Skinner Family

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween!! I usually plan our costumes way in advance. Beau just knew that Iron Man was the only costume he was interested in. Since this was the first year I had two cute little girls to dress up, I decided to match them. Bailey is crazy about Mickey Mouse, and since we are going to go visit him in a few weeks, I thought Minnie would be the perfect costume for my girls. I couldn't decide what I wanted to be, so I just threw together a pirate costume. Take note that you don't see Clay in any pictures, he is a Halloween "Bahumbug"! He did help Beau carve his pumpkin though :)

Bath Time Baby

2010-09-16T17:40:00.001-07:00

Who can resist taking pictures of a naked baby :)

So far behind!!

2010-09-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

I have not posted in 2 months! I have put some of the pictures from the last two months on FaceBook, but I haven't taken the time to share them on my blog. Here is a quick run down of what we have been doing.

We took the boat out a lot this summer. All the kids really love it! Bailey got a new life jacket, so she can swim all by herself!

Beau turned 5. He wanted a Hot Wheels cake and got a new bike.

Reagan turned 7 months old and Clay and I celebrated out 10th anniversary on the same day. We were all excited to see Reagan start to sit up!

Bailey started 1st grade and Beau started his second year of Joy School.

We went on quite a few camping trips. We finished up with the Erickson reunion. Everyone looks forward to this over Labor Day Weekend. Beau and Bailey rode their bikes and had many Ranger rides. The camp rule is, if you take the Ranger, you take Bailey :)

Reagan just turned 8 months. I can't believe how quickly time flies by!! She can now stand up to something for a few minutes. She is getting so big, we have really enjoyed having this happy little girl in our family!

Hippo therapy

2010-07-12T10:36:00.000-07:00

No, there are no hippos involved :) This is the second year that hippo therapy has been available in Star Valley. Bailey loves animals, especially horses. This year has already been a great experience! Bailey talked soooo much her first day. She usually calls a horse a "puppy", but this year she called them their appropriate names. She also learned to tell the horse "walk on". It is so exciting to see neat programs like this come to Star Valley!

The mare Bailey is riding had this colt 2 months ago. I can't believe how tame it was. Bailey tried to feed it rocks :)

Swimming

2010-07-07T16:20:00.000-07:00

I took the kids swimming at the pool here in town. We recently ordered Bailey a special life jacket so she could swim on her own. Today was the first day we tried it out. It worked great - I was so happy that we all could enjoy being in the pool and not worrying about Bailey drowning. Bailey was so happy not be contained and free to swim wherever she wanted. This is going to make our summer so much more fun! Plus, little Reagan was such a good little girl and sat in the shade and napped :)

4th of July weekend

2010-07-07T15:34:00.001-07:00

We had the best 4th of July weekend this year!! Clay had to work on call in Jackson, so we decided to join him. Julie and DeLane came in their trailer and brought Ben and Amy. Chad, Jamie and family came and brought Grandpa Erickson's trailer. Clay pulled our trailer up and found us a great spot next to Lower Valley's Wilson Sub Station. We spent the weekend camping and being "tourists" in our own back yard.

First we took the kids down the Alpine Slide

On Saturday we took the boat across Jenny lake and hiked up to Hidden Falls

Saturday night we took the kids to the Cowboy Shootout on the Square. Beau got to dance with some of the Indians in the show.

We watched fireworks at Teton Village on Saturday night. On Sunday night we went to Clay's work condo for a cookout and watched the fireworks at the Snow King.

The whole weekend was a lot of fun!! Even little Reagan enjoyed herself!

Taking a break

2010-06-24T14:26:00.001-07:00

I am not sure who was taking a break here - the kids from the sun, or mom from the kids :) Either way, the kids were entertained for hours and I got a little time to relax! Finally summer!!!

Play Ball!

2010-06-02T20:01:00.000-07:00

We signed Beau up to play T-Ball this summer. He has been so excited about it. We were getting ready to go to his first practice and he told me "I am going to be a STAR!! Someday Dad is going to watch me on T.V. and say that is my Son." Tonight was his first game - if you want to see funny, go to a T-Ball game :) As they were getting ready to bat, his coach called for Beau and told him to make sure he didn't swing the bat until he was given the okay (he is a little crazy with the bat). He did a great job at bat, but out field was a different story. He did get a few balls and attempted to throw them to first base. He had a great time playing, when he was done, he told me "I didn't let you down Mom". I am so excited to start watching my little boy grow up and become a "STAR"!!

The Holy Ghost

2010-06-02T19:29:00.000-07:00

Beau has to give a talk on the Holy Ghost this Sunday. After discussing this with Beau, we decided that he wanted to give a talk on what happened to our family on Memorial Day.

We invited my in-laws to come over and have a Memorial Day cook out with us. After they got here, we all got busy getting the food ready. After awhile, I realized that I hadn't seen Beau. He had been playing with friends, so I checked there first. None of the kids had seen him, but said they would look around for them. I grabbed Clay and my in-laws, and started to look around for him. After we checked all the usual places and made sure he wasn't in the house, we started to get a little panicked. We all said silent prayers and spread out. Clay got in his truck to look, the neighbor got in his Ranger and started looking and the rest of us continued looking around the house. By this time he had been missing for at least a half hour. The Spirit told my mother-in-law to look in the trunk of her car. She immediately went and opened it up, and there lay my little boy. He had been curious about her keys that opened the trunk, then decided to play hide and seek. Thank goodness it was not a very hot day, or we may have lost him. I am also very thankful for the Holy Ghost and that my mother-in-law was in tune with the Spirit that day.

We have talked this over with Beau, not only for his safety in the future, but also for a spiritual lesson. When I saw the subject of the talk he had to give, I thought it would be a good idea to write down this experience and share it with others. I think Beau will remember this lesson the rest of his life.

Miss Bailey

2010-05-20T13:47:00.000-07:00

Bailey has both amazed me and challenged me the last few months. She has made so much progress! She is talking in short sentences and running faster than I can keep up with. She has also hit the "terrible 2's". She is obsessed with coloring! She loves to draw circles all over anything she can touch (chairs, walls, windows, beds, hands, feet ......). We try to keep all writing utensils out of her reach, but she somehow manages to find something to color with. She is also obsessed with Reagan. The problem with that is that Bailey is not gentle. I can't set Reagan down anywhere that Bailey can get her. This proves to be very challenging when I am busy trying to get anything done. Even with all the challenges (I could go on and on with them) Bailey is my special little girl. My life would not be the same without this sweet little angel. I am so proud of her and all she has accomplished! Here is a quote that I stole from a friend of mine.

"God doesn't give children with special needs to strong people; he gives children with special needs to ordinary, weak people and then gives them the strength. Raising a child with Down Syndrome, brain injury, CP or other special needs doesn't TAKE a special family, it MAKES a special family."

Happy Birthday Mom

2010-04-17T21:27:00.000-07:00

Today is my Mom's birthday, she would have been 62. All day I have wished that I could just pick up the phone and talk to her. I miss her everyday, she was my best friend. I decided what better way to remember her than to post pictures of my sweet baby that bears her name. I love to think about my Mom kissing her in heaven and sending her down to me. I love you both!

Of course I need to throw in pictures of my other two kids too. My Mom loved her grandkids so much, they were her whole world. I know that she watches over them, and on special occasions, she gets to be with them. We all love and miss you mom!

Easter

2010-04-06T12:27:00.000-07:00

We spent Easter morning at my Dad's house. The Carter kids and my kids found their Easter baskets, then we were able to listen to conference. Kathy was so nice to fix an Easter dinner for my family and my two sister's families.

Reagan's First Easter

Goblin Valley

2010-04-06T11:55:00.001-07:00

This year my family decided to do our family reunion over Easter weekend. We went down to Goblin Valley to camp. This was the first time I had ever been there, so it was fun to try something new. The weather was a little cold, but we had a great time! We did a lot of hiking and 4 wheeling (we borrowed Grandpa Erickson's Ranger) it was a great "kid" vacation. Even little Reagan had a good time, she spent most of the time in our trailer, but did great on the hikes. On Saturday the Easter Bunny found our campsite while the kids were all gone for a ride, so we had a little egg hunt. The whole weekend was great, it is fun to spend time with my family and get the kids together. I am so impressed by how kind and helpful my nieces and nephew are, especially with Bailey.

Goblin State Park

Jessica, Shaylyn and Bailey

Reagan's first camping trip

Beau hunting for eggs

Jessica and Rylee were so good to make sure Bailey found all of her eggs

Bailey had a hard time hiking, so her good Daddy carried her most of the way.

Little Wild Horse Canyon.

This was a little boys dream :)

Catching up

2010-03-27T17:23:00.000-07:00

So I am not really good at this blogging thing :( Here are a few pictures that I have taken over the last few weeks.

My little girl is growing so fast! Everyday she seems to change a little. I love her great big smile to go along with her great big cheeks! Doesn't she just melt your heart!

We had the opportunity to buy Beau his own sled the other day, it wasn't really planned, but we decided to go for it. He and his cousin next door have had so much fun riding it around. I really haven't been to nervous about it either. Today we took it up to Grandma's house and let the kids ride and then roasted wieners. What a beautiful day we had!

My kids have been blessed to have wonderful great grandparents! They have a special relationship with each one. Both grandma greats are always doing such nice things for my children. Great Grandma Erickson knitted both my kids sweaters. She has been very ill lately and our thoughts and prayers have been with her. These sweaters will be keepsakes for my children to give to their children.

Bailey's Birthday - The Cake

2010-03-09T15:27:00.000-08:00

Every year I do a fun theme for the kids' birthday, and do a cake to go with it. Bailey is really into Elmo and Cookie Monster, I have already done Elmo, so this year it was Cookie Monster. This was probably the funnest cake I have done and Bailey loved it!

This year Bailey is also really into opening presents. The day of her party she kept trying to get to her present saying "I want, I want". When she finally got to open presents, she would get them halfway opened, see what was inside, then start squealing with excitement. Her favorite presents were a My Little Pony (Pinky Pie) and a Thomas the Train flashlight. It was so fun to see the fun and excitement on her cute face!

Bailey's Birthday part 1

2010-03-05T13:41:00.000-08:00

Bailey's birthday is on Saturday, so on Friday we celebrated with her friends at school. We started off with her friends in the special ed. room. I wish I would have had a video camera to capture Bailey's reaction when I got there. When Bailey first saw me and Reagan she screamed with excitement "The baby"!! Then she saw Beau with the balloons and she went absolutely crazy, screaming, jumping and running "A balloon"!!! All the kids were so excited to get a balloon and eat "cookie monster" cupcakes. Bailey's teachers in the special ed room gave her a toy hamster and a Diego chair, which she loved.

I made the girls matching skirts to wear.

Bailey loves her sister!

After lunch I went into Mrs. Beus' classroom to celebrate with her friends in there. I took goodie bags to share with all of Bailey's favorite things: pudding, balloons, candy bars and a little rattle toy. The kids had fun eating their treats and and blowing up their balloons. Bailey is so lucky to have good friends that are so kind to her!

Mrs. Beus did a little spotlight and gave Bailey a birthday crown.

My girls

2010-02-28T16:49:00.000-08:00

I feel like the luckiest mom ever! I have been blessed with the most beautiful girls. They both are very special to me in different ways. I am so excited to watch them grow up and see what they become.

Bailey just being silly.

Reagan is 6 weeks old!

Newborn pictures

2010-02-04T07:19:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting some newborn pictures taken of Reagan. Clay's cousin, Carolyn, does fantastic work - unfortunately she lives 7 hours away. So I took some pictures of Reagan and sent them to Carolyn to edit. They turned out so dang cute!! Here are a few of them.

Thanks again Carolyn!

Reagan Jean Skinner

2010-01-18T20:16:00.001-08:00

It has been a week since my little girl made her grand entry, I am finally feeling a little better. Here is the short version of her birth: I have been struggling with my blood pressure for a few weeks, and the weekend of the 9th, I had to go to Star Valley hospital for a night to be observed. On Monday the 11th, I went up to Jackson hospital for more labs and observations. While there, by blood pressure remained high, so they decided to induce me. After getting that started, the doctor realized that the baby was breech. After a very painful and unsuccessful attempt at turning her, the decision was made to do a c-section. Reagan was born at 2:40 pm, she weighed 5lbs. 15 oz and was 16 inches long. She was just over 3 weeks early and healthy as can be. The recovery has been difficult, but I have had a lot of help. Here are a few pictures.

I finally get to hold my new baby!

Going home from the hospital

Beau finally gets to hold his baby sister!

Getting kisses from Bailey.

I finally got dad to pose for one picture.

Cousin Rylee came up to visit and help me out.

Christmas 2009

2010-01-04T13:02:00.000-08:00

I am finally getting my Christmas blog done. We had a really nice holiday. I was able to get permission to travel down to my family party the weekend before. We had our traditional ham and funeral potato dinner - my whole family was able to make it. This year my dad decided to split up my mom's Disney Snow Globe collection. While we all together, we were able to each pick some out to take home. This was much more emotional than I thought it would be, there were a lot of tears shed. I am very excited to have 8 of my mom's beautiful globes and one of her cabinets to put them in. Beau and Bailey love to look at them and wind them up.

Christmas Eve wouldn't be the same without going to Grandma Erickson's. I love getting together with Clay's family. It is tradition that Grandma reads the Christmas story while some of the kids pose in a nativity scene. The most special part of the night is when Grandma bears her testimony and we all kneel in family prayer, that is what it is all about.

Christmas morning was wonderful! Both my kids were so excited to open their presents. This year Bailey really understood what opening presents was all about. She would get her present half way opened, then get real excited about what was inside - it was so fun to hear her talk!! After presents, we went to Grandma Skinner's for her traditional Christmas breakfast, another thing that Christmas wouldn't be the same without. We spent the rest of the day with Clay's parents, resting, eating and playing Grandma Julie's new Wii.

Christmas Sunday

2009-12-22T11:19:00.000-08:00

Years ago my mom started a tradition of giving the grandchildren new Sunday clothes for Christmas. As they got older, she started giving them money to pick out their own outfits. After she died, my dad kept the same tradition. Every year the kids look forward to new church duds - now they are from Grandpa and their new sweet Grandma Kathie. Thank you!

Must be Santa

2009-12-12T10:43:00.000-08:00

Today Santa was at one of our stores in town. I made sure to leave home twenty minutes early, in hopes to get a good place in line. To my suprise, no one was there!! Our lucky day, Beau was the very first person to sit on Santa's lap. Santa knew he was a Skinner kid, he knew his grandparents, and he knew his daddy was Clay (we really live in a small little valley). Beau asked for a remote control car and for Bailey a live Elmo that is her size. Bailey wasn't as excited as Beau was, but she was happy to sit on Santa's lap. Now I can check another think on my Christmas "to do" list.

Family Pictures

2009-11-24T18:30:00.000-08:00

One of the lineman that Clay works with took our family pictures last month. We went up Snake River Canyon and hiked down to Lunch Counter. We had a hard time getting a smile out of Bailey, but the pictures turned out great!

HaLloWEen

2009-11-02T06:46:00.000-08:00

Now that I have some what recovered, I thought I better get a few pictures put on. The weekend went so fast, I didn't even get time to take as many pictures as I would have liked.

Dash was the perfect costume for Beau! He had to show everyone how fast he could run. I have been using this idea to get him to do jobs around the house, works like a charm. He had a fun party at Joy School on Thursday, went to Bailey's school party and Trunk or Treating on Friday, then trick-or-treated around the neighborhood on Saturday. Candy, Candy, Candy!!

Bailey was so adorable in this poodle skirt. I had a friend help me sew this - it is a good think too because I bought a misses size pattern, so it had to be cut WAY down. She stayed home with me on Halloween night. Bailey spent most of the night looking out the window for kids. When we had some come to the door, Bailey held out the treat bowl for them. She was not quite sure what was going on, but she liked it.

The next day

2009-10-30T06:48:00.000-07:00

If you haven't read my last post, scroll down and read that first.

This morning Beau was calmed down enough for me to look at his burned fingers and get a picture. I feel like a terrible mom, I am sure no one else has been there. At least he has stopped crying.

My Fall

2009-10-29T17:12:00.000-07:00

We brought a box full of apples home from my dad's last week, and today I decided to put them to use. I thought it would be fun for Beau and I to make caramel apples to take to Bailey's teachers. Beau was such a good helper getting the apples ready, unwrapping the carmels and stirring the pot. When it came time to dip the apples, Beau really wanted to dip one. So, as I was stirring up the caramel, Beau dipped his apple in, and the hot caramel flipped up on his little hand. Oh my, did he howl and yowl, poor little guy. After about a half hour of screaming and crying, cold wash clothes and some time alone, he came back in the kitchen and said "Mom you are not the best cooker anymore, my dad is the best cooker." So I have officially lost my title, but he did say I was still the best driver :) I was able to get a picture of our apples (with Heath bits) but Beau refused to let me take a picture of his burned finger. The only thing that made him feel better was giong with his daddy to Uncle Rob's shop to work on the truck.

Lake Mead

2009-10-20T15:10:00.001-07:00

For fall break this year Clay decided that hunting was too much work and we should take a vacation (it was really his idea, no lying.) Beau and Jenny invited us to go with their family to Lake Mead for a few days. The drive was LONG, but we had a great time!!
This is me and my 2 1/2 kids at Hoover Damn

The carp at Echo Bay Marina were boiling out of the water. The kids bought bags of popcorn to feed them - NASTY!
Taking a little nap on the boat
Clay wakeboarding at sunset.
This is what happens when you won't stop hitting your brother and we still have over 2 hours to drive.

Our School Boy

2009-09-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

Beau has been so excited to go to pre-school. When he didn't get in the one we had him signed up for, I had to go to plan "B". I registered him, and I guess myself, for Joy School. There are 5 mom's signed up, so I get to teach every 5 weeks (which still gives me a little break). He was so happy to start his first day!

After pre-school, we went and picked up his new glasses. This is going to be an adventure for both of us :) So far he likes them though.

First Day of School

2009-08-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

Here is my little cutie. When I went in her room this morning, she had half of her school clothes out on the floor - she must have known something was up. I couldn't resist buying her this adorable outfit, and the curly hair just makes it even more adorable!

Bailey has to sit on her bus driver's lap before she will get in her seat - everyone loves to spoil her.

Homemade Bubbles

2009-08-20T20:44:00.000-07:00

I got this idea for a bubble blower from a magazine. It took about 2 minutes to make, and Beau played with it for hours! Priceless!!

Blessings

2009-08-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

This morning I got a phone call from Clay's friend letting me know that he took Clay to the emergency room. He got really sick at work with severe stomach pains and throwing up. They did a CAT scan and then rushed him into surgery to remove his appendix. Within a half hour I had the kids packed and someone to take them today and tomorrow. The surgery went very well, they used a scope and laser, so he only had to be cut in three small places. The surgery went so well, they released him the same day - I really wasn't looking forward to sleeping on a crappy hospital bed. On the way home we were counting all our blessings:

*We have so many friends and family members to help out in a minutes notice
*Clay was near a hospital and got immediate attention
*Clay was working with a good friend, who happens to be an EMT
*We have insurance
*I have a good car to take me anywhere I need to go
*Jackson has a really great hospital with really great nurses/doctors
*Clay's boss is great to work with and will let him miss all the work he needs.

The list could go on and on. I think when emergencies come up like this, it really does help you get a perspective on life. I am very thankful for trials in my life and the opportunity to learn from them.

Lost Tooth

2009-08-09T18:06:00.001-07:00

Bailey's tooth has been loose all weekend, so Dad finally got his vise-grips and pulled it out. She thought it was so funny, she grabbed his hand and wanted him to do it again :)

Happy Birthday Beau!

2009-08-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, Beau's birthday was a week ago, but I have been too busy to post. Bailey has, yet again, took off half of the keys on the laptop, so I will keep this post mostly to pictures.

Here he is with his pirate cake. It didn't turn out quite the way I wanted, but after 3 hours, it was good enough!

He had to have a pinata - this sucker was indestructible! Bailey took one swing, then threw the bat and was done.

Of course he cleaned up on presents!

Here is the birthday crew. Of course Elle and Emma came, but this year their cousins were in town, so we had a fun party with all the kids!

I had to put this picture of cute little Brock on, Bailey thinks that every baby is named Brock now :)

This is just a cake that I made for Clay's Aunt this week - nothing to do with Beau's Birthday.

A little of everything

2009-07-13T18:32:00.000-07:00

It has been a few weeks since I have posted, so this is what we have been up to.

Beau had his first swimming lessons. He is a very good swimmer - he was almost too advanced for level 1, which caused a few problems for him. He wanted to take off and do everything on his own, so when the teacher was working with someone else, he would get off the steps and practice his swimming. This resulted in many "time-out" session for him. Even though he had to sit out a few times, he had a great time and did very well.

Bailey has started hippo therapy. She loves "puppies" and would love to ride all day long. She has been pretty mello with all the people around, but has really enjoyed riding. This is just a pilot program, so it is only through the month of July. Hopefully more funding/facilities will become available so she can participate throughout the year.

Okay, so I am no "Cake Boss", but I had fun making this cake. I have been wanting to try working with fondant and have planned a cake for Beau's birthday. Instead of having my first attempt be on Beau's birthday cake, I decided to make a practice cake. This is what I came up with. It wasn't perfect, but I was happy with my first fondant cake - I even made my own fondant.

Beau has been learning to ride his bike without training wheels. It has been a big fight between he and his dad - a lot of tears and yelling, but he finally is getting the hang of it.

So far we have had a fun summer! We still have a lot of camping, boating, swimmingn and reunions yet to come. I will try to keep up on the posts.

Relay For Life

2009-06-28T15:41:00.000-07:00

Another Relay is over! This was a busy, but fun year. I decided to get more involved this year, so I took over the publicity chair position. I also ended out being on a team, Cancer Creamers. So, the last few months have been extremely busy, but it was worth it!

The day started off with a lot of rain and a lot of set up. By the time we were ready to have our Survivor Reception and Opening Ceremonies, the sun was up, and the rain was gone. We had a really nice turn out. The only glitch in the day was when Clay got called to work (he was suppose to take care of the kids for the night). But my in-laws gladly took the kids for me.

My favorite part of the Relay is the Luminary Ceremony. If you haven't ever been to Relay, this is where thy light the luminaries that are around the track. The luminaries are all in honor of or in memory of someone who has had cancer. They then have a small ceremony where they read all the names. Here are the luminaries that I made this year.

These are the sacks I made for my mom last year and recycled them.

This is my mother-in-law who had thyroid cancer about 9 years ago.

This is Bailey's little friend who has a brain tumor. The tumor recently returned and she is currently going through chemo.

My team had a pie throwing contest this year. It was really messy and a lot of fun. We got the President of one of our local banks to volunteer to get a pie in the face, he was a great sport. We also got the Rodeo Princess up there.

I think the hardest part of the event is the survivor lap. I listen to all the names read and watch as they make their way around the track. All I can think is "I wish my mom was one of them." Even though I get emotional throughout the event, it is a great time for me to talk about my mom, all we went through, and remember what a wonderful person she is.

I love you mom!

Why?

2009-05-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

I have had this question on my mind today. WHY did I have to lose my mother? WHY does a sweet little girl have to suffer with a brain tumor? WHY does cancer strike at anytime, to anyone? I am not feeling self pity, or even bitterness, just WHY? I know that our Lord has a plan, greater than we can even imagine. I just get frustrated not being able to see beyond today. I wonder when I will see the purpose in our trials - today, 20 years, 50 years or maybe not until the next life?

This is WHY I Relay. Being involved in the Relay for Life makes me feel like I am doing something, like I have a purpose that I can see NOW. I watched my mom fight for 4 years, I am continuing the battle for her. I Relay for those who are fighting, may they be cured. I Relay for those who have survived, may they never have to fight again. I Relay for those who have past, may their loved ones not go through the same battle. I Relay for all those who are cancer free, may they stay that way.

If you have never been touched by this terrible disease, chances are you will sometime in your life. If you would like to get involve, or even just donate to the cause, don't hesitate. You never know what tomorrow might bring. Here is my Relay web site, if you want more information, let me know.http://main.acsevents.org/site/TRC/RelayForLife/RFLFY09GW?pg=peditor&fr_id=17752&px=3705624

I have learned to count my many blessings. I was blessed to have my mom for 30 years. I have a beautiful daughter that has no health problems. I have a very active boy who is healthy and happy. I have a hard working, loving husband to support me through my trials. I have a loving Heavenly Father who knows me so well. I have a wonderful life!

And then there was the sun!

2009-05-09T17:35:00.000-07:00

We finally had a nice sunny day (after two weeks of rain, and yes, snow). We spent the whole day outside, mostly doing "kid" projects. Clay has been promising a sandbox for two years and today was the day the kids finally got it. Beau and Elle have spent hours in it already. Bailey on the other hand, only wants her "Choo Choo". The problem is, is that she takes off down the road and you can't catch her. So dad decided to fix her wagon, or should I say Choo Choo, and tied it to the trampoline. She gets so angry when she gets to the end of the rope, and can't get any further. At least she won't be getting hit by a car. Later in the afternoon dad took us all out for ice cream, so much for eating dinner :)
It was so nice to be able to spend the day together outside. What a blessing it is to be a wife and mother to this sweet little family. My Heavenly Father has blessed me with so much, I am truly grateful for all I have.

Check this out

2009-05-02T17:50:00.000-07:00

For all of you who likes a good freebie or good deal, check out my cousins new blog. She has great deals on it plus she is having a contest right now.
http://afreebiesfreeforall.blogspot.com/

Curly Sue

2009-04-30T08:09:00.000-07:00

Here are the results for the socks, it turned out soooo cute! I couldn't believe that they stayed in all night. This is definitely a church hair do - quick and easy!

Sock Head

2009-04-29T19:03:00.000-07:00

Tonight I decided to try something new with Bailey's hair. I love putting curls in Bailey's hair, but it takes so much time. I have tried curlers, but she won't leave them in. I have seen people tie socks, or rags, in their kids' hair to get curls, so I decided to give it a try. Bailey was very cooperative, she didn't even try to yank them out. We will see if it works, or if they even stay in all night. She sure looked cute with just the socks in though.

I will have to post the results tomorrow.

Bows Bows Bows!!!

2009-04-28T15:41:00.000-07:00

I just found the coolest web site I wanted to share. I love cute hair bows, but they are so expensive!! I am a crafty person, so I look at something and think "I can do that". Sometimes I am successful, and sometimes I fail miserably! Finally I found a web site that shows me how to make the cutest bows, step by step! Yeah!! Now if there was a descent place to buy ribbon around here :)
Here is a link to the web sitehttp://makebowsandmore.blogspot.com/
Have fun!

Cousins

2009-04-17T14:54:00.001-07:00

Clays brother, Chad, and his family came up to visit this weekend. I took Beau to Thayne so he could play with Alyssa for a while. They made bread, blew bubbles, and went to Aunt Kaylene's "farm". After they ate lunch Alyssa got to come to our house and play with Beau. They have so much fun when they get together!

Easter 2009

2009-04-13T11:58:00.000-07:00

Easter is always such a fun holiday. We have started and continued family traditions. Last year we carried on Clay's tradition of having the Easter Bunny come on Saturday morning. We decided that it is nice to get the candy, egg hunts and games done so Sunday could be more about Christ (plus the kids aren't wound up for church). We started a new tradition of Clay making crepes after we finish with out Easter baskets. This is such a fun treat with all the fresh fruit that comes on sale at Easter time. We also continued on one of my family traditions. Growing up, we always had a weiner roast with all the cousins. The last two years we have made a little fire in our driveway and invited family to come and roast weiners. The kids have so much fun playing running around (and the weather actually cooperated). The day was almost perfect, Clay got called on an outage, so he missed most of the weiner roast. Easter Sunday was nice to wake up to calm children and we were able to get to church early. Bailey got a new little dress and Beau got to wear Uncle Ben's suit. It was nice to have fast Sunday on Easter. We took the opportunity to fast for Clay's Grandma Erickson to have better health. That evening we went to Clay's parents for an Easter ham dinner. Both of Clay's grandma's and his granpa joined us, so it was a special dinner.

On a side note - we got the greatest news Sunday morning! Clay's aunt is getting married!! She has hardly ever dated, let alone ever been married. We are so excited for her. Good things come to good people!

Tie Dye

2009-04-09T14:38:00.000-07:00

Beau choose a cool tie dye kit to color his eggs this year. He did a great job, and managed to stay pretty clean (mom is the one who will have stained hands for a week). Now he has to be patient for the Easter Bunny to come and hide them.
I didn't let him color very many because unfortunately, mom is the only one who will eat them.

Jump!! Jump!!

2009-04-07T16:41:00.000-07:00

Bailey loves to jump! It is very good for her physically too. We thought it would be a good idea to have a mini trampoline for her to use. Clay's Uncle Kyle found a screaming deal on one and picked it up. She has been so excited to use it. Up until now, Bailey has been unable to jump standing up. With the mini trampoline, she has felt more confident and has been standing. Today was such a nice day, I let Bailey go outside to the big trampoline. She finally figured out how to jump standing up!! She is still a bit wobbly, but this is a huge milestone for her! Grandma Julie, grab a kleenex, because this will make you cry :)

Sorry, this is the first time I have put a video on here and I have no idea how to rotate it :) If anyone wants to give me some pointers, I would love it.

Spring Break

2009-04-07T12:13:00.000-07:00

I am finally going to get around to posting about our spring, or should I say winter, break. I took the kids down to Lehi on Tuesday and met a friend for lunch at Chile's. Of course after sitting in the car for a few hours, they were not about to sit nice and quite while I caught up with an old friend. After fighting them for an hour, we decided to finish up and leave. Beau of course decided he was ready to leave sooner than us, and ran out of the restaurant. He was sitting on a bench just outside the door, so we got our stuff together and went out to join him. When we got out, he was gone! I started calling for him and searching the parking lot. He was no where. By this time, a nice lady and her daughter stopped to help and asked if I would like to call the police. This made me start to freak out. I soon noticed a girl coming out of the "take out" door and knew that Beau had to have gotten curious and went in. He had gone in the door and back through the restaurant looking for me. I was so relieved to finally find him and have him in my arms. Not the best way to start off our little trip.

The next day I took Bailey to Primary Children's for a sedated MRI and EEG. The tests went well, but she had a hard time coming out of sedation. She was pretty groggy the rest of the day, and got sick. That night she still couldn't eat anything and I was a bit worried. But she woke up hungry the next day and was able to eat a little breakfast.

On Thursday I took the kids to the Living Planet Aquarium. Beau loved everything about the aquarium, and stayed right by mom the whole time. I got Bailey out of the stroller to run and climb with Beau, but she still didn't feel well, so she took my hand and lead me back to the stroller. The aquarium was a little small, but we had a great time. That afternoon I was able to visit with my friends I taught school with. Rebecca brought her cute kids. Her little girl is Beau's age, they had so much fun playing, she did not want to go home.

Friday Clay drove down with his parents and we met him at his brother's house (Chad). The guys spent the day cutting down a huge pine tree. The kids had a great time playing. Beau and Alyssa play so well together and Bailey loves to ride her Thomas the Train. That night we went to dinner with some friends from Clay's mission. We haven't seen them since we got engaged nine months ago. We had such a good time visiting and my kids were actually really well behaved.

Saturday was little Claire's birthday, so after running all our errands, we went back to Chad's house for a party. I wish we lived a little closer - the cousins play so well together and have such a great time. I also got a great craft idea from Jamie. I had to take a picture so I could come home and make my own.

Maybe putting this up in my house will hurry things along :)

Sunday we just packed up and listened to conference on the way home. We had such a nice time, but it is always great to get home.

Best Friends

2009-03-26T07:41:00.000-07:00

This is the conversation that Beau and I had yesterday - I had to write it down so I would always remeber it.

Mom - "Did you have fun playing with Elle?"

Beau - "Yeah! She is my best friend."

Mom - "I thought we were best friends?"

Beau - "No, but Bailey could be your best friend."

Mom - "Okay.... You know, I like to give treats to MY best friend."

Beau - "Well.....You could be my cousin!"

Here is a picture of Beau and his best friend Elle (who happens to be his cousin that lives next door).

Birthday fun!

2009-03-09T12:51:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend we celebrated both Bailey and Clay's birthdays. Bailey's birthday was on Friday. Beau and I went into school to take balloons and goodies. We started out in the special ed room with Bailey's cute friends there. Bailey was so excited to see me with balloons and her choo choo bike! The kids had so much fun with the balloons, I decided that they each needed to keep one along with the goody bags that we brought. Next we headed down to Bailey's kindergarten room (Bailey chased her bike and yelled "choo choo" all the way down the hall). The kids were so excited to celebrate her birthday. Mrs. Beus made Bailey a laminated crown, so she wouldn't rip it, and a spotlight letter that she read to the class. The kids loved the goodie bags that we made with all of Bailey's favorite things.

That night we had a party for Bailey. She was so excited when everyone came to her house, especially Elle and Emma. I made homemade chicken noodle soup for everyone, this is one of Bailey's favorite. Bailey reacted more to her presents than she ever has. As she started opening each one, and got a glimpse inside, she would start shaking and squealing until we helped her get it out. She loved all of the presents she got. After opening her presents, I brought in the cake I made for her. She took one look and started yelling "ORA"!! We helped her blow out the candles, then I gave the cake to her. She immediately poked her finger in Dora's mouth. The whole day was a lot of fun! Even though Bailey doesn't understand what a birthday is, she knew that it was a fun, special day for her.

On Saturday we celebrated Clay's birthday by snowmobiling into Granite Hot Springs with Clay's mom and dad. The kids had so much fun on the snowmobile ride. Bailey loved when I would slow down, then punch it to about 55 mph - the faster the better! She also loved the "puppies" on the trail. Beau said he liked going fast up the hill the best. The kids were both excited when we changed and got into the pool. They both love swimming. Beau is really becoming a great swimmer. I took his life jacket off and went with him to the deep end. I let go of him and he just stuck his head under water and started swimming (as well as a 3 year old can without lessons). When he ran out of breath, he came backup to the surface and I would catch him. He also did well at floating on his back for a few seconds. After swimming for a few hours, we had a snack and got back on our snowmobiles. Beau fell asleep about two minutes into the ride. To top off the day, Clay's Grandma Skinner made a wonderful dinner for us and invited Grandpa and Grandma Erickson to join us. The whole weekend was very tiring, but so much fun!

Miracles

2009-03-05T12:38:00.000-08:00

March 5th, 2003 started out like any other day. I got up, got ready, and drove to work. I spent the day teaching thirty 6th graders and catching up on ungraded papers. As soon as the bell rang, I scooted all the kids out and hurried to my doctors for my 37 week check up. I was a little nervous because I had been having problems with my blood pressure and was getting results from the tests that I had done the previous day. As I checked in with the nurse, she took my standard measurements. When she got to my blood pressure, she had a very worried look on her face, and told me not to move. After trying to rest for a few minutes, the nurse took my blood pressure again. It was around 160/110!! When I got into see the doctor, he examined me and sent me staight to the hospital. By that time I was in tears! Believe it or not, my biggest concern was not having a substitute for my class. After settling in at the hospital, getting Clay there, and fiding a substitute, I felt much better and was ready to have a baby.

Giving birth is a miracle in itself, so I guess on March 6, 2003, I was blessed with two miracles. Bailey was born at 8:00 a.m. without any complications. She was the most beautiful little girl, only weighing 5lbs 11 oz. The only problems that were noted was that she was jaundice and had to go home with lights. It was about six months later that we realized Bailey was not developing as fast as she should. It wasn't until she was almost 1 that her doctor decided that we should start testing her. To this day, we have no answers, and are still testing her.

Bailey never stops amazing me! She truly is a miracle and a blessing to our family! She didn't even sit up until she was one, now she is running and climbing stairs independently. She started school with only about 25 words and now has over 130! Even without a diagnosis, I know that the future is bright. Bailey will have all the opportunities that she wants, and then some. I am so thankful to a loving Heavenly Father who knows us better than we know ourselves. I never planned on having a child with special needs, but I can't imagine my life without one. I love you, my little Princess - Happy Birthday!

Final Cruisen

2009-02-27T08:31:00.000-08:00

After we got off the boat, we stayed in Miami a few more days. I wouldn't really recommend Miami as a great place to vacation, but we managed to have a lot of fun. On our first day in Miami, we drove down to Biscayne Beach and spent a few hours soaking up the sun and resting. Somehow I didn't get any pictures here, maybe it was because of the distractions of the frolicking men on either side of us :) After we left the beach we drove down by South Beach. I can't begin to describe the many flavors of people we saw, and all the fancy cars. It was fun to just people watch, it really felt like we were in a whole new world, without doughnuts.

Our last day there we decided to go over to the Everglades. This was really fun!! I would love to take Beau back there. We went on an air boat ride and saw a few alligators. The ride was really loud, fast and pretty fun. After the ride we went to an animal show, and as you can see, got to handle some of the animals (this was my favorite part).

After the Everglades we headed down to Key Largo. I really would have liked to see more of the Keys, but we didn't have the time. We went to a State Park and bought tickets to go out on a boat and snorkel on a reef. This was the most beautiful reef I have ever seen, okay so it is the only one. We all had a great time. Jeanna, who was terrified of sharks, was the lucky one who got to see one up close and personal.

We finished out vacation by eating dinner at a great little diner in Key Largo, rocking our 10 passenger van around, and driving the wrong way on a one way road. What fun times! I will never forget this trip and all the fun I had with my family.

Cruisen Part 2

2009-02-20T16:16:00.000-08:00

Our second port was at St. Thomas which is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands. It was fun to come here with my dad - he was there after Hurricane Hugo hit. His guard unit was sent over to set up a temp. hospital while they fixed their hospital. Dad has always wanted to go back so it was fun to be there as a family. We got off the boat and found a taxi that would take all 10 of us to Cochi Beach. What a gorgeous beach!! The weather was really nice. We spent a few hours soaking up the sun and snorkeling. The water was very clear and we were able to see some beautiful life. After we left the beach we got back on the boat for a little lunch, then back off to do a little shopping. All the shops were pretty much the same with the usual tourist souvenirs, but we did manage to find a fun pirate shirt and hat for Beau and a cute island dress with a dolly attached for Bailey. Overall, it was a wonderful day!Our last port was St. Maarten, also part of the Virgin Islands, but not U.S. This is where we were suppose to do our 2 open water SCUBA dives. We took a boat out to our dive site. The visibility was not very good, but our instructor wanted to at least try. We got all our gear on and learned how to "walk" off the boat. Once we were all in the water the first instructor went down, then Clay and I, then Jeanna and Jeremy, then our other instructor. The visibility was so bad that I didn't see a submarine wreckage until I cut my leg on it. Unfortunately the instructor had to call the dive off. Now we just need to find somewhere that we can finish our certification. We were all disappointed, then to make matters worse, the boat broke down taking us back to the dock. So we had to bob up and down in the ocean for an hour until another boat came out and got us. I was quite sea sick by this time, so I was glad to get on land again. After getting all our gear taken care of, we had lunch on the boat and went out to see the island. Another beautiful island with more shopping than St. Thomas. Clay and I just wandered around the shops and toured the island. Even though we didn't get to SCUBA dive, we had another nice day.We had two days at sea, getting back to Miami. I relaxed a lot with a good book. The guys were really into the surfing on the boat. They were pretty ticked that they could only stay up for about 30 seconds. By the last day they were finally getting the hang of it though. I played a game of miniature golf with the Hansens and Dad and Kathie - I got the highest score like usual :) The guys also got to play a game of dodge ball against some crew members, they were killed! I think the best part was hitting the poolside ice cream machine a few times a day. Clay and I were lucky to get an invite from the captain to tour the bridge. I can't believe all the technology that goes into driving the ship. I really enjoyed the captain, he was a very friendly man. We had a really great week on the ship, but were ready to get off to solid land again (we were all just glad that we were heading to a different hotel this time).

Cruisen Part 1

2009-02-18T13:39:00.000-08:00

Wow! What an awesome vacation we had! I am going to try to keep this post as short as possible, so I am going to split my trip into a few different posts.

We started out in Miami where we spent a sleepless night in the worst hotel ever! The sheets were filthy, the toilet ran all night, and the shower didn't even work. To add to the experience, we had a room with 4 beds, so all my sisters and spouses slept in the same room. Of course there was never a manager to complain to. We now look back and laugh, but it wasn't pleasant.

We left the hotel ASAP and were able to get on the ship early. This was the most beautiful ship I have ever seen!!! The Freedom of the Sea had everything you could imagine, and then some. It was so nice to have a clean room and someone to wait on your every need. Our waitress, Alicia, was from Trinidad and was awesome! We ate sooo much food. Alicia was really good at bringing out extra plates of food so we could sample everything. We ate everything from escargots, to prime rib, to banana cream pie. Clay and I even got to eat with the captain at his table one night.

The first 2 days we took a class to certify in SCUBA. It was a lot of work, but very fun! Our instructor was so good and patient with us. It took quite a few hours in the pool to pass off all our skills, but we did it! Unfortunately, when we got to St. Maarten to do our two open water dives, the visibility was too poor to dive. Clay and I were able to go down about 25 feet before they called off the dive. Even though I couldn't see anything, it was really cool to be down there.Here is our instructor, Jorge. He was from Venezuela. He hopes to open his own dive shop one day, and I hope to be able to go and dive with him again. Our last day training in the pool, he saved a baby that fell into the pool. It was amazing how fast he reacted. Amy and Jeron gave him a Book of Mormon our last night on the boat. We all hope to keep in touch with him.Our first port was in Puerto Rico. We got in late in the afternoon and the weather was not very good, so this was not my favorite stop. We were able to walk around and see some cool sites. We went up to this cool old "castle" and got a great view. After we just wandered around and shopped. There was a lady who sold the most beautiful jewelry, and very well priced too. I think all of us got at least one piece from her.

The Beanstalk

2009-02-06T21:16:00.000-08:00

Beau watched a show on T.V. that had Jack and the Beanstalk. He has been talking all day about magic beans and wanting to plant some. He told me that his magic beans would grow the biggest beanstalk ever. I asked him what he was going to do with his beanstalk. He told me that he was going to climb up to the sky and see his grandma. I questioned him "Grandma?". He said yeah, you know my grandma that died. Isn't that so cute!! I have told him that his Grandma Jense got sick and died. I tried to explain to him about Heaven and Jesus, the best I could come up with was that Jesus lived in Heaven up in the sky and Grandma was up there with Jesus. I guess he really does listen to me. I told Beau that when his magic beans grew that big, I would like to go with him to see grandma.

5 Things Tag

2009-01-30T15:50:00.000-08:00

Carolyn tagged me.

5 things I was doing 5 years ago:
1 - Experiencing my first winter in Star Valley
2- Starting testing on Bailey
3- Substitute teaching
4- Renting a little house
5- Driving my Blazer

5 things on my t0-d0 list for today:
1- Get a massage
2- Not strangle Beau :)
3- Cook dinner
4- Sew on my humanitarian quilt
5- Cuddle with my husband

5 things I would do with a million dollars:
1- Pay off my house
2- Buy Clay a '72 Chev. all remodeled and mint
3- Upgrade my Yukon
4- College funds for my kids
5- Finish the remodel on my house

5 places I have lived
1- Highland
2- Ephraim
3- Lehi
4- Star Valley
5- That's it :)

5 jobs I have had
1- Home Health Nurse
2- Waitress
3 - 6th grade teacher
4 - Substitute teacher
5 - Mom

5 things I will be doing in 5 years
1- Watching Bailey in Special Olympic Events
2- Watching Beau wrestle
3- Still working on the house (I don't think that million is coming anytime soon)
4- Going to my 20 year class reunion
5- Raising my family (more children??)

5 people that I tag
1- Melissa
2- Amy Carter
3- Amy Chase
4- Brandy
5- Joanie (Clay knows you, but I don't)

Bailey Syndrome?

2009-01-29T11:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we went for our yearly follow-up with the genetics doctor from Denver. The doctor was so impressed with all the progress Bailey has made. He couldn't believe how well she was walking, climbing, running and talking. The bad news is that he had NO news for us. He said that she was way too advanced for the syndromes he may have tested her for. I guess that is good news, but it is so frustrating not having answers! It really doesn't affect us now, we would still be doing all the same kinds of therapy. But it would be nice to know what Bailey's future looks like - will she be self-sufficient, will her life expectancy be normal etc... We also haven't been able to answer if this same developmental delay could repeat itself in more children. When we got pregnant with Beau, Clay was very worried about that happening. I did not worry as much as Clay, I had an inner peace that all would be well, and as you can see, Beau is quite well :) As we get closer to feeling ready for another child, my worries have peaked. I know that the Lord will not give us more than we could handle, so no matter what happens, I will be okay. I guess I just have to have faith and know that all will be well for Bailey and our family. The one thing that the genetics doctor and I agreed on was that Bailey's delays probably have to do with her neurological system. There is a great Neurologist from Primary Children's that comes up to Jackson once a year. We have seen him a few times and have not been able to find answers there. I just made Bailey an appointment to see the Neurologist in April and her awesome Pediatrician in March. I hope that we can find answers this time. If not, we will continue on with life for another year, and go through all of this again.

I feel like this is a real "poor me" post, so I will end on a positive note.

10 things I love about Bailey

1 - Her beautiful smile

2 - Her perfect innocence

3 - Bailey is always happy, she rarely cries

4 - Her beautiful hair, it always smells good too

5 - Bailey's love of life and family

6 - I love when Bailey sings

7- Celebrating the little things that I take for granite

8 - Bailey's little "Here you go" or "Thank You"

9 - Watching her play with her brother

10 - The glow that radiates all around her

Our New Addition

2009-01-25T14:16:00.000-08:00

The other night I was just sitting down to relax and watch T.V. without kids, when I heard a crazy noise. I went to investigate and my search lead me to the laundry room where I had recently started a load of laundry. The washing machine was on the spin cycle, but it wasn't spinning, and it was making the most horrible noise. Clay came in to see what he could do (Clay is one who can fix just about anything). After tearing it apart, he found that the transmission was not just bad, but shredded! So we got right on the Internet and started looking for a new machine. There is a little Sears in Jackson, and they just happened to have their appliances on sale. We went back and forth on buying a front load or a top load. After reading very mixed reviews on front loads, and talking to a friend who HATES hers, we decided to get another top load. I found a machine that I really liked online, so Clay's job was to go to the store and see if they had that model in stock. Of course, with my luck, they wouldn't have one for at least a week. Clay knew that he could not call me and tell me this, so he talked the salesman into selling him the floor model. Clay also arranged for a friend to pick it up and deliver it to me that night - what a great guy I have. I have now used my new washing machine several times. It has this really cool auto sensor that automatically puts in the right amount of water needed for the amount of clothing you put in. I am so happy to have a working machine, I can actually say that I am all caught up on my laundry (no, it is not all put away :)).

She's a Beauty

Another Tooth

2009-01-21T20:50:00.000-08:00

Bailey's second bottom tooth has been loose for a few weeks. Tonight when I was brushing her teeth I decided that it was ready to come out. A few little wiggles, and that was all it took. I was so excited to have the actual tooth this time (last time I think she swallowed it). While I was taking pictures, Beau decided to do exactly what I told him not to do, he went and took the tooth. To make a long story short, he lost the tooth, and mom got very mad. After dad got Beau to bed (mom was a little too angry) I found the tooth amongst the cheerios in the carpet. Beau will be so relieved that the Tooth Fairy was able to come, and that mom has cooled down. I still can't believe that my little girl is growing up.

Shorties + PlayDough + Chocolate Milk = Hours of Fun!

2009-01-20T13:16:00.000-08:00

Need I say more?

Little Black Skirt

2009-01-19T12:52:00.000-08:00

The second year we were married, Clay gave me this beautiful black leather pencil skirt. I was quite impressed that he could pick something like that out for me and it actually fit (a little snug though). Sunday morning I was getting ready for church and put my new shirt on with a different skirt. I asked Clay if the outfit looked okay, he thought I should try wearing my black leather skirt instead. I haven't wore this skirt for years! After 8 years of marriage and two kids, I haven't been able to even come close to fitting in it. I decided to give it a try. When I asked Clay to zip me up, he about died. Not only did it fit, but it fit even better than when he first gave it to me. I was so excited that all my hard work has payed off. Clay told me that I was thinner now than when we got married. I am so glad that I didn't give up on myself and send the skirt to D.I. Now I have a great dinner outfit to wear on the cruise. I will have to post pictures. Only 2 weeks and 5 days!

Great Weekend

2009-01-19T12:39:00.000-08:00

We had such a great time in Logan Saturday. We were able to meet Chaser and her family for lunch. We went to a wonderful sandwich place, and some how managed to enjoy ourselves with 5 kids. After we ate we drove over to Nibley to see the Howsers (Clay lived with them in California on his mission). Their house is like a museum, I can't even begin to describe all the vintage collections they have. We brought Chase and her family with us to get a peek. I didn't know if we were going to get Jeff out of the gun room. Clay stayed at the Howser's to help out with some things and I took off to go shopping with Chase. We left Beau with Jeff, who having 3 daughters, wasn't quite sure what to do with a boy. We had a great time and spent more money than we were suppose to - oops. While I was at the Distribution Center, I ran into a roommate that I haven't seen for over 10 years! After shopping I went back to pick up Clay and had pizza with the Howser's. Just as we were getting ready to leave, Clay mentioned that he wouldn't mind finding a certain type of gun. Of course Ray had one to sell him, so we left with a new rifle.

The day was so sunny and nice and the kids were actually well behaved. It was so nice to have time with my family and see good friends, even though the trip ended up costing a whole lot more than planned:)

It is about time!

2009-01-15T08:11:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I haven't posted anything for over a month now! I keep telling myself everyday that I need to update my blog. But each day seems to come and go, and I have not found time, or anything clever to blog about. I am one who seems to think that I have to have a picture to post each time. I guess my writing seems to be a little boring to me, so I need some visual interest. I am going to start trying to post a few times a week, with our without pictures.

Here is a rundown of my week so far. Clay's dear Grandma has been in the hospital very sick. Over the weekend we didn't think she would even make it. Last night we took the kids to go and see her, she looked great! She is having problems with her heart. She also has severe asthma and allergies which have gotten in the way of treating her. Hopefully she will be able to go home soon.

Beau has really been a stinker this week. I can tell him to not do something 100 times, and yet he still does it. He has been told not to get into my cupboards or pantry, but every time I have my back turned he is getting in to things. Yesterday, while I was getting Bailey's hair done, he decided he wanted chocolate chips. I keep them up high just for this reason. He decided to get the crate of milk bottles to step on. This proved not to be so good of a technique when the crate crashed over. I came into the kitchen to find broken glass all over the place. I was so mad!! I have been trying to control my temper with him, but this was not the time. I will admit to saying some not so choice words and giving him a good spanking while sending him to time-out. You would think he would learn a lesson, but this morning while I was getting Bailey ready, I caught him yet again in my cupboards trying to get jerky. I need help!!

Yesterday I also had Bailey's yearly IEP meeting at school. I was amazed to see how many people are involved with my little girl. There were 8 adults there to discuss Bailey's progress and new goals. She has made such amazing progress since she started school. I am so very pleased with special education program our district has. If Bailey need anything, it is done or ordered without any questions. Everyone cares so much for my little girl. We are so blessed to live in such an amazing community and school district. I know many people would pay a lot of money to get the kind of education Bailey is getting, again we are so very blessed!

I am going to try to take time for me the next few days. Today I am going to go and buy me new shoes to treadmill with. Mine look brand new, but according to Bailely's P.T., I need to replace them. My knee has been bothering me, and he said it is because I have put so many miles on my shoes. So, I guess I will be shopping today, oh darn. Tomorrow I am getting a babysitter for a few hours and going to the salon. I am going to tan a little and get my nails done. I know that sounds a little extravagant, but this mom needs a little pampering. Saturday we have planned a trip to Logan to see some friends of Clay and my BFF in the world! I am excited to spend time with my Chaser and maybe sneak in a little shopping :)

Well, I really am going to try to post more often. I guess if I can post more often, you won't have to be bored with my long and detailed posts! Have a great day and weekend!

O Christmas Tree

2008-12-10T14:43:00.000-08:00

The kids had so much fun decorating the Christmas Tree this year. Bailey loves trees, and it is one of the words she knows. She talked about the "tree" all night. I decided to put most of the decorations up high, and leave a few little ones down for Bailey to play with. Beau was VERY (a little too) helpful putting the decorations up high. The night went surprisingly well - then the next day. By 8:00 the kids had tipped the tree over. I wish I would have thought about grabbing my camera, I could only think about saving our poor tree. I put the tree back up, but it was pretty much just leaning there. Of course, Beau has a hard time listening to mom, just before dad got home, the tree was on the floor again. This time all I could think about is trying to not strangle my dear little boy (he willingly went to time out). Long story short- Clay came home (Beau stayed away) made a trip to Kings for a new stand, it broke - made a trip to Hastings for new bolts and fixed the first tree stand. After two timbers, and two tree stands, I have a tree standing, for now:)

Bailey is Growing up!

2008-11-09T20:10:00.000-08:00

Today we were getting ready to eat dinner when I noticed that Bailey was missing a bottom tooth! I really started freaking out, thinking that she chipped it or something. My neighbor was here and assured me that this was the age kids start loosing teeth. I just couldn't believe that my little girl was old enough, and very unprepared for this step of childhood. I couldn't ever find the tooth. Earlier I had given Bailey a carrot to eat, I think that is when she lost it and probably swallowed it. I told Beau that the Tooth Fairy would still come. I didn't even know she had a loose tooth! My little girl is growing up.

TrIcK oR tReAt!

2008-11-03T14:22:00.000-08:00

The kids had so much fun on Halloween! I went into Bailey's class to help with a little party - she loves school so much. I had to do her make-up about 50 times, but she looked so dang cute! After school we made our way to Thayne to see the Grandma's down there. Then we met up with dad and went to a ward party/trunk-or-treat. After that, we had to make it to Grandma Erickson's and Uncle John's. It was a very long, fun day! I have now hidden all the candy, and bring it out once a day for them to choose from. Now I just need to have Clay hide it from me - I am down 7 pounds and 4 inches. I have a little more to go before the cruise (if I can just stay away from all that candy :)

Miss Kitty

Bat Man!

Pumpkin Carving

2008-10-28T15:52:00.001-07:00

The kids had so much fun carving their pumpkins last night. Beau wasn't too sure of the "guts" at first, but then he dug in. I bought some patterns to use on the pumpkins. Clay wasn't too happy about that. He said "I carved normal pumpkins growing up, and they were fine!" Of course mom won that battle. They turned out pretty cute. Beau choose the Shrek patterns.

Photo Tag

2008-10-28T15:39:00.000-07:00

Carolyn tagged me for this fun photo tag. You open your picture file, go to the 4th file and the 4th picture and post about it. Here is my picture. One day I came into my kitchen to see my cute little 2 year old washing my dishes for me. He made more of a mess actually, but it was very thoughtful of him. Now it is your turn, you've been tagged! (Amy Carter, your blog is badly needing an update, you better play along.)

Mummies

2008-10-15T18:22:00.000-07:00

So, Clay has been hunting and I have been home alone with the kids. The evenings seem to drag on forever, so tonight I decided to try and entertain the kids a little. Beau helped me make these 'Mummy Dogs". I didn't have any olives for eyes, so I stuck some raisens in. They turned out cute and Beau was really excited about them. But the end results weren't so great - Bailey wouldn't touch them and Beau picked off the bun and just ate the dog. Oh well, A+ for effort and thank goodness for Mac and Cheese!

First Snow

2008-10-11T13:29:00.001-07:00

The Kids have been so excited to play in the First Snow of the year. I finally agreed to take Elle, Emma and Beau out for a little while. They had so much fun, and made sure to hit me with plenty of snowballs. They were having a great time playing with and eating the fresh snow until their little hands were freezing. It was a short little romp, but a greatly needed break from the house. I don't know if I am quite ready for winter. I do know that I really need to buy my kids some new winter clothes FAST!

Scraptastic!

2008-09-26T09:44:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to catch up on Bailey's scrapbook, I am only a couple years behind :) I finished this page last night and was very happy how it turned out. The picture isn't great, but you get the idea. I copied some ideas from a layout on Two Peas in a Bucket.

Help!

2008-09-19T14:48:00.001-07:00

I had Beau's pictures taken and I can't decide which is my favorite. I need help! Click on the link and it will take you to Lasting Impressions home page, then click on Beau (tractor) Skinner. Let me know what you think.http://lastingimpressionsphotography.photoreflect.com

Timber!

2008-09-11T08:24:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went and got our first load of wood. The kids love going, including Clay. Beau thinks he is big enough to do everything that his Dad does. He quickly realized that his chainsaw doesn't really cut, so he had to use Dad's, with a lot of help. Beau wouldn't leave the spray paint marker alone, I finally had to hide it from him. When he got bored, he would come over and say "Mom, want to go for a walk with me." Bailey just loves to be in the mountains. Her favorite thing about getting wood is trying on everyones gloves - she thinks they are hand puppets. This time she didn't wander away, so I was able to help out quite a bit. Both kids were so good and we all had a great day. Only one more load and we are done for the winter!

Erickson Reunion

2008-09-04T15:34:00.000-07:00

Every Labor Day weekend my family attends the coolest reunion ever! Clay's grandparents, Kay and Delsa, have their traditional reunion up to Cottonwood Lake. This year was awesome, although we did get a little harassed by the Forest Service, and a big fat ticket. Tempers were flaring everywhere, of course Clay was the worst! There is nothing worse than a female officer with a bullet proof vest and gun, she threatened to have Clay hauled off the mountain in handcuffs. We still managed to have a great time. Wade set up a zip line in one of the trees. Grandma was one of the first to go down, she is the coolest! As tradition, we went down to the lake and watched daring family members ride the bike off the ramp into the freezing cold water (poor Kayla lost part of her tailbone in her first attempt ever). That night my "computer geek" brother-in-law set up a slide show. We looked at so many old slides that made you laugh until your sides hurt (especially the ones of Rob and Rhonda's wedding). For Sunday services, grandma prepared a game of "Who Wants to be a Millionaire", I really need to brush up on my church knowledge. After church we took a ride up to the avalanche site to see the memorials that were put up in honor of the three men who died there last winter. I really appreciate my husband so much more and will probably worry about him even more this winter. Unfortunately we were rained out that night and my family decided to pull out and let the others tough it out. We had a great time and ate way too much great food! I can't wait until next year to do it all again!

Big Girls Don't Cry

2008-08-27T19:13:00.000-07:00

Today was Bailey's first day of Kindergarten and I really had to hold back the tears. Bailey was so excited especially when the bus pulled into our driveway. She marched right onto the bus without any hesitation and didn't even bother to wave goodbye. I tried to keep myself away, but and hour later I found myself being that "stocker" mom, peeking into her classroom window. Thank goodness Bailey has an amazing team of people working with her. She is in a regular classroom with an aid by her side at all times of the day. I decided to let her attend all day Kindergarten and so far it seems to be going great. Bailey will be able to have Occupational Therapy, Speech and continue with the Physical Therapy. I really feel like this is going to be an amazing year of growth for her. I also feel like it is going to be a great year for Beau. He is really needing some one-on-one time with mommy. I have a lot of fun things planned for us. He is excited about his "school" with mommy. I have been so blessed with two great kids!

Happy Birthday Beau!

2008-07-29T20:14:00.000-07:00

Today was Beau's 3rd birthday (although he has told everyone that he is three for quite some time now). We started the day off by running to the store for some forgotten cupcake wrappers, then to Burger King for breakfast. Beau helped me make cupcakes with blue frosting which we took to the park and played with all the kids in the ward. After we came home from the park I slaved 2 hours making his Spider Man Cake that he has been taking about for months. We had all the grandma and grandpa's and the neighbors (Clay's cousin) over for dinner. Clay cooked up some awesome hamburgers with all the works. We finished off by destroying the cake I worked so hard on and homemade strawberry ice cream. It was a great birthday party and Beau got more presents than he knows what to do with. I love to make a big deal out of their birthday's each year and make it their special day.

Boating with my family

2008-07-24T12:48:00.000-07:00

While we were in town for Grandma's funeral, Jeremy took his family, Amy's family, and my family boating. It was a perfect day out on the Lake, no wind and plenty of sunshine. My kids LOVE the water and are not a bit scared. Every time we would stop to get someone out or in, Clay would throw both kids overboard. Beau is getting pretty good at doggy paddling back to the boat. Bailey and Beau both had their first experience riding on the tube. They thought that was great, Bailey would have stayed on all day. Clay is getting really good at both wake boarding and slalom skiing. I am sometimes a whimp and play it safe in the boat, but I decided to put some skiis on and give it a go. I did good, but man am I getting old! After about 5 minutes of going in and out of the wake, I was exhausted and my legs gave out. We stayed on the Lake until dusk, then went in and ordered Cafe Rio to go. It was great spending the day with my sisters and their cute kids.

Happy Birthday Grandma Clark

2008-07-24T12:22:00.000-07:00

To celebrate Grandma Clark's 86th birthday, we paid her our final respects. Grandma died on July 18th, just a few days before her birthday. What a better present than to be reunited with her Eternal companion and loving daughter. The funeral was nice and simple. Amy was asked to talk, she gave some nice memories from all the grandkids, and somehow managed her nerves. I was asked to give the closing prayer, which was a little emotional after the closing song "How Great Thou Art." The services at the cemetary were nice, all the great-grandchildren were given birthday balloons to release in the air. After her grave was dedicated, all of my immediate family made a short trip to Mom's headstone. It was good to be there, in that peaceful spot, as a family. The whole day was a celebration of Grandma, her life, and posterity - we even had birthay cake.

Mom

2008-07-07T20:25:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I lost my mom to cancer 2 years ago. Not a day goes by that I don't wish I could call her up and talk, I miss her dearly. She was the most Christ-like person I know and my best friend. I don't think my mom had a selfish bone in her. She was only able to spend a brief time with my children, so I make sure they know her through my memories and pictures. I know she has a special purpose and watches out for us when she can. This year I was a team captain for a Relay for Life team. What a wonderful event! It was such a great way for me to remember my mom and fight back. Thank you to everyone for their support and especialy your donations. I plan on participating in the Relay every year. I love you mom.

Beau

2008-07-07T19:32:00.000-07:00

Life was pretty calm before my "Little Clay" came along. Just this weekend I had one of Clay's cousins ask me "Do you ever wake up and think what in the hell did I do?". Beau has been a fun addition to our family. He is happy, loving, and has personality that just doesn't seem to end. His uncles love to tease him because he takes it in and comes back for more. Beau also has quite the imagination. One day he told me that a creature with a green shirt and long sleeves cut his hair (the creature happened to be me). He is very smart for his age, he counts in english and spanish, knows his ABC's, spells his name, knows his colors and shapes, and has a bigger vocabulary than I really want him to have. My little guy is tough, but definately has a soft spot for his mommy.

Bailey

2008-07-07T19:21:00.000-07:00

Bailey is my "special" angel. When she was a baby we noticed that she had low muscle tone and didn't reach physical milestones at the expected time. By 10 months, I knew something was wrong. I took her to the pediatrician and he couldn't seem to find much wrong, she looked and behaved so normal. A month later she still wasn't even sitting up, so we began the long process of testing. We have ran every test you could think of over the last 4 years, and all of them have come back normal. To this day she is still undiagnosed. Bailey has come a long way though, she sat up at 1, bunny hopped at 2, crawled at 3 and walked at 4. Bailey was on a bottle until she was 2 and now can eat anything with my help. She is now starting to talk and has quite a few words. She will be going to kindergarten this fall and I am thrilled. She thrives around her peers and seems to make great progress when she in a learning environment with others her age. The school system is amazing and will see to her every need. I expect great things from my sweet little girl.

Skinner Family

2008-07-07T18:01:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Chase has been bugging me about this blogging thing forever, so I finally have given in. I don't think my life is that eventful to really blog anything, but I will give it my best attempt. I have been married to my sweetie for almost 8 years now. After living in Lehi for a few years, we decided we wanted a little more simple life, so we moved to Star Valley, Wyoming. We have been blessed with two beautiful children, Bailey 5, and Beau who will be 3 this month. Clay works as a lineman for the power company and loves his job. I retired from teaching when I had Bailey and love staying home with the kids. We bought a "fixer upper" house almost 4 years ago and have spent a lot of time together making it our home. We love Star Valley, it is such a beautiful place to raise a family, yet close enough that I can visit home whenever I want.