about Mia you might ask??? Well this little socialite has a pretty full schedule herself. She attends two different preschools. She does jazz and acro and shops at Kamas Food Town! She also gets playdates every Wednesday with Reece.

Even if it is freezing cold outside and we are longing for the days to pull out the boat, the weeks pass quickly with this kind of crazy schedule! Here is a peek at some other things we have been doing!

2009-12-06T22:41:00.000-08:00

The greatest place on earth with the greatest people on earth!

Keep reading below, my computer went crazy!

Where did my babies go?

2009-11-17T11:10:00.000-08:00

We recently had our family pictures done and all I could think about when I looked at them was; Where did my babies go? It seems like the girls have grown up over night. Especially Ellie! If you look at the picture at the top of the blog and compare it to one year previous, it blows my mind.

For my own record I needed to document the lives and time of these three girls.

This year in school Ellie has had a tremendous teacher who appreciates her nature. It was a blessing for me. Ellie is very artistic and can often focus more on the outside of the box rather than the content inside of it. Her teacher has told me several times that Ellie is a brilliant child with lots of potential. Many days I see the potential and encourage it... other days I am just the mom who nags at her to pick up her room and get her homework done without getting off track. Ellie is in a phase of peace sign and hoodies. She loves wearing hoodies and tries everyday to tie one into her attire. I have tried to embrace this fashion statement and find as many different and hopefully dressy hoodies as I can. She is on comp team this year and loves every minute of it. I can honestly say she is really good at hip hop and has the swagger that it takes! Yeah! She is still in piano and is getting much better at reading music. If her Christmas wish comes true she will start adding a little guitar music in her life. Again, when did I get old enough to have a kid who wants to play guitar?

Ellie at Stadium of Fire

Moving on to my big girl Tess. First grade phenom. We were also really blessed when Tess was placed in her first grade class. Tess' teacher is the most positive and kind person I have ever met. She loves her students and really does all that she can for them. Tess is my quiet thinker. She doesn't often say things out loud but she definitely lets you know how she feels about things. Last year I wasn't allowed to help in Tess' classroom because she would never talk if I entered the room and then she would cry when I left. So when her first grade teacher asked me to be the room mother this year, I told her I would have to check with Tess first! She agreed it would be ok and has been very excited when I show up. Her teacher has had a hard time finding things to give Tess that are a challenge to her. She does her assignments and asks what is next. I completely understand. When I give Tess a list of chores/work at home, I can guarantee it is done and she usually comes down stairs and asks me what else she should do. Tess is also doing really well in piano. She keeps right up with Ellie and plays more by ear. She can read the notes but once she has heard the tune she really excels. If all works out she will start violin after the New Year.

Tess losing her first tooth.

Last but certainly not least...MIA. She has grown up and even moved into 4T clothing. This kid cracks me up everyday. She goes to two different preschools to keep her occupied and cries if it is a day when she has no where to go. She also told me the other day that her favorite store is Kamas Food Town. When I asked her why she simply stated- "well I get a slushie when I go there." Whatever makes her happy while her sisters are at school. She has really taken a liking to acrobatics. Dancing is good but I think this one likes the wild adventure she gets in acro whereas in dance she actually has to listen to me and do what I say! She can do a cartwheel and land on her feet. This may sound like nothing big but some 4 year old can't do a forward roll. She still like to snuggle and she and I could sleep in til 8 if anyone ever let us. I have to also throw in that she is the best colorer (is that a word) She stays in the lines better than the 6 year old and she is always drawing and coloring me a picture.

My preschool doll!

So even though there had been no update of a while, we are alive and I am just trying to keep up with my growing babies! Life in good on Country Lane!

A few other occurrences in our lives: From my previous post you know that we lost out 23 month old nephew. I need everyone to know that we understand the "plan" and we all are still working on accepting it. His parents are valiant and the rest of us are encouraged by their strength. Three days after losing Luke, my grandfather pasted away.

From the time I can remember things I have always had my grandfather in my life. We moved next door to them when I was only 4 years old. I watched him work the cows and the crops. Sometime he would even let us go along for the adventure. He was a very hardworking man and expected anyone that worked with him to work just as hard. I think that could be where I got some of it. He also loved my grandma VERY much. They always had a smooch for each other and sat hand in hand. After my grandma died you could tell a part of him died too. He loved her so much and had such a desire to be with her. The Monday before he pasted I was able to spend the afternoon with him. I always felt like it was a blessing to spend time with him and when I left that day I honestly knew it was probably the last opportunity I would get. I told Tim that night about how I felt and really cried for what I knew was to come.

His funeral was such a testimony to all that he was. His big family and the legacy that he left made me realize how important the "plan" really is. I felt the veil was very thin on that day and both he and my grandma where sitting there by their children as proud as they could be.

Between losing Luke and my grandpa so close, I saw the gospel in its fullness. I have never been more sure of anything in my life. So while my "babies" are growing and changing the one thing that will never change is the importance they are in my "plan."

Perspective

2009-11-03T21:01:00.000-08:00

There comes a time when things get thrown at you and you have a different perspective. This evening our family unfortunately experienced one of those moments. Our sweet nephew LUKE TAYLOR returned home to our Heavenly Father. At 23 months old I can honestly say this child fulfilled his calling on earth. Luke was the center of the Taylor family. His spirit brought joy to their home. His wonderful father and adoring mother gave love without limits when it came to this kid. His brothers Josh and Mike would do anything and everything for Luke. This is an amazing family!

I know the plan our Father has for us. I love the peace that I get from it. I try to share my testimony of it whenever I can. I want my children to know this. I want my friends and neighbors to understand it. There is only one way to find comfort in any of this.

I want to bottle up the feeling I have in my soul right now to open up and use later down the road when my perspective may not be so clear and my eyes may be out of focus.

Please pray for this family! Keep them in your thoughts. Do all that you can to ensure you will be with your family again.

2009-04-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

April Fools... it is still April isn't it?!? I have lost track of time. It seems these days that the days run into weeks and the weeks have pasted to months. I have been super busy but NEVER take pictures. Even on this trip I had to force myself to remember to break out the camera. To sum up our vac-kay MUCH NEEDED. We started off our R & R in St. George with the Gunners and Johnsons. We were fortunate enough have Rob and Dad accompany us on our journey. I had a driving partner and the girls were on their best behavior (if that is possible) for Uncle Rob. It really helped to have a total of 3 dvd players going. (Thanks Erica!) The girls rode bikes and played in the sand while the adults listened to conference and had wonderful food. I am not sure there is ever an event with us that doesn't involve food. Sunday we watched the first session of conference ate AGAIN and then jumped in the car to head to Pheonix. I had told Dad that I wasn't sure the Vegas route was the best. Tim and I had been that way over 9 years ago and I remember thinking it would never end. But dad insisted he had measured it out with string on the map it we should give it a try. All went well UNTIL Hoover Dam. All I will say is 4 miles=55 minutes. Got a great view of the suspension bridge being built over the dam, IMPRESSIVE! Dad did suffer from a touch of road rage:) Eight and a half hours later we made it to see our adorable little Rajko. He was definitely worth the wait!

Dad and Rob actually stayed with Giselle and Noah while I stayed with Sharee and Matt. They also have three kids and a kid friendly back yard. The warm Phoenix air made my kids believe it was summer. (80's the entire week.) While in Phoenix we did everything we could to keep those kids entertained from indoor Amusement Parks to Bowling. The thing my kids wanted to do more than anything was SWIM in the pool. However, one of the highlights was the Hannah Montant Movie as well. I will just go on record saying I LOVED IT!!! Sharee and Matt were great host and Giselle and Rajko were our event planners. Thanks to everyone who we spent time with. I may need a week or two to catch up on all the sleep I missed but Sharee and I got caught up on our lives. Dad and I made a joint decision to leave on Friday and drive in the night to St. George. We didn't get out until 9pm Arizona time and I pulled into Chelsea and Max's at 4:20 AM. However the girls slept the ENTIRE time and it went by faster that way. We made it home for Easter and it looks like we are in for a week of storms. So great to be back.

BTW: This is not a resort pool, this is Sharee's back yard! LOVE IT!

Since I uploaded pictures from my camera I did find two events that I hadn't blogged about.

Mia had to dress silly and crazy for April Fools. She loved it and was extra pleased to wear make-up to school.

Tess had the kindergarten piggy opera. She had been excited for the big day! I think I could hear her singing...?

But definately the cutest piggy-EVER!!! Come and see us soon Rajko and Scheerhorns.

Heartbreak and.... you can't make this up!

2009-02-05T11:40:00.000-08:00

So this post will be a two part update. I have to document both stories just so one day I can look back and laugh since all I want to do is cry (but I am way to tired for it.)

HEARTBREAK
My little Mia has such a big heart accompanied with serious crushes on boys of ALL ages. There is however a little boy in her preschool class that she calls her "boyfriend." His name is Jameson and she like him because he has the same color hair as her dad. I will admit that he is probably the cutest boy in the class and I think that his mom is a sweetheart so I play along with the scenario. Today she drew a picture and told me she was taking it to preschool to give to Jameson. I just smiled inside and thought of all the trouble that I am going to have to deal with when she is 16 and having all these mad crushes.....I did not know I would have to deal with HEARTBREAK at 3! She came home from school crying because she gave Jameson the picture and he threw it on the ground and walked away. I tried to assure her that he still likes her and that it was a nice gesture to have done that. In the back of my mind I wanted to call up his mother and tell her what a rude thing her son had done to my sweet little baby. Oh boy I think home school may be the ticket for the both of us!

Who could resist this face?!?!

On to the second part... You can't make this up!

It all started two Sundays ago. Mia had been acting whinny and sick like. I decided to stay home from church with her since neither of us had gotten a whole lot of sleep. We napped took medicine and watched some TV. Then around 5:00 she started screaming that her ear hurt. Of course, it is Sunday and it is after hours why shouldn't it start hurting NOW! So Tim and I took her to Urgent care in PC. Sure enough raging ear infection. Now it is 7:30 on Sunday night and all the pharmacies are closed. They gave us some antibiotics to get through the night and the next day.

Jump ahead two days. Tuesday Ellie comes home from school and tells me she doesn't feel well. I give her some Tylenol and cold medicine and send her to bed. Next morning we go to piano and I drop her off at school with a box of Kleenex and take Tess to the doctor because she didn't sleep, nor did I, through the night because the stye on her eye has gotten huge. I tried many home remedies but obviously we need a prescription to overcome this ailment. We got her prescription and instructions to hot pack it three times a day and apply the antibiotic ointment. I run Tess back to school and head home to get ready for my "long" day at the studio. By 3pm Ellie is home and bawling and throwing all kinds of fits. (Hit the pause button for a minute) Remember in my last post I told you she is the worst sick patient EVER. Add to the fact that Wednesday is my long night at the studio and the night Tim is in St. George. So now it is 8 PM and I am trying to help her finish her homework that she and the babysitter did not get done!!! To her credit her nose was BRIGHT red and she could not go longer than 21 seconds without wiping it. As she was spiting out all the medicine that I could give her we decided to call it a night and not send her to school the next day. Instead she and I both went to doctor on Thursday. My ears were plugged and it sounded like I was talking into a tin can. Two prescriptions later and a few shots of steroid mist up the nose and we were good to go! Hang in there were are almost through the week!!!

I decided in the middle of all this to have a surprise birthday party for my mom on Saturday night. We invited about 25 of her friends and family and had a great time. She was completely surprised as she showed up in her sweats and no make-up.

At 5:30 Sunday morning, Ellie woke up screaming and crying. She had a fever of 105 and was shaking all over. So you got it ONE more trip to the urgent care!!!! Again Sunday morning and no pharmacy open til ten. We decided to sleep in the parking lot for an hour and wait it out. This is a true story, I am not embellishing one thing. Good thing I got those antibiotics in her because there was no way I was having any sick kids at home this week. Oh wait, did I say that! Today, Thursday, is Tess' second day home with the runny nose and ear aches. Good thing I have ALL the medicine I need to get her over this. President's Day can not come fast enough!!!

What a month!

2009-01-26T20:19:00.000-08:00

I have had the ongoing talk with Olivia on the lack of blogging. I have two sides to blogging NOT at ALL and VERY LITTLE. It is not that we don't have things going on, it is that we have many things going on. Here is a recap of January to this point.

To start my January off, I was in Idaho visiting the in-laws when I received a very disturbing phone call. My sweet Jenica's mother, Teresa, has past away in the night. I have know Jenica since she was my little girl's age. I have watched her grow and I have taught her a lot of dance and hopefully some other things along the way. I spend three days a week with her work at the stuido and tending. My kids adore her and love her. This was a huge shock to her and all of us. I spent that first week just sick and wondering how I was going to help Jenica through all of this. It has been a good experience for me and I have had time to reflect on my own relationship with my girls. I am happy to report that Jenica is as amazing as she is talented and seems to be pulling through this. She and her brother JT were unbelievable at the funeral. Seriously one of the best funerals I have ever been to.

On to a more fun topic...PARTIES. We have hosted many parties the last little while. We started of the year with a party and it seems like it has had a snowball effect! New Year's Eve we hosted a fondu party. It was a lot of fun and the fondu was FAB. There were two of the cutest boys at the party. I will let you be the judge!

Now that's what I'm talking about!

Next was the baby shower. It was great to have Giselle in town. We held it at our house. There were so many people from high school to college, ballroom, family and even a few drop ins from dance students. We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of baby Rajko. (We hope to be spending our Spring Break in Phoenix!)

The next day we had a birthday party for MAX. (Good thing I am not as old as he is!!!) It was great to see the Logan Johnson's as well. Max has a twin sister and the rest of the family came as well. Then four days later I hosted bunco group at my house. Yes I am a sinner in a bunco group, but I have had the chance to meet some great people that I would never have otherwise know.

In between the parties I have had the same syndrome as everyone else. The mother-with-sick-kid-syndrome that is. It started with Mia and the stomach bug! It seemed like we all were in the clear and then five days later Ellie got it. She has a hard time being sick and actually missed three days of school. After that I completely DETOXED the house. Washed the walls, ripped the covers off the couches and washed them. Cleaned beds and bedspreads. You name it, if is was washable it got washed. then once week later Mia started with a head cold and we ended up in the Urgent Care on Sunday with a flaming ear infection! LOVE IT! I plan to head South over Presidents weekends and hopefully our spirits will be lifted! So there you go-now you know why there have been NO updates. Hope the rest of you are finding more healthy days in January.

A typical day involves me fighting Mia over if I get to do her hair or not. This is her favorite hair do-water slick back. She was so proud of how smooth she got it. Good thing they see her on other days at Kamas Food Town since that is our hot spot!

Here and there we did some sledding. This is one of the reasons I live here!

Tess and her friend.

Ellie the leader of the pack.

Noah and Mia gave up on the tubes and went down without!

Ohh too cute!

We Did It

2008-12-28T15:46:00.000-08:00

We have successfully made it through the holiday season. It seems like it went so fast yet on the other hand we had endless celebrating. I am so blessed at this time to have a week off and the girls and I have some big plans. It seems strange to think that 2008 is just about to close. We have had a great year and I continue to marvel at how big the girls are getting. Christmas morning brought that to my attention in so many ways.

Ellie was completely excited all day on Christmas Eve. She encouraged the other two to join in the anticipation. There was so much going on and we were able to have Giselle and Noah here with us which brought its own excitement. We all joined up at my mom and dad's for the traditional Christmas Eve dinner. (Going back a few years) We always have a Christmas Eve program and each person is encouraged to participate. When I was somewhere around Ellie's age I remember singing, with the old LP (that is a record) Amy's Grants Tennessee Christmas. Not sure why I chose that song but for some reason I did. This year my girls decided to start singing a new Amy Grant song, I need a Silent Night, that I found while looking for Christmas music for the Christmas show. They each took their turn belting it out on the karaoke machine. Then they turned it into quiet the trio performance. I just couldn't believe that these were my children and they were participating in the same type of traditions that I so fondly remember. There was an empty space at the table this year without my sweet Grandmother. I still have these little flashes now and again or something that makes me well up with those stinking tears. I just remember the previous year with her all dolled up in her Christmas outfit. We miss her a lot and I am just so gad that my children were old enough to have the chance to meet her and know her. The hardest part now is watching my grandpa. He misses her so much and longs to reunite with her. I realize how grateful I am for the plan and how much I want to be with my husband and children forever. (Wow I am not sure how I got off on that path but I have now regained my composure and can move on. Sorry Mom!)

Once we got home form the Christmas Eve celebration all of the kids in their matching pjs went to bed. We all sleep out in the bonus room and so we can wake up together. Ellie however decided that 2:30 was an appropriate time to check and see if Santa had arrived. It took me the next three hours to keep her from jumping out of her skin. By 6:00 we were up brushing our teeth and ripping apart wrapping paper as fast as we could. Ellie got her own digital camera and I have officially let her take over the photography. She is doing quiet well and manages to remember to take more photos then I. I was completely surprised at with my Christmas present. It was all set up and decorated as I walked into the room. I will let you judge for yourself!

The snow decided to bring Christmas joy to us and we had trouble making the two mile trip to my parent's Christmas morning. As we took a the second path we also saw the three elk that have reappeared from last year. Ellie again capture the moment.

On Saturday we headed to the Bisel party. We are normally in Idaho for that weekend. It was great fun to participate in the Sleigh Ride, tubing, cemetery visit to Grandma and the unbelievable buffet.

Oh the memories that we have made this month. Here's to a new year of happiness and family time.

Long Time Coming

2008-12-07T07:29:00.000-08:00

We're here! We really are alive and kicking it just seems that there is so much going on and I put blogging on the bottom of my list. If I have an extra minute I try to do something productive. Prime example, make cookies with Tess and Mia. They love it and it teaches me patience. We had a wonderful November and were very thankful to spend time with many of our family. Other things that happened in November:

Ellie had her first piano recital. Both of the girls started piano this fall and are doing great. They have different teachers (long story) and we are grateful that they enjoy it (for the time being). Ellie had practiced and practiced til everyone in the family could play her songs. That morning she was getting a little nervous. By time we got to the church where the recital was I am not sure who was shaking more, Tim or Ellie. He gets so nervous for the girls. Ellie was about to cry when she was introducing her pieces her voice was shaking so severely but she sat down and played like a pro. We were so proud of her and pleased that we got to share the moment with Grandpa and Grandma McNeil, and Allen and Patrice and Evan. Thanks guys!

We made a long trip to Boise for Thanksgiving. We have never actually been to Brain and Jan's house so we were looking forward to seeing them and the rest of our Butikofer family. I had been some what worried about the length of the trip so I prepared an entertainment box for the girls. What would we do without technology, seriously. Between the dvd players and the leapsters (Thanks Averett girls) the girls never made a peep. I however didn't do so well. Tim and I have different travel philosophies. Mine= get in the car and drive as fast as possible ONLY to stop if it is a dire emergency. Did I mention FAST! Tim is more of a sight-seer. He absolutely loves road trips and stops along the way to stretch out his legs and get a refill. And of course he would never eat in the car=too much of a mess!!!! I have decided Tim's way could be more enjoyable if we did it more expeditiously!!! We had a great time in Boise and I would love to show you pictures of it but I never took my camera out of the case. AND no one took it out of the case while I was in the pool with the kids doing cartwheels off the side and throwing Ellie and Lexie in the air off my shoulders. (My dad would be so proud) To Tim's defense he had hurt his back at work BUT while he sat on the side he could have snapped some actions shots.

I missed out on the Black Friday madness which really took a toll BUT I had my own little on-line Thanksgiving day madness when I was showing Sondi some online deals. It is possible that I could turn into a cyber shopper junkie!!! But I just missed Allen and the snowmobile-suit man!

We headed aback from Boise a day earlier than we originally planned and got to see some of my family on Sunday as my mom hosted a Sunday Thanksgiving dinner. Yes Thanksgiving is really a wonderful holiday with food and family.

To start off December I vowed I would make some fun times with the girls. So far we have managed to put up five Christmas trees and last night we went to Temple Square with the Gunners. I love the lights and the spirit that goes with it on Temple Square. It was a pretty mild night as far as the temperature goes BUT with kids they get cold fast. So we headed to Sizzler, a family friendly restaurant. Can I tell you it was so worth it. I love Sizzler salad bar and apparently it had rubbed off on my kids. Ellie was thrilled that she could go back as many times as she wanted. Tess was just happy she got to sit by Luke and Mia well you see, one of Mia's favorite food is watermelon and cantaloupe. She never stopped with the Watermelon and she eats it right down to the rind! Maybe a gift card in the stocking for all of them would be a great idea. Again, just the little things I need to remind myself, make them happy.

We cannot wait for Christmas to get here but more than that the girls are so excited to see their second mommy, Giselle. I think if I wrap her up and put her under the tree Christmas morning will be complete!

Happy Halloween and More

2008-11-02T06:59:00.000-08:00

We had a huge more like gynormous week. It all started last Saturday with Ellie's birthday party. We took Ellie and eight of her friends to see High School Musical 3. It was fantastic, more singing and dancing than the previous two. I LOVED IT and so did the other kids. We had two boys attend the party, Luke and Jackson. Luke tried to be all shy and not even come to the pre-movie cake and ice cream bash, however on the way over it was reported he was crooning for the girls and they were loving his opera style. Thanks to Olivia for helping me transport the tribe. Sunday we had our Primary Program. It is a lot of work for the chorister ,me, and I was also stressed about Tess not saying her part.(She wouldn't in any of the practices.) Well she came through like a champ and it was an extreme dose of reality as I looked around and saw that Ellie is the 4th oldest girl in our primary!!!! Moving on in the week.

Tuesday was our official birthday. Knowing what was in store with dress rehearsal after school til who knows when, we opened presents at 6:30 am. Mia kept telling me "Mom it is night outside."

Ellie got her heelys that she has wanted for two years and I got a treadmill that I have been begging for a long time. (It just goes to prove my theory, when we get rid of things we end up having to replace it AGAIN!)

By then fifth hour of dress rehearsal, I got a great birthday present from one of the little ballerinas. She threw up all over the stage and her tutu to boot. Needless to say it was a distraction that had to be taken care of.

Wednesday, the BIG PERFORMANCE!

This is the first time all three girls were in the show. I ran and ran and ran around that day. Tess kept me right in line with her asking every 2 minutes if it was time to get her costume on and she had the other two's outfits laid out and tights and shoes put in her bag.

We had two shows in one night to accommodate all the audience members. ALL the girls did great and I felt very relieved after it was all over! BTW-Mia walked away with the Shirley Temple award for the night!

Thursday brought Mia's preschool snack and Tess' class party. I know what you are thinking. Preschool snack is not that hard Billlie Jo. Well two factors you might not know about. 1-They have to bring a snack that begins with same sound as their name. 2-I try to do some extremely wonderful homemade award-winning Martha Stewart version of a snack. When Mia brought home the paper at the beginning of the month I told her we would send MMMmuffins and MMMmilk. (They go at ten in the morning and I thought this would be wonderful.) I hadn't been to the store ALL week and had no eggs to make the MMMmufins. So off to KFT. I decided to buy some MMMMuffins and that would have to do. I flet like such a slacker mother coming in with my store bought MMMmuffins. Apparently the kids didn't mind and they gobbled them all down. On to Tess' class party. I AM NOT the room mother or room mother helper for this class, however I know the room mother and she asked me to come help with the party. Since I still have not gone through my "Just say NO intervention" I went in for my duty. Tess seriously was the cutest clown I have ever seen. The only face painting she would allow me to do was a small dot of red on her nose! It didn't matter she still won my heart!

Friday brought us the real Halloween celebrations. I AM a room mother helper in Ellie's class. However when I woke up Friday I really had no desire to get out of bed. This put a damper on me preparing all the gooly goodies for her party.

The room mother had put together this fun Halloween story with Science experiments and cool sounds. She wanted the food to relate to the theme. I looked and serached the entire night before on the Internet for great party food. This is what I came up with. A snake that had slime coming out of it and flying creatures stuck in a pumpkin. (Sorry no picture BUT it was dar!)

I bit off more than I could chew and called in some reinforcements (Robbin-Thanks) The food was an absolute hit and I even had enough left over to take to the neighborhood Halloween party we were invited to. We went with some neighbors and had a pre trick or treating party and then loaded all the kids on the wagon and went around their neighborhood.

We bailed after about an hour to go visit great-grandpa and our biggest requested stop... the FRANCIS FUDGE FAIRY. This is the only Halloween necessity for Tim.

The weather was perfect and we got loads of candy. (DR. Moffits dream I am sure!)

Saturday would have been a great day to relax and chill from the big week HOWEVER I had signed up a month ago for a scrap book marathon. Tim was the best husband/father once again and took care of the girls, the laundry, and even put my birthday present together. AHHH thank heaven for day light saving...I got the extra hour of sleep I really needed. Hope we can get back to normal! Although I am not sure what the defintion of normal is at this home:)

9 Years Old

2008-10-28T03:58:00.000-07:00

Yes it is official. Nine years ago this day I received the best birthday present ever, my sweet little Ellie Jo Butikofer. I have learned so much over the past nine years and I would not trade one day of it. When you have kids I think you realize who you are and you see a part of you manifested in someone else. Each day I sincerely pray for this kid. She has such a big heart and I know that she is going to do great things. My only concern is- have I done all that I can to let her know how much she means to me. Here are nine qualities that I enjoy in Ellie.

1. From the moment she came into this world she was the life of the party! Being the first grandchild on the McNeil side meant that she got A LOT of attention!!! There was never a moment she didn't have someones attention. Since at the time I was knee deep in drill team and my teaching career, she was drug to every football, basketball,volleyball and dance competition around. She attended her first football game when she was 2 weeks old. I remember thinking "having kids doesn't slow you down!" Well as a result of my naivety (is that even a word) Ellie also got RSV when she was four months old. I think that was the first moment that I realized how precious her life was. I would lay in the recliner at night with her on my chest hooked up to oxygen and just watch her breathe. I held my breath the entire first night and prayed that I would be the best mom I could to this child. To this day she is always the center of attention for better or for worse.

2. Ellie finds joy in small things. I guess this is the proper and nice way of explaining that she is a hoarder. I am sure in the next twenty years you will see her on on of those reality show where she has to get some type of help because her junk collecting has taken over her life! She saves everything and wants other people to save things. I think she has Luke convinced that there is a reason to save pop can tops??? Just the other day I went through her desk and started to purge things. When she found the ONE inch pencils in the garbage she asked me why I threw them away. I said, "you can't even write with them why do you have them and why would you keep them." Her reply was simple, "I wanted to see how small I could get them with the sharpener and they look cool."

3. Ellie has very intriguing knees. She is a ballet teacher's worst night mare. She has very interesting knees. They are not bowed and she is not knocked kneed but it is some strange cross between the two. Giselle says that it is a ballroom dancers dream. Good things she looks cute in the leotard so that people have something else to watch!

4. Like I said before Ellie has a big heart. She loves everyone! When she was very little and we lived in Kamas she stole the heart of an elderly man in our ward, Grandpa Padfield as she called him. One day he showed up at our house with this cute wooden rocking chair that he built for her. This was also Ellie's first exposure to understanding death. When Grandpa Padfield died, I am not sure who cried more Ellie or me? She also hates it when people are sad or hurt. For instance when I put Mia in time out or she gets in trouble, Ellie comes to her rescue.

5. Ellie has also channeled Giselle's act for injuries. The ace bandages have found a great home and every time we are at mom and dad's she finds the crutches. She always has an injury and the other day it came to a for front. She had this bump on her finger and she kept showing it to me. At first I thought she got a sliver and it may have gotten infected. However she wouldn't actually let me touch it or examine it. After about a month and the swelling getting worse, I made an appointment for the first day she had off of school. Turns out had a big pocket of infection and it had to be lanced out. THAT WAS FUN! But she loves the facts that she has to soak it in Epsom salt baths twice a day!

6. She never gives up! Ellie will try and try and try something until she gets it. I mentioned the other day that she got her back handspring in acro. Somethings come sooner and quicker than others but overall she keeps trying. She may not have learned to ride the two wheel bike until she was 7 (thanks Uncle B) but at least she never quit.

7. American Idol watch out! Ellie loves to sing. She can and will memorize the words to any song. (Not so much into memorizing math facts but song are a must!) I think when she was only two years old she had all the drill team songs memorized and even those of other teams. (Giselle..."this is how my drummer drums!") She has also passed her love of singing on to Tess and Mia. Any given day you can hear quite the concert going on inside, outside, or in the shower. Hannah Montanna has nothing on this girl.

8. Ellie is a great example and big sister to Tess and Mia. It has been so fun to watch Ellie and Tess do the whole school thing this year. Ellie gives Tess a lot of advice as to what to wear, how to wait for the bus, and when and where to play. She reads to them, teaches them, and runs the show as far as what they are playing. She is the head choreographer when they are making up dances and also the fashion consultant. But she also teaches them spiritual things too. They have to also take a "scripture bag" like Ellie to church and Ellie sets up the whole pulpit and routine for family home eveningtalks as well. Being the oldest sister myself I know how she feels and how you want to control everything. I hope that she continues loving them follow her footsteps.

9. Her smile says it all. She has a cheesy smile when she is getting her picture taken but on the lighter and more natural side of life it melts my heart when she walks in the door and I see her smile. I am sure it won't be long before that smile melts someone elses heart... but for now she is all mine! Happy Birthday to my nine year old baby! I hope the next nine years are just as wonderful.

Grape Nuts = Growing Up

2008-10-24T08:01:00.000-07:00

I just had to hurry and post this funny story. I haven't done much in the line of keeping up with Mia's baby/scrapbook so I thought I should document this little occasion.

Mia likes to eat cereal EVERY morning. I offer her good warm things to eat and she just chooses to eat cereal. Not just any cereal she is very specific. She wants Rice Crispies! I buy the big bulk bag to use for Rice Crispy Treats so I never thought that this would end up being Mia's personal fav. She does like me to put one teaspoon of sugar on them however. Well moving on... She told me "Mom I am hungry." I then replied in the most loving voice "What would you like to eat my little darling?" She opens up the pantry and says, "Mom, I growed up so I need some of Dad's cereal." Referring to the grape nuts. Well knowing how they taste, I try to tell her that I am sure she won't like them. (A mother always knows.) In her attempt to reiterate to me how grown up she is, she gets the box herself. I poor the smallest amount in her bowl and add the milk. One crunchy bite later...."Mom, I'm still a little kid. Can I have my own cereal?" I just smiled and poured the grape nuts down the garbage disposal and got out the Rice Crispies!

While I am updating, I had these pictures to throw in. We didn't get to go anywhere for UEA for many reasons, so we braved the CROWDS of people at Gardner Village and then went with the Gunners to Chuck E. Cheese for Noah's pre-celebration. I stood in the face painting line for 45 minutes while the kids went to the petting zoo. Ok let's just say, the kids could go to Great-Grandpa Bisel's and pet as many animals as they did there and I could pull out the face painting kit and do the butterflies myself BUT it was the time together that counts RIGHT. The things we do for our kids. NEXT year Disneyland MARK MY WORDS!!!!

Just for Aunt Giselle

2008-10-21T04:01:00.000-07:00

So to say we all have had a hard time with Aunt Giselle moving would be a slight understatement. Mia seems to have it the worst. I think the reason maybe that Giselle has brain-washed her to believing that she is her mother. Don't get me wrong, I love that they want their Aunt Giselle to be such a part of their lives. We send video footage and pictures on the cell phone bi-weekly to her. (I am so grateful for technology.) Last week Ellie got her back handspring down. First person we call...Giselle. Plus the cell phone video of it. Every morning Mia tells me "I can't wait til Christmas. Then I can see Giselle." Apparently I just need to wrap Giselle up and put her under the tree. So these pictures are for Giselle. I hope that the rest of you enjoy them and please note the time. 4:05 AM! That is the only time I have to blog. I couldn't sleep so I started some laundry and now I have one second for an update.

Where on earth does the time go? My big girl will be 9 in just one week. I am seriously freaked out with the notion. You know me the leader of the drama queens! Needles to say they keep me on the move! Gotta go...time to put in the next batch of clothes!

It's October...My favorite month!

2008-10-10T08:41:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that it is October. This is one if not my single favorite month. It isn't because of all the birthdays or Halloween. It means we start wearing cute sweaters, eating soup A LOT, having pumpkin this and pumpkin that and most of all we gain one hour of sleep with daylight savings!!! Let's be honest it really is because of the birthdays!

We had a great time celebrating Jack's first birthday. I would love to show you the pictures of it but I forgot to grab my camera and so far no one has posted their pictures that I can steal. Chelsea made the absolute cutest cake EVER. I pride myself of being "Monica" but move over "Martha". One of the highlights was the three legged race. Tim prides himself on NOT being competitive...this does not bout well with his overly competitive wife. Therefore I have set the stage. Chelsea and Allen held the current three legged world record for YEARS back when they were both in their athletic prime(BTW Happy Birthday today, CHELSEA). The competition was tight and due to a certain spill that Chelsea and Max took, Tim and I were able to walk away with bragging rights. Thanks for the memories family!

I will just give shout out to the rest of my October B-day Babes!

Robbin-11th Happy Birthday to the best friend and neighbors I have ever had!

Noah (baby)20th- We can't really call you baby Noah anymore. Happy Birthday big 3 year old!

Patrice 28th-I am so glad we get to share our special day together, you are just like one of my sisters! My birthday wish for you is a crib for your baby, wait that should be Evan's birthday wish. Maybe by the time he is one he will get it!

Ellie 28th- You were the best birthday present I have ever gotten. I can't believe what a beautiful young lady you are becoming!

Grandpa Butikofer 31st-We hope you have a great day! And Happy Halloween!

I just wanted to cover what we have been up to the past few weeks.

#1 Field Trip with Mia: Her "BearHig" preschool fall Teddy Bear Picnic. We went to Nobbletts. It was great to watch Mia in action and she pretty much ran up the trail. One of the other mothers commented to me, in between her child's sobbing sessions, that Mia seems so comfortable being outside and playing in the dirt and picking leaves. REALLY- this child playing in the dirt and being crazy, go figure. Which bring me to my next item.

#2 Swimming Lessons: I enrolled all the girls in swim lessons. We didn't do them over the summer and I felt pretty guilty. I put Mia in Child B class. This class is designed to "acquaint" children with the water and make them feel comfortable. I was worried that I should put her in the level one BUT Tess is in that class. Needless to say after one class the teacher told me that they should move her up a class but I still felt like Tess needed her "own" class. It is so funny to watch her. The teacher is constantly telling her to get up on the side with the other kids and she dives into the water and holds her breath as long as she can. The girls are doing great and I am so glad that we have the rec center so close.

MIA UNDER THE WATER WHILE THE REST OF THE CLASS WALKS TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE POOL!

MIA AGAIN UNDER THE WATER WHILE THE REST OF THE CLASS IS STANDING WAITING FOR THEIR TURN!

#3 The new addition to our family! Three little kittens have come to live with us. Mia has wanted a kitty for such a long time and I keep putting it off and putting it off. It had gotten to the point where she asks me 15 times in a day (I truly counted). So with the help of my mom letting me know where I could get some, each girl decided they needed to have their own. Welcome Aleena (I think it really is AL), Gabriella, and Chloe! Seriously they take as much time as my own kids. They are barely 6 weeks old and still miss their mommy. Mia is in seventh heaven and I am so proud of Tess and Ellie for also holding and petting them. Tess request that I bring Gabriella up to the bus stop to greet her when she gets off the bus!

They are outside cats but we just had to bring them in to snuggle them a bit. They really miss their mom!

This maybe the only update this month here is a list of things I have to do:

Swim lessons every Saturday

Super Saturday

Have a HSM3 birthday bash for Ellie!

Dance Concert (Super Spooktacular)

Make a Halloween treat for Mia's preschool class

Halloween Party in Ellie's class , (your right Robbin I got myself back into helping the Room Mother)

Primary Program

Raise 3 kittens

Raise 3 daughters

Try to keep up with the laundry

Fix nutritious and delicious meals

Clean, Clean, Clean!!!

It may be Thanksgiving before I update!

My goal for the month.

2008-09-27T21:27:00.000-07:00

I expressed earlier in the month I want to be a better photographer and now it is almost the end of the month and I have to follow through. I only have one muse but I kidnapped another. See what you think!

For some reason this one turned out to be my favorite.

Working at the perfect light.

If we only really knew what these eyes were saying?!?!

Still working on the prefect light.

And still working! He loves to avoid the camera!

I wish this one was a little more focused.

I can't decided if I like color or sepia!

I promise I will find other people and things to take pictures of-It is just the beginning!

Enough already...here are my quirks.

2008-09-20T20:46:00.001-07:00

I don't feel like I have to list 6 quirks since Billie Jo has previously listed 2 quirks:

1)I know and have watched every episode of Little House on the Prairie. I feel like if I were able to be reincarnated I would come back as Charles Ingles.

2)I shower two to three times a day. Enough said, I like clean.

3)I always turn the radio down to zero before I turn off my truck in case the on/off button ever breaks I will not be stuck with a radio that never works again; as well as turning the fan setting in the control panel to low. Same reasoning, if it ever breaks I do not want to be left with air blasting in my face.

4)After drinking a cold beverage I always click my tongue on the top of my mouth and make a refreshing sigh to signify my satisfaction.

5)I sleep with my hands above my head clasped together as well as making a steam engine whistling noise while exhaling, (so I have been told).

6)I despise things that do not work properly. I would rather throw it away then put up with something that only semi works.

I re-re tag Allen and Max.

Random Ramblings!

2008-09-15T07:36:00.000-07:00

As I have stocked many other blogs, I have realized that I don't take enough random or spontaneous pictures. I want to have all these images of my beautiful girls just "living" life. I think I may have to invest in a better camera or do some studying to capture the perfect photos. So in an attempt to catch some moments here we go:

This is my little bed bug! She manages to sneak into my bed 5 out of the 7 days of the week. She is so snuggly that I don't care and since I try to let her sleep in while Tess and Ellie get ready for school it is much more quiet in my room. Her eyes tell so much about who she is. She can melt your heart just with one flash of those baby blues. As you can see by the clock. She managed to sleep until 8:21. This is a miracle for my children, she can sometimes pull it off. Bless her!

Our big attempt at being self reliant. Well let's just say that if we had to live of our harvest, we would starve. Not entirely all my fault. I get lots of help from the deer and the frost. We planted zucchini, squash, carrots, peas, strawberries, raspberries, and tomatoes. Then of course there are the apple trees. Those tend to be the deer favorite. I will say that we ate zucchini this and zucchini that for several weeks and devoured several zucchini cakes. I have learned a lot and will give it another shot next year. (It would help if I built a ten foot fence and invested in green house.)

Noah tagged all the guys in the family and so far none of them have answered. Mom did a great job filling in dad's information. I however will fill you in on one little "quirk" about Tim. He LOVES and I emphasis L-O-V-E-S to clean. I try and try every day to have the house clean but there is always something that he can one up me on. The latest being steam cleaning. He found this gadget from someone who comes in to clean their office. He was bound and determined to steam clean our shower and anything else he could get a hold of. He just kept going and going (energizer bunny). I love this "quirk" he has but someday I would like to feel like I am not the worst house keeper in America. (I know, I know, Olivia and Robbin you don't have to tell me you would take it any day.) One other little quirk. Tim spends A LOT of time primping. He once was a hair model FOR REAL and I think he picked up some habits of spending time in front of the mirror.

So here is my best effort at casual photography. I love to watch these two walk to the bus in the morning. I often wonder what they talk about or say to each other. When they were younger, (ok two years ago) I would try to dress them the same. Now they try to plan out what they wear the night before and there are some outfits they have that match. Then they want me to do their hair the same. The are both getting way to big and it was really evident this weekend with Evan around.

Yeah Evan came to see us. We LOVE to have house guest. I feel like Evan is really a special little nephew since I was the first one there after his birth. I got to go into the special NICU and hold him. Boy has he come a long way from that little isolete. We are excited that we will be spending a lot more time with this little guy in the near future.

Well duty calls. Someone needs me to clean up their mess!

Pre-school Princess

2008-09-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

As hard as I thought it would be to have Tess go to kindergarten, it was even more difficult to let my baby go to pre-school. Mia had her first day of pre-school on Wednesday, September 3rd. (This picture is really from Thursday because when we got to pre-school yesterday my batteries were dead!AHHH!) She had been so excited for her BIG day.

She looked so small compared to all the other kids and I wondered is she would be ok. After all the bookbag is as big as she is!!!However, she fared pretty well and talked for at least an hour about all the other kids in her class and who sat by her, who scribbled on their paper instead of staying in the lines, and of course the hello song that they learned. Apparently she is ready and able. Now I am just wondering what I am to do with 2 1/2 hours. Let's see update my blog, clean my house, and do the endless amounts of laundry!!!

More firsts and Sisterly Love (Finally)

2008-08-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

I knew the day was coming. In some regards I was looking forward to it and then there is the reality. Tess was so excited to start school the last week had just about killed her to walk up to the bus everyday and watch Ellie leave. She had laid out her clothes, which she chose by herself, and got up and was dressed before I even went to her room. The excitement was just to much for her to sleep.

The morning was wonderful as she anxiously prepared for the day. She is such a positive little girl with the sweetest personality. I had been telling her for days that I changed my mind and wanted to hold her back a year (she just turned 5 at the begining of the month) but I realized that would only be holding back her dreams. I want my children to live life to the fullest and do and try whatever they want. Although my heart broke 1,000 times when she got on that bus knowing how quickly they are growing up and they aren't the little babies that I hold on my lap and one day they will leave my arms for good. AHHHH!

Another good thing has come about with Tess going to school. I see Ellie try to help her and they have such a precious friendship. They talk about sitting together on the bus and Tess tells Ellie not to run to fast on their way to the bus stop. They put necklaces on each other in the morning and Tess just follows Ellie's every step until they are ready to leave. Which brings me to my next phase...Mia. She has been rather sick the last few days but when I told her I was going up to get Tess off the bus, she jumped up and put on her shoes, rode her bike as fast as she could and sat and waited to see her sister get off the bus.

Their little embrace was so touching. I hope my girls will remain as close as friends as my sisters and I have. I can't imagine a world without sisters!!!

Back on Schedule

2008-08-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

Ellie and Gracie waiting for the bus

I have been trying to get us all, mostly myself, on schedule for the last week. It really isn't hard for my kids to get up early (they do it EVERYDAY) but the schedule part it what I was working on. Since school is starting twenty minutes later this year I figure we could us the extra twenty minutes in the morning for reading and practicing the piano. I love being on a schedule, it really makes life easier for me. I think that I have been on a schedule for so long that it is awkward for me to not be on schedule which is why my summer was sooooo crazy. NO SCHEDULE!!!! My next goal is to get on a better sleep and exercise schedule however until the Olympics end there is no chance of that. Ellie was so excited for school to start she got dressed in 45 seconds. A record for her, I usually go get in the shower and she still is not dressed when I get out. We read, curled her hair, ate breakfast and tried to fix her pants. Tess got up and joined the activities but she actually won't start till next week. I really am so excited for this year I can hardly stand it. I will have four hours in the week for myself. I plan on "scheduling" so scrap booking time.

Last year we missed the bus on the first day, NOT this year!

I just had to post the FREAK hail/flash flood storm we had 9 days ago. The hail blocked all of the down spouts from the rain gutter and the pipe going up to the gutter looked like a sprinkler with water squirting out. It only lasted for about 5 minutes but it came down hard. The strange thing was we went down to have lunch with the Gunnersons ten minutes after and there was not one drop of moisture on the ground!

Lastly I have to give props to Tim and Rick. They participated in a two week triathlon at the Rec. Center. I can't remember all the details of how many miles they had to run, bike, and swim. I documented the last day of their swimming for family history. However since the Olympics began they think that Michael Phelps and Jason Lezack have channeled some of their swimming power. Maybe we will see the two of them in the 2012 London Games!

2008-08-06T22:11:00.001-07:00

Oh what do you do in the summer time?!!?

2008-08-06T20:51:00.000-07:00

I have so many pictures to go along with this post and that I had to add them this way. Hope you enjoy it.

Once we made it through the 4th of July we spent some time having more summer fun.

First: Liberty park. I have never been before and a couple of my friends invited us to go along with them. It exceeded my expectations. There are cements water canals, a water playground, a huge sand box play area and lots of people. The girls loved exploring the water canals although I was somewhat worried about ALL the people and sharing the germs and whatever else was growing in the water. It seemed to keep them cool and they had a great time. The best part for me was that it was absolutely free.

Second: Pioneer day fun. I didn't have my camera for the girls performances at the Fiesta Days, go figure, but Giselle has some great ones once she gets her camera back! Sorry! The kid's parade was again riding bikes down main street. Mia couldn't miss out on her chance. I talked her into pulling off at Key Bank and picking her up once again on the way back. The kid's love this parade for some reason. I can't wait for the day when I don't have to walk down main street supervising them. We didn't make it to the derby this year and therefore no derby turkey either. It is a tradition I really miss. We will shoot for next year!

Third: BEAR LAKE. This had to be the highlight of our summer. I am positively sure that my kids will always have great memories of this vacation. We spent EVERY day at beach except one when we went to Minnetonka cave. The only thing that would have made it better is to have our mom and dad, Allen and Patrice and Evan, Uncle Noah, and mostly our daddy with us the whole time. The kids played hard but I am sure the parent's played harder. Somewhere between guitar hero and the pedicures I managed to thoroughly enjoy myself. I hope we get back there every year.

Fourth: Seven Peaks. I had not been there since my senior year in high school. The girls had a spectacular time and I was very impressed with Ellie being so brave based on her reaction riding the tube at Bear Lake. We stayed for eight hours so we could get our moneys worth.

Fifth: Bisel Reunion. Swinging in the trees, eating, playing in the trees, eating, going for a ride to eat, auctions, and more eating. Just to recap the weekend.

Last but not least...Happy Birthday to Tess: We had three little birthday parties for Tess. I cannot believe she will be going to school in two weeks. I hope I have taught her everything she needs to know. It seems once Ellie started school there were many more influences in her life than just me!

We have had a great summer and a great big thanks to mom and dad for allowing us to enjoy ourselves at Bear Lake. Hope you can join us next time.

Happy Birthday...America

2008-07-09T13:42:00.000-07:00

Well we have made it through another successful holiday. I have always loved the holidays and more than that I have grown to appreciate the 4th of July. My father and several relatives served this country for several years and I feel that I am a very proud and patriotic person. Whenever the 4th draws near I am excited to see my family, go to the rodeo, and remember the sacrifices that so many men and women have made in my behalf. It seems more and more I realize what a beautiful place I live in and how lucky I am to raise my kids here.

I can remember when we were little kids going to the 4th of July breakfast in Woodland. I even remember being COLD at the breakfast. My mom and dad were usually putting on some type of a production and we had many friends and family there. My kids however will NEVER get that same experience because every 4th of July their mother is involved in a different production. We are washing cars, hooking up trailers, and doing hair all by 7:30 in the morning so there are no pancake and syrup memories for these girls.

This year Giselle and I had decided to run a 2 week dance camp right before the 4th so the dancers could be ready for the parade and participate but we would not have be committed to the whole summer of dance. It was a lot of fun but very exhausting at the same time. We taught 80 girls everyday from 9:30 am to 3:00 p.m. It turned out great and we once again filled up two trailers of girls for the parade and had some who were walking and performing. I love the 4th of July parade.

(Apparently Mia likes this pose)

Once the parade was over we headed to our house for a big BBQ. Olivia had requested gourmet hamburgers and I live to serve my guests. We had way to much food! But there is nothing better in my opinion that lots of family and lots of food. We sadly had to say good-bye to Aunt Giselle. She headed to the airport and the rest of us sat around and made some plans for the rest of the day. It went like this "Let's do something fun." Many people in agreement that we should go on a hike at Noblettes in the early evening, bathe the kids and get them in their PJ's, light off some fireworks, put the kids in bed and then the adults would have game night!

So we started on our hike to Noblettes. The scenery was breath taking and I was so full of joy to be in that very moment with my kids, my best friend/husband, and my siblings with me. We started up the trail. It was hard to let the kids run and explore the trail without being afraid they would fall or get hurt or even worse that a bear may come out of no where. However they kept up a good pace and got us going. As soon as I started up the trails I flashed back to the Butikofer reunion where I was attacked by mosquitos on a four wheeler trail. Sadly none of us had one ounce of bug spray with us and we were only able to get half way up before we decided the mosquitos had the upper hand. The dads and Mia and Noah stopped by a pond near the end to have a rock skipping competition. (Leave it to McNeils to turn everything into a competition!)

Once we returned home and bathed the kids it was time for the fireworks. A huge thanks to Uncle Rico for the patriotic music and fireworks. The kids loved it and Noah kept shouting Happy Birthday. (I think he knew it was the birthday of our nation) Mia managed to touch her back with the end of the sparkler. It didn't hurt her but somehow Ellie felt the pain vicariously from Mia (She is a bit of a drama queen). We were able to see all of the illegal fireworks all over the valley from my front porch. many people had made a trip up to Evanston, including our neighbors. Once the show ended and the kids were in bed I was expecting a fun night of games and friendly competition; I am still waiting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Apparently too many babies keeping people up at night and now everyone turns into pumpkins by midnight. For the record as long as I was the one having babies and getting no sleep I STILL participated in game night! (Where is my trophy?)

Saturday and Sunday we spent with family as well. Olivia and Rick and Allen and Patrice were able to bless their sweet baby boys together and we had one more dinner before everyone jumped in their cars and headed back to their temporary homes. I can't wait until we all lives in our big community and the party NEVER ends!

Enjoying the Outdoors

2008-06-25T17:08:00.000-07:00

Well since it has been twenty days since my last update I thought I might post. I have been working outdoors in my yard since it finally decided to be warm. I was trying to do as much as I could before I started my 2 weeks of dance camp. I love to work in my yard and was very frustrated by the lack of spring weather that would accommodate my desire to work outdoors. I tried really hard to spend time updating my flower beds and preparing my garden. The garden thing was a bust in the beginning due to several frosty nights and many snow storms. We lost all of our pumpkins and thought I had lost my squash. I could never get the tomatoes in the ground because I was waiting for the heat. But when I returned home from the Butikofer Family Reunion my cucumbers, carrots, and zucchini were peaking up out of the ground. I had ONE ripe strawberry on Monday and I can see peas are coming along nicely. Yes, this is the update that you get because this is all I have done for two weeks. I also loaded up the girls in the old stock truck and went and got a bale of mulch. When I say bale I mean BALE. I will have enough mulch to cover all my projects plus Robbin's!

We did have a great time at Butikofer reunion although I left my camera in Kamas so I have stolen some picture from my fabulous sister-in-laws. They too have three kids each and have managed to post from last weekend so I pretty much feel like a slacker! The kids had the time of their lives. This year due to MANY factors we camped at Matt and Sondi's. Much better plumbing that way. I think even my sister Olivia could handle camping like that. Tim slept out of the trampoline with the girls and I opted for a bed inside.

We took an amazing four-wheeler trip up past Ashton, Idaho. It apparently was an old railroad line that ran up to Yellowstone. Since it had been a wet winter in Idaho as well there were wildflowers everywhere and the smell of pine trees along the trail was so strong. I loved every minute of it until the mosquitos started eating my flesh as I stopped off for a nap with Tess and Mia. What more can I say than we ate A LOT of food and had A LOT of fun. Although as far as late night camp fire chatting goes- you have to be an in-law to catch anything. As evidence with the picture. Butikofer's do not do LATE nights. This would explain why they get up at the crack of dawn.

Needless to say I am glad summer has arrived and can't wait to spend more time with both families in the next few weeks!

Birthday Bash

2008-06-04T21:55:00.000-07:00

Monica emerges again...I can say that the birthday bash went off without a hitch. I was lamenting the night before that I want to get a hold of someone with a pony so we could do pony rides and also considered calling the dentist office to see if they could hook me up with one of the assistance that makes balloon characters for my kids. (After all the dental assistants are like family to Tess, as in we see them as much as we see our extended family!) But Tim put the ky-bosh on it! In fact his exact words were "Did you have ponies, balloon characters, and face painting at your third birthday?" Of course I flashed him a pleasant look with one eyebrow up. He then replied "And you still lived?" I guess I just dream about things a little too much lately. However, he did pull out the miracle card and finish up the playground area. (We are still in debate over what else to put in our play area: I bet you can't guess who wants what!)

We were grateful that the weather held out for us. I think the highlight was the hoppyball races. See my girls LIVE on theirs. I think at times they have forgotten how to walk. But to see the rest of the guest have a turn cracked us all up. I just want to say if you look at the picture of Tess, her toes are perfectly pointed! A TRUE dancer.

Mia had the time of her life and she as not stopped telling me how "big" she is now. Yes, I think she may have successful advance out of the 18-24 month clothes. Regardless of the absence of ponies many thanks to those who made it to the party and those who called to wish our precious a "Happy Birthday!"
BTW Robbin, you better start practicing the balloon characters for next year now I know!

Happy Birthday Baby!

2008-05-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

Well my baby is three years old today. When I found out I was pregnant with her, it rocked my world. I was one week from turing thirty and had a 14 month old in my arms. Call it shock or denial, I haven't ever recoverd from the news. From the time I get up in the morning til the time I go to bed at night it is one adventure after another. On the other hand, this petite package of dynamite can melt your heart. She is my little snuggle bunny. This is the child with dual personalities. Regardless of her challenging spirit, she completes our family. I can't believe it was three short years ago that I had her. She has become an even bigger "baby"since I have had the opporutnity to stay home this year. I don't get a whole lot done in the day because she is always wanting me to stop and let her rub my skin. Yes, she has a skin fetis. She also is now "legal" to take dance lessons. Although she has been at lessons for years, she will be officially enrolled! Another thought that I have been having lately is the fact that I am so glad I had another daughter to name after a very important person in my life. Mia's middle name is Louise. Three years ago I did not have any idea that my grandmother would get sick and leave so quickly, but if any of you know my grandmother Louise, she was quite the spit fire too. I think it is so relevant to have a children with this same spunky personality.

Happy Birthday Mia, I love you so much!!!

Spring has Sprung

2008-05-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

Well I thought Spring had sprung but today we are back to the snow on the lawn. Despite the weather we have done several things that indicate spring is here.

#1: Yard work: Between the weeding and the spreading of the sand or the hauling of the rocks, our wheelbarrow has been in overdrive. It is hard to keep up with Robbin. (She has been out in full force) However the girls managed to have some fun. I couldn't help but grab my camera and snap away. I think that they get into the playing more than the working end of all the projects. But they are kids and that is what they should be doing.

#2: Field Trips: I had the opportunity to go with Ellie to Thanksgiving Point on the second grade field trip. I had not seen the dinosaur museum at Thanksgiving Point and it was really spectacular. They have amazing models of things and we had a lot of fun taking pictures. The highlight of the trip was the 3D movie. We watched sea monsters and it was quite intense.

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#3: Four Wheeling Rondevu: Both Butikofer families meet over the weekend and scoped out a camping spot for the upcoming Butikofer reunion. Despite the slow start and Sophie getting pulled over by the Fish and Game Warden, we had a fantastic time. This was the first time that we let Ellie ride her four-wheeler out on a "big" ride. I just have to say at this point she is much more her father's child than mine. I remember hot-roding on the three wheeler and, as Allen can verify, being a little too reckless on the four-wheeler. We spent a lot of time coaxing her to hit 10 mph. In all actuality I am glad she is so cautious. Tess got a short turn at driving with Kaylee's assistance and Mia was much more content to play in the mud and water with Kaleb. Thanks to the Butikofer's for inspiring the retreat. On the way home Tim also found his ultimate "home." It was a little to far away from civilization for me but since I am married to Charles Engles I could see the potential.

All in all I see the light at the end of the tunnel with the weather. Although if you have been watching the news, Woodland in about to float away; maybe I will have an exciting update.

What a difference a week makes.

2008-05-04T21:34:00.001-07:00

I am just giving and early warning; this is an emotional post.

I have been pondering all day about the events of the past week. One week ago today I took my two oldest girls to visit my grandma in the hospital. As many of you know my grandma had been battling a form of leukemia for two years now. She had gone to the hospital to receive further treatment for the disease. As I sat in the room with many of the family members I was full of emotions and questions. Mostly questions for myself. How would I ever compare to this amazing woman? How could I provide for my children the way she has for hers? Would I be able to spend 65 years in love with my eternal companion?

The way I view my grandma is described in one word: strength. My entire life my grandma has been there. From the time we moved to the farm when I was four years old, I have memory after memory of my grandma. I was so fortunate to have her close to me for so many years. She always offered me advice, she always supported me, and she absolutely provided me with an example of unconditional love. This love was evident right down to her pets.

I have spent this last year trying to return some of the love for my grandma by fixing dinners and treats for both grandma and grandpa. I have enjoyed every minute of it. My mom has worked day in and out taking my grandparents to their appointments and seeing to their everyday needs. After the family was informed last Monday that they should bring my grandma home, I have reflected on that unconditional love.

As the days pasted in the week and I saw her fragile body weaken I just wanted to hold her hand once more time and compare it to mine. I think that my hands look just like hers and I wanted to have that memory with me. I love my grandma so much and am thankful that I have a child who will carry her name. I am a better person because of her influence and am so grateful for the time I had with her. I can only hope to live my life as well as she did hers.

She returned to our Heavenly Father late Friday night May 2, 2008. This week has allowed me to lean on my beliefs and well as the strength of my family. A family that grandpa and grandma started 65 years ago. Her influence will live for many generations. I am so grateful for her life and her legacy. I know that someday I will hold her hand in mine again.

2008-04-23T09:07:00.000-07:00

Spring Break '08

2008-04-20T19:56:00.000-07:00

We had the time of our lives this last week. I don't want to complain about the weather here because I get after Tim when he does BUT I was so excited to get to Southern Utah and enjoy the sun. I left on Saturday, April 12th with the girls and we headed straight to St. George. We stopped in Hurricane to drop off the their bikes so I didn't have to keep them in the car for a few days. We stayed in St. George at a hotel since the H.J. (not Howard but Hotel Johnson) had no vacancy. It was great for the girls and I to spend time together in a hotel and swimming in the pool. I could not believe the weather on Sunday and Monday. All I did was sit by the pool or in the park or in Chelsea's driveway soaking up the sun. The girls were more than anxious to get on their bikes and go. To ease Chelsea's fear on children getting injured on any wheeled device, I bought the girls helmets. I just want to add that none of the six children that my mom and dad successfully raised ever wore helmets as we rode up and down the main highway in Woodland. So I had to call my own kids safety geeks!!!

My addiction to the sun came out in full force. It was like I couldn't get enough and I wanted more and more and more. Tim came down Tuesday night and and brought a little of the Northern Utah glum with him. We couldn't go outside due to the "Hurricane" force winds so we opted for the Sand Hallow Aquatics Center. The water was ice cold and we only lasted about 45 minutes. I think this was the first experience of our test drive of four kids. (We had Jack with us) Tess started calling him her brother. It wasn't hard for me to handle four kids the real truth of it was that it was hard for Mia. She all of a sudden turned into needy little helpless baby.

Tim and the two older girls went on a four-wheeling excursion Thursday morning. I stayed home with Jack and Mia. By noon I was bored and so I put them in the car to head to Seagull Book. I thought I was capable of taking the two of them on a SMALL outing. Mia proved me wrong. To her credit she did fall asleep in the car and I had to wake her up. It was a very short experience and we headed back for La Verkin. This was the point I realized three is my magic number. Friday brought more riding and more sun. We went to a pool in Hurricane to cool off. The best part of the day however came with our night trip to Springdale. It is at the bottom part of Zion's Canyon. We went to a great pizza and noodle company. Followed by a round of ice cream!!

We knew Saturday was going to be our last chance to experience the amazing atmosphere so we planned a trip to Red Cliffs. Olivia and Dad were to meet us there on their way back from Mexico/Blythe/Las Vegas. Once we turned off and headed through Leeds, my heart started pounding. This was the place that many of my friends and I climbed, explored, but mostly just sun bathed for year while I was attending SUU. The warmth of the red rocks and the beauty they behold brought tears to my eyes. I was explaining to the girls this was one of my favorite places to go and they looked at me like I was from another planet. Like when the dinosaurs were on the earth. Dad was the only one who came to my rescue and told me he remembered seeing many pictures of me on these rocks. (OK- back from that trip down memory lane) The minute the kids got out of the car we could not stop them from their explorations. I thought it was great for Grandpa to be there to witness the genes in full force. No one could stop Mia and Noah from thinking they should climb higher or run faster. We made to the drainage pool where we all waded and played. It was just the perfect ending to a perfect Spring Break.

Thanks to Max and Chelsea for letting us once again take over their house and child. We really wanted to bring him home with us but apparently his parents like him too. I am not sure if we can top this vacation?!?!

Joining the Gang and Loving the SUN!

2008-04-01T07:36:00.001-07:00

It is a well know fact that everyone who is my sister or sister-in law that has had a baby this year has had a boy. Starting with Jack in October, Luke in December, Drew in January, Baby Gunnerson to come in June and Boy named Sue in June as well. So a few weeks/months ago I decided to test my luck and see if Tim and I could cash in on everybody's good karma. I am excited to say that we will find out in October (again) if we have one more boy to add to the gang! Cross our fingers!

On to an actual update. We did head south for the weekend. There was a dance competition in St. George and it is one more way we can get a trip to St. George. We decided to leave Thursday night because the competition would take my entire day on Saturday and we wanted to spend sometime with the girls out doors. Can I just say that before this point I had been pretty patient with the snow and realize that I live in the mountains and this is just one of those "Spring-time in the Rockies." But now I am done with it!!!!!!! The snow must go or I am leaving!

Mia couldn't get enough of the park!

Ellie tried out every part of the park.

Friday we took the girls to one of the many parks in St. George. The girls just ran and played and the grins on their faces could have not been bigger. At one point Tess came over to me and said; "Mom I love St. George!" Once we got to the motel all they wanted to do is swim. Again they could not get enough of it. Their little eyes were red and Tess told me that when she looked at people her eyes were "steaming." The haze of chlorine really got to her. We had an awesome BBQ at the Johnson's and I just struggled to put my self back in the car to leave. To top it all off I went and test drove the new car that I want!!!! I will give Max and Chelsea the first call on it. Although we did not know that they wanted the same car as we did. (it seems to be a ongoing saga in our family) So we upgraded to the Buick Enclave and they can have dibs on the GMC Acadia or Arcadia (right MAX!)
When we returned home there was 7 inches of snow waiting for us in the driveway. My eyes seriously teared up.
The favorite part of the trip!

Getting to eat out at Applebee's.

The dance girls did phenomenal!!! We took six dances. Out of the six; 5 of them placed 1st, one took 2nd and of the 5 first places two received an additional trophy for overall grand champion.

To sum it all up I am not unpacking my bags because I planning on getting out of her the first chance I get! And as far as the first paragraph of this blog goes...APRIL FOOLS! What a day to update:)

Dental Miracle

2008-03-14T09:33:00.000-07:00

OK, I will update. I truth is that nothing really significant is going on in my life.

This picture doesn't have anything to do with the dentist but I snapped it the other day. I heard this little voice calling for help. It was just Mia stuck in the doll playpen. Really no surprise to me!

It is still cold and there is still snow on the ground. I am counting down the days until we go back to St. George, 2 weeks today!!! ANYWAY- Tess and Mia had their 6 month dental visit on Thursday. It was actually Mia's first "official" dentist visit. I had taken her and let her sit in the chair on one of Tess' many visits. (I don't feel at this point I need to revisit the whole dental situation with Tess.) I had actually called the dentist office before it was even time for the six month appointment because I noticed another spot on Tess' tooth, SURPRISE!!! They told me we weren't up for our six month check up yet but to wait a month so the insurance would pay 100%. So we waited and finally went yesterday. I feel like I need to insert a video of me brushing/flossing/maintaining Tess' teeth so that people will know how diligent I am about her teeth hygiene and care but I don't take video footage of myself and the 30 minute routine. Let's just say that if I took as good of my own teeth as I do Tess' you wold have to wear sunglasses when you talk to me because my teeth would glow! So back to the visit, as usual Tess had her 3 cavity diagnosis. On to Mia... she is exactly the same age as Tess when I found out the "news" about her teeth. Mia jumps up in the chair holds perfectly still and they take x-rays; she lets Dr. Moffat look in her mouth and BINGO... not even a stain or imperfection. Dr. Moffat finally says something that doesn't make me feel like I am the worst parent, "her teeth are as solid as a rock!" This is after two years of him thinking I was lieing about what I did and didn't do with my kids and their teeth. LOVE IT! The good news for Tess in now we get to add one more thing to our teeth cleaning routine, prescription toothpaste. It only cost $10.00 a tube and it is half the size of a normal tube of toothpaste. It has high levels of fluoride in it and you can only use it once a day. They have to be old enough that they can't swallow it and that is the only reason we haven't been on it before now. On the way home from Park City I told Tess I wanted her to be a dentist when she grows up so she can work on her own kids teeth!!! I think I will start putting more money into her college savings account now!

Thank You Chelsea

2008-03-03T07:02:00.000-08:00

As many of you have probably noticed my blog has been under construction for over a week. I wanted my blog to look fresh and updated and I was trying a couple of things, in the mean time I lost all of my widgets and ran out of time before I had to leave for our vacation. When I was visiting Chelsea in St. George I was lamenting to her about my blog and my troubles. Being the greatest sister and perfectionist that she is she told me she could help me out. WOW! I didn't expect it to be as fantastic as it is. I love my sister so much and I was so glad that I got to spent time with her little guy last week. She said she is for hire if anyone else wants help. The pro-bono period is overhowver. So thank you so much Chelsea.

While I was on vacation last week in the wonderful 60-70 degree weather I didn't snap any shots, probably because I was in a constant state of shock. It was so nice to just walk outside and not worry about a coat or a jacket. Jack and I even went down and stuck our feet in the pool one day. I did get cold one night at the opening banquet when the air-conditioner was blowing right on me. Robbin and I shopped everyday without fighting kids. (Vacation in itself!!!) One of the best thing was Friday morning I decided to get up and go to the temple. I always have the "excuse" that I have my kids. So without them and being so close to the temple I thought no more excuses!!! First of all their were pansies and flowers coming out in the flower beds as I walked up to the temple. I had never done a session in the St. George temple, so the whole newness and awe struck effect kicked in. But most of all with no time agenda or things to worry about I felt even more at peace. I think this was just what I needed after a long cold winter. By the time we got to Las Vegas there were buds and flowers on the trees and we had to turn on the air conditioner in the truck. When we left Las Vegas on Saturday it was 75 and when we pulled into Kamas it was snowing and 29 degrees! I am ready to go back!!!

Happy Love Day

2008-02-15T13:28:00.000-08:00

Well I was going to get this on for Valentines' BUT you know I am way to stressed and busy AGAIN to get everything done. Let me just preface the next part, I am NOT complaining I am just explaining. I have had sick kids for two weeks!!!

Almost everyone I know is sick or has kids that are sick (check out my mom's blog; I really have nothing to complain about). But at this point and time I seem to be struggling to get much else accomplished in the day. So it all started two weeks ago with Tess. She has this deep and consistent cough. When I decided that the over the counter stuff wasn't cutting it I took her to the Dr. Of course something VIRAL. I hate those words, but they prescribed us some cough medicine and told me to use the nebulizer on her. (That thing comes in so handy) As the week progressed and she missed preschool all week and I was up every night checking on her or giving her a breathing treatment, I started to feel run down myself and I had the chills quit frequently. By Sunday I was pretty much down and out BUT no skipping church for me: so after we got home I tried to lay down on the couch and rest. The next day my mom calls me because she stayed home and was sick. (Again refer to her blog) By Tuesday Mia started with the coughing and weazing syndrome. So I started her on the breathing treatments. By midnight her temp was up to 103. So of to the doctor we go, AGAIN. This time RSV. Should have seen it coming and maybe I did and talked myself out of it. Anyway the pediatrician said her O2 saturation level wasn't low enough to put her on oxygen yet, probably because I had started breathing treatments on her and she felt comfortable enough to let us just stay at home without home health care since I have been through this twice before and as long as I monitored her O2 level and her fever didn't continue after 36-48 hours I should just keep her home. That is great EXCEPT somehow I got myself into volunteering for the Book Fair, Being the room mother of 2 Valentine Parties and still having dance classes. So with a little help from Tim staying home from work and Jenica subbing some of my classes I finally made it through the rest of the week!

Here is what my original Valentines Blog was going to be about:
TOP TEN , I mean 11, THINGS I LOVE:

11. My front loading washer and dryer!

10. Massages! Now I don't get these very often but when I do I am in heaven!!!

9. Chips and Queso, & authentic salsa (nothing from a jar)

8. Looking at house plan books. I love them! (That is the closest thing I get to a good novel)

7. Chick Flicks. I have my favs but Robbin and I just saw P.S. I Love You: Cried the whole show!

6. Thinking, dreaming, or planning a vacation. I am excited for August and we just got invited on a huge camping trip to Mt. Rushmore (not sure if we are going?)

This was a picture I took while I was in the Dominican Republic. I loved this pool.

5. Snuggling my girls under a blanket, And yes my favorite blanket is still my green bus quilt from HIGH school! Now I get to snuggle every morning during Dora or Diego!

4. Chocolate chip cookies, homemade of course. Tim made each of his girls a huge homemade chocolate chip heart cookie, such a sweet heart!

3. Living in the mountains. I love living in Kamas. Even with 4 feet of snow!

A recent photo of our back yard. Where are the swings? Pretty soon the trampoline will disappear!

2. Anything that has to do with DANCING!

1. My Family: I love Tim and my girls so much but it goes way beyond that. I love my mom and dad and siblings. I try to plan anyway to get together I can. I call each of my sisters at least twice a week. (Allen hates mindless chatter) I can't wait till all of their kids gets here and we all live close and suffocate each other day in and day out! I love it!

I just love this picture.

Happy Birthday Mom!!!

2008-01-31T08:33:00.000-08:00

I will just start by saying, I will never compare to my mother and this tribute is evidence of that but it is the thought that counts!!!

There is a mother name Billie Sue; who raised six kids, some dogs and a husband too.

She works each day and gives all that she's got; teaching, cooking, care-giving, signing, farming, incorporating and what not.

She can plan any event in a minute or two; with all her kids help we know what to do.

Raising six kids, sometimes on her own, she did great; her "grands" she adores-Ellie, Luke, Tess, Mia, Noah, Jack, Boy named "Sue", baby G will make eight.

The example she has set makes it easy on us- to show love for our Savior because it's a must!

The land of Woodland is where she calls home, she has built a legacy of tradtions for her kids who are grown.

The love of her life she meet really young, their time as empty-nesters has only begun.

A woman so happy her joy is contagious, I'm grateful this day for the things that she gave us.

So on this day when you stop to remember, give praise to our mother forever and ever!

Weekend in St. George

2008-01-25T07:18:00.000-08:00

As you may have heard from Chelsea and Giselle we all got together in St. George last weekend. ( I know we find any excuse to get together, Thank you Dr. King!) I just needed to get away from the three feet of snow in my yard. Not that I am complaining because I love how pretty it looks all white and this winter has reminded me of winters when I was a kid with snow piles everywhere that you can sled on it just has been VERY cold as well. So I packed the girls up in the car and we headed south. We just had a fun time eating, swimming, fighting over Jack's bumble and of course the talent show. I was so proud of Ellie and Luke. They put the whole thing together. They had the idea and put the sign-up sheet on the fridge, enlisted the judges, made the crowns and trophies and last put not least put together a really amazing routine the included juggling, dancing, and singing! It was just really amazing to me that the kids went to the park and golfing on Monday morning and Tuesday morning when I took Ellie to school it was -12!!! Thanks to Chelsea and Max for putting up with the mess and kids. We have such a great family! We really missed those who were not able to make it. Maybe next time.

He's Official

2008-01-20T17:48:00.000-08:00

For those of you who do not know, Tim won the election last November for the Francis Town council. He was sworn in last Tuesday, January 15th and now the work has begun. They put him in charge of the sewer system, (that stinks!) Right now that is the hottest topic in Francis, next to the opposition of the LDS church being built. It also has some perks. He gets to attend a water convention in St. George at the end of February and spouses are allowed to attend. So while he and Greg are in meetings all day Robbin and I will play or scrapbook! I am so proud of Tim. He is so well liked in our community and now he can be know for something other than the dance teachers husband, so he says! He also has finished the second studio in the basement and all the trim and base and case. With all his projects nearing an end he has had some time to do a little ice fishing. The first time in two years!!!

and a Happy New Year!!!

2008-01-01T20:48:00.000-08:00

We had a spectacular New Year in Idaho. We had not been in a while so we decided to take an extended trip, more than just the weekend!!! Matt and Sondi and their kids were the perfect hosts. We hardly saw Ellie and Tess because they were down stairs playing the Wii that the Idaho Butikofer's got from Santa!!! (They must have been very good kids!) Although I did catch Tim "tending" Kaleb a time or two with the Wii remote in hand. Plus I could not leave out that I tried it ONCE and posted the highest score on the baseball hitting game. 10 years of being a PE teacher paid off. Tim however did not like it that I had to keep reminding everyone who had the highest score. ( I know that the McNeils will understand why!) We also had a miraculous New Year's Eve. Tim and Matt stayed up way past mid-night and I stayed in control when I was not winning the board game. Sondi and I had planned a finger food buffet and we ate ourselves silly or shall I saw jolly like Santa. Mia decided she was no longer potty trained and pooped her pants EVERYDAY! She would never tell me, she would always tell Sondi because she doesn't get mad. I will say that since we have been home for 5 hours she has gone to the bathroom twice and acts like she never had an accident. The girls had a sleep over at Grandma Janis' and they scored some great costume jewelery that she had saved of her mom's. Who need Christmas presents when you can have awesome treasures like that!!! I have made a few New Year's resolutions and I hope that I have not set my self up for disappointment. However I just want my brother and sisters and parents to know that "Monica"is still in charge and that will never change! Happy New Year!!!

The Merriest Christmas

2007-12-26T10:46:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas with all the activities. Christmas Eve Day the kids got to go sledding with Tim and Uncle Rick. I stayed home and got the Christmas Cookies ready for Santa. Then Christmas Eve we had the annual dinner at mom's house. Prime Rib this year!!!! Shrimp, garlic potatoes, ultimate creamed corn, and fresh rolls to complete the meal. This year was special since Grandpa and Grandma Bisel got to join us. It is wonderful that we get to share special times with them!!! At the Christmas Eve dinner we always have the "program." The kids had been practicing at my house all day. Literally they started at 6:30 AM!!! Tess was the conductor and she would make them stand and sit after each song. Ellie and Luke wrote the lyrics to a song and then Ellie sang a solo with Luke accompanying on the saxophone!!! At one point Noah joined in on the piano. Always a spectacular show from each family member. The kids were then allowed to open their Christmas Eve gifts from Grandpa and Grandma. PJ's and their own special nativity set. We came right home and sprinkled the reindeer food Aunt Patrice gave the kids in the front yard!!! It must have worked because Santa found us and delivered everything and more than we needed. What Santa didn't bring Grandpa and Grandma McNeil made up for as well as all the Aunts and Uncles and cousins. We have such a tight family and the gifts were great but it was the time we spent together that I enjoyed the most!!!!! Tim gave me a huge canvas framed picture of Christ. I really love it and I think that getting it on Christmas made it extremely special. I love my family, I love my kids, I love my husband. I love this time of year!! Hope everyone else had a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. we will be in Idaho to celebrate with our Butikofer family. We can't wait to see our new cousin Luke Taylor!!!

The Man of my Dreams!!!

2007-12-13T21:33:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe that 11 short years ago I was standing on the side of 1-15 South of Santaquin in the dark wondering if I was really going to make it to the temple to get married or not?(If you don't know what I am talking about I am sorry!) Who knew that would be the beginning of an adventure of a lifetime.
Three children, a dozen cars, and to many dead pets later I still wake up every morning with the man of my dreams. We have built such a great life together I can't imagine what the next 11 years will bring.
We would love to spend the weekend in Manti, but all of the Christmas programs landed on this week and I am not sure I could relax enough to really enjoy it. When we went last year, on our ten years anniversary, we ended up as the witness couple and I cried the whole session. I feel so blessed to have Tim not only as my eternal companion but as my soul mate, my best friend, and mostly the father of my three beautiful girls. He works so hard to make me happy and never once, ok just once, complains about all of the "tasks" that I give him! When I was in college in Cedar City, I could not settle down for a minute with one guy. But the instant I started dating Tim I knew exactly that I could never find anyone better!!!
I love to watch him in everything that he does from using the squegee on the shower door to making chocolate chip cookies, he does it with such PERFECTION there is no doubt it will turn out right. One of my favorite things is to watch him put pretend make-up on the girls in church to try to keep them quiet or fall asleep.

Only Tim would know exactly where the eyeliner and mascara should go. I could go on and on about him but if you have ever seen him in a pair of Wrangler and boots ...enough said.! I love you with all my HEART, Happy Anniversary!

One Month Later!!!

2007-12-02T12:59:00.000-08:00

Well I am finally at a point where I can let go of an hour and blog! Sorry to all who really missed my children, sorry to all of those who don't even have a blog and get after those of us who do, and sorry to my mother who thinks something is truly wrong with me. I just have a little stress and I need to stay on top of it. So here are the top ten reasons I haven't blogged lately (good and bad)

10. In November I was busy finishing a room in my basements so that some more of my siblings would have a place to stay. Painting, going to pick out carpet, and then sanding and re-staining the bedroom furniture!

9. I got sick! This really knocked me out! I had fluid in my ears and sinuses and every time I stood up I went into orbit. (Vertigo-seriously) The doctor even wrote me a prescription for bed rest. Although that did me no good. Giselle did take pitty on me and teach some of my dance classes! Thanks!

8. One word-Thanksgiving! If you have not checked out my siblings blogs then you have no idea what I am talking about however we pack two weeks worth of activities into 2 days!

7. Second Word-Turkey! Since we did have 3 turkeys for Thanksgiving and Tim bought and I cooked the 23 pound bird, I had a little left over in the fridge. Knowing that Bella and Zeke had plenty Thanksgiving "left overs!!!" I decided not to let my turkey go to waist. Therefore I went on a 24 hour turkey cooking bonanza! I made 3 casseroles, 2 turkey pot pies, turkey soup, and turkey a'la king! Then I had to deliver it to grandparents and random people in the ward who had just had babies!

6. Programs- (Now I will sound like my mom for a moment.) I am preparing and planning 3, yes 3 Christmas programs. 1. Primary Christmas program: Not sure how the chorister gets to plan and write and teach the songs and come up with the costumes but in Francis 2nd this year it happened. 2. Stake Children's Choir: Again I got this one from my mom. So we aren't just singing we are playing bells and everything in between. 3. Of course the Body Motion Christmas Concert. Enough said, if you saw the Halloween show you would know that I have a lot of work to make it every bit as good! The good news is that they all are in a matter of 8 days apart so after that week I should feel relived. (December 11th, December 16th and December 19th)Mark your calendar there will be no blogging that week I am sure!!!

5. Mia and Tess- Well Tess' pre-school teacher took a major leave of absence so I have had to find things to do to entertain Tess since she starts asking me at 6:45 "Where are we going today?" She isn't entertained by me tell her "We are going to the play room so you can watch Mommy play on the computer!"

4. DVR- Tim finally did it! We now are the proud owners of a dish! Therefore I record shows and I can watch them later! Sorry we just got it 2 weeks ago so I the newness hasn't worn off yet!

3. Being the MOM! Enough said!

2. Shoveling snow! Finally we got a great snow storm and I tried to surprise my husband before he got home from work and have the majority of the snow removal done. There are some people who can verify this next statement. In doing so I felt like to have to remove the snow to the same level as Tim. Efficient and meticulously! Therefore it took me half of the day!

1. I had to get my tree up so I could have some really good pictures. I know I am the last McNeil child to do so, even though it is only December 2nd but I think you know what a fun and competitive group we are. Do it and do it the best. Therefore I had to get a gigantic artificial tree. I took me a while to find the "PERFECT ONE" but I did it. A few people have asked me if it is real! YEAH!

So there you have it, the reasons it has been one month since my last post. Take it or leave it!

We have the 9 foot tree in the front room and then three little ones in the family room. I obviously am a control freak (Monica) because as the girls decorated the tree I quickly moved them as they turned around to get the next ornament!

You Better Watch Out!

2007-11-09T12:19:00.000-08:00

You better watch out.. you better not cry- I'm telling you why!
We had a very interesting morning at the old Butikofer homestead. It is not rare for us to see a deer or two out by our house (Hench the hundreds of dollars in trees, flower, and strawberries that get eaten!!) BUT normally we do not see any bucks. Believe it or not Prancer and his harem were at our house this morning! I found this the PERFECT opportunity to tell the children that "Santa must have sent Prancer to figure out how to get to our house since Christmas will be coming!!! And the rest of the deer must be listening at our windows to see if we are being nice and talking kindly to each other." It went better than I thought. Ellie went out of control, I know you can't imagine this, saying that then the deer run down into the trees in the holler and tell the elves what we are doing. LOVE IT! Boy that Santa Baby can come in SOOOOOO handy! So you better be good for goodness sake!
I know you can't see this but the buck had 4 points and he was HUGE!!!

For those of you who forgot the names you have for Christmas...Here is the list! (Thanks MOM!)
Rob-Patrice
Billie Jo-Chelsea
Tim-Allen
Rick-Rob
Max-Billie Jo
Olivia-Noah
Allen-Rick
Noah-Max
Patrice-Olivia
Chelsea-Giselle
Giselle-Tim
And girls, Patrice and mom included, I have thought of two different craft projects that we can do over Thanksgiving. (Sorry Max you have a child now and you have to tend him!) 1st: The board with hooks on that says "The stockings were hung..." I think Olivia may have this? 2nd: A Christmas picture frame. I got one from my friend for my Birthday, a little decoupage and some paper and we are good to go. What do you think?

It's Great to be Eight!!!

2007-11-05T20:56:00.000-08:00

Well we made it! Even though I was still scrapbooking at 3:00 am the night before we made it to the stake center and had the baptism all over by 10:30 am. There were so many family members who made the long journey to support Ellie I felt so fortunate. She looked beautiful and had the day she deserved. She also had two other kids from her primary class that were baptized as well. The one interesting fact of the day was that the water heater went bazurk and the water was HOT!!! When Ellie went in she said it felt like a hot tub! When she came out and I helped her take off her wet clothes they were still hot.

Sunday was a great day as well. Chelsea and Max had Jack blessed in our ward since everyone was here for the baptism. Max did such a nice job and Jack just slept right through it all. Then we had Max and his family come over and we had a lunch at our house. It was just what every McNeil likes; FOOD FAMILY and then a little more FOOD! Ribs anyone?

Trick-or-Treat!

2007-11-01T08:32:00.001-07:00

We had a great Halloween! The girls all cooperated so well and we scored some great loot! I was in charge of Ellie's class party and spend all day doing that. Tess also had a pre-school party and Mia just went with the flow all day. The other mother that helped with the school party invited us to go trick-or-treating with them in their neighborhood. They get this wagon and drive the kids around Wild Willow.(You don't get that in Vegas!) The kids loved it and I thought they deserved to get as much candy as possible now that all of their teeth are fixed (for the time being). Mia loved saying "trick-or-treat" which made the people love her even more and put twice as much candy in her bag. I am sure it weighed ten pounds by the end of the night and she said "it's to heavy mom!" Then we left our friends to make a few important family stops. The fudge fairy AKA: Aunt Dixie was the top of Tim's list. Once we got there we received bags of fudge and caramel and caramel popcorn. SCORE!!! Then on to mom's. The girls had to do some poses in front of the "Halloween" tree. Mom had this cute vinyl lettering saying that read, "Grandmas act like they don't know who you are on Halloween!" She played that role right up. Ellie of course got into the character or a cat. Mia tried to act like a cat even though she was a lady bug and Tess was just a cute cowgirl. Last stop of the night was Aunt Jo and Uncle Bill. Full size candy bars for those who go the extra mile. Tim is rationing the candy to the kids so I am sure we will still have plenty when everyone gets here on Friday! Love you all.... 48 hours and counting!!!

Way to much fun in the SUN!

2007-10-30T23:31:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome weekend in Southern Utah with everyone! I love being with my sisters and the guys even enjoy spending time together. We probably overwhelmed Chelsea and Jack. Tess was right by Chelsea's side every moment of the day. We had a great time celebrating our birthday. Mom even sent dinner down with Dad and Rob so I didn't really have to cook. We wore the girls out on Monday. (Actually we wore out ourselves entertaining the girls) We started at McDonald's for breakfast. (The only meal I EVER eat there!) Then on to St. George for the Fiesta Fun Center, lunch, and then to the Corn Maze. Let me just tell you the corn maze was awesome! I will definitely make this a tradition. The girls ran non-stop and we wanted to capture every moment so I took A LOT pictures.

I have so much going on this week I knew I had to get these on today otherwise between being the room mom for the Halloween party or preparing for the baptism I would not get it done. The funniest part of the farm is that we were running around in short sleeve shirts acting like it was summer and all of these people were dressed in coats and sweaters. I guess it has cooled down from the 100's and they think that 75 is cold. I love the weather there!!!

Our Little Girl Turns 8

2007-10-27T21:20:00.000-07:00

There are many moments that I can remember in my life. Being baptized and confirmed is one of them. I remember my mom had made a beautiful white dress for me and that when I entered the water my dress floated over the top. I also remember how warm the water was and that it made me feel so at peace. For the last few weeks I have been trying to prepare for this moment but I am not sure that I am quite ready to watch my little girl take such a big step in her life. She is growing into such a pretty young girl and it breaks my heart sometimes to think that I have a child so old and mature. These pictures capture the little "spirit" that Ellie has. She is such an emotional child both good and bad. I love how serious she is at times and how crazy she is the next minute. She loves life and it shows in her eyes. I fight back the tears daily as I watch her walk to the bus stop and pray about all the things that I hope she will become in her life and hope that I have a big enough influence on her to direct her the right way. For that reason I am so excited for her to get baptized and be able to have the holy ghost to comfort her and aide her in each day and trial she faces. Thank you to every person that has contributed to her baptism book. I hope this is a special time for her.

Happy Birthday Surprise!!!

2007-10-25T11:35:00.001-07:00

OUT WITH THE OLD AND IN WITH THE NEW!!!!

Well I can take it- start now giving me all the crap that you want. I am the most spoiled wife in the world. Wednesday night after our Halloween dance show, I pulled in my garage (after three days of preparing for our Halloween show: warn out and beat) to find a HUGE birthday surprise! The only thing in my life I said that I wanted for my birthday! Anyone who knows our house and the amount of laundry that we do can certify that this is a NECESSITY! I was so excited I helped Tim bring them up the stairs. ( I don't recommend that for anyone with a bad back!) and started doing laundry at mid-night. Since I had taken a three day break from laundry to work on the show, I thought I should get going on the piles! As you can see I am just down to the towels and sheets and it is only noon! I love it! We are headed to St. George for an extended weekend so I hope to have pictures of Jack and us loving 80 degree weather instead of the recent pictures of the snowman building in the back yard. If you want to see pictures of the dance show you will have to visit www.earlandbilliesue.blogspot.com/or http://lauragines.blogspot.com/ . I just was a little busy to snap my own shots!

What I did Over the weekend!

2007-10-13T22:15:00.000-07:00

Selfish!!! That is all I can say about myself this weekend. I went to a scrapbook retreat with my friend. I have the greatest husband in the world to let me go all Friday night and Saturday to just do scrapbooking stuff. Then when I returned on Saturday night the kids were in bed, the house was clean (although I left it in good shape on Friday) and he was folding the whites (my biggest dread in the world!) On top of all that he winterized the garage and organized everything (no one is surprised by this) but he did it while watching the girls. I did some WAY cute pages and also two cute craft projects that I am sure my sister's will die over. I am ready to have a craft day sister's so let me know when you are ready. (After the Halloween show and Baptism though!!!) Happy Weekend to everyone!

Second part SHOUT OUT TO JACK! For anyone who did not know: my little sister Chelsea had her baby. Jack Robert Johnson! He is the cutest baby! Here are the pictures to prove it!

Happy Birthday Chelsea!

2007-10-10T11:56:00.000-07:00

Chelsea is just the star of the week! It is her 25th birthday today and I miss her soooooooo badly! I remember exactly where I was on my twenty-fifth and Chelsea was there is celebrate it with me. Thanks Chelsea for returning the favor. I am very homesick for you and the rest of your family!!! From here on out you can celebrate you birthday with your son and it is VERY special. I love and miss you tons. I am starting my blog, again, just for you!!!