The Evensens

Disneyland in December

2010-12-22T10:09:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, our little family went to Disneyland. It was so delightful! My kids are at the PERFECT ages...they loved everything! And we discovered that Ellie is quite the little rollercoaster junkie - the scarier, the better....like Mother, like Daughter - I was in heaven :).

The only bummer is that I realized how much my kids are growing up. We didn't spend nearly as much time in Fantasyland (the really kiddie rides) as we have in the past. Most people would be thrilled with this, but it makes me sad how quickly time flies and how quickly my kids are growing up! I wish I could freeze time.

We had a fantastic time.

My funny Jack

2010-12-17T16:15:00.000-08:00

Funny Jack... This is his typical face when we tell him NOT to do something. He closes his eyes, and lifts his eyebrows. Punk.

Last night at dinner, we were talking to Ellie and Jack about my family's Christmas Nativity pageant that we do every year. Ellie is going to be Mary, and we were talking to Jack about what he wanted to be. We mentioned a sheep - which he thought was hilarious. Then we said he could be a shephard. We then mentioned that he could be a wise man, to which he got super excited and said, "Yes! I want to be SpiderMan. Mom, I need to get a Spiderman costume!" We tried to correct him and say, "A wise man, not SpiderMan." But it did no good. He's sure he's going to be Spiderman for the pageant.

And, of course we have taught our kids about what Santa brings in your stocking if you're not good. Coal. And everytime Ellie does something Jack doesn't like he says, "Ellie, you're going to get cold presents in your stocking!" Awesome. He's probably said that to Ellie 20 times this month. And he says it totally ticked off.

Jack has this darling "pirate potty" book that talks all about this cute pirate and his potty. And it comes with stickers as a reward for going to the bathroom on the potty. Jack is completely potty trained, but we rediscovered the book the other day and realized that it came with a whole bunch of stickers. He thinks the story is funny, so we've been reading it lately before his nap. Well yesterday, Jack needed to go potty, so he and John ran into the restroom and John pulled down his pants to set him on the potty (he's still really short!). Much to John's surprise, there was a pirate sticker stuck to the tip of his unit! John laughed and said, "Buddy, what is that?" To which Jack answered matter-of-factly, "My pirate." He thought it was awesome.

Jackson is one of a kind. Little squirt.

Ellie Ginger

2010-11-27T09:55:00.000-08:00

My sweet Ellie turned 5 last week. For the past month I've been going through all of her pictures from the time she was born until now for a book I'm creating and it's been such a joy to remember all of the fun details of her life. I am so blessed...she is such a wonderful, sweet, fun, smart little sweet-pea. I can't believe how fast the time has flown. The most profound change in who I am happened when Ellie was born. She changed me. She is such a joy. And she's growing up so fast! I love her more than life.

Jack & Mommy time...

2010-10-02T19:30:00.000-07:00

Jack and I went on a little Disneyland trip this week...It was SO fun...and funny! Jack really is such a little sweetheart and is so fun to be with. And he makes me laugh - He is such a little punk!

Jack LOVES Buzz, and often he wants to be called Buzz.

We rode the Disneyland Train around the entire park at least twice a day. Jack would have stayed on longer, but I made him get off.

It about broke my heart to leave Ellie home...she was devastated. But, Daddy took good care of her while we were gone. They had a daddy/daughter date to the Mayan, and had a picnic up the canyon. I'll post pictures of their outings too. Plus, being the nerd I am, I've already booked our flights for our next Disneyland trip so Ellie has something to look forward to :).

And NO, just because I'm a Disneyland nerd, I DON'T buy the "ears", or the t-shirts, or anything else Disney...although it would probably make a great costume! I sort of wish I would have thought about it while I was there...

Summertime...

2010-09-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

Wow...we have had such a busy summer! It's not that we've been doing anything too spectacular, just playing and swimming a lot. Here are a bunch of pictures - they're not in chronological order.

Ellie after her dance recital - Daddy brought her flowers

John fishing at Cottonwood Lake in Wyoming

Cottonwood Lake

Me & Jack on a walk at Cottonwood Lake

Jack in one of his awesome get-ups. He wore his hat the whole time at Cottonwood Lake, and even slept with it!!

Cute Boy!!

Jack got these glasses at summer camp - He thinks he looks so cool.

Ellie and her cousin Harrison with their piggy banks waiting for the ice-cream truck to come - he never did.

Evensen Men golfing in Bountiful

Dad & Jack wrestling - one of Jack's FAVORITE ways to play

Jack in another AWESOME get-up, including Ellie's winter coat and his helmet - I'm not sure why he though he needed extra warmth that day - it was about 95 degrees outside.

Our 7th anniversary in Hawaii - September 5th

Cute Ellie in her soccer uniform & on the first day of preschool

Ellie and her cousin Abby this summer

Way too long...

2010-06-23T19:14:00.000-07:00

It's been way too long since I've posted...not that many people care :). Here are some BRIEF highlights of the past couple of months.

Ellie finished her first year of preschool and they had a darling program with a cowboy theme.
SO CUTE!

I know Ellie doesn't look too happy, but she had fun :)

Ellie's teacher is the best! She's been such a blessing to Ellie.

I love these women!! I really should post a picture of the three of us from the 'good old days' in the mission field! We had a fabulous time in Santa Barbara - and I got a great abs workout from laughing so hard. Really.

Ellie & Jacks new toy. Funny how long they are entertained by going 1 mph. Jack in his swimming gear for lessons. So cute.
Father's Day - Aren't they a good lookin' bunch?! I'm so blessed to have such amazing men in my life. I am so grateful that John is such a great father to our kids...they ADORE him. He is such a sweet, patient, engaged dad. He learned a lot from his own dad. And then there's my dad (not in the picture). Words cannot express my gratitude for him. We have such a sweet relationship.

I am so blessed.
Ellie's dance performance. She did NOT want to wear makeup - she's not so girly. But isn't she darling? I love her to pieces!!

Ellie's perspective. These are her photos. I just thought they were funny.
Fun times with beloved cousins!!
Yes, Jack is wearing a swimming ring - funny boy!!

April update

2010-04-28T20:27:00.000-07:00

Easter Party at Grandma Bonnie's Jack painted his mouth with paints from the Easter BunnyA monumental day...Ellie's hair is FINALLY long enough to wear in a piggy!! She's only 4 1/2!! Jack was MESMORIZED by the NCAA championship gameJack LOVES his backpack (it's a sheep!)He's also quite a lush...AWESOME. Water Park in St. George

Ellie & Jack played in the sand for HOURS in St. George

Wildlife Museum in St. George

Picnic in Snow Canyon

I realize there are too many pictures of Jack in this post. Ellie is just as cute, I promise!

Recent pictures

2010-03-31T14:55:00.000-07:00

Jack randomly playing the pot lids - I think he needed some attention! Ellie & John going on a Daddy/Daughter date. So cute!!

Jack reading an elephant book - he's obsessed.

Snow Canyon

Ellie LOVES to hike

Over the weekend we went on a short getaway to St. George. It was beautiful! The weather was perfect. I got a little melancholy when I took my kids to the little park we always go to and realized how much my kids have grown in the last year. I love their ages, and am sad that they are growing up so fast! However, the older they get, the more we can all enjoy as a family. We took them hiking in Snow Canyon and they LOVED it. They also LOVED the sand dunes there. It was a fun weekend.

She's Home from a wonderful vacation!

2010-03-03T12:23:00.000-08:00

Ellie had a fantastic visit with her cousins! She adores her cousin Abby and Abby's brother, Ben. Everyday she tells me a little something about how Abby does this or that...or what Ben taught her. She's lucky to have such sweet cousins. And even luckier to have a wonderful grandma who was willing to take her! Admittedly, she got homesick...more so than I think Grandma realized. She was so happy to come home...I got the best love I've EVER gotten from her at the airport when I picked her up. I'm so glad Ellie has cousins she loves. Thank you Lindsay & Chris for letting Ellie visit! She will always remember her visit - what a treasure!

On a much sadder note, my poor little squirt of a nephew, Charlie has been in the PICU at Primary Childrens for over a week with RSV. He is the sweetest little bug. It's been such a difficult week for my brother Nate and his family. We are praying he will turn a corner soon.

Ellie's vacation

2010-02-20T09:39:00.000-08:00

Ellie and her Grandma Bonnie left for Michigan on Wednesday to see her cousins Ben and Abby. I have never seen Ellie so excited about something. She emptied her piggy banks to help pay for the flight - even after we told her she could buy an awesome toy with her money. It was really cute to see how excited she was.

I was surprised at how hard it was to put her on the plane! I had to hide my sadness until she was gone, but then I cried on the way back to my car. Here's a picture of her with her grandma getting on the plane... Cute little bug!! I love her more than life!

Haiti

2010-02-08T19:42:00.001-08:00

Last year while John and I were visiting the Dominican Republic, I really wanted to see Haiti. Some of my family had been there, and said it is indescribable. They were right. The border bridge had just closed for the day, so we couldn't cross over (it closes at like 2pm on Sundays), but people were going back and forth across the river, which serves as the border, and you can see right into Haiti. It was incredibly sobering to see the living conditions in Haiti...it's hard to comprehend unless you've seen the poverty first hand. And to see it is life changing. Over the course of the past 4 weeks as I've watched the tragedy of the earthquake I have been so sad. The newscasters have tried to show the poverty - and it is just as they say. They are not sensationalizing the poverty at all....there's no way to over-dramatize such poverty. I've seen just a small glimpse of it myself.

I have wondered over and over (and talked to John about it) why Heavenly Father would allow something SO tragic to happen to people who already suffer more than most of us will ever have to. Why? It seems so heartless, so callous. And the only reason I've been able to come up with is that now the world is aware of Haiti and the plight of it's people. And now that people are aware, perhaps in years to come (none too soon), the rebuilding of Haiti will allow Haitians to live in better circumstances than they did before the earthquake, and certainly than they do now. That is the only silver lining I can come up with...that it has caused us to stop and think about others and has allowed us to serve...and in turn, the lives of the Haitians will be blessed in the long run.

And, just another thought - a tangent, really - aren't Americans amazing?! When I've seen on the news how much $$ Americans have donated to Haiti - especially in comparison to any other nation on earth, it is astounding. Americans have compassion that doesn't seem to eminate from others around the world. Even as our economy suffers, we are a generous people. It has made me proud to be an American.

My heart has always been with, and I've always felt a kinship for Africa (I served my mission there)...and I've always wanted to do a humanitarian vacation there. I still do...BUT, now I feel such a strong desire to do the same in Haiti. I feel like because I've been so close to where such tragedy has taken place, I have a connection there. Silly, I know. But, I'm going to start saving my money to go back to Haiti and do a humanitarian vacation. Help rebuild wherever I can. The past several weeks, I have wished I had medical training - to be able to help so immediately. It will likely be a couple of years before I get to Haiti, but I am determined to go. And it's interesting, because we hear about the poverty in Africa - which is very real also, and I certainly don't intend to minimize it - but it's a half a world away. Haiti is so close...It's closer than Puerto Rico! And yet, they live in conditions comparable to the poorest countries in Africa.

The following pictures aren't great - as I've said MANY times, John and I are terrible photographers - and I don't think they capture what we saw, but they do show a little.

This little girl was so cute. Her mom was doing their laundry in the river right below the bridge, and her dad was bathing. We saw several people bathing in the river.

Disneyland

2010-02-03T12:04:00.000-08:00

Last week I took the kids to Disneyland. By myself.

Within 5 minutes of arriving at the airport, I had three people say, "Wow. You're brave! Are you alone?". I know they were really thinking, 'She's nuts!'. With each of our carry-ons (we didn't check any luggage), backpacks, a double stroller, a carseat, and a booster, it was A LOT of crap. It took us at least 15 minutes to make it through security. Thank goodness we were the last people in our line. Security probably could see how long it was going to take, and just closed down the lane :).

Anyway, it was a lot of fun! John was in LA the whole week working, so we saw him at night after work. And my brother Nate was there one day, and my sister Emily was there too! Emily's kids are a lot older than mine, so unfortunately we didn't see them too much...but when we did, it was a lot of fun.

I promised myself to be good at taking pictures, and so I even started with one on the airplane. And then my camera battery died. I was so ticked! Thank goodness Ellie had her Mickey Mouse camera we gave her for birthday - it's a great little camera for a little kid camera...as you'll see by the pictures.

Ellie was just getting over being sick when we got there, and Jack was in the middle of a cold, so that was kind of a bummer. But we had beautiful weather, and a wonderful time. And yes, I renewed my annual pass :).

On the airplane - Jack's 1st time in his very own seat.

Jack was so funny about the characters! He'd see them, call out to them, run up to them, and then get really mad and run away. He was TICKED I made him be so close to Minnie.

He did however, LOVE Lightning McQueen. He thought he was AWESOME standing next to him in ELLIE'S sunglasses. Isn't he cool?! He sure thought so!
Ellie took this picture...

Unfortunately, I started getting a REALLY bad sore throat while we were there. I felt pretty worn down, but was still able to enjoy it. We flew home on Saturday, and by Sunday I was as sick as I have ever been. Ever. I couldn't even get out of bed. It was TERRIBLE! I'm pretty sure it was the swine flu...chills, aches, worst sore throat I've ever had, cough, congestion, runny nose...the works.

What's funny is that I NEVER get sick. John and I were just talking the last week (before I got sick) about how we're hoping our kids will get a good balance of our immune systems. My immune system is awesome and I can go years without a cold. Even when my whole family gets sick, I'll somehow not get sick - kissing and all :)! So, because I never get sick, I never get a flu shot. BUT, we decided Ellie and Jack should get the H1N1 vaccine and since it's a mist, Ellie wanted me to show her that it didn't hurt. So, the sucker that I am, I took the bate. And wouldn't you know, I started feeling worn down right after, and then ended up sicker than I've ever been. I think I'm done with flu vaccines!

I'm feeling 10 times better than I was on Sunday and Monday. Now I just feel like I have a NASTY cold. But at least I can function.

Thank GOODNESS John had his swine flu vaccination way back in October, so he's been just fine. I can only imagine what would happen if he ended up with this.

Okay, enough whining.

I'm embarrassed to say that the reason I took Ellie & Jack to Disneyland is because I made a deal with Ellie about her binky. I'm such a sucker! She's over FOUR and still had a binky. So finally, I told her if she gave it up on January 19th (we chose the date together and put it on her calendar), I'd take her to Disneyland. I waited WAY too long to take it away, I know. And it hasn't been a big deal at all. The only thing I felt bad about (and almost caved in!) was that she got sick the very day she gave it up, so she cried for it that night. And that was it.

While looking at Ellie's camera...I came across some super cute pictures of her.

Ellie's 4th Birthday party!!

Weekend Rendevous

2010-01-20T20:23:00.000-08:00

Sooo....Last week John had to spend the week in Atlanta, so I flew to meet him there on Thursday night and then Friday morning we hopped on a flight to the Bahamas for the long weekend! Yes, it was just for the weekend - and it was JUST PERFECT! There wasn't a lot to see or do, so I did EXACTLY what I wanted - laid by the pool and read my book. The weather was perfect. It was sunny and beautiful. Church on Sunday was touching - there were two confirmations, and many tender feelings about Haiti. Apparently there are quite a few Haitians living in the Bahamas, and several members of the branch had family members in Haiti. My emotions got the best of me...it was a very sweet meeting with a beautiful spirit. Of course, maybe it was just such an unusual experience for me to actually be able to listen peacefully at church that I was caught off guard! If you read my previous post, you'll understand what I'm talking about :). John and I are lame - we're both terrible at taking pictures. So I took one of the darling primary kids, one of the church, and we took one as we were leaving for the airport...it's a terrible picture of both of us - but you get the idea of the beauty of where we were. Such a fun - and much needed - weekend! I feel so renewed!

Here's the latest update with John. He has another sinus infection (surprise!) that he's been on antibiotics for since the beginning of January. Yesterday, they brought out the "big guns" of antibiotics to try to kill the infection. Hopefully it will work. When we saw the immunologist, we decided to try a long term oral regimen of antibiotics to keep him from getting sick rather than start on IV therapy every month (he has IGg 2 deficiency). We're hoping it will keep John healthy and he won't need to start the plasma replacement therapy. But with this latest infection dragging on and on and on, I get kind of nervous that his body just isn't going to respond to oral therapy. But, we'll keep our fingers crossed! The IV therapy would suck. Bad. The side effects are terrible, and it's very expensive (the likes of $5000.00 a month!!!!!). Yes, insurance would likely pay for it, but still it would be a lot out of pocket. So, we're really hoping John's body will respond to the oral therapy and will start feeling better so he doesn't need it!

He really started feeling better when we were in the Bahamas...maybe we need to move to a warmer climate because as soon as we got home, he crashed again. I could handle a warmer life :).

Our little family

2010-01-03T17:44:00.000-08:00

I'm still trying to upload Ellie's picture. My kids may look sweet in this picture...and a lot of them time they are very sweet. BUT...they are both very naughty sometimes. Like yesterday. After church yesterday I marched right into my bathroom and locked the door and cried until my eyes were swollen and my makeup was all over my face. I looked quite comical actually! So our church is at 1pm, and sacrament meeting is last. By the time 3pm rolls around, my kids are not only grumpy, hungry, and tired...they are tired of sitting still. Yesterday was no exception. They were restless. I often feel like we are "that" family (every ward seems to have one) where the kids are out of control. Ellie had her feet up on the bench in front of us, and Jack was trying to run on the bench we were sitting on. Finally the lady sitting in front of us turned around and said to Ellie, "Shhhhh. This is Jesus' church.". At that I got up, took both my kids out and stayed in the foyer for the rest of the meeting - on the verge of tears. Then after the meeting a sweet woman sitting behind us in sacrament meeting found me and said how sorry she was that the other woman had turned around. That's all it took and the tears started flowing. She tried to convince me that my kids weren't loud or disruptive, but I knew better. I had to get home fast. I composed myself as well as I could, apologized to the woman who told my daughter off, and left. Mortifying. I hated yesterday. I went to bed at 9pm and slept for 12 hours! I feel much better today.

On a much happier note, John and I booked a quick weekend get-away to the Bahamas. I'm so excited I can hardly stand it. It will be my first vacation since John got sick, and it is MUCH needed. I'm hoping to come home feeling like a new person!

And a quick update on John. He is sick (again!!) with another sinus/chest cold. He went in today for a ton of tests and we see the immunologist on Thursday. We are really hoping to learn more about his IGg disorder and what the prognosis is. I'll post when I find out more.

Christmas was magical. My kids LOVED what Santa brought and it was a sweet holiday. I spent Christmas Eve with my dad and New Years Day with our dog snow shoeing in the mountains, and it was good for my soul to be out in the clean air and sunshine.

JACK

2009-12-29T20:38:00.000-08:00

"He is the delight of my eyes, and the darling of my heart."

Need I say more? Happy birthday, Jack!

Woodward Family Party

2009-12-21T21:13:00.001-08:00

Last night was my family (Woodward) Christmas party. It was delightful. I have the coolest family. The food was divine, the entertainment was joyful (talent show from the grandkids), the gifts were too generous, and the pageant was funny.

The kids totally get into the pageant and talent show. My niece was supposed to be Mary for the pageant, but Ellie had her heart set on being her, so we had two...and I was the donkey for Ellie. I think I was pretty nice to participate :). The kids all get dressed up. I left my camera home, so my sister took these and sent them to me. Hopefully my brother will send me some of Jack. Ellie's in the middle on the little couch.Ellie holding our newest little cousin/nephew, Charlie. He's SO loveable!

Johnny

2009-12-11T08:21:00.000-08:00

Happy Very-Belated Birthday to our Johnny! Poor guy has had a crappy year, so we were all very glad to say goodbye to 43, and hello to 44!! Okay, he's going to KILL me for being so open about his age...but I'm just glad he made it to 44! And, he looks AMAZING for his age...most people are shocked to know he's no longer in his 30s :).

Anyway, the first half of his "43" was full of fun adventures in Maui, Dominican Republic, and Alaska...and those are just the few that were not close to home :).

Then it all came to a crashing halt in July. Poor guy. I haven't been good about giving updates lately...I guess it's because it's not great news. He's still suffering from terrible headaches daily - yes, daily. We've had some good news that his brain abnormalities continue to heal. But last week we learned that John has "IGG Deficiency Disorder". Basically, John's immune system is compromised and can't fight off infections like most people. So, it increases his risk of getting meningitis again and other life threatening infections. However, there are good treatment options. John may have to start a monthly routine where they take his plasma out and replace it with someone else's infused with immunoglobulins. We really don't know much more, or what to expect, but John now has an immunologist (in addition to his infectious disease specialist, neurologist, etc...) who has run gazillions of tests on him this week and we will get the results the first week in January. Then we will have a better idea of exactly what we're dealing with.

I'm not going to lie. This has been rough. It's been so hard for John. He wants to feel good, and he wants to have the energy he used to. I actually think it's been years since he really felt good. It's taken huge a toll on him physically and emotionally. I'm just so grateful for good medical care. He has the best doctors.

It hasn't been a walk in the park for me either. But, I'm very optimistic. John will get better. He will feel more healthy once he starts treatment. Eventually, I hope to have the old Johnny back. The one I married six years ago. I'm confident that will happen.

Happy Birthday Johnny! I love you!

My Little Bug

2009-11-24T19:45:00.000-08:00

MY LITTLE ELLIE.

This time of year is such a sweet time for me. I love that my Ellie was born so close to Thanksgiving. She is my little sweetpea. I never understood my capacity for love until she was born. She has given my life meaning that I didn't realize was possible. I am so grateful for the sacred opportunity I have to be Ellie's mommy!! She delights my soul and makes my heart sing! Happy 4th Birthday, Bug!!

Pictures from October

2009-11-18T20:55:00.000-08:00

Here are some recent pictures I've wanted to post...

Jackson and his cousin Lilly at Gymboree class. Aren't they so cute?!

No, my sister and I didn't talk prior to class about orange shirts and jeans :).Ellie at the Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin Patch

Ellie in Midway
at the Scarecrow Festival

His shirt says it all.

Gardner Village

Ellie aboard the pirate ship at Engh Gargens

Maze at Engh Gardens- My kids loved this!

Ellie's dance class - Halloween week

Yes, we won best costume...

This Is It

2009-10-30T22:17:00.000-07:00

"THIS IS IT" = 2 hours of pure bliss. Loved it.

Yes, I've always been a fan...even when it wasn't cool. Admittedly, I'm a nerd.

Oh, and I have another post completely finished but have been unable to load pictures....my new computer rocks. Okay, not so much.

October Update

2009-10-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

So here's the latest with John. A few weeks ago a "nodule" was found on John's lung after a chest x-ray. So, they repeated the x-ray to make sure it wasn't a fluke. It wasn't a fluke, so they ordered a CT scan and told us it is likely and infection that his current round of antibiotics isn't killing, or it's cancer (which isn't likely because he doesn't have the risk factors for it). In the past, I would have completely blown the whole thing off. But I have to admit, I was a little worried after what we've been through. So was John. But, great news! It turned out to be nothing concerning at all. Just a little something they'll keep an eye on, but nothing to worry about. What a relief!

Friday night John had another MRI on his brain. We're still working on a few things there. But, John is doing so well! He went back to work on Monday!!! I think to most people, he is completely back to normal. He puts on a pretty good face. And he is doing awesome...but I see that he's not 100% yet. He hasn't had a day yet without a headache. And he gets worn out really easily. But, he's doing great.

We've had a fun October. John and I went to a Halloween costume party and won the costume contest (pictures to follow!). The party was so fun!

Then the next weekend we took the kids to Midway and went to another party with some of our Park City friends. It was great!

Ellie started a tap & ballet dance class this month and absolutely loves it! I wasn't sure how she would do because she's not really 'girly', but she wants to go to class every day. This week the kids dressed up in their costumes for class. It was really cute.

Jackson continues to be a punk. It's a good thing he's got me so wrapped around his finger! He'd be in big trouble if he weren't so cute!

We've taken the kids to do a few fun things for Halloween. Here are some pictures for the month...

Well...the pictures will come eventually. My computer has to go back to the shop AGAIN for the 3rd time since I got it in August because every time I try to put a picture on my blog, my entire computer freezes. It makes me crazy!!! So, no pictures yet. Maybe next week :).

Daddy - Daughter weekend

2009-10-09T20:18:00.000-07:00

Ellie & Uncle Mike

Cottonwood Lake

On a hike with Daddy

A few weeks ago, John took Ellie to his family cabin in Star Valley, Wyoming. Ellie loved all of the attention she got from her Uncle Mike and her Grandma & Grandpa Evensen. They had a great time!

Jack should be in a TON of trouble...

2009-10-01T21:26:00.000-07:00

Such a PUNK!!!

When I walked into the bathroom, I was suppressing a laugh and ready to get mad at him...the problem is, John walked into the bathroom 10 seconds after me and starting laughing his head off and ran down to get the camera. So, again, Jack thinks he is so cool. Yes, that's MY lipstick. All I can say is that I was putting Ellie to bed. Where was John? I'm not sure :).

Recent Pictures

2009-09-26T08:51:00.002-07:00

These pictures are out of chronological order, but who cares?!

I left the kitchen for 3 minutes and Jack had climbed up onto the counter to get a treat...He thought he was AWESOME and had just accomplished the most amazing feat. Such a punk.

THE ZOO

Not sure why of all the animals, Ellie wanted to ride a seal. And not sure why Jack had to ride with her...

DISNEYLAND!!

Ellie's favorite ride - the "red rollercoaster" in ToonTown. We went on it at least 7 times...after that I lost track...

The Love of Ellie's life...She was SOOOO shy!

Everytime we go to Disneyland, I take Ellie's picture at this door. She's getting SO big!

Disneyland!

2009-09-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I was feeling sort of melancholy so I booked a last minute vacation to Disneyland for me and Ellie. We had a great time! It was fun to spend some "girl" time together. It was a quick trip, but so worth going. Ellie is such a sweetheart and so fun to be with. She's funny because she's not really into the princesses (thank goodness..I can't believe people wait in that line for hours just to see them!)...she's much more into the rides...and Goofy :). Good times. Oh did I mention I also booked a vacation to Hawaii for me and John in January? I can't wait. Some women need retail therapy to get them through rough times. I'm way more into vacation therapy :).

John got his hearing aid a few weeks ago. Unfortunately, it isn't working the way he had hoped. He has a lot of ringing in his ears, and the hearing aid is amplifying it. And it's blocking what natural hearing he does have, so it's very annoying to him. Last week he ordered a different kind that should be here at the end of this week. It's an over-the-ear one, so we were hoping he could get it in black or silver, but it's such a new aid that he can only get it in flesh color right now in the US. For some reason the colored aid that John needs is sold in Europe already, but it hasn't been launched here yet. Hopefully we will be able to get it within the next 6 months. I hope this aid helps! It's supposed to be the best of the best, so I'm hopeful that John will like it. Even if it is over the ear and flesh colored :).

John and I went on a really fun date on Saturday night. It was really the first date we've been on since he got sick (which began two months ago yesterday). We went to dinner at the Garden Restaurant at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building - which we hadn't been to for years. And then we walked over to Abravanel Hall for the symphony. It was fantastic! It was Cirque de Symphonie, so throughout the symphony there were acrobats and contortionists doing amazing acts. We always love the symphony, but this was really fun. It was a great night.

Today, we took the kids to the zoo to see the baby elephant. John was a great sport to make it his excerise for the day. He didn't really want to go, and wasn't sure he could walk that much, but he did great. Of course we took it VERY slow (not just for John...we didn't use the stroller, so walking with Jack takes forever!), and rested a bunch. The baby elephant is so darling! It was a perfect day to go.

Pictures to come soon. I have a new computer, and I have problems uploading them from my camera. I'm not so tech savvy. I'll have John help.

My Little Preschooler

2009-09-03T09:37:00.001-07:00

My sweet little Ellie on her first day of preschool. She loved it!!!Ellie started preschool a couple of weeks ago, but I've been having problems with my computer...so, much more to come very soon. Update on John...and Girls only vacation...

This week...

2009-09-01T15:26:00.000-07:00

John has made tremendous progress in the past 10 days! His headaches are not constant anymore, and he has much more energy. He's also started driving regularly. And, the best thing is that he finally has the strength to pick Ellie up again...which she points out all the time :). I'm finally feeling like we can see that John's body is going to recover from this nasty infection. He was fitted for a hearing aid last week and it should arrive any day. Apparently, he'll likely need one for the right ear within a few years also. Apparently the hearing loss is due to nerve damage in his brain caused by the infection. Amazingly, he's not bothered at all about wearing an aid. He's so frustrated by not hearing, that he is very anxious to get it. Plus, what's the big deal about a little hearing loss...at least he's alive!

His next doctor appointment is on Tuesday with the neurologist. I know that eventually she wants to do another lumbar puncture to determine the implications of the abnormalities on John's brain. However, because John had 3 punctures in the hospital and his brain is still healing, he won't have to have another puncture or MRI for a few more months.

So, I feel like this big chunk of time has been just removed from our lives...and our summer. I was feeling bad for our kids because for 5 weeks we didn't have a single outing. So, I took them to the zoo and we've been swimming several times the past couple of weeks. And I'm so looking forward to all of the autumn activities we can go to.

Ellie had her preschool orientation this morning and starts on Thursday. What?! Wasn't she just born last year??? I cannot believe how fast the time has FLOWN. I admit, I've been a bit melancholy. I'm sure part of it has to do with wondering what the future holds for John's health, but Ellie's life is starting a new chapter...and while it's a good change, she'll never ever go back to just being home with me. I'm a sappy mom. I love the stage of life I've been in for the past 3 1/2 years! I guess I'm struggling a tiny bit with all the change (real or imagined) that our lives have dealt with the past six weeks, and what we may deal with in the future. I know Ellie will absolutely thrive in preschool...she's so ready. I'm just not sure I am :).

What a difference a day makes...

2009-08-23T20:22:00.000-07:00

Wow. My last entry was 5 weeks ago today. And the next day, our world was rocked. Here's the story.

I had been to lunch with my Grandma Woodward and called John on my way home just to say hi and see what he was up to. At that time, he casually mentioned that he had a headache. No big deal. I didn't think one thing. That was at 3:30 in the afternoon. Soon after, I got home and at 4:30 John said he had taken 800 mg of Ibuprofen and it didn't touch his headache, so he took a Percicet and went up stairs to lay down.

At 7 pm, he came downstairs again, and by this point he was bothered by the light and said he'd never had a headache that bad. He then took a Lortab and went back up stairs. I took the kids outside and played for a couple of hours so they wouldn't bother John. Then I came back in to get them ready for bed and took an ice pack up to John. We both thought he had a migraine, and his back was starting to hurt. When he gets really tense, his back (which he injured years ago) seizes up and starts spasming. So, I put the kids to bed and laid down with Ellie for a minute and dozed off.

At 10:30pm I heard some groaning and got up to find John on the stairs. He said he needed to go to the hospital. He was stuck on the stairs and couldn't move. So I called my sister (she lives across the street...so lucky for us. Had she not been there, I would have insisted that John just go to bed), and asked her to come over. When she got there, she saw John's condition and asked if her husband Joe should come give him a blessing.

So, Joe and our neighbor Garrett came and tried to move him down the stairs. When they realized how much pain her was in, they gave him a blessing right there on the stairs. It was the most personal, beautiful, and specific blessing I have ever heard. Garrett blessed John that his breathing would calm and that his heart rate would slow. He said the pain would subside within 2 to 3 hours, but that there was a long road ahead. As soon as the blessing ended, both Joe and Garrett said we needed to call an ambulance.

So, I called an ambulance to come get John. At this point, while John was still conscious, he wasn't very lucid. And, admittedly, I still thought it was just a bad headache from which he needed relief. Joe and Garret tried again to get John down the stairs and with EVERY move, John would cry out like he was giving birth. (Admittedly, my sister and I were on the front porch chuckling - not that it was funny that he was in pain - it was just comical to us that two grown men were trying to be so delicate, and yet the third grown man was crying out so loud with every touch. I'm a rotten wife, I agree.)

So the ambulance came, put an IV in for morphine and off they went. I followed them in my car (still thinking he just needed some injections in his back and a good dose of morphine for the pain and we would be coming home that night). By the time they got to St. Marks Hospital, John was unconscious. They could rouse him enough to ask him his name and where he was, but then he'd pass out again. And within 20 minutes of arriving to the hospital, he was completely out...unresponsive.

Okay, so here's another admittance. When he passed out, I started to worry that he had taken more pain medication than I was aware of, so I thought we were dealing with an overdose...but the ER staff (who were GREAT) knew way more than me, and knew this wasn't the case. Although John didn't have a fever (which is very rare with an infection), his blood pressure was very high.

So, in the ER, the doctor did some tests on John's eyes and immediately knew there was pressure on his brain (specifically the right side). They took him for a CT scan, fearing he'd had an aneurysm. When the scan came back normal, they immediately did a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). They had some additional nurses come in to prop John up to do the test, and we were all just chatting until the fluid starting coming out. Their faces all changed, and one nurse said, "Holy crap.", and the doctor said, "Oh my." Apparently spinal fluid is supposed to be clear like water, and John's was more like the color of milk. The doctor said he's never seen spinal fluid so cloudy and told me John had bacterial meningitis. They took four viles of fluid and another ER doctor came in to look at it because he hadn't ever seen it so creamy either. Very comforting.

Up until that point, I had been very calm, but when they told me it was a life threatening infection and started moving REALLY fast, I got sort of weak and probably went white. It took me about 10 minutes to regain my senses. So there we were. The doctors put him on a steroid to reduce the swelling in his brain and started the antibiotics right away along with an anti-seizure medication.

When they moved him from the ER to ICU, he was in isolation so I had to gown up to go be with him. That only lasted the first day when they found out he wasn't as contagious as they had originally thought.

The next day, the kind doctors tried to be gentle, but they weren't sure he was going to make it. So for three days John was in a coma fighting for his life. I was in shock, but doing really well. The doctors thought I was in denial and finally one doctor talked to me with my mom (I think he was hoping she could get me to understand that John could die - which I understood, I just couldn't process it). John had so many doctors working on him...a neurologist, an infectious disease specialist, a pulminologist, etc. They told me that even if he pulled through, there was a significant possibility that there would be long term neurological deficits and he was at risk for a massive stroke. Again, while I understood what they were saying, my mind couldn't process it (plus I know I was being sustained...how grateful I am for the power of prayer!). John also had pneumonia and a sinus infection that we didn't know he had.

Finally Thursday morning John woke up. What a relief! So many people had been praying and fasting for him and he'd been given two blessings, and his name was in temples all across the country. He was really out to lunch, and was extremely weak (and 5 weeks later, he is still very weak), but he was alive! The doctors kept telling us (and still do) how lucky John is to be alive.

We were lucky in that he had relatively few setbacks in the hospital. He gradually got well enough to go home. He was in the hospital for 9 days, and was sent home with a pic line for the antibiotics. He was on home health care for a couple of weeks.

So now, we're in recovery mode. He's in physical therapy for weakness and balance...he still has a massive headache...is still very weak...and has permanent hearing loss. All very manageable! Okay, he does have some very slight memory issues and maybe some small personality changes, but those too are very manageable. He has some abnormalities on his brain that we are working on (only one was consistent with a small stroke) finding out what they mean - if anything. And the infectious disease specialists (two of them) think he might have an immune disorder that makes him more susceptible to infections. We'll start the testing for that in September.

For the past several weeks, we've had doctor appointments several times a week, and had to go back to the hospital because of a all-over body rash. But this coming week, I think the only appointments John has is physical therapy....and getting fitted for a hearing aid. And just this weekend I've seen HUGE progress. He hasn't been driving, but yesterday he felt so good that he went to the store (it's only a half mile away, but how liberating for him!!).

John's illness has been so hard on Ellie and Jack. Thank goodness they are resilient. And Thank goodness my mom and my family have been SO willing to help with them. Neighbors have also been awesome to help with meals, my kids, mowing our lawn, bringing goodies, bringing projects for Ellie and Jack to work on, etc. I have learned so much about service. It's been so humbling to be served. People have come out of the wood work with kindness. A little old lady I'd never met even brought over a loaf of homemade bread! That's how I want to be...willing to serve others. And I've learned that it's the little things that make such a difference! And how wonderful it feels to have people you don't even know show such love.

I am so grateful to have John with us! I realize how close he came to death. His body has been absolutely ravaged by this. I know that Heavenly Father is so aware of John and of our little family. I'm grateful that he has allowed us to go through this to change our course slightly. I am grateful for prayer, and am so grateful for the priesthood and for the good men who have administered to John and to me. I am grateful for the MANY tender mercies we have seen and been blessed with throughout these past few weeks.

Thank you to everyone who has called, sent messages on Facebook, prayed for us, or helped us. It has meant the world to us. I'm sorry I haven't been good about responding...my focus has been on John and my kids :). Hugs to all...and I'll try to be a little better about posting John's recovery. Hopefully within a few weeks we'll have some good news about his long term health. I'll let you know. Oh, and I'm too tired to go through this entire post...so if it doesn't make sense, sorry! I know it's very long and wordy. I'm sure if I took the time to reread it, I'd edit the heck out of it. But, right now I've got to get in bed :).

Lazy Days of Summer...or Not :)!

2009-07-19T17:20:00.000-07:00

Wow, our summer has been busy! Fun, but BUSY! Here are some pictures:

JET-SKIING WITH THE KIDS- THEY THOUGHT THEY LOOKED SO COOL.

LOTS OF TIME HAS BEEN SPENT SWIMMING
SWIMMING LESSONS- BOTH KIDS LOVE THE WATER!! AND THEY'RE BOTH GOOD LITTLE SWIMMERS...

ENJOYING THE SUNSET ON OUR BALCONY WHILE EATING POPCICLES IS A FAVORITE TIME OF DAY

PLAYING WITH THE NEIGHBOR KIDS FOR HOURS & HOURS
JUST MY CUTE GIRL

AND MY HANDSOME BOY...WITH A DIRTY FACE (VERY TYPICAL)

4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS WITH THE WOODWARDS

The morning of the 4th, we went to the Park City parade with the Evensens but I forgot my camera. It was a great day. I love the 4th and I love our country - we are SO blessed!

JOHN & JACK WATCHING FIREWORKS

MY GRANDMA & GRANDPA WOODWARD

JACK IS WORN OUT AFTER A FUN DAY

WHAT A GOOD LITTLE HELPER

JOHN'S AWESOME FISHING TRIP IN ALASKA WITH THE WOODWARD MEN.

They had SUCH a great time and caught tons of salmon & halibut (we had to buy a new freezer just for the fish - and it's full!). There are many more pictures that I'm hoping my brother will post on the Woodward blog - check it out! There's a link from our blog.

BELOW: John, Nate, Jake, Joe, Jim, and AntonBELOW: Joe, Jake, Jim, John, Anton, and Nate BELOW: Anton, John, and Joe

Check out how close this whale was!! And apparently they were surrounded by them...again lots more pictures on my family sight.

BIG JIM, THANKS FOR SUCH A GREAT TIME!

SNOWBIRD RESORT

TOP OF THE TRAM

RIDING DOWN THE SKI LIFT - JACK FELL ASLEEP.

ONE OTHER INSPIRING EVENT THAT OCCURRED A ON JUNE 30TH WAS MY GRANNY & GRAMPS JENSENS' 65TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY! WHEN I GET SOME PICTURES EMAILED TO ME FROM MY BROTHER, I'LL POST THEM. MY GRANNY & GRAMPS ARE SO CUTE!!

May update

2009-06-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

Where has the time gone??? Okay, first I have to say that John and I just returned from an AMAZING vacation to the Dominican Republic. It was simply awesome! I will blog about it soon.

I also have to say that my heart has been so heavy the past few weeks as I've remembered the events of last year. It's been a year now since my friend Molly lost her little Lucy. I still get very emotional when I write about it. And on the eve of the anniversary of her death I sobbed like it was yesterday. Oh Molly...how could life be so unfair?! How can the rest of us have it so easy in comparison? My heart aches for her and Vic. And I want them to know (and the few of you who read this blog) that when I blog about the fun things I'm doing in my life with my children, I am always just a little torn because I know it sounds so trite, especially when one of my very closest friends is enduring the unimaginable sorrow of losing a child. This Thursday would have been Lucy's 3rd birthday. I pray that Molly and Vic can endure this week and feel the love of so many people who continue to grieve with them and pray (and fast) for them.

As for my little family...all is well. My kids did great while we were out of town (it was the first time we have ever left them!!). And yesterday I did the Little Red Riding Hood Ride for Cancer in Wellsville. It was SO fun. It was my first time on my bike this year and I did 45 miles... Oh my legs were TIRED when I finished! It was a great ride.

Here are some pictures from May...

Jack & Ellie helping Daddy in the yard

We had a FUN sleepover with cousins Cece, Clayson, & Lucy...and Harrison along with his Dad Joe came over to watch some cartoons on Saturday morning. Joe couldn't get enough of Heman! (No, we don't watch it...but Cece & Clayson LOVE it!! They're so cute)
COULD HE BE ANY CUTER??? (Nice pea on your neck, buddy!) HOW ABOUT NOW?! :)

And what about this little sweetpea?!

Outing at Thanksgiving Point

Ellie and cousin Harrison (who lives across the street) along with Bailey (the next door neighbor). Yes, Bailey is dressed...Ellie & Harry are playing in their jammies.

Jack loves to crawl into Montana's cage in the garage...apparently Montana likes it too.

Eventually Jack kicks Montana out of her cage. Funny, crazy boy!!

spring days

2009-05-01T15:37:00.000-07:00

Last week when it was beautiful weather, my kids and I took full advantage. We went to Wheeler Farm, the Zoo, and two different parks.

Then this week we took a little jaunt down to St. George with my mom and sister Liz and her daughter Lilly. A girls only trip...but we made an exception for Jack :). It was delightful! The weather couldn't have been more beautiful - 80 without a cloud in the sky. And of course it was so fun to hang out with my mom & Liz...two of my favorite people! My Ellie was glued to Nana's hip - poor Nana was probably worn out by the end of our vacation!. Here are pictures from our adventures.

Wheeler Farm

The Zoo...

Jackson playing a game with a box. He thought it was SO funny to put it on his head and then pull it off really fast.

St. George has an awesome park with some water features for kids to play in. My kids LOVED it and we stayed for hours. It's just perfect for kids their ages.

My darling neice Lilly was so happy in the water! She would just sit there and flap her arms and laugh. It was so adorable!

Easter

2009-04-18T12:10:00.000-07:00

I'm so slow at posting my thoughts on Easter...so I won't say much, but Easter has been my favorite holiday since I was a little girl. I think as a child I loved it because it meant going to Snow Canyon with a group of families in the neighborhood. We'd come home on Saturday every year and on Sunday we'd have dinner at my Granny's after church. I also think I liked that it meant spring was here.

As an adult I love Easter because of what it represents. To me it has the most beautiful significance of all the holidays we celebrate. The tomb was empty! My favorite talk in general conference this session was Elder Hollands about the last week of the Savior's life. I felt the spirit stronger than I have in so long. (It was one of those rare moments when my children were being quiet!) I was grateful to reflect on Elder Hollands words last week as Easter approached. I am so grateful for my Savior who has made it possible for us all to live again. I love knowing that my friends the Jacksons will be with Lucy again because of the Atonement and resurrection. I love that my friends the Hoffmans will have their daughter Kate for eternity and know that she will one day be able to have all the blessings of a normal body and mind. All that Easter represents is beautiful!

Girls Only vacation

2009-04-09T11:40:00.000-07:00

Last week Ellie and I went to Disneyland. It was such a sweet time. Ellie's been going through a rough phase lately (that's a very nice way of saying that she's been a total brat!). So, it was nice to spend some one-on-one time at the "happiest place on Earth". We had beautiful warm weather (while it was freezing and snowy in Utah), which was good for my soul. And no demands...just spending time doing whatever Ellie wanted. Her favorite rides were the roller coaster in ToonTown (she puts her hands up the whole time and wants to go on it over and over), and the StoryBook Boat ride because she likes to see all the tiny houses and castles. But the funniest thing to me was her reaction to Goofy. I'm not sure if I've blogged about her crush on Goofy, but yes, my daughter's very first crush in her life is on Goofy! WHAT??!! It is so funny! Should I be worried? What is Goofy?! Anyway, it's so funny. John and I laugh so hard about it, and for Easter she's even getting a Goofy & Max movie...yes, I'm pretty sure it's harmless, so I'm not afraid of allowing her to be in love with him...or his son Max (whom she also loves). Anyway, so the very first character we saw was Goofy and immediately Ellie got all silly and shy. She wanted more than anything to watch him, but wouldn't go get her picture with him. So, being the nice mom I am :) I went up to him and told him about Ellie's crush so he started blowing kisses at her. I'm so bummed I didn't catch her reaction on video! She buried her face in her stroller and tried to hide, but kept peeking out and smiling. It was so cute (okay, more funny than cute). I had to call John and tell him about it right after because I was laughing at her so hard. We subsequently saw Goofy a bunch of times, but Ellie never would go up to him. So I got a couple of pictures of her with him 20 feet in the background, which she LOVES to look at. Oh my! Anyway, Disneyland was charming (as always!). We had a fabulous time. I'm so grateful that I have the opportunity to do fun things like this with my kids.

Notice Goofy in the back ground...this is the picture that Ellie loves!

And....Of course I can't end this post without a mention of what happens when I'm away :)! John and Jack had a great time with the girls away! And Jackson got into LOTS of good stuff! This picture was taken at about 11 am, and it was already his 4th outfit of the day! Thank goodness the markers were washable!! He had also dumped an entire carton of yogurt on himself and had a huge blow-out that morning! Fun times for John :)!

My princess...a work in progress :)

2009-03-26T21:45:00.001-07:00

My funny Ellie- We have to make cookies about once a week, and last week, she turned the mixer on full blast. This is what we ended up with :)

My freaking funny nephew walked over to our house last week with this awesome outfit on :).

So Ellie has a princess costume that she wears almost every day. It's totally worn out, but she loves it anyway. So last night I told her I have a princess costume too. John got out my wedding dress, and we played dress up. Ellie LOVED my dress. She said it was a 'real' princess dress, and that I was Cinderella. I said, "Yes, sweetpea, I sure am Cinderella. I cook and clean and answer to everyones' whims every single day." Yes, my wedding dress is blue. Sort of an ice-blue...so I can actually see why Ellie thinks it looks like a Cinderella dress. It was really fun to play dress up with my Ellie. She really is my princess. Last week I called her my princess and she got all mad and said, "I'm not a princess!...I'm a queen." That's my girl! I just have to work on her femininity. :)

Monumental moment

2009-03-25T21:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Jackson had his first haircut! It was a first for him...and a first for me :). At 3 1/2 years old, Ellie doesn't have enough hair to cut, so yesterday was a first for me as a mommy! And yes, I took a ton of pictures...and kept a couple of locks of his hair. Last week I was at lunch at my Granny & Gramps and my Granny pulled out an envelope from when I was 16 months old with some of my hair in it and it was fun to see the color and texture...even if it is a little gross :). So, some day maybe Jack will care to see his hair...probably not, but just in case...

Anyway, Jackson absolutely loved getting his hair cut! As Kelly combed through the back of his hair, Jackson would sort of lean into it...He was really serious and had the same look on his face the entire time, but he was super relaxed. It was so funny! He is so cute!! Thanks Kelly!

Yes, he had a mullet...John kind of liked it because it reminded him of himself about 20 years ago :)! Oh he looks SO cute with his hair cut!

Old Friends are the best!

2009-03-19T16:43:00.000-07:00

Two nights ago I went to a baby shower for my dear friend Molly in Park City. It was a ward shower, but they were kind enough to invite me back for it. It was so wonderful for me! I miss my friends in PC so much...I have so much in common with them. So it was SO fun to see them and get caught up. The Kimball ward women are just awesome. I got talking to a group of women at the shower about the uniqueness of the ward women. There are NO cliques, and it's not like just the 30 somethings all hang out - no, it's EVERYONE. The women in their 20's up to the women who are empty nesters in their 60's all are one and all enjoy each other and are interested in each other. We are all pretty independent women and have all had unique experiences in our lives, so maybe that's why we enjoy each other so much. Well, at least I enjoy their company and miss them very much. ALL of them.

And then yesterday, my dear mission companion Tammy (Soeur Steimle) brought her boys over to play. It was so delightful! Tammy knows me so well...we were companions for 6 months...which is a long time when your mission is only 18 months...and I loved every (well almost!) minute of it. We laughed SO hard when we were companions! And we really knew each other so well. There's such a deep depth of friendship with someone when you've shared such sacred experiences together - and so much time together. Our mission was very unique in that there were only 14 missionaries on the island and only 6 sisters. We all knew each other very well. Anyway, it was so fun to see her! No matter how much time passes in between us getting together, we can pick up right where we left off.

And one other blast from the past...one of my very oldest and best childhood friends is my neice's 5th grade teacher, so last week I took my kids and dropped in on her. She is amazing! She was like a breath of fresh air. She is so upbeat and happy...and it's real. Not her just being superficial - she really is a delightfully happy person. And so pretty! I told her she's in the wrong field. She should be a model. She has her master's degree and will be called up to be a principal any time now.

It was so refreshing and such a blessing to see all of these old friends. It really has been an answer to my prayers. I have been so blessed in my life to have amazing life-long friends! And they are such amazing women. I'm not sure why they've chosen to be my friend :).

Recent Pictures

2009-03-13T20:17:00.001-07:00

Here are some recent pictures of my kids, John's race, and Ellie's race...Jackson & Ellie LOVE to swing...

The park wore them out everyday...

Ellie's race - running with Daddy, Uncle Chris, and cousin Abby.

And their medals (below) - Ben, Abby, & Ellie

John's RACE John and Chris

Our kids love to go on rides!

Daddy's shoes- isn't he the cutest?!

February update

2009-03-06T16:21:00.000-08:00

Where does the time go??? Didn't I just post pictures from Hawaii last week? Oh wait, that was almost a month ago. So much for posting more often. It's a good thing I don't have many "fans":)!

Anyway, February. It must have been a busy month because I didn't find time to blog...either that or I didn't have anything worth blogging about. We'll pretend like it's the former.

The most impressive thing that happened all month occurred on the last day. Johnny participated in a duathlon in St. George last weekend and came in 2nd in his division, and 12th overall!!! I was so impressed! There were close to 200 participants, and he came in 12th!! He even beat his brother who is only 30 (sorry Chris!)! And he wasn't even tired at the end. Way to go John! And then, Ellie ran in her very first race, and did great! They had a kids race after the main event, so Ellie and her cousins Ben and Abby ran in it. Ben is a natural and was by far the fastest kid his size. And Ellie and Abby did great too...and they were all so proud when they finished and all received medals.

Speaking of Ellie's cousins, they came up from Las Vegas to spend the weekend with us and it was SO fun! They are such a darling little family, and I think Abby is Ellie's very favorite person. She loves her so much! They are only 3 months apart and love being together.

So, we were in St. George for just over a week. It was so beautiful. I took the kids to the park at least once everyday and often we went twice. Sometimes I think I should live there. On Monday, Ellie and I went hiking in Snow Canyon. I wasn't sure how she'd do scrambling on the rocks, but I was amazed. She was fast and fearless (in a good way - cautious, but not scared like I thought she would be). We scrambled all the way to the peak of a mountain and met a group of adults coming back down. They couldn't believe how well she was doing. I was thrilled because Snow Canyon is one of my very favorite places and I could hike for hours and hours there, so I'm really glad that Ellie enjoyed it as much as she did. The thing that freaked her out more than anything else was a big black beetle that she thought was going to follow her down the mountain. Funny girl!

The only bummer (and it was HUGE) was that on Sunday, we all woke up SO sick. Puking - the whole works. Jack had thrown up a few times since we'd been there, but I thought it was just a bug that wouldn't be strong enough to get the rest of us. I was so wrong. It was terrible! Poor Ellie threw up in bed and then was up every two hours after that throwing up again. And John got it the very worst. He was the sickest of us all. It sucked. Thank goodness it was short lived. By Monday the kids and I were better. Only John has had it linger a little longer - poor guy.

And that's my travel-log for the month. If anything interesting happens this month, I'll take time to document it. I do have some fun things on the calendar, so I'll try to update.

Pictures from Maui

2009-02-14T12:29:00.001-08:00

Here are just a few more pictures from Maui. I am a TERRIBLE photographer!! These pictures aren't great...nor do they do our vacation justice :)....

Jackson was just starting to walk...He was so cute!

January update

2009-02-10T07:07:00.000-08:00

I have been so bad at blogging! Maybe it's because I don't have much to say...or maybe it's because I'm not good at articulating my thoughts...or maybe it's just because I haven't been good at taking the time to do so. I will try to be better...

January always seems like such a long month. And last month started out really long. Both of my kids got bronchiolitus...no fun!

But, as the month progressed, it got better and better! Jack started to take a few steps on the 19th. He perfected his walking when we were in Maui at the end of the month.

Hawaii was AWESOME!! It was so nice to be in the warmth and sunshine for the last week of January. Of course we took our kids - and for the most part, they did great.

Jack's very favorite thing was the beach. He LOVED the sand & water! He was so happy playing and eating the sand. And he was just starting to walk, so he was really unsteady on the sand. People all over the beach would watch him because he was so funny - he was so busy getting dirty, trying to walk and falling, and getting in the waves. He has no fear of water (which scares me to death).

Ellie also LOVED the beach. She had a great time building sand castles with her Papa and throwing clumps of sand into the ocean. I was surprised by how scared she was of the water. She's a great little swimmer, but I think the waves scared her. She had a great time screaming and running up the beach when the waves would come in.

It was so fun to have my kids with us to enjoy the beach. They had the time of their lives!

We also went on a whale watch that was very cool. I'm fascinated by whales, and we got to see some really close.

One morning John, my dad, and I went sea kayaking. It was just the three of us with a young guide who had no fear. I have been sea kayaking before, but never like that. It was awesome! We went in search of whales. And got a little too close for my taste. We were about 1 1/2 miles out in the ocean when we could hear whales singing under the water. One came up a few hundred yards away from us so we watched and after it dove under the water, our guide started paddling toward where he thought it would come up. About 10 minutes later, we were sitting in our kayaks listening to the whale underneath us singing. It was so loud that I had to raise my voice to ask the guide if we were safe. It sounded like a wounded cow :). I usually like to be thrilled by things, but that was too close. We knew it was right underneath us, and I couldn't even look in the water. I was SO scared I started praying that it wouldn't come up right then. Now, I'm not afraid of being eaten by a whale, but I was terrified of being hit by it's tail or being knocked out of my kayak and suffocated by it...or worse, being eaten by a shark (which is my very worst fear)! So after what seemed like forever, the whale finally surfaced right next to us. It was HUGE!!!! Very graceful, very loud, and very HUGE. Being in a little kayak gave me a real perspective of how big humpback whales are! It was like a great big semi-truck coming out of the water. Thank goodness it wasn't close enough to knock us out of our kayaks or hurt us. It took my heart about a half hour before it calmed enough that I was breathing normally again. I haven't been that terrified in years. But it was awesome looking back on it!! I'll probably never have another opportunity to be that close to a whale again. At least that's my hope :).

Anyway, we ate delicious fresh fish - my favorite was the Opakapaka. I'm still craving it.

We had a couple of days where it rained and rained, but it was still warm so it wasn't too bad. I was really glad that the last couple of days were hot and sunny again.

Oh how I love Maui. I feel so cleansed after being there...it's good for my soul. There is a beautiful walkway in Wailea that I love to walk or run while I'm there - and for some reason, I become very introspective while I walk it and look at the beauty around me. It's a very calming feeling that I rarely get. It's not that I'm not calm at home... but it's a different kind of calm and peace. I'm not sure why...maybe it's because I'm distracted when I'm at home. But I do think there is something about the ocean that calms my heart and my soul. I can't wait to go back. And although it wasn't quite as relaxing as it would have been without our kids, I'm so glad we took them! They had the time of their lives being with Nana and Papa and being at the beach. Ellie has gone through major withdrawals from Nana since we've been home! And I have too a little :). My parents are so fun to be with. My mom is so funny and delightful to be around. And my dad is always up for a fun adventure - he had more energy than the rest of us combined!

Thanks for the wonderful time, Mom & Dad! We love you!

I'll post some more pictures VERY soon. I've got to run...Jack is crying.

Attention Gardners Glad Tidings...

2009-01-17T20:59:00.000-08:00

Kristin- If you read this...I miss you! And I've been meaning to write for a long time...I can't access your blog anymore because you've gone private. I'd love to peek into your life. :)

Happy Birthday Jackson!

2008-12-29T21:09:00.000-08:00

My Jackson turned one today. I actually had a tiny meltdown...he's ONE! Where has the time gone? I swear he was just born a few months ago...not an entire year ago! Oh he melts my heart. He is the SWEETEST, happiest (most of the time!) little guy ever. Life is a fantastic party for my little Jack. He brings such joy to my life. And he loves his daddy and me! Okay, especially me :). And he loves Ellie, and Ellie loves him. They are the best little siblings. I love my little Jack more than I ever could have imagined. I am so blessed to be his mommy!!!

Ellie and Santa's Love

2008-12-10T21:18:00.001-08:00

This is such a funny picture of Ellie last year with Santa that I had to post it! Everything about it makes me laugh...including her funny hat (why she had it on, I'm not sure)! I wasn't there for the experience, so it's even funnier to me because I didn't have to witness the trauma. Am I a bad mom?! Santa looks thrilled about the whole thing too. I swear this picture could win an award somewhere...
She and Jack are going to see him again this Saturday. I can't wait to see this year's picture! John is a good sport to take them without me.

Happy Birthday, Johnny

2008-12-01T20:22:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday to my love, Johnny! You're the best!!

Way Too Long

2008-11-24T15:02:00.000-08:00

Okay, it's been way too long! I'll go back to Halloween...it seems like forever ago. Ellie LOVED it and still wants to go trick-or-treating and asking me what I want to be for Halloween. Jack was the cutest bear you've ever seen. Poor guy couldn't really move in it though! The next week we left for Newport Beach...and got back last week! It was a fantastic 12 day vacation. We drove so that we could see John's brother and his family in Las Vegas. Ellie loves her cousin Abby. While it was great to see them, and we were able to extend our vacation because we drove, I'm not sure when we'll do the drive again. It was long! For the most part, the kids did great. But it was a LONG drive even though we broke it up going both ways.

One of the highlights of the vacation was that my parents ended up going down to the same resort for a few of the days we were there, and flew my Granny down for a couple of days. It was such a wonderful time, and she loved it so much. I will always remember how special those days were. My Granny is 83 and is doing great, but she wanted to see the ocean again and so she just came for a couple of days and left my grumpy Gramps (whom I ADORE) home. We didn't spend everyday with them, but the time I spent with them was so special. My granny is so cute!

Four Generations of us girls...Ellie's middle name is Ginger, after my Granny.

Another highlight (of course!) was Disneyland. My dad, Ellie, and I went one day and it was also such a special day! It was so fun. I love that my dad came with us...he's the best.

Then the next day, just our little family went to Disneyland. It was the perfect day. Perfect weather, not too crowded, perfect kids...just delightful.

Disneyland had their giant Christmas tree up...

I think one of the highlights of the vacation was for John to golf with Big Jim (my dad). My dad is a serious golfer, and it was fun for John to play with him.

We've been to Newport so much the past few years that we feel like we really know our way around that part of Orange County. We're actually kind of sad because for the first time in a long time, we don't have plans to go back. RANDOM PICTURE, I KNOW...BUT IT'S SO CUTE!!! JACK'S FIRST SHOWER WAS IN NEWPORT, AND HE LOVED IT! And...FUNNY Ellie at the pool one day...She is so awesome!!

Now to the most important part of my blog. My sweetheart Ellie. My baby girl turned three last week! Oh how I love her. She has change me. I cannot articulate how blessed I feel to be her mommy. I am so grateful for the sacred opportunity I have to be her mom. I am so grateful for the joy she brings me and John. She makes my heart sing. She still has no hair...but hey, on the bright side, I haven't had to battle her daily to do her hair!

Part of the reason we went to Newport was to take her to Disneyland for her birthday, and then on her birthday, she and I had a "girls only" afternoon. Then that evening we had a small party for family. Her auntie Liz made the CUTEST cake you've ever seen. It was a great day. Wow, I'm a lucky mom!

GO UTES!!! We had season tickets this year, and had so much fun going to the games...especially the last one! Hopefully we'll get to go to the bowl game too :).

I have so much to be grateful for this Thanksgiving. To name a few; John, Ellie, Jack, family, the Gospel, My Savior, the Pilgrims, our Nation, good health, great medical care, my friends, my life. I am so blessed. I don't deserve it, but I'm so grateful for it and always try to remember how blessed I am.

I love em'!

2008-10-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

Friday night we took our kids to a great pumpkin patch. Ellie helped me pick out the pumpkins while Jack rode around in the wheelbarrow. He loved it and thought he was awesome! Jackson and his cousin Lucy in St. George. Lucy is two days older than Jack.

Grandma & Grandpa Evensen have a Halloween party every year...Ellie is the cutest Minnie I've ever seen!!

At Gardner Village...Nana sat by the witch first, then Ellie got brave and sat on her lap!

I did it!!

2008-10-26T21:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, so those who know me know this is completely out of my element...but I completed my first triathlon last weekend with my sister and sister in law! We all have new babies and thought it would be a great way to get in shape. I was afraid I wouldn't even be able to finish. But, I did! And it was so fun! And I did better than I thought I would...5th in my division! We all had so much fun doing it, that we're ready for our next one. And, how sweet is this - the night before the triathlon, John took our kids to buy me flowers and a card. He's been really excited that I did it. The only thing is - I should have gotten a TAN before I went!! My legs could blind you. Hooray for Katie, Liz, and me!

Too Long...

2008-10-10T20:14:00.000-07:00

It's been WAY to long since I've posted! Just after my last post, we took a fun vacation to Newport Beach with my entire family. It was so great! The weather was beautiful, there were no lines at Disneyland, and it was just fun to hang out.

A few other highlights of the past few weeks:

***Ellie is now potty trained!! It only took a day...she was very ready.

***Jack is still TINY for his age! I took him to his 9 month check up (I can't believe he's that old!!) and he is only in the 5th % for weight, and 10th% for height. Little squirt. Cutest little squirt alive! Poor little guy has been sick for a few weeks now...has had two colds in a row and an ear infection. And I think he's teething on top of it.

***The U game against Oregon State was so fun! And a great game. And the first game we went to without our kids...and I'm so glad because it was a nail-biter. It's been a great season!

***Conference. I needed it. I am so grateful for the Gospel. I loved conference. It was a time of reflection and introspection for me. I am empowered to try to be better.

***My Granny Jensen took me to lunch at the British Market near Trolley Square and it was delightful. I am so blessed to have my Granny & Gramps!

***Zoo, Wheeler Farm, Gardner Village...some of the fun places we've gone. This fall has been so beautiful.

And that's about it. I guess that's why I haven't blogged much.... I'm having so much fun with my little family, just doing normal things. Nothing too grande. Just on the "mommy track", but loving it more than I ever could have imagined. I'm so blessed.

The Love of My Life

2008-09-07T17:58:00.000-07:00

This weekend, John and I celebrated our 5th anniversary! We can't believe how fast the time has gone...it seems like just yesterday that we were planning our wedding! Johnny is the love of my life. I feel so blessed to share my life with him. Here are some pictures of some of the fun things we've done together in the last five years.

John proposed on the 9th hole!

WOW! I was shocked...and SO excited!

Dancing at our wedding

Feeding cake

Hot air balloon ride for my birthday

Tour de France 2004

Biking in France
France
Cottonwood Lake

Tubing (this is out of order, I know)

London 2005 - pregnant with Ellie

England 2006
Hawaii 2007

And, of course...CA. We've been to Southern California at least 3 times per year of our marriage...and since having Ellie & Jack, we have yet to miss Disneyland when we're there. I know, we're kind of crazy! Okay I am a lame photographer...and those pictures aren't great. And in fact, don't even BEGIN to capture the wonderful adventures we've had. I don't have pictures of our first two trips to Hawaii (before kids), pictures of Scotland, snowshoeing, camping (which most of you won't believe I've done without the proof of pictures!), or our daily adventures as a little family!

And yet, while fun, the adventures & vacations are just a small part of the wonderful life I have with John. I remember while planning our wedding, numerous people I worked with on flowers, my dress, etc. commented on what an easy bride I was to work with. Now, most of you know I can be very fiesty, but I was so happy to have finally met the right man, that none of the frivolous wedding things meant much to me. And I still feel that way now. I am so blessed to have found the right man -a great, noble man - that the fun frivolous things are insignificant compared to the peace I feel knowing that we are an eternal family.

I love my Johnny with all of my heart.

August Recap...

2008-09-01T20:42:00.001-07:00

Ellie caught her first fish!!!

A couple of weeks ago, John took Ellie back to Cottonwood Lake for another daddy-daughter vacation. Ellie loved it and caught her first fish!! Apparently she takes after me because all three poles were completely tangled together when they got home. I think it has something to do with us being left-handed trying to fish with a right handed pole :). Oh, and get this...Uncle Mike was there with his friend Jack, who was Prince Charming at Disneyland for years! It was just the four of them, so needless to say, Ellie was showered with lots of attention, and ate up every bit of it. She saw a moose near the lake, and we STILL talk about it every single day while driving in the car. She asks me every day if I'm scared of the moose. Funny girl.

It was a fun weekend for Jack and me too! We celebrated Nana's birthday at a park with my family, and watched the Olympics. Speaking of the Olympics...I know I'm a little late, but wow. I haven't been so into the Olympics since Mary Lou Retton won gold in 1984(and that also tells you all how freaking old I'm getting!). I loved watching every race of Michael Phelps and I love his story. He is an inspiration. I'm so happy for him. My dad and John are already starting to plan their trip to the 2012 Olympics in London. Apparently I'm not invited. Good thing I'm not embarrassed to invite myself :).

The week after John & Ellie got home, Jack started crawling!!! Oh my, he is busy! And he pulls himself up on everything. He's fallen a couple of times and has some good bruises to show for it. Now John understands why I didn't encourage him to crawl! But he's so happy, and loves to follow Ellie and me around the house.

We had our annual August birthday party at my Granny's house, which is always fun. Get this...excactly 25% of the Jensen family was born in August! Pretty wild. Anyway, Ellie got stung by a bee at the party. Her first sting. Poor girl. She was so sad!

This last weekend we went to Midway...and yes, we wandered through Swiss Days for about 20 minutes before all of us (John, me, & the kids) were done. But, we had a lot of fun playing, shopping, and eating out. The weekend was too short.

I'm hoping to be better at blogging now that summer is coming to a close (Wow, it was COLD today!). We haven't been doing anything spectacular, but we have been so busy playing!

Here are some other random pictures....

Happy Jack in his crib

My funny Ellie loves her sunglasses & hats...& horses

Ellie couldn't figure out why I wouldn't take her to Gymboree class in her awesome outfit"Yummy...can I have some more?"

What a stud.

Eyelashes...and other random thoughts

2008-08-10T21:07:00.001-07:00

Have I ever mentioned my children's eyelashes??? I wish I had a better camara and I would post pictures of them. They are spectacular. Both of my kids have beautiful eyes (something I'm SO grateful for, given my lifelong eye issues)...and both of them have super long (and very thick) eyelashes! Ellie's are long and straight...they hit her sunglasses. And Jack's curl perfectly! They are awesome. My lucky kids. Maybe when Jack is married, his wife will pin him down and put mascara on him...sort of like I did to his daddy!! Okay, John was recovering from knee surgery and couldn't get away. He has the longest blonde eyelashes I've ever seen on a guy, and they were too pretty for a guy when they had mascara on!! It was torture for him, and he's going to kill me for telling the world that I put mascara on him!! It was just too tempting...men just shouldn't be allowed to have such beautiful eyelashes :).

By the way, I forgot to mention a very fun evening we had with John's college buddy, Jared. We always love it when he comes in town and wish he lived closer. And we'd REALLY like to find him a wife...preferably someone in Utah who would force him to move here :). He's a great friend to John...and I now claim him as my friend too.

Another side note - I must make killer cookie dough...it seems men can't get enough of it! John and his buddies eat it as fast as I make it and I only get one batch of cookies out of my dough...and even that I have to fight for. Even Ellie now prefers my cookie dough to baked cookies. Jared took some home to California with him and has horded it. And we gave some to Anton for his birthday...I'm so lame! But I know he likes it, so that's what we gave him - a batch of cookie dough!

Johnny and I had a really fun day yesterday. We golfed in the morning, and both played better than normal :). Then I worked out with my trainer (yes, I'm still working out with one and my muffin top is slowly diminishing!) for 2 hours (I know, crazy! And unusual...I don't normally workout for that long.), and then John and I had a fun date at Ruth's Diner. My pork tenderloin was to die for and I ate every last bite. There was a great band playing so we just stayed and enjoyed the evening for a while. It was a great day.

July Recap...

2008-08-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

How time is flying! I've been slacking on my blog...perhaps no one has noticed :). So, I thought I would do a quick recap of the month of July, which was really fun and busy.

We started the month in Midway with the Woodward family reunion. We had a great time! Ellie loves spending time with her cousins, and I love spending time with my sibs and parents. We golfed (John & I came in dead last...we're pathetic. Good thing I gave him golf lessons for Father's day. We'll see how they're paying off when we play next Saturday.) On Thursday and then went to a private chuck wagon dinner. I think that was my favorite part of the weekend. Ellie got to ride two horses, we did a wagon ride to and from the dinner, ate good food, and just had fun. Friday we had kid races, games, swam, etc. Then we had a delicious fajita dinner and did fireworks, which scared Ellie to death! Oh, and we did a great bike ride. Saturday we swam, shopped, and just hung out. It was a really fun weekend. Of course I laughed my head off at my brothers...they are so funny! Good times.

Ellie loves Horses...and isn't afraid to ride them all by herself!
a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6U0GtI2hJhU/SJdba6wtKoI/AAAAAAAAAI0/mU-rZ-K2j-E/s1600-h/Ellie+chillin%27+with+the+girls.JPG">
Ellie hangin' with the girls.a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6U0GtI2hJhU/SJdb9mT1TcI/AAAAAAAAAI8/6t-9EAdkwbs/s1600-h/fireworks+-+loud!.JPG">Ellie didn't like the fireworks very much.a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6U0GtI2hJhU/SJdcZntYOhI/AAAAAAAAAJE/e3gim6a5858/s1600-h/4th+of+july+jack+slept+through+fireworks.JPG">But, later, Jack slept through them.

Ellie's been in swimming lessons twice a week this summer and is such a great little swimmer! Everytime I take her to the "big" pool, people are amazed at how well she swims and can't believe she's only 2! a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6U0GtI2hJhU/SJdc6L6ICKI/AAAAAAAAAJM/NRDxCv0VDME/s1600-h/IMGP1218.JPG">
John took Ellie on a daddy - daughter vacation to Cottonwood Lake. They had a great time fishing, hiking, and playing with Ellie's cousins. So sad I couldn't go (okay, not really!). I suggested they make it an annual event...just daddy and Ellie...and eventually Jack. But, I'm not sure John is too keen on the proposal just yet.

Here are just a couple more pictures of things we did in July.

Alpine slide...Ellie could have ridden it all day...
a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6U0GtI2hJhU/SJde8kliE-I/AAAAAAAAAJU/TaP6BtgfjSw/s1600-h/IMGP1199.JPG">Ellie chillin' around the campfire.a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6U0GtI2hJhU/SJdfX02dS_I/AAAAAAAAAJc/qBL4emvReXI/s1600-h/IMGP1203.JPG">Jack sleeping through more fireworks...Aren't my boys cute?! Like father, like son.
a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6U0GtI2hJhU/SJdfrKw0IjI/AAAAAAAAAJk/xTU8vMdx6xw/s1600-h/IMGP1197.JPG">Ellie loves water, even when it's freezing cold! This is up Millcreek Canyon with the Woodwards.
a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6U0GtI2hJhU/SJdgGaH1z9I/AAAAAAAAAJs/JKv9PEVWLMY/s1600-h/IMGP1209.JPG">Should we be worried????
a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6U0GtI2hJhU/SJdgoHMMB0I/AAAAAAAAAJ0/st2y9I6IUqU/s1600-h/IMGP1153.JPG">
I know the pictures are annoying with all the writing...but Jack is crying and I can't figure out how to get rid of it right now...sorry!

Little Squirt

2008-07-16T21:41:00.000-07:00

So I've been thinking Jack is so big...until I took him to his 6 month doctor visit. He's TINY! His doctor measured his height 4 (yes, four!!) times because she couldn't believe how short he is! He is 25.5 inches tall, which is the 20% for his age. AND he's only in the 15% for weight, and 30% for his head. He's just a little guy. A cute little guy for sure! And the HAPPIEST baby ever. Last week I took him to get his picture taken before his teeth start coming in because he has such a huge round mouth when he smiles and it is ADORABLE. So, I took him, thinking the photographer would take a gruntload of pictures. It literally took five minutes. He was so happy and cooperated fully. I think they only snapped like 10 pictures, and Jack was smiling in every single one. He's so happy all the time! Anytime we're in public and he catches someone's eye, he starts smiling and "talking" to them. And his eyes...oh, they're beautiful! They're so big and bright...and they sparkle whenever he smiles. It's really funny to see how he can engage people. And he loves to cuddle with people who hold him...he is so sweet! He buries his head in my neck and LOVES it when I kiss his cheeks or ears. And he is so ticklish...he gets laughing so hard when we tickle his legs and tummy and neck. Can you tell I'm in LOVE??? Ooohhh...I love my baby boy!

Time is flyin'

2008-07-02T21:30:00.000-07:00

This is just a funny (and not very good) picture of my cute kids playing together...Ellie is so sweet to Jack and was showing him her doll house.
Wow! My baby boy Jackson is 6 months old...where has the time gone? I was just telling John that the past six months have gone faster than any other time in my life. And I am having the time of my life! My life is so sweet right now...I wish I could freeze time just for a little while. My kids are at such fun ages, and we have stayed so busy this summer.

Ellie has been in swimming lessons for the past four weeks and I have been amazed at her progress. We thought she would only go for two weeks, but she is having so much fun and is making so much progress that we have kept her going and will keep her in them for the rest of July.

Last week we took Papa to the Zoo for Father's Day. It was so fun! Oh how we love Papa! It was just me, my kids and my dad...what a treat. And of course he wanted to buy Ellie a big stuffed animal to remember our trip to the zoo...but she only wanted a little tiny "baby" cheetah that she can take care of. Funny Ellie. She's been taking it everywhere with her.

Then we had an outing with Nana and some my sisters to This is the Place State Park. The kids LOVED it! We were there almost all day. I hadn't been there for years and didn't think Ellie would be very interested in it, but I was way wrong. She thought it was awesome, and even rode a horse for the first time! Ellie has been obsessed with horses since she turned one, so she had a perma-grin the entire time on the horse. It was so cute! But of course I forgot my camera for the zoo and This is the Place...I was so bummed!

My parents have been home from their mission one year today! My, how time flies! It seems like they've only been home a few months. And I am SO glad they're here. It's been so great having them home.

We're going to a Woodward family reunion in Midway this weekend for the 4th of July...It should be a great time. Oh my brothers make me laugh...well and Anton too, but not because he tries to :). I'll try to remember my camera.

Puppies and my big boy Jackson

2008-06-23T22:00:00.000-07:00

Look at these adorable puppies...and kids! Ellie is so funny...and quirky - She couldn't get enough of organizing them...she kept picking them up, putting them on the chair, then putting them on the ground, then putting them on Jack. Jack thought they were awesome! Thanks Liz for being so patient with Ellie!

Jackson is sitting up great these days! He's getting so big...I can't believe how fast time flies. It makes me kind of sad. He is the BEST baby...he is so happy...and so social! He loves people, and has the cutest smile...it starts in his eyes (I've mentioned before how expressive his eyes are) and then he can't open his mouth big enough - it's a perfect circle (see above picture with the puppies). He's my little charlie brown :). I love him so much.

Lucy

2008-06-22T21:30:00.000-07:00

Vic and Molly said goodbye to little Lucy one month ago today. My heart aches for them. We have been able to spend some time with them and they are so tender and close to the spirit...I've loved being in their presence. They are amazing. I continue to pray for them daily. Vic, Molly, and Lucy have taught me many important lessons. I am so grateful for my friendship with them and am a better person because of them.

John

2008-06-15T22:16:00.000-07:00

I couldn't have asked for a better daddy for my kids. I am so grateful that John is such a wonderful dad. I always knew he would be a good father, but he has far exceeded any expectations I had. I love to watch him interact with Ellie and Jackson. They LOVE him so much!! And I love that he genuinely enjoys his children. He is so wise, warm, patient, giving, gentle, and generous. Thank you, John, for being the absolute best daddy I could have imagined for our children.

Also, my dad. Wow! My dad is unbelievable. It's hard to believe I'm his offspring :). I am so grateful for our relationship...it is so special. Anyone who knows my dad knows what an incredible man he is. I am so grateful for everything he has taught me and continues to teach me and my family. He has been the most amazing example to me. And he's my friend. The older I get, the more I realize just how unique and special my relationship with my dad is...I am so blessed!
My dad & Grandpa Woodward

Fun Stuff

2008-06-05T15:02:00.000-07:00

Here are a few things we've done in the last week...

My family had a fun shower for Liz and her baby, Lily. She is so beautiful, and everytime I see her I can't stop running my fingers through all her hair! One day I'm sure my kids will have hair to play with :).
On Thursday we met the Evensen cousins at the Mayan for lunch. Ellie LOVED it! She had so much fun running around with her cousins and couldn't get enough of the divers.
On Friday I took my kids to Wheeler Farm. We were there for 3 hours (there's not that much to see there...especially for a two year old)! Ellie just wanted to keep walking around looking at all the animals. We also fed the ducks and went on a wagon ride. I'm such a bad mom, the only picture I took was of this funny pig...
On Saturday I started working out with a trainer at the gym (I'm not motivated enough to do it on my own!), and I loved it...but then I couldn't walk for three days :). My trainer is awesome. No more muffin top for me!

Saturday night we had our friends Shannon & Ryan over for dinner...they are so great. I could talk to them forever.

Sunday we rested. I even got to sit out on our balcony and read for an hour without interruption...nice!

Monday I took Jackson to a Gymboree class. He's so animated...his eyes are so expressive...and he LOVED the class and the teachers. He was by far the most smiley baby there. This picture has nothing to do with Gymboree, but it's a funny picture of my 'old man' baby boy. Ooh I love him!!
Then Molly came over Monday afternoon. It was so nice to spend time with her and process things together. She is so close to the spirit...I loved being in her presence. She's awesome. Lucy's accident has affected me more than I ever could have imagined. I am grateful for the things I have learned from her. And I loved talking about how special Lucy is. After she left I was a wreck for the rest of the night.

Yesterday I took Ellie to Gymboree. We made a lady bug crown and an egg-carton lady bug that looks much more like a spider...it's kind of creepy. John's so nice to display it proudly on his desk at work. Then last night Kate, her kids, and her sister Becky stopped by!! Yea! I always love to see her, even if it was just for a second.

Then today I took the kids to the dinosaur museum at Thanksgiving Point with my sister and her kids. What a cool museum! I think I enjoyed it more than Ellie or Jack, but they love being with their cousins so it was great.

And now...well, I'm just sitting down to write this while my banana bread is baking. I know, I know...those of you who know me are thinking, 'what?' Well, I had 6 bananas getting over-ripe, and I didn't want to throw them out. So, I'm making three loaves of bread. It's taken me all night...I even had to borrow two cups of flour from my neighbor. Thank goodness they're so nice (my sister, Emily). So pathetic. Who doesn't have flour? I guess it's time to start on food storage :). And I guess it's time start being domestic again. John is playing racket ball and the kids are in bed (why aren't they ever in bed early when he's home??? They're too busy playing and get too riled up when he's around :)).

Here's just one more cute picture of Ellie and her cousin Abby in their princess jammies. They are 2 1/2 months apart...

Yesterday

2008-05-28T21:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was little Lucy's funeral. It was a beautiful memorial service and a great tribute to sweet little Lucy. I pray that Vic and Molly were comforted by the words and music. The musical numbers were so touching, and there was a very sweet spirit throughout the service. I'm grateful to have been touched by Lucy's life. And my perspective on life and my priorities have been forever altered by the events of the last 10 days. I have been so amazed at the grace and wisdom of Molly and Vic.

Anything else going on in my life seems so hollow to "blog" about. Maybe I'll try again tomorrow...

Little Lucy

2008-05-22T11:24:00.000-07:00

My heart is broken. My dear friend Molly is saying goodbye to her sweet little Lucy today. I am unable to articulate my feelings adequately, but I am overwhelmed with grief for Molly and Vic. I am so grateful that they have the gospel and have the knowledge that they will be with her again. I know that Heavenly Father has a special love for Vic and Molly for taking such good care of Lucy while she was on this Earth. I also know He has a special love for them for requiring them to go through the most difficult thing imaginable...letting go of their only child. My prayers today are that Molly & Vic will be blessed with angels to accompany them today and that saying goodbye will be a sweet and sacred experience for them. I pray that they will feel the love and comfort of our Savior and know that He is very aware of and understands their grief completely. It is amazing how many lives little Lucy has touched on her short time on Earth. I, for one, will never be the same. My testimony of the reality of angels and of eternal families has grown infinitely. The time I have been able to spend with Molly, Vic, & Lucy over the last few days has forever changed my perspective on life here on Earth and on Heavenly Father's eternal plan. I am so touched and amazed at the strength and the sweetness that Molly & Vic have had. They are so close to the spirit, and the veil has been very thin. I know they have been sustained by our Father in Heaven and I pray that they will continue to be comforted and blessed.

Mother's Day

2008-05-11T22:00:00.000-07:00

I'm so tired, but want to briefly describe my feelings as a mom, and for my mom. My Ellie and my Jack...I can't begin to articulate how incredibly grateful I am for the sacred opportunity I have to be their mommy. I love them more than I ever thought it was possible to love! They have changed my life so profoundly...my life has never been so worthwhile. And I'm grateful that I enjoy them so much! I laugh at them every single day.

I have to give John credit too. He makes my life as a mom really sweet. Not only does he provide a way for me to be a stay-at-home mom, but he makes our life with kids so fun. He's a fun daddy, who is SO in love and involved with our kids. So often I hear of couples complaining that their kids hold them back from doing fun things...but our kids just add to the fun things we do! We genuinely enjoy being with our kids.

And my mom. She is the most amazing woman and mom I know. I am so lucky to have such a close relationship and friendship with her. She is so wise, and generous, and funny, and smart, and Christlike. She's the type of woman EVERYONE loves to be around and wants to be like. And I get to be her daughter! I can only hope that one day my children have the same love and respect for me as I have for my mom.

Wild One...and other fun stuff

2008-05-05T21:40:00.000-07:00

SOOOO...yesterday afternoon I was upstairs feeding Jack, and John was downstairs watching the end of the Jazz game. He fell asleep on the floor, and Ellie got busy doing her 'art' with a PERMANENT marker! She came upstairs to show me her body art and was so proud that she even drew on her back and the bottoms of her feet. At first I thought it was just a dry-erase marker from her play room but thought I better investigate. Well...I was horrified when I walked downstairs and realized she had drawn all over the walls, hardwood floors, John's brand new desk, the piano, our leather chair, and the wood trim on the staircase!! She was so proud...and bless her heart, it took her a long time to realize how much trouble she was in. John rarely (and I mean very rarely) gets mad at her, and it wasn't until he picked her up and took her to her room for time out that she realized that what she'd done wasn't something to be proud of. Here's a picture of her (check out how sad she was when she realized how naughty she'd been). What a treat!

We have had a few other things going on too...First, my sister Liz had her baby last week!! She had a baby girl (surprise!) with TONS of black hair! She is so beautiful. She was born almost 5 weeks early, so she is still in the hospital in the nicu with a feeding tube. My poor sister has also had some complications and has felt terrible! The good thing is, I think they're both going to be okay.

Out of 4 babies born on the Woodward side in the last 9 months, Jack is the only boy...how fun for him to have three girl cousins his same age!

We had a great time in St. George a couple of weeks ago. We always end up staying longer than we plan because we love it so much! Now we even have an awesome babysitter down there who Ellie LOVES, so we feel like we can enjoy it even more :). While there, I took Ellie & Jack to the Wildlife museum...it was great! My Grandpa has been telling me to take Ellie to it for so long, and I was very pleasantly surprised. So, anyone going to St. George ought to check it out :). We also had fun golfing, swimming, walking, and cycling.

Home Sweet Home

2008-04-19T21:24:00.000-07:00

I love my new house!!! We've been here one week now, and I absolutely love it! Thank you Johnny for all of your hard work in finding our home, moving, and paying for it :)! We have lots of space, and killer views of downtown SLC, Little Cottonwood Canyon, AND the Oquirs (sp?). We have had beautiful sunsets several nights this week. That is one thing I missed when I lived in PC...no sunsets! Now we have the perfect house for watching them and a great balcony to watch them on. Okay, enough. I'm just so happy...it was so nice to go shopping one night to Target, BabiesRUs, and TJMaxx...and it was less than a 10 minute drive! And since we've been married, I have always had to fill up my gas tank at least once a week (sometimes more)...but I've been here a week and still have almost a half a tank!!! Plus, we have flowers blooming in our yard and we've been on walks almost every day. I've met several of the neighbors and so far, so good. In fact, I couldn't believe how many people were outside on Sunday! I took Ellie and Montana out for a walk and met several nice families. And Ellie is loving being so close to her cousins! The only problem is she has temper tantrums every time they go home...hopefully she'll get used to the idea that they're so close and she can play with them all the time.

Moose!

2008-04-10T18:03:00.000-07:00

Sunday night we had four, YES 4, moose in our yard! It was a little family...a bull, a cow, and two calves just walking around! By the time we got the camera and followed them we couldn't find the bull, but here is a picture of the other three. It was fun to see some wildlife on our last week here. It's definitely a reminder that we're leaving the mountains. I wonder if we'll miss the wildlife. We see moose every few months right in our yard, and last year John chased a bear down the street from our house (some of you may remember seeing him and his pictures on the news :)). I don't think we'll see that kind of wildlife in our new neighborhood! Sad. At least I won't be freaked out about taking my kids on walks. Last year I got so spooked by a giant moose while on a walk, I wouldn't go near that trail again.

Okay, just one more :)

2008-04-03T10:18:00.001-07:00

Okay, I had to add this picture of Ellie because it shows her dimples and her big teeth. She is so funny and loves to tease her daddy. I think she was laughing at him when this shot was taken. She LOVES her daddy! And John is such a sucker...he spoils her rotten. I don't think he can ever take her to the store - any store - without buying her something. Last night it was the Jungle Book DVD; earlier this week it was a new princess ball. They have so much fun together! I love to watch them play. Before we had kids, I knew John would be a good dad, but I didn't realize how much he would enjoy his kids and how hands-on he'd be.

I could eat them up!!

2008-03-31T16:12:00.000-07:00

We had the kids' pictures taken a couple of weeks ago for Jack's birth announcement. I wish I could post them all! I've got to learn how to do a slide show :). We still haven't gotten Jack's announcement finished...pretty pathetic. But as soon as I have it I will post it.

Also, this morning at about 6 am, I heard this slurping sound coming from the cradle next to my bed (yes, Jack is big enough to be in his own room, but I'm using the excuse that we'll move him out when we move into our new home next weekend...I'm such a sucker!). Anyway, I turned on the light and Jack was sucking his left thumb! I should have taken a picture of it...it was so funny...and loud! I hope it was just a one-time thing. When Ellie was his age, she found her thumb a couple of times too, but never stuck with it. Yikes!

I took Jack to his first Gymboree class this morning too. It was cute, and Jack liked it more than I thought he would. What do we do in a newborn class? I wondered the same thing. We learned how to massage legs & feet, which Jack loved. We also played with a colorful parachute above the babies heads and did tummy time looking into mirrors.

ZOO

2008-03-24T17:32:00.000-07:00

Today was a beautiful day, so I took Ellie & Jack to the zoo. Apparently every other mom in Salt Lake thought the same thing...it was packed! I had promised Ellie that we could go on the train twice (yes, I have to bribe her to get dressed or she'll stay in her pjs all day), so it took us over an hour to wait in line twice. I'm such a sucker! But is was really nice to be outside and enjoy the sunshine. And Ellie loves the zoo. Too bad I didn't get a picture of Jack at his first time visiting the zoo. Ellie just walked in from her nap and said she wants to go to the zoo again...

Easter

2008-03-24T16:08:00.000-07:00

Easter Sunday at my parents'... Ellie LOVED the Easter-egg hunts...(nice smile. It's her 'picture' smile.)Ellie and her cousins. She LOVES them so much!!

I love Easter! It has always been my favorite holiday. I love the significance of it...the resurrection of our Savior. I am so grateful for my knowledge of Jesus Christ and am so grateful for his atonement and resurrection. I am especially grateful that He has made it possible for me to be with my family forever. Easter is a time for me to reflect upon my relationship with Christ and rededicate my myself to doing the things I know I should.

Saturday, John took Ellie on a daddy-daughter date to an Easter egg hunt. She loved it! Then Saturday night we dyed Easter-eggs. Ellie got really into it and wanted to keep dying the same eggs over and over...so we let her, and we ended up with some pretty bright eggs.

Yesterday we had a little Easter-egg hunt at home and one at each of her grandparents'...and she would have liked to have had several more! She is at the PERFECT age for fun things like dying eggs and Easter-egg hunts. She is so fun...I love her so much!

I'm bummed I didn't get a picture of just Ellie & Jack. Oh, and yes, as you can see in the picture, I cut 9 inches off my hair last week!! It feels so good...I needed to be freshened up :).

Movin' On

2008-03-18T21:31:00.000-07:00

We're Moving! John found a house and made an offer on it the week I came home from the hospital with Jack. I know, sounds dicey...your husband picking out your future house...but, John has great taste and he knows my taste...so when he came home and told me about the offer, I was happy. I knew the neighborhood and we had looked at other homes there. I love it! We went to our new ward for the first time on Sunday and really enjoyed it. It's huge! We are so used to our small ward in Park City, it will definately be a change. The neighborhood is quite new, so there are lots of families with kids (including my sister!). I'll post some pictures of it soon.

I have to admit, the day we closed on our new house I cried. While we know it's the right thing, and we are so excited, we have lived in Park City since we've been married. This is where we've had both of our kids. And I love my friends here. Change is hard even when it's good and right. But, back to the good things...our yard will be great for the kids, we are within walking distance to a great park, the views are AWESOME, and we'll be closer to family, friends, shopping, and activities for the kids. Oh, and shorter winters!! Yea!

Mini-Me

2008-03-06T15:29:00.000-08:00

Jackson looks JUST like his daddy. Well, so does Ellie :). Good thing John is so handsome! This is Jack on Sunday, March 2nd. John gave him a beautiful blessing. I'm so grateful for John's strength in the Gospel and his love for his Savior and family. Incidently, John and I met on March 2nd 2003. Wow...look at us now!

Ellie

2008-03-06T15:19:00.000-08:00

Ellie is my little sweetpea! Well...usually she's pretty sweet :). She's is two afterall. We have traveled the world together, and have had some fun mommy/daughter (yes, just the two of us...I'm crazy, I know) vacations to Europe to visit Nana & Papa, to Coronado to visit Great Grandma & Grandpa Woodward, and to Disneyland while John was in Russia. She has been the easiest baby and child. And she makes me laugh everyday. How did I get so lucky? This is from Disneyland last week.

Baby Jackson

2008-03-06T15:07:00.000-08:00

This was baby Jackson leaving the hospital on New Year's Eve. He was born December 29th, 2007 at 6:52pm, and weighed 7 lbs. 15 oz. He is such a sweet baby! Ellie was such a good and easy baby that I thought I'd be in for a rude awakening with Jack (especially because I had such a miserable pregnancy!). But I got lucky again...He is so fun! It took us 2 1/2 weeks to decide on a name because he didn't look like any of the names we had in mind before he was born.

First-time blogger :)!

2008-03-06T14:30:00.000-08:00

I love looking at my friends and family members blogs, so I've decided to start one to share what's going on in my little family's life. I'm not sure how well I'll keep up on it, but it's worth a try! I am so unbelievably smitten by my two babies...and that's the reason for the blog...so all of my friends and loved ones can see why!! Just a little background...John & I have been married for 4 1/2 years. We live in Park City (for another 3 weeks!). Ellie is 2, and Jack is two months.