The Shaina Blog

Katie Isabel Lefler

2011-09-11T12:35:00.001-07:00

Well, our little baby girl has finally arrived and we are doing great. She arrived late August and was just a few days late. The recovery has been a little harder this time, as I hemorrhaged about two hours after delivery, but things are going much better now. The older kids LOVE having Katie around and want to kiss her and hold her all the time. Honestly, they are soo much help. They bring me what I need and have really stepped up to take up the extra slack where I've had to let go a little. My wonderful husband has also been AMAZING through the whole thing.
We have been soo blessed with this sweet little baby in our lives and are so thankful that she is here safe and sound.

November catch up!

2010-11-13T19:23:00.000-08:00

So here's what's been going on with the Lefler's. First of all, my baby turned 5! I can't believe it. This was her cake, which she loved, despite it's dwarfism:)

One of their favorite pastimes is to make a "cushion tent" so we made an awesome one, got the lantern out and played games inside...it was sooo fun!

Halloween trick or treating with friends, Main Street in American Fork.

Seriously the highlight has been going to Tennessee to visit my parents on their mission. We went to the Grand Ole Opry while we were there and got to see Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton, and Trace Atkins along with many other great performers. It was soo fun. It was amazing to see my parents and spend time with them, but SOOO hard to leave. They are doing great!

Life just wouldn't be right if all my kids hadn't broken a bone! Allee fell down out terribly steep stairs and got a compound fracture. She got soo much attention for that bright pink cast...she loved it!
Life is good in our neck of the woods!

Summer!

2010-06-18T13:38:00.001-07:00

Austin, Morgan, Allee,
Evee & Abigail on a trip to This is the Place

We have been trying to keep the kids busy this summer and it seems to be making things a little better so far. The kids are having fun. We've been on a couple hikes, a couple bike rides, to Young Living Lavendar farms (where I fell and broke my camera), This is the Place, The Hogle Zoo and lots of picnics. I also included a picture of both of the boys at the dance festival from the end of the school year.

Austin as a Frankenstein at the Dance Festival at school

Abigail & Allee on the play train at This is the Place

The kids on the mini train

Austin was in "Time out" in the schoolhouse at This is the Place. They were demonstrating what the naughty children had to do when they got in trouble. I think it made Austin think a little about how he should behave. I think I might start trying this at home....

Morgan as humpty dumpty for the dance festival at school.

Just some Fun!

2010-05-15T20:13:00.000-07:00

Laina, Shane & Allee at Preschool Graduation

Me & my sweet Morgan

My awesome friend Shanna took these pictures of me & my kids for a project I've been working on. Thanks Shanna, you're the best!

Laina & the kids

Morgan & Austin

The "Mad" Scientist

2010-05-12T16:29:00.000-07:00

Austin is a mad scientist for his school opera this year. He walked into the house yesterday after the dress rehearsal and this is what I saw. Those of you who know Shane, can you see the resemblance?

R.M. & losing teeth!

2010-03-06T19:31:00.000-08:00

Here is the best smile EVER! Morgan noticed his tooth was loose and he had it out within about 3 minutes. No crying or fear...just pure excitement and lots of giggles.

That's right, R.M. stands for Richard Marx..."Right here waiting" ringing a bell??? Well we went to see him in concert again. This was the 4th time we have seen him and he was GREAT AGAIN!!! He seriously gives the best show!

Lisa & Bart before the show...too much excitement!

Shane & I

Julie & Dalen

Richard Marx

At the end of the show, Bart caught the guitar pick R.M. was using...totally made his night!

Lisa & I

Favorites from 2009

2010-02-25T11:14:00.000-08:00

The kids with Max Hall at Tiffany's Wishing Mile

So, I admit to being a pretty pathetic blogger the last several months. Last night I got a text from my sweet niece that was not so sweet. She totally called me on my lack of posting. I promised her a post today, so I decided to choose some of my favorite pictures/happenings from the last year.
Enjoy!!!

Preschool Halloween Party

Austin with the Baseball witch at Gardner Village

Pillow Fun. As a kid, you get creative to pass the time in the car!

Morgan and Lizzy...It was a big move to get a pet, but we sure love her!

Allee with Tyler. We had lots of fun adventures last summer, my kids spent a lot of time getting to know the older kids. They made it so fun!

My Dad's wagon & the horses he trained to pull it. I have to say, I got a little teary choosing this picture. The 4th of July in Fillmore is one of my very favorite things and the next two years it will be much different without my parents. They are on a mission in Tennessee. It is exactly where they should be, it just seems strange without them.

Timp Hike, another summer adventure!

Allee is caught singing A LOT, however, she's not caught with the camera very often. She was singing her little heart out getting ready for her recital.

Of course, Disneyland...not much else to say. What a great year!

Austin's Baptism

2009-12-12T19:52:00.000-08:00

We just returned home from Fillmore. We had a combined baptism today for my oldest son Austin and my nephew Kole. It was a great day and one that Austin has been looking for a long time. Just thought I'd post a couple pictures from the day.

Austin, Austin, Austin

2009-12-03T08:25:00.000-08:00

So my son has all the luck. For some reason he seems to really enjoy arm injuries. In Kindergarten he broke each arm once. The right arm was broken clear through and he had to be put out to have it moved back into place.
Well, his luck has struck AGAIN. Last Tuesday, he slipped on the stairs and landed on his right arm. He jumped up and was fine until a couple hours later. Then the pain began. Then next morning he work up in horrible pain and was fevered, so off to the doctor we went. X-rays and an exam and there was no broken arm...WHAT???? That's right, no broken arm. So we went home with a splint and an appointment to come back in 10 days. Well, since then he has had a fever on and off for days and has been in CONSTANT pain. Ibuprofen every fours hours and he was still miserable.
By Tuesday of this week, Austin and I had had enough. So back to the doctor we went. More x-rays and still the bone is fine, but they were pretty sure there might be a blood clot inside the arm. Again...WHAT??? That word was enough to send me into panic mode. We had an ultrasound and determined there was a mass in the arm, but not a blood clot (or at least there's only a 3% chance it is a blood clot). The specialist thinks it is a ganglion cyst. They sometimes reabsorb back into the muscle tissue, but sometimes have to be surgically removed.
So we have an appointment with the specialist in 2 weeks...nice huh! Hopefully in the meantime no permanent damage is done. I know, I am a little dramatic, it's been a long week!

Austin is 8!

2009-10-22T19:25:00.000-07:00

So, I can't believe my Austin is 8. Where does the time go????? He had a friend party tonight and this was the cake. I thought it was amazing. Shane works with a lady who makes them and she did a great job. Obviously the theme of the party was Super Mario Bros. and WOW... a room full of 8 year old boys was more than enough fun. Austin had a GREAT time and I am exhausted. Just had to post the cake picture.

I can't believe it!

2009-09-21T19:21:00.000-07:00

That's right, the title says it all. I am in love with my puppy. I never knew I had it in me to be a dog lover, but I love my Lizzy. She can sit and lay down now too...she's super smart. In fact, Shane was teasing me when I was bragging about her and said she's so smart she can even bite and poop as well (ha ha ha, funny Shane)! We LOVE having a dog!

Just on a side note, I just got called to be back in the Young Womens organization and I'm so excited. I get to work with the Beehives...wahoo!!! I will totally miss Primary, that's kind of my comfort zone, guess there's something new for me to learn.

Oh and we just got back from a B-Day party for sweet Tiffany Searle...I couldn't ever sing Happy Birthday without bawling like a baby. What a great event! Happy Birthday Tiff, we love you!

A little seriousness!

2009-09-11T07:07:00.000-07:00

So I just have to voice my opinion for a minute. As many of you know this past week a speech was given by our President to the school children in the country. Many, many people didn't want the kids to watch. I know that we all get to have our own opinion, but I was really hit hard by an email message that our school principal sent out...in my opinion she is very wise. She said ..."Certainly, as part of our school curriculum we teach about the Executive Branch of our government and the importance of respecting the office of the President of our country. Someday, all of our students are going to have a teacher, or a boss, or a political leader that they don't like. I hope that they aren't learning that it's o.k. to disrespect or to not still listen to those people." Go Mrs. Crandall!!!

All though I may not agree with what is happening in our government (have I ever?), at a certain point isn't it my responsibility as a citizen of this country to teach my children to show respect and act accordingly. At first even the jokes about Obama were funny, but now, I just feel like I owe it to my children to act like the adult I am. I don't want them to hear me talking bad about anyone...especially someone we should be respectful of. Now don't get me wrong, I know sometimes the people "in charge" don't earn the respect they are given...however, I think respect can still be given to the position.

It seems lately that my children are like little sponges...even more than usual. I have heard things repeated to me that I have said and that others around me have said, and I'm not so sure I like that coming from my kids. Almost everything our kids learn will come from home and I am making a new goal to be better aware of the information I am passing along to them. I would hate for them to grow into the obnoxious adults I come in contact with a lot these days (you know the ones that are never happy, and problems are never of their own making, no teacher is good enough, etc.)

WOW, I know...think about it!

Meet Lizzy!

2009-08-17T08:27:00.001-07:00

Austin with Lizzy

Morgan

Allee

Lizzy!

We finally took that big step as a family and got a puppy. She is a border collie and she is the sweetest thing EVER!!! We are having such a good time with her and she is a great puppy so far. The kids adore her and Shane and I think she's pretty great too. In fact, she has Shane wrapped around her little finger.
Hopefully we can love her and train her to be a great dog as well.

Summer Fun!

2009-08-12T19:28:00.001-07:00

Me, Lisa, Marcia, Susanne
This was just Saturday night at a meet & greet with the best author EVER! Marcia Lynn McClure writes the best romances...and they are totally clean...I'm a big fan!

So, I have been neglecting my blog, sad I know. The main reason is that I have been having too much fun! Thanks to Sally and her fabulouse fieldtrips. Thanks Sally!!!!!

The other reason I have been neglectful is that I have been taking care of my parents a lot!. It all started with my mom having surgery on her foot. I had planned to go to Fillmore to help them out for a few days. Well, to make a long story short, my dad had some MAJOR health complications while I was there and it just went down hill super fast. He almost bleed to death and spent a while in ICU. He was able to come home and is recovering well now. SHEESH, it was scary!!!! I've decided that I'm the bad luck charm in my family, because when something bad happens, it seems to always happen on my watch...what's that all about????? Anyway, I have been back again for a few days and both my parents seem to be doing much better now. It's still gonna be a long road to recovery, but at least they're on the mend.

The pictures are from a few of the activities we have participated in this summer.

This picture is from our fieldtrip to Kennecott...wow that was cool. This is a tire from the bid trucks they use down in the mine. It blew me away to read that this one tire costs $25,000. WOW!!!
This is one of my new favorite pics...Allee and Tyler. She just loves him so much!

These pictures are from our excursion to Ogden to the Treehouse museum (it has nothing to do with treehouses) there were tons of activities for the kids and they had a great time.

Not sure what that face is all about???

The 4th in Fillmore!

2009-07-05T17:46:00.000-07:00

So, as always the 4th of July in Fillmore was so much fun. We got there on Friday afternoon. We ventured to the childrens parade and then played games and had treats. Then Saturday morning was the parade...the kids got to ride in the parade this year and they had a BLAST!!! Then we went to the park for more games, snow cones and more fun. We just hung out all afternoon with the family.

This is the kids riding on the little buggy with Uncle Morgan...our "Real Cowboy"

The wagon in the parade (my dad built the wagon and trained the horses...I have to brag)

Allee got a VIP ride on Johnny...he's a "BIG BOY"

I have to say, the Fireworks show was the best one yet. It went on and on and ON! It totally ROCKED!!!!!!!!!! Here's to the 4th in Fillmore! Can't wait until next year.

Vertigo and all that is busy...oh I mean DIZZY!

2009-07-01T14:32:00.000-07:00

So for those of you who don't know I have been suffering from benign Vertigo this week. I woke up Friday and my world was literally spinning. In the past I have been known to laugh at this very illness because it seems so totally LAME!!! I'm here to say very LOUDLY (can you hear me now?) that vertigo is a REAL illness, not just some made up excuse.
Over the past few days, there have been many people ask what causes vertigo. I can't honestly say I know the real cause, but I'm gonna guess at a few of them.
Here goes: stress (caused by the fact that the neighbor kid fell off the tramp last week and broke his arm), stress (caused by the fact that no matter what I do, someone isn't happy), stress (caused by helping plan and orchestrate a frozen meal trade...WOW is all I'm gonna say), stress (caused by stress), stress (caused by nothing besides my own brain and the workings therein), stress (caused by summers with all the kids home all day).
Is that enough of a reason for vertigo??? Not sure, but it sure worked in my case.

The best part of the whole things was when Allee was tired on Monday and she came to me and said "Mom, my head is busy!" She cracks me up. I think a few people might remember about 6 months ago, Allee was spinning in the living room here at home, she stopped for a minute and while laughing she said "I'm gettin BUSY!" Apparently busy really means dizzy. It was seriously hilarious. Probably had to be there, but Monday was a sweet little reminder of that incident.

Summer Camp!

2009-06-18T08:57:00.001-07:00

So this summer I am trying something a little different. In late July, I am having a summer camp at my house. It's for ages 3-7 and it's called "5 Countries in 5 days"
We will be traveling to 5 different countries in our imaginations. We will have a snack, craft, games, and stories from the USA, Mexico, Australia, France and China.
I'm SO excited to do this camp, we are going to have a blast! If you know anyone interested, let me know so I can get them a registration form!!!

Timp Cave

2009-06-15T08:19:00.000-07:00

So we ventured to Timp Cave on Friday. I was feeling brave going without Shane, and thanks to many great friends, we made it up and back unscathed. Well, almost unscathed...I'm sure all my friends think I am CRAZY, which I am. I had to hold onto Morgan and Allee the WHOLE TIME! I was not about to let go and witness them falling of the edge (if you've done the hike, you know what I'm talking about).
Anyway, we did have a good time and the kids thought the cave was amazing. Thanks to all my helpers...you know who you are.

Flood Irrigation

2009-06-05T08:43:00.000-07:00

Cute Jeremiah enjoying the outdoors!

Austin & Olivia

Morgan exploring

Allee smiling for the camera, as usual!

Baby Jakob, he was a trooper that's for sure! He was mesmorized by the ceiling fan
in the living room, he stared at it forever!

The one major incident was Morgan scratching up his leg on the sidewalk, the picture is above.

The gang in the ditch...cute kids!

So, even though flood irrigation is slowly ruining my summer (just ask my friends), we had a fun time with cousins this week. My sis, Lisa came with her kids, and we had a great lunch and tons of fun! We were being very spontaneous I might add...that's a good thing for us.

Summer here we come!!!

2009-05-27T12:59:00.000-07:00

Here's Mr. Morgan with his snickers cake on his 5th birthday...where does the time go??? He is totally ready for Kindergarten. In fact at his Preschool graduation, the teacher told us the Morgan keeps reminding her that he already knows everything she tried to teach him...not too surprising.

Here's Austin at his piano recital. He was AWESOME!!! (and I'm not just saying that cause I'm his mom.

And here's Allee just before her dance recital...she was hamming it up, again not really a shocker there.
I have a couple videos of field day, dance festival and Morgan's graduation that I'll post later.

So we are really winding down for the summer, or should I say gearing up. The kids are done with recitals and graduations, now it's time for the fun!!!

Not sure whether to cry or shout for joy!

2009-04-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

Preschool Classes

So, it hit me, I mean really hit me today that next week is the last week of Preschool for this year. In some ways, I am so excited to have a break, but oh my, I will miss those kids. A few of them were in my class last year too, so it will be really hard not to have them coming back. They are so fun, and also very funny.
A couple months ago I got out the q-tips for a glueing project and Kennadee says to me "silly teacher those aren't for glue, they're for our ears" like DUH how could I make such a stupid mistake. There's also the funny comments during playtime when the kids say the wrong name for things, like calling the elevator an excavator! I just LOVE my job and all those cute faces pictured above.

So here's the question, do I cry or shout for joy???

Wicked Prehistoric Primary???

2009-04-27T14:26:00.000-07:00

No that is not what I think of Primary. That's just what we've been up to lately. First off, thanks to my awesome sister-in-law and friend, Shane and I were both able to see "Wicked" and yes it totally ROCKED! It's the best show I've ever seen...AWE SOME!!!!!! (Hopefully I can post some pics later)
The next thing we've had going on is a report for Austin. He chose to do it on the great Triceratops. The picture is from the poster we are putting together, I just thought it was a great shot!
Last but not least, we had our Primary Activity that I was in charge of, on Saturday. Everyone survived and I think it even turned out okay! It was kind of a stressful week last week, but fun as well.
That about catches us up, until the end of this week which brings Shane and Morgans birthdays...PARTY!!!

Party Recipe

2009-04-04T18:47:00.000-07:00

So today was the big party. It was so fun! Thanks to all you brave souls who came, hope you had fun. The picture is what I decided to get...so cute!
I had some requests for the cookie bar recipe, I made copies and forgot to give them out...so here it is (sorry Monica and Lisa, thanks so much for coming. It was great to see you and visit.)

Pan Sugar Cookies
Cream together:
1 1/2 cups sugar
8 oz. cream cheese
1 tsp. almond extract
1 cup butter
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla

Sift together and add:
1/2 tsp soda
1 tsp baking powder
2 1/2 cups flour

Spread into a greased cookie sheet and bake at 375 for 20 min. Cool completely before frosting.

Frosting:
1/2 cup butter
4 oz. cream cheese
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla
splash of milk
food coloring

Party update

2009-03-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

So I posted yesterday about the party I am having for my sister-in-law. I am super excited about it!!! But I messed up the date! The party is April 4th from 12-2.
I decided to change the time from 1-3 to 12-2. (I totally forgot about General Conference!) This will allow us to have fun without me feeling guily ha ha ha!

FYI: I was also informed that the company is set up to take cash or checks only. They are hoping to be able to take credit cards soon, but are not able to yet.

Here is the website again for those who haven't checked it out yet. Hope to see you all there!!!

http://www.mycentsofstyle.com/

Cents of Style

2009-03-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody,
On Saturday April 4 from 1-3, I am hosting an Open House for my sister-in-law Marie. She has just started working with this company My Cents of Style. It looks like great stuff and it's CHEAP!!! Anyway, you are invited to come check it out. Let me know if you want more info! Check out the website, pretty sweet!

http://www.mycentsofstyle.com/

California Fun!

2009-03-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

So we are back from our first family trip to Disneyland. We had such a great time. We kept it a secret from the kids and sort of did a treasure/scavenger hunt to get them there. It started last Sunday when we came home from church and there was a clue for the kids telling them we were going on an adventure. The car was packed and we were ready to go, all they had to do was change their clothes. So the first clue led to my sister's house in Fillmore for a potty break. When we got there, the kids thought that was our destination so they took their blankets and pillows inside. After about 20 minutes we gave them another clue which led us to St. George. (It was beautiful there...I so want to move back.) Anyway, we checked into the hotel and the kids wanted to swim, but we knew there would be plenty of swim time in California, so we put them off saying we would swim the next day. Well Monday morning came and after breakfast we gave them the last clue. Austin was so excited to be going to Disneyland, but Morgan burst into tears. He was so sad that we wouldn't be swimming. We tried to console him by saying that we would swim in California, but he was MAD!!! Allee was just happy to be there.

We spent 3 days in the Disneyland parks, had a character breakfast, saw the beach and went swimming. It was a BLAST!!! We can't wait to go back again!

2009-02-23T13:10:00.001-08:00

Friday of last week, I took my two preschool classes on a fieldtrip. We went to the dentist...why you say? Well, the kids LOVED it, and I have to say, it's the first visit to the dentis I've ever had that I didn't have sweaty palms. We had a lot of fun. Allee told me this morning that she loved brushing the dragons teeth!
Good Times!!!

Attention George Lucas!!!

2009-01-19T13:42:00.000-08:00

So here's what Princess Leah should really look like, don't ya think? She is a princess, but she's part Darth Vader too.
Allee was really trying hard to talk and act like Darth Vader, but how can you take Darth seriously with princess clothes on???

Sunday Best!

2009-01-19T10:14:00.000-08:00

I couldn't resist taking pictures of the kids yesterday. Shane did the boys hair and I just thought they looked great! Here's a glimpse of our Sunday Best!

Snow Removal

2009-01-07T07:45:00.000-08:00

Yes, that's my husband in a backhoe (I have not idea how to spell that word).
So, over the past few weeks, the snow has continued to pile up. All the while we have been having a break from preschool. Well, school stared again this week and so did the snow. It became necessary to do "something" about the snow so the parents could get in and out of the driveway to bring my cute little preschoolers to class.
I know there are those of you wondering why we can't just use a shovel...USE A SHOVEL? If you are asking yourself that question, then you've never experienced my driveway, more specifically, my driveway while preschoolers are being dropped off and picked up.
HENCE, the backhoe!

Thanks to Shane for taking the morning off, for the "snow removal" project. I'm actually laughing my guts out while writing this, because it seems so absurd to have a tractor at my house for such a purpose...such is life!

Rub a dub dub, Santa's in the Tub!

2008-12-23T19:30:00.000-08:00

The other night the kids were having fun in the tub and Morgan sat up and looked like this...hilarious! I grabbed the camera to capture this little Ho Ho Ho moment. Enjoy!

Joy to Everyone!

2008-12-14T19:25:00.000-08:00

There is an awesome website you need to check out if you haven't already. It is a short video with a very beautiful Christmas song. I loved it and hope you all enjoy it just as much.

www.joytoeveryone.com

P.S. You can download the song for FREE...yeah!

"Hot & Sh*!@ty" Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T08:58:00.000-08:00

So before I get into all the details, I am VERY thankful for all that I have. I am blessed far beyond what I deserve...but it just seems that whenever we travel, things are bound to go wrong.

We left for Fillmore on Wednesday so we could enjoy the holiday. We haven't visited since the 4th of July, so we wanted to make it worth the trip. On Thursday morning we woke up and had breakfast (my mom and dad made my favorite, Biscuits and Gravy). Shortly after we finished eating, I started to clear the table. My mom had been busy in the kitchen getting the turkey in the oven. Apparently, the roasting pan was too big, so she had to remove one of the oven racks, which she placed on the rug by the dishwasher...it was HOT since it had been in the oven being preheated. I walked into the kitchen with a load of dishes and was unaware of the rack on the floor and of course I stepped right on it...OUCH, "why are my feet on FIRE!!!" So for the rest of the morning, I was icing my feet and trying to find shoes that I could walk in. That about covers the Hot part of the day.

The other part of the day was filled with my poor sweet children running to the toilet with the runs...good times! So we came home on Thursday and were so sad to leave my family, but what do you do???

P.S. I decided not to post a picture of the "sh*!@ty" part, lucky for you!

Happy Thanksgiving!!! (a little late)

Piano Recital 101

2008-11-22T13:05:00.000-08:00

So last night was Austin's first EVER piano recital. He did such a great job and was very excited. For me, it was a trip down memory lane...Mr. Giles was my piano teacher in Fillmore. He was great! It seems our recital was usually in the church (because in Fillmore, that's where the have everything). Anyway, I remember being super nervous and having to dress up and sit there for a LONG time. Needless to say, I was one one nervous last night. I wasn't sure how the whole Fam would do just sitting there trying to be quiet. His teacher is great, there were 3 different groups, so we only had to sit there for about 20 minute...AWESOME!!! The only hiccup was that Morgan had to go to the bathroom, so Shane missed the first song Austin played.
I missed the beginning of his introduction. All he said was that his name is Austin Lefler and he will be performing "Halloween Fun" and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" Like I said before...Austin was great and I am so proud of him for having so much confidence!
Hope you enjoy the video.

Preschool Pics

2008-11-17T19:46:00.000-08:00

Say "Cheese" girls!!!

My Afternoon Class (notice my own son is not cooperating for the picture!!!)

Tanner burried in leaves!

Britin, lovin' the slide!

Allee, just happy to be here!

Morning Class

It's a little late, but I decided to post some pictures of my preschool fieldtrips that took place a couple weeks ago. The kids did great, but I was exhausted after 2 fieldtrips. I just love it though...my kids are the best preschoolers EVER (and the cutest)!

TWILIGHT!!!

2008-11-14T07:25:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to report that it is officially less than a week until Twilight comes to theaters. My friends and I have tickets to the first showing and we have some SWEET matching t-shirts to wear...a little crazy I know but I am SO excited to have a fun girls night! I CAN"T WAIT!!!!!!!

In honor of this upcoming event, there is a song you should check out. The first time I heard it, I thought of Twilight. I know it has nothing to do with the movie, but I felt like it would fit. Here's the link to the website of Richard Marx...an oldie but goodie. On his new album Emotional Remains there is a song called Though My Veins I love it!!!
http://www.richardmarx.com/splash/
I hope you listen and love it as much as I do.

Small World

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

Well, I just have to say, it's sure a small world. A couple friends of mine found a very entertaining blog and turns out, she's my good friend...who knew. I am so happy to find you Shellie! Your blog makes me so happy, and I must say, it makes my friends so happy too!
On a different note. I had a party last night and my sweet friend/cousin Emilie came and brought her hair flowers and hats and we had a great time. Here is a picture of Allee sporting her new hat. Love it!!!

The Many Faces of Austin...

2008-10-22T15:20:00.000-07:00

So, in honor of Austin's birthday this week, I decided to let you all have a glimpse of his many faces. Most of these shots are from one photo shoot. Let me tell you, that kid can pose. You may notice in some of the photos he is actually moving his eyebrows up and down in hopes to appear more "handsome, cute, lovable" it worked for me. He seriously cracks me up!!!

Anyway, I can't believe how fast time flies, Austin is seven years old and such a great kid.

Happy Birthday Austin!!!

October what???

2008-10-14T09:57:00.000-07:00

So life goes on I guess, even after you experience something so sudden and sad. I have been amazed at how many people have poured out their love and support to us...we are surrounded by the best people (Bloggers included!!!). THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING!

Meanwhile, I woke up this morning and realized October is almost halfway over...how did that happen? I can't complain though because Fall is one of my favorite times of the year. I love the smells, the crisp cool mornings, pumpkin everything, and Halloween just happens to be one of my favorite celebrations.

Here's to a great October!

Sweet Baby Boy

2008-10-01T15:48:00.000-07:00

We just wanted to let you know that we lost our baby. We went to the doctor for a checkup yesterday, and there was no heartbeat. They induced labor and our sweet baby boy was born about 9:40 Tuesday night. Everything looked pretty normal, so we really don't know what happened, but we feel blessed to know that it happened now and not later on in the pregnancy. Shane and I both feel at peace, and had a very peaceful experience at the hospital.
We just wanted to give a little update, that's all the info we have for now.

You know you're Pregnant when...

2008-09-25T10:28:00.000-07:00

Allee 2 1/2

Austin 6 1/2

Morgan 4

So this morning I was listening to a song (In My Arms by Plumb) and I cried my silly little eyes out. I started to think, "I really must be pregnant, because I cry at the drop of a hat. That led me to think about the following:
You know you're pregnant when...

You cry at the drop of a hat
You spent more time bent over the toilet than you really want to admit to
You can't think of the right word at the right time
Your brain is FRIED!!!
Your husband starts to dread the grocery store as much as you do (because he's doing all the shopping)
You use your sore tummy to bargain with your kids to get chores done or for good behavior. Ex: If you clean that up it will help me feel so much better...pathetic I know!
You cry at the drop of a hat
The thought of food is horrible
Everything is overwhelming

Did you catch on to the crying theme...just lately that's all I seem to do. This morning my preschool kids did something really cute and instead of grabbing the camera and documenting it, I ended up crying. CRAZY! I don't mean to sound like I'm complaining, it just seems to come out that way. Really, my husband and kids have been troopers and we all can't wait to find out what this little baby has in store for us.
I decided to FINALLY post some cute pics of my kids that were taken during the summer. Sorry it took me so long Shanna. Hope you enjoy!

Adventures!!!

2008-09-02T10:41:00.000-07:00

Well, it's officially been a month since I posted...oops, time just seems to be getting away from me. We got back yesterday from our yearly cabin trip. Our family has a cabin up Fairview canyon. We had so much fun, it was hard to come home. The kids were SO SO dirty and they have never been happier. The only crazy part was the extreme weather. When I say extreme, I really mean extreme. Laying in the tent on Sunday night, the thunder and lightning started and got louder and closer by the minute. One bolt of lightning flashed and less than 1 second later the thunder sounded...a little too close for comfort if you ask me. Thankfully the lightning storm passed quickly and just left torrencial rain instead. Needless to say we were a little wet and muddy when we came home, but again everyone still had smiles on their faces.
We are headed camping again soon, but we are hoping for sunny days this time.

We do have some exciting news to share...baby #4 is on the way!!! I can't believe it, I am going to have 4 children...WOW, hope we survive. We are very excited to welcome a new little one to our family in March. I am just hoping to feel better soon. I'm sure my kids are ready for that too. While we were at the cabin, Morgan said to my sister in law Amber, "sometimes when you have a baby in your tummy it makes you really sick." They are trying to be patient and bless my husband...he is amazing in every sense of the word. He takes care of me and the kids when he gets home and takes the boys to soccer. You name it, he does it. And he still seems like he likes me...go figure! Anyway, my hat is off to you Shane...you're the BEST!!!

So life is a little crazy right now, but we are counting the crazy as some of the best adventures yet!

Surgery Success???

2008-08-02T14:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone for their thoughts and prayers for my brother...the surgery was successful to this point. Morgan got along really well and is recovering great so far. I went to see him this morning and he is just soo tough, he had already been up walking around and visiting Daniel (the cousin he gave the kidney to). Daniel is doing really well too. It is such a long process for him, up to a year to know if the kidney will be rejected...so we'll just keep praying for him.
It was an amazing experience to be there at the hospital yesterday during the surgery. The best part was being with Morgan right after he got out of the recovery room...you know how you sound kind of silly when you're still out of it. Actually Morgan was very cute and sweet under the anesthetic. He was so worried about Daniel, he wanted a report on his progress. These are his words, "I need a report on Dan, but it doesn't need to be a typed report...just verbal." Too funny, he was trying so hard to say the right things so he wouldn't be embarrased later...I thought he did GREAT!
Life has a way of teaching us the things we need to learn at just the right moments. This week I have learned a lot about love and courage. My brother is my hero!

The Best Big Brother!

2008-07-31T08:37:00.000-07:00

"My sister is a nuisance, my sister is a pain.

If it was up to me I'd leaver her outside in the rain.
But don't you tease my sister or be mean to her at all,
'Cause I'll stick up for this little girl 'cause she thinks I'm ten feet tall."

This is how my brother probably felt about me when we were younger...although I do still think he's ten feet tall.
I just wanted to say a few things about my big brother Morgan. He has been on my mind a lot lately. Tomorrow he is donating a kidney for our cousin who has been sick fro quite a while now.

Morgan has always felt an "obligation" to teach me the essentials in life and to help me understand the things that are truly important, like riding a horse (something very important to him), making mud pies in the ditch, making awesome home movies ha ha ha, telling me about the birds and the bees...is that REALLY a brothers job?, riding 4-wheelers, making tree houses and zip lines in the back yard, stacking wood (which we always did wrong), and so many other things I can't even remember them all.

Anyway, I love my big brother so much!!! He has always made me feel so important and loved. I wish him the best tomorrow and I admire him so much for being such a faithful and courageous person...Morgan you're amazing!

Oh, and by the way, if you haven't caught on yet. My brother's name is Morgan and I also have a son named Morgan...what better namesake than my big brother!

Book Tag

2008-07-09T20:58:00.000-07:00

So I was tagged again, but in a different way.

The rules:
1. Pick up the nearest book (at least 123 pages).
2. Turn to page 123.
3. Find the 5th sentence.
4. Post the 5th sentence on your blog.
5. Tag 5 people.

Book - Tender Mericies
Pg 123 5th sentence reads "They had left the bedside and were sitting in chairs nearer the stove."

5 people are: Shanna, Marie, Lisa O., Shauna B., Julie, Kerrilyn

Tag

2008-07-01T12:03:00.001-07:00

So I'm a loser and just realized that I was tagged by Shauna Bushman quite a while ago. Here goes!!! #1 The inside of my fridge right now. A little bare.

#2 My sink. I shampooed carpets this morning so the mess is to the side of my sink not in the sink itself.

#3 The toilet...thankfully the boys remembered to flush!!!

#4 My bed. It was made earlier, but Morgan was supposed to have a rest, this is what happened instead.

#5 Self portrait...gotta love the self timer.

#6 My shoes, cute and comfy.

#7 What my kids are doing right now. They are supposed to be resting. Morgan was on my bed and this is where he ended up. Not too much resting going on right?

#8 Someplace I'd like to go on vacation is back to Hawaii...it was such a great trip!!!! Maui baby a wahoo!!!

Hot! Hot! Hot!

2008-06-23T07:33:00.000-07:00

So since it's been so hot the past few days, my kids decided to cool off in the sprinkler. They had so much fun. The first time, it was totally spontaneous so they were in their clothes and SOAKING wet! Even Allee went for it. The second time, we were a little more prepared with swim suits. We have my two nieces, Jamie and Cami here with us for the week, so it's been a blast!
This week is going to be a fun one. We are taking the kids to the Lehi Roundup on Thursday and then to Lagoon on Saturday...should be fun!

Life!

2008-06-17T19:42:00.000-07:00

Well, once again, it's been a while since I posted. Life seems to be getting away from me. Since school got out we have had swimming lessons, t-ball, picnics and friends. We've also had a couple trips to Fillmore, a rodeo and much, much, more. It's like I often say..."I'm busy doing NOTHING!"

This past weekend I was busy doing SOMETHING, amazing! I went to Fillmore for the funerals of parents of a couple of my good friends. You wouldn't thing attending funerals would be amazing, but for me it was. It seems like I just keep getting little reminders that it is the gospel and the relationships we form here on earth that really matter (not a new concept right?) I have to say though, that I must not be getting the message because these reminders just keep coming. I am thankful though, that some of the strongest spiritual witnesses in my life have come through these reminders. I am also thankful for the amazing people I have had in my life to connect me to these experiences. I am truly blessed!!!!

Movie Night

2008-06-03T09:54:00.000-07:00

Last night we watched movies with Shanna and Abigail. We all had so much fun, turn on a movie and give 'em some popcorn and they're happy. This week has already been busy. We have swim lessons this week and next week and it seems like there is something else everyday too. I like to be busy! Hope you're all having a great start to the summer.

My Kids!

2008-05-18T17:16:00.000-07:00

So I haven't posted for a while, so I am going to take a moment to brag on my cute kids. I have been on my own for the past 4 days and my husband won't be home for 4 more days. I know, not really much to complain about, but my kids have been SO good, they are awesome. So I am posting some pictures. Hope you enjoy.

8 Things...

2008-04-28T19:54:00.000-07:00

8 Things I passionate about
1. My husband
2. My kids of course
3. My testimony
4. My preschool
5. Reading
6. Being on time!
7. Trying to be organized
8. Spending time with family

8 past books I have read
1. Running with Angels - Pamela Hansen
2. Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer
3. Eve's Daughters - Lynn Austin
4. Hidden Places - Lynn Austin
5. Counting Stars - ?
6. A land to call home - Lauraine Snelling
7. Preach my gospel
8. Book of Mormon

8 things I say often
1. Are you kidding?
2. Oh no!
3. Nice!
4. How sad (mostly a parenting technique, and most times it blows up in my face)
5. Goodnight
6. Don't do that
7. No (I really wish I didn't say it quite as much, but it just comes out!)
8. What the!

8 things I look for in a friend
1. Good listener
2. Sincere
3. Understanding
4. Funny
5. Patient (I'm kind of a forgetful)
6. Someone who wants me as a friend too
7. Someone who makes me want to be better
8. Someone who is spontaneous

8 Random things about me
1. I'm a small town girl, would love to raise my kids in a small town (no American Fork isn't a small town)
2. I love to drink wild cherry pepsi
3. My favorite thing to do with my kids is go on picnics
4. I'm VERY afraid of spiders and snakes
5. I LOVE to cook, just wish I had a bigger kitchen!
6. I REALLY don't like taking medicine or vitamins
7. I have a really hard time making choices (like which place to eat, what to order, where to go on vacation, etc.)
8. I love movies

8 Things I want to do before I die
1. Go on a mission
2. Buy a house
3. Be a grandma
4. Be debt free
5. Go back to Hawaii
6. Get organized
7. Learn how to be a better wife and mom
8. Go to sleep at night and feel TOTALLY at peace, no worries to keep me up at night (is that possible?)

8 things I have learned this year
1. Not to judge...that's a big one
2. My kids are very different from each other, I have to remember that.
3. Living on a big lot, is a lot of HARD work
4. I need to be more patient with my kids
5. There's a lot to learn about this world and our language, that I took for granted. After helping my kids try to figure things out, I've learned that we really do and say some things that just don't make sense!
6. My husband is VERY amazing and patient
7. I love kids...they crack me up
8. I really do love life, my family and the gospel!

8 people I want to do the 8 things
1.Lisa
2. Marie
3. Kerri
4. Monica D
5. Lisa T.
6.Kellie
7. Monica C.
8. Natalie

Spring Break!

2008-04-19T20:21:00.000-07:00

Well, this week was spring break for me and my kids...that means no school. We decided to head to Fillmore. We had a great time. We left on Tuesday and spent the day with my sister Colette. That was awesome to have some time with her since it doesn't happen too often. Then Tuesday I took the kids swimming and that was fun except that I forgot a diaper for Allee for after, and Morgan and Austin helped pack the bag and Morgan forgot to include his underwear and pants...those are essential!!! So it was an adventure for sure. We spent the next two days just hangin' with the fam. We went to my mom and dad's ward party and saw a lot of the old 4th warders, yeah! We also got to meet my new little nephew Tyler Jeff Christensen, he's so cute. Earlier in the day I had been very stressed out with my three kids, but holding that sweet little baby made be just a tiny bit baby hungry and that hasn't happened in a long time.

We got home yesterday and got situated in time to get some dinner and go to bed. Then this morning Shane worked so hard cutting down a yucky tree in our back yard. He and his dad finally got it down, but now they have to cut the tree apart. I was thinking it would take a couple hours...not a couple days (sorry Shane). Anyway, the cool part was that my mother-in-law came too and she helped me (actually she did most of the work) fix my flower bed outside my kitchen window and we planted some seeds. I'm so excited to have something growing there besides weeds. Thanks Sue!
Here's to another busy Saturday come and gone so soon!

Allee's Haircut

2008-04-08T09:35:00.001-07:00

We decided to cut Allee's hair so that it will thicken up. It is really short, but SO cute. Check it out.

I've been tagged!

2008-04-05T18:33:00.000-07:00

So I thought I had gotten by without getting in on the "Tag you're it" thing, but I was tagged so here goes. I will now share 7 things about myself that are not too well known.

I took a hit for my High School football team. That's right, I took stats for football my senior year and my jobs was to right down what person got the tackle. I was watching a play and trying to see who was going to get the tackle...they got a little too close and I was a little too slow. Needless to say, I was part of the tackle and I have a scar on my foot to show it. Go Laina, go Laina, go go go Laina!!!
I had my third child without an epidural, my sister-in-law and I took a hypnobirthing class and I went for it. The whole story is WAY to long to share, but I have given birth naturally!!!! What a rush.
When I was dating my husband, I came to visit him for a weekend in Salt Lake and on the way, I caused a huge traffic accident and it basically shut down the freeway for a few hours...I was shaking in my boots after that one. SO scary. Thankfully that was a long time ago and I'm a much better driver now.
I can't watch movies at night...I always fall asleep. My husband can attest to this as can anyone who ever had me sleep over at their house growing up. I was always the first one asleep and I was always afraid of what would happen to me (you know all the silly things we did the the kid who was asleep like tickling their nose after you put shaving cream on their hand). That was always me. I guess that's what I get for always going to bed early.
I HATE seafood!!! Need I say more?
I love to play games, but I really stink at them. I think people ask us to play with them so that they can be guaranteed to win. I am NOT a strategist.
My joy in life is having the 3 craziest, cutest, naughties, adorable children in the world!

So there you have it, hope you learned a little more about my random life.

Blessings

2008-03-31T12:46:00.000-07:00

This past week a friend of mine lost her little girl. When she was born, she had some complications. So she has been in and out of the hospital all of her life, (she would have been two in July). I attended the funeral on Saturday and I just have to say, my heart was breaking for my friend and her husband, but at the same time, I learned so much. The talks were about eternal life and eternal families and at the end of one of the talks a question was asked straight out. The gist of it was this..."so what do we do with the knowledge we have of eternal families and eternal life? It comes down to this DO you truly believe in eternal life, and in the plan of salvation?" I swear he was asking me, it was as if I was the only person there. I've heard the talks all my life about eternal life and I've read the scriptures, but this was an experience like no other. The spirit was so strong and I am so glad that I know we can be together as families for eternity. What a blessing the gospel is! And what a blessing it has been for me to follow my friends' blog and be inspired by her strength and testimony. It makes me want to be more patient and positive in my own life. Thanks Marcae!!!

Things I'm thankful for!

2008-03-21T08:13:00.001-07:00

So, I have decided to mention the things I am thankful for. I'm thinking that I must complain a lot because my kids will look at me sometimes and say, "what's wrong?" that must be a sign right? Anyway, I am turning over a new leaf so to speak and I am going to try and stay more positive.

Today I am thankful for a house to live in. I complain A LOT to my husband, but we really do have a great place to live.
I am also thankful for my kids...they are so funny sometimes. Allee will say things like "we are not going in the car, right mommy." Like she's trying to talk me out of it. Morgan is my cuddle bug as always. Austin, well what can I say, I think he is the smartest 6 year old alive!!! He's always just a few steps ahead of me.
I am so thankful that I have running hot water. Some of you might not know that right as we were leaving for Mexico, our hot water heater went out (that's right, in the middle of the night). Anyway, when we came home, it still took a couple days before we got the new one installed. It is NO fun boiling water to do the dishes and everything else you use hot water for. I am so thankful to have it working again!!!
I'm thankful for my husband who loves me!!! I can't tell you the many amazing things he does to help me, there are too many. He's AMAZING!
I'm thankful I have a sister who lives close to me, she is awesome!!! Love you Jody!

There are a lot more things I am thankful for, but just a few to list for now.

Face your Fears Friday

2008-03-11T19:58:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Mexico was so fun. We had a few hiccups along the way, like our water heater went out as we were leaving. It was leaking carbon monoxide into the air so the gas was shut off to it and my mom took the kids to Fillmore with her for the week...Thanks MOM!!!
Once we got there, it was amazing! The picture I posted a while back about where we were staying was right on. That's exactly what is was like. We had a private beach right by our room. The only complaint I have is the humidity there...WEW!

Well, "Face your Fears Friday" is what we called our tour we took on Friday. We were to climb Coba which is the tallest ruin in Mexico. It was TALL, especially with the wind blowing. It wasn't as bad climbing up as it was climbing down. After we got passed that, we went to spend the day in an existing Mayan village. We went kayaking in snake infested waters...no kidding (poisonous snakes). Then we hiked through the jungle. We went swimming in an underground cave pool...it was amazing! Then we repelled and rode a zip-line. So scary, but SO Fun!!! To top it all of, we ate lunch with the natives. I was a little nervous about that, but it was safe and very tasty. I faced my fears!!!

Shane and I didn't get to hang out to much because he had to work, but we did go to a place called Xcaret, which is like the Polonesian Cultural Center. That was very fun too. We got to snorkel and see lots of exotic animals, and again...tasty food.

We are happy to be home, but we did have a great time!!!

Sickness strikes again!

2008-02-18T09:02:00.000-08:00

Well, we had an eventful night last night. Allee woke up at 11:15 and couldn't breath. It was VERY scary. We have had croup before but nothing like last night. Anyway, we ended up at the emergency room to be treated. She seems okay now...thank goodness! I couldn't believe how busy the E.R. was. There was a baby with RSV that had to be life flighted while we were there, so sad. Did I mention that I am ready for spring, I am so tired of all the terrible sicknesses that go around this time of year.
Oh, I also wanted to put a little note out there for Kerri, I am thinking of you today, hope all went well getting Keith on his way. We'll keep him in our prayers. Thanks for being such a good friend!

I'm so excited!!!!

2008-02-12T14:01:00.000-08:00

So, I just found out that this is where we are staying in Mexico...WOW! I was having a hard time getting excited about this trip, but the photo says it all...PARADISE here I come! Oh, I mean here WE come!!!

Comments

2008-02-10T19:35:00.000-08:00

Hello all,
I have just realized that my blog is being read by more than just me...ha ha ha, and I have a few comments that have gone un-noticed. From here on out, I will respond (Thanks Kerri for the headsup)!!!
On another note, Shane and I are headed to Mexico the first week in March. I am excited and also a little nervous, seeing how I "no hablo espanol." I'm sure it will be fun anyway. We are going with Shane's work of course or we wouldn't be going at all. Anyone want to keep my kids????? Just kidding my mother-in-law and my mom and brother-in-law are taking care of them, I just love family.
Anyhow, here we go starting another week! Let's make it a great one!!!!

Memories

2008-02-04T14:27:00.000-08:00

This past week with the passing of the prophet, I have had many memories and sweet feelings touch my heart. I wanted to record a very special memory I have of President Gordon B. Hinckley.
Many know that while I was in high school, my father was the Stake President in Fillmore, UT. Our stake included Cove Fort. My father is also the FM Director over the area including Cove Fort. When the time came for the re-enactment of the pioneers coming to Utah, President Hinckley held a Family Home Evening Fireside with the members of our stake and a few others at Cove Fort. Because of the positions my father had both in his calling and his job, my parents and I were able to greet the Prophet and spend about an hour with him.
I don't think I appreciated that experience as much as I should have at the time, but I am very thankful that I was able to meet the prophet face to face and talk with him.
Through the hour we had with him, I truly felt his love for me and for the other members of the church. He as usual was humorous and soaked in all he could learn about Cove Fort, since his grandfather was the one who built it. The thing I remember the most was that he was spunky and loving, reverent and kind, humble and filled with the Spirit.
I will always treasure the special experience I had, to meet the Prophet and to know without a doubt that he was the Prophet of God.

Oh, the snow!

2008-02-03T19:38:00.000-08:00

Wow, did we get slammed today! Shane thinks we got a little over a foot of snow at our house...yeah! I am very sad however that we weren't able to make it to our little niece Gwen's blessing (sorry Jarie). I think it's supposed to snow again tonight.

Oh, it was my 29th birthday today and the best present ever, was that Shane took the kids on Friday and Saturday and I got completely caught up on my scrapbooking...Thanks Shaner you're the best! I don't really feel that much older, but I much much wiser as my brother Morgan said (you know the birthday song that ends with "one year older and wiser too, happy birthday to you"). Anyhow, life is good and Happy birthday to me!!!

Friends are Great

2008-01-30T12:36:00.001-08:00

Today has been a great day. I went to the church to humanitarian, and then my friends came over for lunch...what fun!!! It is great to play!

Winter Fun!!!

2008-01-23T08:44:00.000-08:00

We decided to take the kids sledding on Monday...they loved it, all the fresh deep snow was awesome. What wasn't awesome however is that Austin has Strep Throat and Allee was throwing up in the night last night...I HATE WINTER!!! Really I don't but I am VERY excited for spring, I know, I have a long wait ahead of me. OH well.

2008-01-03T08:17:00.001-08:00

Make a scrapbook - it's easy!

New Year

2008-01-02T13:06:00.000-08:00

Well, the New Year has officially started and it's going to be great. We had a wonderful Christmas and we are ready to get back to our normal schedule. This year I am really going to try to be a more patient mother and focus on the many blessings that I have been given. We tried to focus a lot on our Savior this Christmas season and my children were really into it, they taught me a lot...shouldn't it be the other way around? I am thankful for children who are so eager to please and for the strength they give me and each other.
Here's to a great 2008!

Joining the ranks!

2007-11-04T19:40:00.000-08:00

Well, we've been told we need to join the "bloggers" out there, so here is my attempt. Hope you're not disappointed.