Dawn's Cakes

Amazing Deal on Gift Certificates!

2011-11-28T07:17:00.000-08:00

To kick off the Christmas season, I'm offering a great deal on Gift Certificates. Order any gift certificate over $25, and I'll add an extra $25 to the value! Or I can put the extra $25 on a separate one and you can keep it for yourself.

- One certificate can be used per person.

- Can buy additional as gifts.

- Expire 1 year from date of purchase.

- May be used towards classes and/or cake decorating supplies.

- Can be used towards custom cake orders valued at $75 or more.

Email me at dawnscakeclasses@hotmail.com to buy yours today!

Basics class - $60

Chocolate class & Rolled Fondant Class - $40 each

Easy Cake Decorating Ideas class - $25

Check out our Facebook Page

Half price gift certificate!

2011-09-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

"Like" my facebook page and you can take advantage of the special this week:

click here to go to facebook page

Buy a $30 gift certificate for $15!!

Good towards any class.

Email me at dawnscakeclasses@hotmail.com to order.

Cake decorating class for $20!! ($40 value)

2011-09-02T11:55:00.000-07:00

Check out my deal on www.halfpriceutah.com! It is for the class "Easy Cake Decorating Ideas".

This is a great class for anyone that wants to make cute cakes without all the fancy supplies. Learn how to use fresh flowers, candy and even your scrapbook fetish to make fun cakes and cupcakes. If you've already taken my "basics" class, you'll LOVE this class to give you some fresh ideas!

With this class you will decorate 6 cupcakes to take home! It's a great class to take as a mother/daughter, with your sisters or girlfriends. If you have a group that is interested, I can even schedule a class just for your group! (6 people minimum)

"Like" my facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dawns-Cakes/182351711813225

If you want to be added to my email list, you can email me at dawnscakeclasses@hotmail.com. I send out my monthly schedule and specials.

My September classes for this deal on Half Price Utah are scheduled for Tuesday September 20th at 7 p.m., and Saturday September 17th at 9 a.m. After purchasing your deal, just email me to sign up for the class.

Fall & Christmas Classes!

2011-08-31T12:07:00.000-07:00

I'm working on my classes for the rest of the year. In addition to my "Basics" & other classes, I'll be offering classes like Haunted gingerbread houses, Christmas treats, Christmas gingerbread houses, and how to make those fancy iced sugar cookies! If you would like to be on my email list, send me a request at dawnscakeclasses@hotmail.com.

Classes will resume next month!

2011-08-19T11:32:00.001-07:00

It's been a great summer! Spent lots of time with the kids - enjoying the sunshine and the warm weather. I'm gearing up for fall classes! If you would like to be added to my email list, you can email me at dawnscakeclasses@hotmail.com. I will notify you when I have my September class schedule.

June Classes - book now!

2011-05-21T17:40:00.001-07:00

Here are the june classes. Book now, they fill up fast!

*June Special: Book a $75 June Basics class and receive a cupcake kit FREE! ($15 value)

You must take a "Basics" class before you can take an advanced class. You can email me to sign up or with any questions at dawnscakeclasses@hotmail.com.

In the Basics class you will need to attend both sessions. You will learn how to make chocolate mousse, layer it in a cake and fill cupcakes with it. You will get to take home 6 cupcakes from the first class and an 8" frosted cake from the second class.

In the Rolled fondant you will learn how to make it and decorate a cake with it.

In the Chocolate class you will learn how to make ganache (shiny chocolate frosting), decorate a cake with it, make chocolate dipped strawberries, and chocolate truffles.

Following are the dates and times available:

Basics Class: Mon/Tues June 13/14 from 2-4 p.m. $75

Basics Class: Wed/Fri June 15/17 from 10 a.m.-noon $75

Basics Class: Mon/Tues June 20/22 from 2-4 p.m. $75

Rolled Fondant Class: Wed June 15 from 10 a.m.-noon $40

Chocolate Class: Wed June 22 from 10 a.m.-noon $40

Wow!

2011-05-03T10:34:00.001-07:00

I have had such an amazing response to my cake decorating classes! It has been so much fun getting ladies together and "creating" together.

Due to the cost of materials, my "Basics" cake decorating classes are now $75. This is a two part class. Each class is two hours long. In the first class you get to take home 6 decorated cupcakes, and in the second class you get to take home your 8" decorated cake.

You will learn how to bake in a professional pan, make chocolate mousse, and layer and fill a cake with mousse. You will also learn how to make yummy cupcake frosting and delicious cake frosting.

You will leave this class having the knowledge, and feeling confident that you can go home and be successful at making cakes for all the special occasions in your family.

Be sure to check us out at the Utah Kids Club Ladies Only Pamper Party on May 14th! We will be running a "Show Special" on our Basics class for those attending the party!

Cake Classes

2011-03-21T17:26:00.000-07:00

I am starting to teach cake classes out of my home in West Jordan. I am starting with a "beginner" class, and will add more advanced classes shortly, such as a rolled fondant class. The advanced classes will require that you take the beginner courses first. These are hands on classes!

The beginner class will be a 2 part class. The first class will teach you about professional cake pans and basics of baking a cake. You will then learn how to make chocolate mousse and learn how to layer and fill a cake. Then we will talk about cupcakes and you will learn how to fill cupcakes with chocolate mousse, and learn how to make American buttercream. You will get to fill with mousse and decorate 6 cupcakes to take home that night.

In the second class I will bring out the cake that you layered in the first class, and I will teach you how to make Italian buttercream. You will then learn how to frost a cake using a decorating turntable. You will learn some easy, fun, basic decorating ideas. You will get to take home your finished cake that night.

The beginner class (both parts) cost: $50

My first session will be Tuesday April 5th (part 1), and Tuesday April 12th (part 2). Both of these start at 7 p.m.

I also have a Saturday session on April 23rd (part 1), and April 30th (part 2). Both of these start at 9 a.m.

Class is available for ages 16 and up, and no children or babies please.

I only have 5 spots available for each session. You would need to be able to attend both consecutive classes. I will have all the supplies you need for the class - just bring an apron!

Feel free to call or email me with any questions, and please forward information on to anyone you know that would be interested. If you would like a special session and have a group of 5 people that can do that specific session, I am more than happy to accomodate your requested date, and make it a private session.

Please leave me a comment with your email address if you're interested and I will contact you.

If I have enough interest for classes in Phoenix, I would consider going down there :)

It's about time!

2010-03-09T10:49:00.000-08:00

So, it's been a while since I last posted something. It has been quite busy since October. I've been through morning sickness, and now in my last trimester of pregnancy. Since then, at church I have a huge new responsibility, and so when I'm not dealing with my little ones, working with the teenage girls at church, or working on my never ending projects, I'm napping. I have many, many posts to catch up on, and eventually, they'll get here. Just bear with me in the process! In the meantime, here's something that warrants a post - I'm just too excited not to share!

A Proud Sister

2010-03-09T10:47:00.000-08:00

This morning my sister Dianne had a great surprise awaiting her at school. She has been a school teacher for many years now at Cactus View Elementary, in Phoenix. I can't even begin to describe how much time, energy, and thought she puts into her kids and her classroom. Many countless hours she has spent at school, only to go home and continue the work. Typically only on holidays does she take time away from grading papers or improving her lessons.

Needless to say, those of us that have lived by her, and witnessed firsthand her hard work, were ecstatic to hear of the proceedings that took place this morning.
On Friday my sister Dayna received a phone call from the school that Di would be receiving the Rio Salado College "Excellence in Education" award this morning from the local radio station. She was invited to either attend or listen on the air. It was to be kept a surprise from Dianne. Dayna informed each of us, so that we could send cards to Di and listen in on the radio.

Dayna told me that the radio broadcast was very abbreviated from what was taped, but it was nice to hear it, nonetheless.
This is the letter that was sent into KEZ 99.9 fm in Phoenix. It was sent by a parent of a student currently in Dianne's class. This was read on the air, and they spoke briefly to the mother and son.

There are not a enough words that express what a tremendous year this has been for my son Zachary in Ms. Orr's fourth grade class. Not only does Ms. Orr teach the basics, but she also teachs the children about working together and how important the self worth is. Ms. Orr encourages the children in her care to think positive and appreciate what everyone contributes to the team. My son Zach has autism, and is in a typical classroom. Social skills have always been a challenge for him. Ms. Orr took the time to come up with checklists and ideas to help him become more successful with his peers. With her help and encouragment, he has become the child that I always knew he could be! The year is only half over, and if the year keeps going the way it is, I can only dream of what the outcome will be! So, thank you Ms. Orr for your commitment to the children in your classroom, for not only looking at a child's mind, but taking into consideration the whole child and making them be the best kid they can be!

Signed,
Sara Lee

Here's Marty Manning from the radio station presenting the award with Zachary.
Here's my sister Dayna and her cute family who came out so early in the morning to support Dianne.
Way to go Di - we are so proud of you!

Unbelievable

2009-10-22T22:10:00.000-07:00

This was incredible. It made me tired just watching it.

I never knew jumping rope had come so much farther than "Cinderella, dressed in yellow, went upstairs to kiss a fellow".

You can't help but smile watching it.

Pass the milk please!

2009-10-21T12:29:00.000-07:00

You've heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Well Reed is of the opinion that it might as well be the most delicious as well. He pulled this out on Sunday insisting that it be his 'cereal' that day. Notice that he even pulled it out of the box! That cute smile went away quite quickly when Daddy informed him he couldn't have it.

Fall Fun

2009-10-21T12:04:00.000-07:00

We had a great - and busy - weekend. We started with a trip to the Pumpkin Patch.

Each child picked a perfect pumpkin.
Then we headed to Farnsworth Farms, for the Pumpkin Festival.
Located in Sandy, it was a great little spot. A free event, that will take place again this weekend from 5-9 p.m. There are vendors where we picked up fresh kettle corn (lg bag $4), face painting ($1 per cheek), food (really inexpensive), hay rack ride (.50/person, under 3 free), bounce house (.50/child), and the outdoor showing of "It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown". We ate before we went, so we only spent $10.50 at the event!On Sunday we headed to downtown Salt Lake for our regional conference. Held at the conference center, we were a little apprehensive about taking the 3 kids. Amazingly enough, they were great. We were amazed that we didn't even have to take Reed out for the entire 2 hour session.
We had great seats right up front, the kids were able to wave to the Prophet, and we were so happy we were able to attend.

It's Halloween Time!

2009-10-05T09:00:00.001-07:00

Once again, my favorite holiday of the year is on it's way! Love the colors, the candy and all the fun of the season.

Check out these must haves for your little girls. I'm putting my order in today!Go to Katie's website to check out her other halloween hairbows. Click here for her website.

It's Conference Time

2009-09-26T19:52:00.000-07:00

The Church came out with a packet for Conference this next weekend. Click here to view it. As a Primary we wanted to distribute them to all the children in the ward. We felt that it was more appropriate for Senior Primary.

So for Junior Primary, I created this Conference Packet.

You can also check out Sugardoodle for more great conference ideas. Click here.

Blog - updated!

2009-09-24T13:53:00.000-07:00

My funny little Sofia asked me yesterday what the pretty paper on the fridge was with little flowers on it.

I replied "It's an invitation for a Baby Shower".

She looked at me with a quizzical look and said "A baby shower? You mean Reed is going to take a shower?"

I have finally updated my blog. 16 new posts dating all the way back to Valentine's Day. To my faithful readers - thanks for your patience! I will try and be more on top of it and not let so many photos get clogged up on my camera.

Where did the summer go?

2009-09-24T13:04:00.000-07:00

We had a fantastic summer - enjoyed every degree of it! Here are some highlights of the many things we did.

We did a lot of yard work. It went from looking like this:
To looking like this:
And oh so much more yard work to go!

Went to Taylorsville Dayzz, and rode lots of rides.We also went to the Salt Lake County Fair, and rode rides there too!

Spent time with cousins and LOTS of family.

Played dress up

Played store
"Free sapel be carfol with the yellow plese take one of each."

And enjoyed nice warm days with nice cool water.
Goodbye summer. I'll miss you dearly!

Happy Birthday Bella!

2009-09-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

Today my little Bella turns 7 years old!

She woke up to her present on her plate - something she reminded me about several times the night before.It was a spotz maker. They're little coin shaped things you can put all kinds of pictures in. (Basically one more thing for mom to pick up off the floor!) She loves it!
It must have been a special day, because Mom made breakfast - that usually only happens at dinnertime. Waffles with fresh strawberries and blueberry muffins.
After church we went to Grandma's for a special birthday dinner. She had the place all decked out!
After dinner we had a round of "Birthday Bingo", and even had goodie bags! Thanks Grandma and Aunt Jane for a great party!
Bella isn't a big cake fan (go figure!) so she voted for ice cream sundaes for her birthday dessert. Good choice Bella! We had loads of fun!
Bella is a very sweet, very generous little girl. I love how helpful she is, and she loves to have lots of hugs and kisses and spend time with her family. She is very smart, and beautiful to boot! Thanks Bella for being a great daughter. I can't believe how big you are!

Stay tuned for pictures from her birthday party - it was a little family party in August. She wanted a swimming party and you can't do that here in September!

Happy Labor Day!

2009-09-07T20:52:00.000-07:00

Most people would say that Labor Day is a holiday to "get away" from work. For some reason Jeff and I interpret it as "need to work".

We worked in the backyard all day. Lucky for us our great neighbor Susan let us borrow her "motorcycle" (as the kids call it) and it made hauling away the many, many rocks, a little more exciting.
Lucky for Jeff he didn't have to haul his wheelbarrow full of rocks down and across the street to dump them on an empty lot!

Then we treated ourselves to Chick-fil-a for dinner. If you wore a college logo - you got free food. I can't think of a better reason to go out all decked out in ASU gear!

Visit from Kansas

2009-08-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

We had Grandma & Grandpa Orr and Aunt Debbie come to visit this month. Mom & Dad came up for BYU Education Week, which they loved, and then stayed for a fun visit.We took Aunt Debbie bowling, and went on many fun outings during the time they were here.

It was great having them here - and the kids loved getting to know them better. It's hard when they live so far away and we only see them about once a year.They stayed in Reed's room, and Reed was in our room. After they left, and we put Reed's crib back in his room, he kept saying "sleep in grandpa's room?" It was too cute.

First Day of First Grade

2009-08-23T13:01:00.000-07:00

Why is it that my oldest, keeps getting older?!

Isabella started first grade today. I think I had a much harder time than she did. Even though she went for a full school day last year, I still struggled. I think that's because I know exactly how long a school day/year is.

This year the program has changed to 90% spanish and 10% english. Her teacher is Mr. Torres, and I just know she's going to have a great year!

First Day of Preschool

2009-08-04T12:58:00.000-07:00

Sofia started preschool today. She is so excited to return for another year with Mrs. Becky. This year she gets to go 3 times each week.

Have a great year Sofie!

New Do

2009-07-30T11:10:00.000-07:00

Reed now has a new style. I took him to get his first "big boy" haircut. The problem is he looks like a 3 year old now - between his height and his hair.

Before:
We thought about this style (for about 2 seconds!):

After:

He lost 2 1/2" of hair! Hard to believe there was that much on that little head.
Now he thinks he's 1 cool dude!

A Fabulous 24th!

2009-07-24T22:44:00.000-07:00

It still boggles my mind as to how we celebrate the 4th of July and then a couple of weeks later we do it all over again for the 24th of July. At least we get double use out of those cute red/white/blue shirts huh?We celebrated Pioneer Day with the annual "Dana Family Celebration". We all gathered at Aunt Carol's house and ate tons of yummy food, socialized, and had so much fun.

The kids enjoyed pioneer games:

And dressing up:

And we all had a fun mini trek down Aunt Carol's street:Thanks Carol for hosting a fun event we look forward to each year!

Sofie's Sweet Shoppe

2009-07-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

Today was the big party for Little Miss Sofia! If you know Sofie at all, you know that "candy" should be her middle name. She loves anything sweet and sugary (much like her mother), so a "candy" party seemed fitting.

We had 20 little shoppers in the "Shoppe" today. They started out with making their own pizzas for lunch.

Then they moved on to making their very own custom candy bracelets.We played some games, sang some songs - especially the "Happy Birthday" one to Sofie.

The cake turned out fun. I made it very "sweet" just for her! The candles were sent to her by Auntie Di. The flame is the same color as the candle - it was cool to see them glowing their various colors! Thanks Di!

She loved opening her presents, and spent the entire afternoon/evening playing with her fun new toys and crafts. I was, however, happy to hear the answer to one specific question. "Sofie, what was your favorite birthday present?" Her answer - CANDY! I suppose it was quite perfect for her. She had to brush her teeth 3 times tonight, because she kept getting into the candy after she'd been sent to bed.What do you do with all the candy in the jars you ask? Well you send it home with the guests - of course! Each child packed their very own "goodie bag" of treats to take home.

They each received a fabric "candy bag" with candy lip gloss, candy stickers, candy hair clips (girls), candy notebooks and mini pens.As usual, a huge shout out to Jane, for her fabulous photography of the event. What would I ever do without her?

Happy Birthday Sofie!
SWEET DREAMS!

This is the Place

2009-07-10T22:38:00.000-07:00

We love visiting "This is The Place", and have gone each summer since we moved here.

They always have a variety of activities for the kids to do. This happened to be a "free admission" day - due to the "Days of 47" week that's going on now. It was a little crazy - lots of people, but we still had a ball.
It's always entertaining to see Jeff try to stuff himself into tiny kids rides!

Sofie turns 4 !

2009-07-09T22:38:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrated Sofie's 4th birthday! She woke up happy, and before anyone else. She has been so excited for today to come!

For the last couple of weeks we have heard her sing many a solo. The song has been a cute little birthday song that Bella 's kindergarten class would sing for birthdays. It is absolutely the cutest thing to hear her sing it, and to name herself as the birthday girl. She always giggles with excitement at the end.We celebrated by having lunch at McDonald's with Daddy (on his lunch hour), Grandma Susan, Aunt Jane & cousins, and Challene and kids. Challene's baby turned 1 today, so they celebrated together today!

Tonight we had Sofie's sunbeam teacher and her husband over for dinner. At Sofie's request we had breakfast and it was yummy. We had cherry chocolate chip cupcakes for dessert.

Her party is planned for Saturday, and I've been very busy with the preparations.Sofie is my little comedian, who loves to laugh and play. I think she is allergic to work, and can always find a way out of it - especially by taking a nap! She is very smart and very emotional. Her laugh is contagious, and her smile and twinkling eyes are mesmerizing! We love her so much - even if she is a snack queen and candy hound!

We love you Sofie! We're so happy to have you in our family! Happy Birthday!

Oquirrh Mountain Temple

2009-07-01T12:29:00.000-07:00

We had the opportunity to take the kids to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Open House.

It was much easier than the Draper Temple Open House (which took 3 hours at night, in February). This one was much quicker, and much warmer!
We loved it and are so happy to have yet another beautiful Temple so close to our home.

A couple of my latest creations

2009-06-24T22:32:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of cakes I did over the last week or so.

The first was ordered as just a tombstone cake, but It just looked so blah, all grey and such. So I thought I would brighten it up with some flowers.
This next one was for my cute niece in Pennsylvania who just graduated from High School. I shipped it overnight - and it came out on the other nearly perfect. It was so fun to be able to be a small part of her graduation party. Congrats Morgan!

Sunshine!

2009-06-22T08:07:00.001-07:00

Welcome Summer!

Oh how I've missed you! I can't wait to be warmed by your sun!

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T21:31:00.000-07:00

It was a great day - and pretty nice weather to boot! I have a LOT of catching up to do with this blog - but it will have to wait a couple of more days.

Happy Father's Day to my dad, and to Jeff. I appreciate all you do and the great influence you are on others. Love you!

A Surprise Visitor

2009-06-19T12:05:00.000-07:00

My sister Dianne came into town for a visit, and brought a special present from Arizona for the girls. She arrived late, and we actually had to wake up the girls for the unveiling.

Cousin Jane! Boy was Bella surprised! Jane came up with exactly how she wanted the surprise to happen, and made little cards for Bella and Sofie.During their week long visit, we made calzones:

Enjoyed the beautiful outdoors, as well as a little shopping, and took a trip to Gardner Village:

And just played and had fun. Thanks Dayna for allowing her to come out - we had a ball!

Field Day

2009-06-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

Bella had her field day at school today.

She played lots of games outside, enjoyed otter pops and had a fun lunch with mom and Sofie & Reed at McDonalds.

The crowning event was when the firefighters came with their ladder truck and soaked all those that were willing to participate. It wasn't very warm outside, and I was surprised so many voluntarily got soaked! A fun time was had by all!

Jelly tacos?

2009-05-26T11:25:00.000-07:00

One guess as to who came up with THAT concoction. Yes, it was Sofie. For lunch today she told me she wanted a jelly taco. Just grape jelly (no peanut butter) on a piece of bread that she folds in half herself.
You see, ever since I canned jam & jelly a week ago, the kid has been nuts about "the grape stuff", as she likes to call it. Never mind that I have peach jam, peach/strawberry jam, strawberry jam, and grape jelly. It's only the grape stuff on her menu.
And this is what our PB&J food storage shelf looks like now. Only one row of peanut butter, not much, when you compare it to the jam section.

Under construction

2009-05-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

If you noticed my blog was down - sorry! I have no clue as to what happened, but it's up again, and I'm not done fixing it yet.

Check out my recipe blog for Brenda's yummy "homemade almond joy" cookies. I made the recipe twice in a 4 day period - to die for!

Piggy Bank

2009-05-18T07:12:00.001-07:00

Sofie decided that it was high time she 'made an investment in herself', and 'put her money where her mouth is'. So, last night she swallowed a penny.

The girls had been told repeatedly to go to bed. I was in the middle of a meeting downstairs when I was informed of the 'deposit' Sofie made. I guess she found something better to do than go to bed. After a trip to the instacare (got there 5 minutes before they closed), the penny is in her stomach and now we wait . . . for the withdrawal.

Mini fan

2009-05-11T09:31:00.000-07:00

I miss this scrunchy little baby face!Almost every day I hear from my little guy "sparky bus". Having NO idea what he was talking about, I finally asked Jeff. I had been hearing it for about a month, and when I asked him about it, he said "What? You mean he remembered that?"

Apparently one Saturday while he was on the computer, he showed this video to the kids. Reed never forgot it.

Then there's "Sparky Goes to School", another mini fan favorite. Click here to watch it.

The Blame Game

2009-05-08T08:38:00.000-07:00

My kids are now in the habit of blaming everyone else for something that's wrong. "Who dumped the cereal all over the floor?" Response: Anyone but themselves.

So this morning when I asked Sofie "Who stuffed this marker in here?" She responded "Brody did it".
Brody is Sofie's cousin. Now I wouldn't put it past Brody to do something like this, but the fact of the matter is, Brody lives in California. He has never visited us here in Utah.

Hmmmmm . . . I wonder if Sofie is telling the truth?

How do your eyelashes grow?

2009-05-07T13:32:00.001-07:00

Last night on the news there was a story about how to get your eyelashes to be longer and thicker. I was amazed! I'm dying to try this, but I think I'll wait until a generic comes out for it. It's a little pricey for me right now. Make sure you watch both parts of the story.

Part 1 - click here

Part 2 - click here

Happy Birthday Jane!

2009-05-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to one of my favorite people!

What we love most about Jane:
* She's the nicest person you'll ever meet.
* She's a fabulous host.
* We love her yummy food and delicious treats she makes.
* She's so talented and we love her generosity in always taking our photos. I never have to take a camera with me when Jane's around. And her photos are 100x better than anything I could take!
* She's beautiful, inside and out, and has a darling little family we love so very much!

We love you Jane! Thanks for all you do and for being you! We celebrated yesterday with a fabulous dinner that Susan made, and some yummy chocolate buttercream cupcakes. Can you tell they were good?

Wickedly Good!

2009-05-04T08:37:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday I had the opportunity to attend "Wicked"! Loved it, loved it, LOVED IT!

My friend Challene was the source of the tickets. Her sister camped out all night, before Christmas, IN UTAH, without a tent! She bought tickets for Challene and her husband to attend, and thankfully, her husband really wasn't interested in going. I was more than willing to pay for the ticket and attend.

The cast was phenomenal, the costumes, amazing, and the storyline was fascinating. I highly recommend it. I laughed, cried, and loved every second of it. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time.

Walk-a-thon

2009-04-24T22:24:00.000-07:00

Bella's school had a fundraiser today - a walk-a-thon.

Bella raised money (Thanks to Grandmas & Grandpa and Aunts & Uncles!) and walked a WHOLE MILE! It was fun and a we loved doing it as a family with her.

Sofia!

2009-04-23T07:01:00.000-07:00

This sassy little thing says the funniest things to me all day long. From saying words like "arshmellow" to referring a little girl as a "girl kid". The other day Reed was eating a granola bar and took a drink from Sofie's cup. When she got the cup back it was filled with granola backwash. She took one look at it and hollered at Reed very sternly "you gotta brush your teeth Reed!"

She just started swimming lessons. Or as Sofie calls them "swimming blessings". It's too cute to watch her sit on the little step and wait her turn! She was shocked to find out that her preschool teacher was not her swimming teacher. She adapted well to the change of instructors though.

She doesn't look very happy here, but I assure you she loves her lessons!

Watch out world! Here she comes!

2009-04-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

This cute girl learned how to ride her bike last week! Hurray!

She had spring break, so we worked with her for a couple of evenings, and on the second night, she figured it out. She was so happy we had to take it in the dark on the night she learned. Then the next couple of days it snowed and rained, and boy was she sad that she couldn't go out and practice.

She also had her first soccer game on Saturday. I'll take pictures this week of her at her game. She loves it, but doesn't understand why she needs to practice, because she says "I already know how to play!"

Reed Turns 2!

2009-04-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

My baby turns into a little boy today!

He kicked off his 2nd year with a bang last night and dislocated his elbow. Otherwise known as "nursemaid elbow", I took him over to the urgent care about 7:00, paid only $15, and we were home by 8:00. Thankfully, it didn't cost much, or take much time. But it was sad to see him coddle his little arm and hear him say "hurt mama" over and over again. He didn't cry though, he is very tough and generally gets a bonk and walks it off. This time he kept wincing and pulling on his fingers, and that's how I knew it really hurt.We had his party this weekend, and had lots of fun with Grandma, Aunt Jane & Uncle Aaron, and lots of cousins. We were happy that Reed's college cousins Katie, Ben and Shelly could join as well!

It was a Curious George theme, and since we tend to have a perpetual wind in our neighborhood, we had everyone bring kites. We had "Curious George flies a kite", and "Curious George goes camping" and had a tent set up. We had bubbles and sidewalk chalk to keep the children entertained as well. There was coloring table where each child had a Curious George coloring book just for them. We had a fun game of "Pin the tail on the donkey", Curious George style involving a butterfly, and feasted on hamburgers, hot dogs, and all the fixings.No party is complete without beating a poor pinata beyond recognition of course. Reed had become quite good friends with "George" during the week, as the pinata sat in my closet. He'd walk in and say "Hi George" periodically throughout the day. I think he was quite confused with the poor thing came crashing down in 2 pieces!

In lieu of a fancy cake, I did something different and more simple. We had frozen chocolate banana pops. I did a small cake for Reed to blow out the candles, but due to the terrific "kite flying" wind, we couldn't get the candles lit! Oh well, we'll light them tonight and sing again!He opened his presents and got a GeoTrax train station, and lots of tracks. He loves it! He has played with it non-stop, and loves the remote control to make the train go.

What I love most about Reed at this age:
He always has a little toy in his hand, typically, a car or a motorcycle.

That anytime he has a ball in his hand, it HAS to be thrown
(this can also be frustrating though when in a grocery store, or the ball is a golf ball at Grandpa's head!)

He still loves to give me hugs and kisses!
I love you Reed! Happy Birthday little boy!

Time is running out!

2009-04-16T14:53:00.000-07:00

If you are in the Salt Lake/Utah County area - you really should consider this fantastic deal!

When was the last time you had a family picture taken that you absolutely love? How about a photo to show off your little one's new tooth? What about a photo of just you and your husband? Now's the time to capture those precious moments, because time does not stand still!

My fabulous sister-in-law Jane is still booking sittings for photo sessions at the amazing introductory price of $35! Click here to check out her new photography blog.

Book before April 22nd to take advantage of this deal. After the 22nd, it will be $50 (which is still a steal!). I promise you WILL NOT be disappointed! And if you are, she'll take you out again until you are happy with the end result.Call or email me if you want her phone number. We love our photos!

Britain's Got Talent

2009-04-15T10:08:00.000-07:00

Katie sent this to us in an email. To me, this is what reality TV is all about. Jeff and I have watched this so many times, and love it!

Click here to view video

Faux hawk

2009-04-14T15:26:00.001-07:00

Let me tell you, I am 100% not a fan of the "faux hawk" (especially at church), nor am I a fan of a mohawk. But I couldn't resist taking photos of Reed with his major bad bedhead, after his nap today.It actually looks like people are intentionally doing to their little boy's hair. Maybe they just don't want to do their kids' hair when they wake up, and this is the result.

Easter Fun

2009-04-13T20:45:00.001-07:00

The beans were planted

(If you're unfamiliar with our tradition, click here)

And harvested
The baskets were filled (thank you Mr. Easter Bunny)

the children were delighted

For the first time, they had stuffed bunnies in their baskets. They were very excited about the new addition to their baskets. Bella's is named "Cadbury" (after mommy's pet bunny growing up), Sofie's is named "Strawberry Shortcake", and Reed's is named "Blue Bunny" (after the ice cream, yum!)Bella and her friend conjured up a plan to leave a note for the Easter Bunny requesting an egg hunt all over the house. She was, however, disappointed to hear that the Easter Bunny could not write her a note back. I had to explain that unlike Santa, or the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny is an animal, and how on earth could he write with those giant paws? She didn't care the next morning when she and her siblings had 50 candy-filled eggs to find. Thanks Jeff, just what the kids need. More candy. Couldn't you fill them with trail mix?

Reed LOVED egg hunts!
After church we enjoyed a fabulous dinner and dessert with Grandma Susan, Jane, Aaron & kids.
We hope you all had a great Easter weekend, filled with family, friends, and a remembrance of the reason for the holiday.

Facebook

2009-04-10T08:27:00.001-07:00

My blog is now on Facebook! If you are on FB, you can check out any updates to my blog much easier.

If you're not on FB - it's time you joined.

Talented Women

2009-04-09T07:52:00.000-07:00

I absolutely LOVE collaborating with other women. I have had many an opportunity to work with other women, and always love partaking of their many talents.

Some groups I have done:

Family home evening groups - where we each pick a topic and make a lesson for each member of the group. I have many, many great lessons for my family from doing this.

Dinner group - 4 of us each pick a night of the week. My night is Wednesday. Each week I make dinner for my family, and the other 3. It is delivered typically in early afternoon with instructions to finish the meal (by baking, grilling, sauteing, etc.)

And my latest is a Sacrament meeting group. We had a group of 20 women, and each of us contributed 20 of the same item. It had to be something to keep kids quiet during Sacrament meeting. We had items for different ages, but most were for younger children (it seems their attention span is a bit shorter!). I am making 3 different bags out of the items I received. That way I can rotate them, and it will better keep their attention.This a list of what I received:

(4) file folder games

(1) Sacrament Bingo (mark off words you hear, leave it my kids to be the ones to scream BINGO in the middle of it all)
(1) Mini chalkboard & eraser
(2) Paper dolls with outfits
(1) Flipchart on latter-day prophets
(1) Articles of Faith keychain (Bella will love this, she's been working on memorizing them)
(1) Gospel coloring book
(1) Puzzle
(1) "Learn about time" reusable workbook
(1) Shapes - use them to make pictures
(1) Reusable gospel game/puzzle book for kids that can read
(4) Lacing cards
(1) "I Spy" bag

(1) Gospel ABC's flipchart
(1) Book to read during the Sacrament
(1) Sticker/notepad booklet
(1) Crayon roll up with notepad

If any of you want any information on how to start any of these groups on your own, let me know, I'd be happy to forward what information I have to you!
Speaking of creativity, my sister forwarded this to me, and I love how they portrayed this short bit from President Uchtdorf's talk.

Happy Spring!

2009-04-07T21:24:00.000-07:00

Today was the kind of spring day we Utahns dream about! (Did I really just call myself a UTAHN?) Oh dear, I must have brain freeze!

It was 70 degrees and fabulous!Jane, my adorable sister-in-law, is now accepting photography clients! Yeah! She's an absolute STEAL, and you must make your appointment before her prices quadruple (because they will before too long, she's THAT good!). She is only charging $35 for a 1 hour photo session, editing of the photos, and a CD with all the photos on it. Click here to visit her blog, and see more fabulous photos.

She took the kids photos today in their Easter outfits, and they turned out darling! I LOVE them! I'm so excited to have good photos of each of them, and all three of them together. Now THAT is a feat! Reed was being an absolute stinker, and for much of the photo session, he absolutely REFUSED to cooperate, or be anywhere near the camera. Amazingly enough, she got great photos of him. I'm telling you, she's great!

Judge for yourself:

New Party Blog

2009-04-07T13:15:00.000-07:00

I am being featured today on this great party blog!

It's called "Creative Parties and Showers" and it has some darling ideas. This is a definite "go to" for me now for looking for party ideas. In the next 5 months, I have all three kids birthdays, so it's great timing!

Click here to check it out!

Wild things

2009-03-25T16:15:00.000-07:00

I'm so looking forward to this movie:

Click here to see the trailer for Where the Wild Things Are

Happy Birthday Jeff!

2009-03-23T19:52:00.000-07:00

Today is Jeff's Birthday. We always have quite the week of celebrating, because our birthdays are 6 days apart.

If honor of our birthdays, we enjoyed a weekend getaway to Manti. My niece Shelly came to stay with the kids and we left on Friday, and came home Sunday night. It was great. A much needed break. We loved going to a small town, and having that peaceful, slow paced atmosphere. As much as I love living in/near a big city, there's nothing like a small town. We love just driving around from small town to small town, and walking down Main Street and checking out all the little shops.We stayed at the Yardley Inn & Spa, a little bed & breakfast. It was so nice, and the owners were extremely consciencious of the guest, making sure everyone was comfortable and their needs were met.
This is definitely on our list of places we must return to before too very long. It was great to have a conversation with my husband and not hear little people yelling at me for things, or wanting to interject their own conversations.
It was also nice not to have to load/unload kids everywhere we went. I didn't have to pack snacks, carry a diaper bag, push a stroller, put hairbows in little ponytails, or listen to a temper tantrum all weekend! Talk about luxury!
The other thing we loved, and the main reason we picked Manti, was to attend the Temple. I have admired the Manti Temple since I was very young. My sister Dayna had a large picture of it hanging in her room, and I've always thought it was beautiful. Now I know the inside is even more magnificent. It is a definite favorite of ours now, and we can't wait to return again.

So tonight I decided to have a little (tiny crowd) surprise birthday party for Jeff. Coming off of a weekend away, it was quite little, and not as put together as I would have liked it, but it worked out to be a fun time. It was a "sports" theme, so he had a football balloon, and a baseball balloon. I quickly made these cake pops into basketballs and baseballs. My friend picked up these baseball candles (that's what's stuck on top of the cake balls - it's a little hard to figure out why they're double decker!) that went along with the theme perfectly.
And we had a baseball pinata. All the kids took their turn. It had to be in our basement because A) It was snowing outside, B) It was freezing outside, C) Even if it wasn't snowing or freezing outside, we have no tree or deck from which we could hang it from.
And the birthday boy got to take the final swings to break it open. I think he needs to get back on a softball team, check out that form!Happy Birthday Jeff! Thanks for a fabulous weekend, a fun day, and fantastic 10+ years of being together! Love you!

The festivities

2009-03-18T09:33:00.000-07:00

I woke up to this on my porch:

I have NO idea who did this, but have would just like to say "THANKS" to Chantelle and Crystal. I don't know why I'm thanking them, for telling everyone how OLD I am!

And then at lunchtime my door rang and it was my sweet husband holding balloons, and a cake from "Nothing Bundt Cakes".

Yummy! We enjoyed it after dinner last night. Jeff even bought ding dongs for the kids so I could eat more of the cake! I loved having it for breakfast this morning as well!

He also brought me flowers, with Lilies in it. I LOVE the smell of lilies in the house! I enjoyed a great lunch out with some friends, and loved all the sweet messages from each of you! Thanks for thinking of me!

Happy Birthday to ME!

2009-03-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day to each of you!

In honor of my birthday, I've decided to post something (amazing, huh?).

I've already had so many fun things I've done for my birthday. I've gone for a pedicure (love them!), went to dinner at 5 guys burgers and fries (yum!), and went to see a movie. I also have enjoyed having Jeff's sister Aileen and her family in town this weekend, along with Jeff's aunt Marilyn and cousin Jenny in town.
Jane, Susan, Aileen, Aunt Marilyn, Jenny, and Aunt Carol and I had a day out. We had so much fun shopping, eating, and laughing yesterday. Read more about Marilyn here. Went to Tai Pan and found some treasures, then to Gardner Village for more shopping and lunch. It was great.

Then I hosted dinner last night and had Jeff's family over. We put the trampoline cover back on (took it down for the winter) and the kids had a blast bouncing all over the place. Here's the 11 cousins that were all together. We missed you Katie & Jack! They had a ball. I made "Herbed Chicken in Puff Pastry" for dinner. I'll post it on my recipe blog soon. It was yummy!

Looking forward to lunch with my girlfriends today - I'll post more soon!

makeup brushes

2009-03-13T10:07:00.000-07:00

So I saw this on the morning show last month and decided that was what I wanted for my birthday. New makeup brushes. Mom & Dad sent me a little cash for my b-day next week, and I'm going to Target to pick out some brushes.

Click on this link to read about the must haves for brushes. Maybe you too will decide you need some new ones.

Cute

2009-03-13T09:14:00.000-07:00

I just found this blog called "a print a day" and she has free downloads. Check out this super cute sheet of little girls dresses gift tags.

Spring Dress Party!

2009-03-03T20:52:00.000-08:00

I am having another dress party on Monday! There are 1000 dresses to choose from, sizes 2T-14 and also infant dresses. They range from $20 to $37. This year she has a sale rack of $20 dresses from previous years. She will also have Baptism dresses available.

I have done these for years now, and always find great dresses for the girls. You can find matching dresses for all ages, and she can mail you any sizes she has out of stock. I always get many compliments on the girls unique dresses from the dress party.Monday March 9th

12:30-2:30 p.m.
In my driveway

If you need directions to my house, please email or call me.

Dress parties are going on all over the valley. From Spanish Fork to Sugarhouse. If you would like to attend one in your area, email me, and I'll find the party closest to you.

Of course there's a bonus to me if you can make it to mine.
I would love to see you there!

Can't I just have a little piece of heaven?

2009-02-26T21:00:00.000-08:00

So, can you tell I haven't been into blogging lately? I've been keeping myself quite busy as usual. I've been working on refinishing headboards/footboards for the girls. Bella's is done, still working on Sofie's. I'll post photos when I'm done. I have much to catch up on, but not right now.

If you've seen the popular blog thing to do lately is to go into "google" and type your first name and the word "needs" after it. See what top 10 things you supposedly need. I did it, and kept coming up with other people's blogs that have done it. So I changed it to "Dawn wants"

1. Dawn wants a piece of heaven (how true is that?!)
2. Dawn wants a fish
3. Dawn wants any and all!!!
4. Dawn wants robo calls stopped
5. Dawn wants K-mart shoppers' attention
6. Dawn wants to rethink the way we treat animals
7. Dawn wants to talk about her feelings for a little bit
8. Dawn wants to make certain everyone in Nevada has the same opportunity to achieve his or her own aspirations.
9. Dawn wants to try it out
10. Dawn wants to start a family

It's pretty funny, you should see what it is YOU want out of life. Google will tell you.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T22:08:00.000-08:00

The kids enjoyed a fun box from Auntie Di - always a treat!Loved putting together their valentines for their friends at school.

Woke up to fun Valentine's presents on their plates.

The girls got little Barbie MP3 players - which they LOVE!

Reed got a new truck which makes lots of noise - so fun!

We had our usual heart shaped pizza - the kids really were dressed and ready between breakfast and dinner, I just happened to take photos after baths that night.

And our yummy dessert was cake balls - mmmm . . . good!

It was so much fun!

The Buzz

2009-02-10T21:03:00.000-08:00

So on the news they're talking about how Africanized Killer Bees have been found in traps in and Southern Utah. They want to alert Utahns that the Bees have arrived to the state, and to take some precautions. Don't panic, just make sure that your home is secure without any holes through the exterior walls, and call emergency workers if you suspect you have some on your property.

What do they expect? After all, Utah is the BEEHIVE state.

100th Day of School

2009-02-06T22:04:00.000-08:00

Today was Bella's 100th Day of school. Her teacher had all kinds of activities involving them counting to 100. One thing was that each child was to bring 100 items to school. We decided to make cookies. Bella used some food coloring pens to number the cookies.

We had so much fun making them together, and she had fun counting them out again at school and distributing them to her classmates.

And the winner is . . .

2009-02-05T07:37:00.000-08:00

Sarah!

I'll get it in the mail to you today - Congratulations & Happy Valentine's Day!

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2009-02-05 15:37:27 UTC

Silly Sofie

2009-02-04T08:06:00.001-08:00

Sofie is a crack up! She can also be an absolute mess (thanks to being 3). Here are some of the funny things she's done lately.

Jeff told the kids it was time to take a bath, and Sofie responded while giggling "DAD! We don't have to take a bath, we took a bath last year!"

We were in the car, and Sofie was singing at the top of her lungs, (to the tune of "Jimmy Crack Corn") "Kitty Cat Corn, and I Care, Kitty Cat Corn, and I Care" over and over again.

She is constantly asking for her hair to be put in a braid, any kind of braid, and today I found out why. She likes to un-braid it at night when she goes to bed. She demonstrated it this morning just after I braided her hair.

On Sunday we were leaving Aunt Jane's house and Sofie was missing a shoe. I told the kids "whoever finds Sofie's shoe gets a quarter!" Bella and Julia were scrambling. Jimmy had no interest in a mere quarter. I decided we'd looked long enough and told the kids we were leaving. Sofie was still concerned she'd never have her shoe again. I reassured her that Aunt Jane would find it and give it to us the next time we saw her. Then she said "and Aunt Jane will get a quarter!".

Thanks WAMU!

2009-02-04T08:01:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning I had a call from our bank that they had declined my debit card that morning for an online purchase. They were wondering if we had authorized the transaction.

Come to find out, someone was trying to buy something from an Italian website (computer equipment, go figure) for $179. Our bank thought it was suspicious, and declined the payment. It was fraud, and they are reissuing us new cards.

Jeff and I were very relieved that they caught it, and hope that is the end of it. Now we are going to check our credit report and make sure it it still as it should be.

Busy & a giveaway!

2009-01-30T14:12:00.000-08:00

I have been very busy with spring cleaning. Not because it's spring by any means, but because I'm wishing spring would arrive. Which would mean summer is closer, and I would once again enjoy Utah weather.

We've organized the food storage by doubling our shelves and steam cleaned the entire house, including all the upholstery and the van interior. I've cleaned and conditioned the leather sofa, and am getting ready to wash walls, baseboards and blinds. There's much to do still.

I am all decorated for Valentine's Day and thought I'd share with you a little bonus. Read on . . .

It always starts with the entry table

My favorite is Bella asking me it that is a really old picture of Daddy and Reed, because it doesn't have any color.
And my tradition of hanging something above the stairs continues:
My mirror, which changes with each holiday. You can see the reflection of the hanging hearts in it, which makes it hard to distinguish what's on the mirror, and what's n0t.
And the upstairs even got a little "sweet treat"
And for your bonus - I'm giving away this Valentine garland to one lucky winner!
All you have to do is make a comment on this post with a fav0rite Valentine's day tradition. Click here to see our tradition. The contest will end Wednesday night, Feb. 4th at midnight. I will use random generator to pick a winner. Only one entry per person please!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Birthday Debbie!

2009-01-22T14:40:00.000-08:00

My sister Debbie is having a birthday today. She is 37! (I love being the youngest girl - now that we're older!)Debbie is hilarious. If you ever want a great game, play Apples to Apples with her. She giggles nonstop, and loves to have fun.
She enjoys playing with her nieces and nephews, and coming up with funny names to call them. When Reed was just a bald little baby, she called him "Dallin H. Oaks". When she meets you, she'll tell you who you look like. Often times, it's a lesser known role in a movie. So don't be surprised if you don't know who she's talking about. Go back and watch the movie though, because she'll have the name right (whether they really resemble you or not!).

Love you Debs - you're one in a million! Happy Birthday!

Have you gone to get your free items?

2009-01-21T17:54:00.000-08:00

I went today to pick up some free treasures. First to the mall, where I went to Nordstrom & Dillards and picked up some free cosmetics.

If you haven't heard about it, there is a class action settlement that $175 million worth of cosmetics needs to be given away for free. You just show up, there's a table and a line. Sign the paper, and pick your product. At Nordstrom I had 3 to choose from. At Dillards, I had 2 to choose from. It started Tuesday, and can go for as long as 7 days, but it is until supplies last (Be careful, the first one's always free - you may get yourself hooked!).

Then I went to Bath & Body Works, and used this coupon (click here). There's no minimum purchase, we just bought a $1 item, and you get your free product.

Enjoy!

Mr. Greedy

2009-01-18T18:55:00.000-08:00

Bella got a "Crazy 8" card game for Christmas in her stocking. It was attached to a tube of big gumballs. She and Jeff had played many a round of the card game, each of them losing many hands. It's quite funny to see Jeff playing with cards that measure 1" x 1 1/2". They're about as big as his thumbs. Bella loves playing the game and doesn't mind losing, just so that she gets to play it again.

So with that in mind, we played a game at the end of our Family Home Evening lesson last Monday night. The lesson was so cute and was on sharing our love with others. The card game used characters from the lesson. The object was to collect sets of the same suit of card, and not get stuck with "Mr. Greedy". Instead, you wanted to have "Mr. Nicely" when the game ended.
So we played, and when the game ended Bella had "Mr. Greedy". Suddenly she burst into tears and was a complete lunatic. Upon questioning, she freaked out because she "didn't want the bad guy". Never did we know this would have such an effect on her. So we played two more hands, so that Mommy and Daddy each ended with him one time, and all was well.

OH REED!

2009-01-13T15:29:00.000-08:00

Reed still loves bananas, but he now has a new obsession that is quickly taking over the banana's 1st place ranking.

Oranges. Not just any old oranges, clementines.

He loves them so much that he'll ask for them AT LEAST 20 times a day. When we decided that 4 a day was plenty for a one year old, that wasn't good enough for him. He quickly realized how to open the refrigerator and get the oranges out himself. He then proceeds to bite the skin to peel it.

So, we have resorted to locking the refrigerator. He has messed with this lock all day long. He's pulled it and bent it, and tugged at it and has been unsuccessful at retrieving his orange.

So today I find him with a stepstool, trying to unlock the water and ice. For several months this has been another fascination. Pushing the lever so ice cold water goes streaming down his arm and all over the floor.

Here his giving one last try at picking the lock:

What is the government doing now?

2009-01-12T15:35:00.001-08:00

Some of you may have heard about the law that is going into effect February 10. It is called the Consumer Products Safety Improvement Act. It was signed by Congress last August. It states that any item that comes into contact with a child has to be lab tested and certified that it is lead free. Due to the cost, this will prohibit anyone selling handmade items for children.

Go here for more information on it.

Click here to contact your congressman

Click here to contact your senator

Click here for a sample form letter

I'm back to blogging!

2009-01-12T15:00:00.000-08:00

Happy 2009! It's been a bit crazy trying to get Christmas taken down, sorted through, and put away. I did it and even have a box to donate of Christmas decorations to boot.

We have been busy cleaning and organizing, since that is one of my New Year's Resolutions. So far, we've thoroughly cleaned the playroom (happens about every couple of months) and have it so that children can no longer be lost in the mess.

My laundry room has been a sore subject for quite some time. Simply because it is unfinished, in the unfinished basement. It's a pain to get everything down there, back up again, and to remember that I have laundry to do (out of sight, out of mind). Also, my washer was starting to not work so good (I wonder why, it's only about 30 years old). It started with the gift of a washer and dryer from my friend Michelle. They bought front loaders on an amazing sale, and gave us their 8 year old set. It's amazing how 20 years newer affects your laundry! We are working on the dryer, it has a little part that needs fixing, so it still isn't installed yet, but soon will be. So with new machines coming, I got busy while Jeff was watching the second half of the Sugar Bowl.

There was a closeline strung up between the studs for me to hang my clothes on to dry (I only put towels, socks, jammies, etc. in the dryer). We took advantage of a terrific IKEA sale on some shelves. I went to Lowe's and picked up a 10' closet rod, and some brackets to hold it up. We had been storing everything (detergent, cleaning supplies, cleaning rags, etc.) on the floor in boxes because I had no shelves or cupboards. It always bothered me that it is right next to the playroom and completely accessible to the children, or any children visitng for that matter. So now they are up off the floor and out of the way. My laundry room feels so much larger now!

Eventually, when we finish the laundry room, I am making a laundry chute from our closet down to the laundry room. And of course we'll have plenty of cupboards and baskets and such. But in the mean time, this is TONS better.

Before:

After:And we did it all for under $50! The shelves and the rod we can reuse when we actually finish the room, so it definitely wasn't money wasted.

Christmas Morning

2008-12-25T20:09:00.000-08:00

When Bella woke us up at 7:30 this morning she informed us she knew Santa had been here because the milk was gone! That's about all she could see from the hallway without going into forbidden territory.Santa had been here. And what does daddy say? "Go back to bed, it's too early." Bella was about ready to burst into tears, so I had to quickly inform him that on school days we're LEAVING at 7:30, it's not too early, and most families of little kids are up at 6:00 a.m.
They were so happy to see the treasures they'd asked for. A "littlest pet shop" stuffed animal (you can play on the internet) for Bella, and a "puppy with pink ears" for Sofie.
Reed didn't care about the big gifts sitting unwrapped in plain sight. He went straight for the wrapped gifts. This would be why there weren't any under the tree until last night!

Sofie loved her new sleeping bag, and Bella got a bike.

Reed loved his rocking horse.

Bella is sure that Santa fills the stockings, because Mommy and Daddy
would NEVER give them that much candy.

They always get toothbrushes and toothpaste in their stockings. This year they were all "Tooth Tunes". Bella & Sofie have brushed their teeth at least 3 times today, they love them so much!

Then they had their big surprise upstairs - they can't believe it!
A fun bouncer to put in the basement and jump ALL winter long!

The gifts were fun to open. Adorable matching jammies for the girls from Auntie Di - love those cupcakes!
Every time Reed unwrapped a book, he would take it over to daddy and have him read it. He took his time opening presents, but had a ball.

Sofie loves her new baby, complete with a car seat. She hasn't put it down all day.

Bella tried out her new cupcake maker on dessert tonight. She frosted cupcakes for all the kids.

Reed loves his new ASU hat

It was such a fun morning, and relaxing day.

Once Jeff got the drive and porch shoveled, it got even better! We finished off the day exchanging gifts with Grandma and Jane & Aaron. We had a yummy dinner and we were glad the storm let up enough that they could make it over.

Another storm is moving in, I just hope I can get out and go shopping in the morning!

Christmas Eve

2008-12-25T19:37:00.000-08:00

We had the pleasure of spending Christmas Eve with Grandma Susan, in her beautiful home. We had a fun night with Jane & Aaron and the kids, and the many activities Grandma had planned for all the little ones. After a delicious dinner, the kids started on their dessert.
They each got to make their own snowman out of mini donuts, donut holes, pretzels, peppermint patties, mini Reese's peanut butter cups, and mini M&M's.
They had a ball making them, and kept constructing them until they were covered in powdered sugar. (Hmmm . . .maybe that's what precipitated this snowstorm!)

We love our cousins, aunts, uncles and Grandparents!!

The kids all gathered around to hear Grandma read "Twas the Night Before Christmas". During the story there was a loud noise outside, and we heard some jingle bells. When Grandma went outside to see what it was, she found a small Santa sack full of presents!
She had called Santa on his cell phone and asked if he could stop by the party. He was too busy, so he dropped a little bag from his sleigh while he was flying over for the kids.

The kids loved their new PEZ dispensers.
Then Grandma gave them each a little Christmas present.
Reed got a fun animal book. The girls all got matching baking sets with aprons.
Then I gave my kids each their traditional Christmas Eve gift.

I made the girls matching nightgowns, and Reed some puppy pajama pants.
Then we headed home, for there was much to do before going to bed. First we had to write Santa his note, and leave him and the reindeer some snacks.
Because we don't have a fireplace, we had to put the magic key on the door so Santa could get in.

Then it was bedtime, and it was so hard to fall asleep.

December - part 2

2008-12-25T19:07:00.000-08:00

On Bella's last day of school she had an assembly. It was just for the students, but the parents that were volunteering that day in the classrooms attended. All the kindergartners and first graders sang "Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer" in English, and then in Spanish. It was so cute, and they did a great job.
On Monday night we had an extended family Christmas gathering, with Jeff's cousins and aunts and uncles. It was so much fun, as always, and the kids loved participating in a Nativity.

We also had an opportunity to go to Temple Square to see the Christmas lights. We went at the beginning of the month, before it got too cold, and before the crowds hit. It is such a beautiful setting for lights, and they do such a fantastic job lighting up everything.
The kids loved it, the adults loved it, and we all felt the warm Christmas spirit that only Christ can bring.
It was a great way to start off the month. As always, we love attending fun activities like this with Jane & Aaron and their family, and Grandma Susan.
Merry Christmas everyone! We hope you had a wonderful Christmas season like we did. We have loved visiting with you over the phone, seeing you in person, and receiving your Christmas letters. We miss you all when we are far apart!

Snow anyone?

2008-12-25T14:19:00.000-08:00

Snow? Oh, we have lots and lots of it. It's all been too wet to build snowmen with.After one of these many snowfalls Jeff was out shoveling. Reed was insisting on going out with his daddy (as he often does). So I bundled him up and sent him out. He was a bit hesitant at first, but quickly grew to love it.
It was hilarious watching him follow Jeff around. My favorite photo I took of them is blurry - but I think you get the picture.The other day Bella went sledding with her little friend Mikayla. Typically her friend can stay out for 3 hours. Bella came back into the house after 30 minutes. After being sent back out by Mikayla's mom, she lasted another 30 minutes and was done. She told her mom, "I guess I'm just not a snow kinda gal". But yet when she came home, she told me over and over again how much she loved sledding. She's hilarious.

And today, on Christmas Day, this is the storm we received.It was so, so windy, snow just clung to every little surface. It was crazy how you couldn't see hardly anything because the snow was just blowing everywhere. It almost looks like there are little reindeer tracks on our porch.

December - part 1

2008-12-25T13:31:00.000-08:00

This is a recap of many things we did this month. We had so much fun, and were so busy. I would hate to not have the photos in my journal.The month started out with a trip to the Ballet (or as Sofie calls it, "the Bella - way"). The girls were completely enthralled and mesmerized. It was put on my a dance company that Janelle (a little girl we carpool with) dances with. They do it every year. This was the first year that she was eligible to perform in it. You have to be at least 8 years old I believe. So I took the girls with Jessie (another carpooler) & Samantha, her little sister. Lolly (Janelle's little sister) was there with her family as well.It was called "Molly Mouse's Sugar Plum Debut". It was the music from "The Nutcracker" and it was darling. The costumes were excellent, and the dancers did such a great job. We can't wait to go again next year. Both girls are still talking about how much they want to do Ballet now.Here they are with "our little star of the show". Janelle is next to Bella, holding the flowers.

Next up was a holiday concert with the West Valley Symphony. They had a choir join them for the performance and it was awesome. If anything got me in the holiday spirit, it was this concert. I was all excited about Christmas after the concert. My friend Chantelle plays the cello, she's in the last photo, upper right hand corner.Where else can you see the Grinch and Santa together? They played "You're a mean one, Mr. Grinch", and the soloist sounded just like the one on the movie. It was cute and both of them handed out candy canes to all the kids. The do concerts a few times a year, I can't wait to catch another one!

Sofia had her preschool program. She did a great job with all the little actions to the songs, and singing so well.
It was based on the story "Twas the night before Christmas". She had a line to say, which was "As I drew in my head and was turning around, down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound."
She always has fun with her little friend Samantha, and they love going to school together.Her teacher Ms. Beckie is fabulous as well. We love all the hard work she puts into running a successful preschool.

We had a playgroup and a surprise guest showed up - SANTA! And he had the first gift of Christmas for each 0f the children.Needless to say, mine were a bit reluctant to sit on his lap. Like most children, they like him from afar. Unfortunately the only one I got of Reed is blurry. It's okay, it's not like he's smiling or anything! And in most of these photos, Sofie has a funky smile. Oh, it's such a great age for smiling.

'twas the night before Christmas . . .

2008-12-24T22:51:00.000-08:00

and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St. Nicholas, soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugarplums danced in their heads.And, it's done. I'm off to roll out the cinnamon rolls for breakfast, and then I'm going to bed.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and I hope you enjoy it with your families and loved ones.

Shake it!

2008-12-19T19:10:00.000-08:00

It just wouldn't be Christmas without doing "ElfYourself"!

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

December's halfway over?

2008-12-15T19:38:00.000-08:00

Since discovering that it was December, I've been a little on the busy side. I have the blog posts stacking up and much to post. I have finally downloaded the Phoenix photos on my computer (not too many) and will post about the last couple of weeks soon. Hopefully tomorrow.

Happy Birthday Dayna!

2008-12-15T19:23:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite photos of the two of us was taken on the day she went skydiving. I wanted so bad to do it with her. Sadly, now I will never do it, because I have little ones. I'm not that gutsy!

So, today she turned another year older, and if you know Dayna, she is always wiser. She's extremely smart and very savvy. Always stylish and her home is absolutely beautiful. She has impeccable taste. She's one of the only women I know that is skinnier after having babies than before (and she was skinny to begin with!).

While in high school, (she was a senior, I was a sophomore) we were often confused for one another. At the end of the day we would tell each other which of their friends said "hi" to us thinking that we were the other one. This did work to my advantage though, because the security guard "joe rent-a-cop" always thought that I was my sister. Seniors had an open lunch, sophomores did not. But I left everyday to go home for lunch, and never heard another thing about it.

Dayna and I have lived both near and far from each other and have been very close. We ran a successful business together, ( I remember a couple of entrepreneurial experiences) I even lived with them for a while, when I started culinary school. It was extremely difficult for me to move to Utah, so far away from her, after spending so many hours together running our business, and raising our kids together.

Dayna, you're a person I'll always look up to, and strive to be like. Forever an example to me. Thanks for the fun times, the sad times you helped me through, and the many memories.

I love you!

December already?

2008-12-04T21:28:00.001-08:00

I can hardly believe I'm decorating for Christmas.
Maybe it's because I just took down my Halloween decorations on Monday.

Happy Birthday Dean!

2008-12-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

I love your strength, courage, wisdom, faith, and wit. You have an awesome family, I love them so. I love you and think of you often. Miss you tons! You're the best!

Twilight once again

2008-12-03T07:43:00.000-08:00

Thanks go out to Torie and Challene today. They hadn't seen Twilight yet, so I went with them last night. It was much better the second time around. Pattinson still isn't the Edward in my head while reading the books, but he's gotten better since my first screening. Still wish he wasn't just wearing t-shirts and jeans the whole time, and I wish he had a better car.

Challene was hilarious to watch it with. She screamed so loud at one point the whole theater was cracking up. Maybe I'll really like it if I watch it a couple more times . . .

Happy Birthday Dianne!

2008-12-01T08:32:00.000-08:00

My sister Dianne is having a birthday today! Let me tell you a little about her, and our relationship.

She is older than I (well, all my sisters are older. Yes, it's great being so young!) and I have always looked up to her. I have many, many memories of her reading me bedtime stories, giving me baths, getting me dressed for photos, etc. Most of all, she did my hair every morning that she was home (not away at school or on a mission). And not only did she just do my hair, it was always so cute and stylish in fun fancy braids, with ribbons. I always received compliments on my hairstyles when Di did it.

Don't get me wrong, it's not like my mother watched soap operas and ate bon bons. She had her hands full running a household and being a wife and mother to 10 kids.

I had the opportunity to live with Dianne when I was 19. I left home and moved to St. Louis to live with her. I loved it! We had so much fun, I learned a ton, and have many great memories of our time together in Grandma's basement (not our grandma, that's another story).

Then we decided to move to - and went to Phoenix. Had we ever been to Phoenix before? No. Did we have jobs in Phoenix? No. Did we know anyone in Phoenix? Not really.

It was a hard first year there, but we got through it together. We didn't always love it, and we were pretty poor. But we still managed to have fun and we got very close because of it. I then left on my mission and circumstances changed for both of us.

After my mission when I looked into what profession I wanted to go into, I chose Culinary School. I researched all the schools and found the one that was a great education at a price point I could afford. The bonus was it was in Scottsdale.

Long story short, Dianne and I moved in together again, and once again began our adventures, while both in school.

She has always been a role model to me. Dianne is the best, and favorite, aunt around. We had so much fun staying with her on our visit home, and already miss her.

She's now a fantastic teacher, who puts her whole heart and soul into her fourth graders. They love her to pieces and I do to! Thanks Di for being you, and for helping me become the person I am today. I love you!

ASU! ASU!

2008-11-28T09:00:00.000-08:00

One of our favorite dates Jeff and I go on is to the ASU football games. We love to get out and enjoy the crowd, and some football. I'm not a huge football fan, but through Jeff and his great enthusiasm for ASU football, I can appreciate the game and it's fun to attend the games.

My favorite part of the date is eating at "The Chuckbox". Yes you sit on a wooden crate and it's not the most stylish restaurant. But it awesome football food. The line is always out the door on game days. Best hamburgers and fried mushrooms. (Jeff hesitated taking me there for the first time because I'd always make fun of the name. He was so shocked when I loved it.)

That's where we'll be tonight. Eating and cheering - ASU! ASU! ASU!

Let the shopping begin!

2008-11-27T17:00:00.000-08:00

We'll be taking part in the mayhem at midnight. The smartest thing retail ever did was to start opening stores at midnight, for those of us night owls!

What about you?

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T06:00:00.000-08:00

I hope you all have an enjoyable day with your families. I'm so grateful for my family, both near and far. For their love, support and most of all, friendship.

I'm grateful for my health and well-being. I'm grateful that I have a nice home to live in, in a nice neighborhood, with great friends all around me. I'm grateful that I live in this free country, where we can worship as we please, and raise our families as we choose.

I'm grateful for my loving husband. For his constant support and allowing me to be me. Because of him, I am a better person. I'm grateful for my children. For their sweet smiles and unconditional love for me. I love to see heaven when I look in their little faces.

I'm grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ. For his sacrifice which allows us to return to live with Him and our Heavenly Parents again. I'm grateful for the gospel in my life, for loving parents that have taught me values and to follow God's commandments.

Twilight

2008-11-25T23:31:00.000-08:00

Apparently I'm in the minority. I tried to go in without too high of expectations, but they were too high. I was pretty disappointed in the movie and really have no desire to see it again. I am however dying to read the books again so that I can recapture the feeling and excitement of the series.

In my opinion, they need to fire the make-up artist, the costume designer, and the director. I think some of the simplest things should have been addressed, that are important to the book. How hard would it have been to put Edward in a leather jacket? It's a big deal in the book, and he's wearing a stupid tweed jacket that's too small for him. And then they put a stupid blue jacket on him and zip it up to his chin - he looks ridiculous. He doesn't look like he's straight out of Calvin Klein ad, like he should. The fashion just wasn't there. And how hard would it have been to paint Bella's room yellow, it's too small for a rocking chair to fit in, and where did the brand new laptop come from? Where's her archaic computer?

My favorite characters were the villains. They were believable, and I am looking forward to seeing them in future movies. I was actually sad to see James die, he was a great cast. I didn't feel any chemistry between Edward and Bella.

Oh well. I'm so very glad that so many of you enjoyed it. I wish I could say the same!

World's worst pedicure

2008-11-25T08:18:00.000-08:00

I love pedicures. I try to get them every couple of months, but they're not the biggest priority. I have terrible feet, and am often filing away at them trying to make them smooth. So when I splurge for a professional to do it, I eat it up. My favorite feeling is going to bed after one and sliding my feet in between the sheets. Nothing snags or feels rough, just smoothness.

So my friend Challene and I decided it was time to have the feet done. She has gone to this school before and said it was good. They only charge $15, and do a really good job because they're students and the teacher is watching them.

We drop the girls off at preschool, and I dropped Reed off at a friend's house. We arrive and it was just a bad day I suppose.

The girl I had trimmed my nails for 45 minutes, NO JOKE! She then put some foot scrub on, and just when I thought she was going to start polishing, she starts trimming AGAIN! I actually had to tell her that they were trim enough. Please stop trimmming! Then, she goes to remove my calluses, and is barely even putting any pressure on the bottom of my feet. She asked me if I knew the store in the mall "Bath & Body Works". I replied "Yes, I love that store". She then said that they sell stuff for feet and that is what I needed to buy.

In my head I'm screaming "what are you talking about? This is what I'm paying you to do!!!"

It took almost 2 hours for the pedicures! I got home and my big toe already had a chip in the polish. Not a happy customer.

And to top it off, as I was checking out the lady informed me that they do eyebrow waxes. They didn't inform my friend that they perform that service. To me that's like going to a plastic surgeon to get your finger worked on and they inform you that they perform liposuction.

At least my chickie didn't cut me like Challene's guy did . . . TWICE! Then he sprayed alcohol on it. Smart. Poor thing woke up in the middle of the night with her toes throbbing.

I told her she could do whatever she wanted but I'm never going back there again. There's got to be someplace that is cheap AND decent.

Yea!!!

2008-11-24T08:03:00.000-08:00

I made sure my husband and I took advantage of the fantastic Utah weather and got our Christmas lights on the house. Last year we didn't do it before Thanksgiving (while the weather was decent), and regretted it afterward. So, it didn't happen last year.I purchased new lights after Christmas last year, so I was determined to get them up. It just took a while to convince Jeff to help me get up on the roof so I could do it like I wanted it done. I think he was little nervous the whole time I was up there, but it all went well. Except for the part where he didn't see the last box of lights. I got down and realized we'd missed one and now I just want to get back up and finish the job!

I wasn't going to turn them on until after Thanksgiving, but Reed loves them. Every time he wakes up, goes outside, pulls in the driveway, we open the front door, you name it! We hear "lights! lights!", over and over again. So, for my little man, we turn on the lights, and Jeff takes him outside at night to enjoy them.

Sofia Scissorhands

2008-11-20T11:06:00.000-08:00

I am happy to report that Sofie has made some progress in the scissors department. I pulled out a workbook I had picked up on clearance a few weeks ago. It was all on cutting. The day after "the incident", she spent about 5 hours (off and on) in this book. I think she got it out of her system, because it's been over a week now and she hasn't touched a pair of scissors (not that she could reach any if she tried!).

The day has finally arrived!

2008-11-20T11:02:00.000-08:00

Dear Anonymous

2008-11-19T20:04:00.000-08:00

To the person that doesn't like the fact that I don't like Utah
(see comment on post below)

#1 This is my journal. Therefore I can write whatever I choose. You can either choose to read it or not.

#2 I don't care for Utah, and anyone that knows me, knows that. I live here, because we have chosen to live here for good reasons. That doesn't mean that I have to like it, or say nice things about it. Once again, it's my journal and I can write what I choose.

#3 Imagine if you were to move away from Utah, at this moment, and go to Arizona. You would leave behind many friends, most likely family, places you are familiar with and enjoy. You would have many ties and wonderful feelings about Utah. That's how I feel about Arizona. It's more the ties that I have, the emotional ones, that draw me to the Phoenix area. Even if the summers are killer, I love it because of the people and the places I enjoy. I hope you can understand that.
I'm sure someday I'll feel the same way about Utah. It's getting better, but 14 years vs. 18 months, it's got a long way to go.

Love it

2008-11-18T10:59:00.000-08:00

You know Utah wouldn't be half bad if the weather could stay like this all winter long (60-65 degrees). Oh, wait, that's Phoenix.

I'll have some posts scheduled to go while I'm gone (hopefully I'll get it squeezed into this crazy schedule somehow!).

And I'll be loving the continuation of this fantastic weather - even a little warmer than this. Perfect. That's why I often refer to it as "The Holy Land".

Our 10 seconds of fame

2008-11-17T07:38:00.000-08:00

We were on the news last night here in Utah. Some of you heard that we were interviewed by Max Roth of Fox 13 about a month ago. It aired last night, in two parts.

You may not believe this, but they didn't choose me for my good looks, my fancy house, or because I'm a great interview. No, it just happened to be a matter of convenience on the part of the school. I was scheduled to go in and help Bella's class on a particular afternoon. I received a message from the principal about 45 minutes before I was supposed to leave. Reed wasn't feeling that great, so I was actually debating on going at all. The principal's message stated that the news was coming in to do a story and needed a parent to talk to. Because I was already coming in, would I be willing to talk to them. I called her back and told her that would be fine. At the end of our conversation she said "Oh, did I mention that they are coming to your house after school?" I replied by laughing "yeah, that's really funny". She said "No, really, personally I would need a cleaning crew to come in before they could come into my house." The reality began to sink in as I said "they're really coming to my house???!!!!" "Yes, they want to watch you do homework with Bella after school."

As I hung up the phone, I looked around. I wasn't dressed, or showered, and my hair really needed to be washed. The kids weren't dressed and they still needed to eat lunch. My house was a disaster with a sink full of dirty dishes. My son had diarrhea.
And I was supposed to walking out the door in 45 minutes???

Thanks to my great friend Chantelle for taking my little guy and exposing her children to yet one more childhood illness that no mother wants to deal with. I was able to tell the cameraman to only focus on a small area of the house that wasn't disgusting. The little girl you see with Bella at the house is Jessie. She is in Bella's class and we are great friends with their family. Her mom was working for a little bit, so Jessie would come over after school and we would keep her until her mom got off of work. It was great that she was able to do it with Bella, I think it helped Bella not be so camera shy.

To tell you the truth, I'm just glad I didn't sound like a dough head on TV, and my house didn't look like a total pig sty. I didn't say I didn't remember a lot of the spanish I learned on my mission, I said that I never felt completely comfortable speaking it.

In the video the reporter didn't get her name quite right. Bella thought it was funny at first, then it bothered her after a while. The first part is mainly us, the second part is another little boy in first grade (who's quite entertaining).

Click here for the video

Free photo book

2008-11-13T19:56:00.000-08:00

Click here to get a free photo book from snapfish. Oprah featured it on her show yesterday. You just have to click on it by Friday night, and it will apply the credit to your account. You have until Sunday night to redeem the coupon.

Have fun!

SOFIA!!!!!!

2008-11-11T11:06:00.000-08:00

I have a new theme song. It goes to the tune of a classic "Sound of Music" song about Julie Andrew's character "Maria".

How do you solve a problem like Sofia?

In the last week she has done the following:

Cut up a bunch of bananas into about 20 pieces
(she did this with a plastic knife, had bananas scattered all over the house. I have no idea how many Reed ate, but needless to say, he was in HEAVEN!)Opened a brand new box of cereal and dumped/scattered it all over the carpet in the basement where they play.
(from the great sale I went to last week. It was too late to put away the groceries when I got home the night before.

When a friend was over, she was the mastermind in taking 2 bottles of kids shampoo and pouring it all over the unfinished basement, and using the mop to spread it everywhere. Now my basement smells like cherry and coconut.
(same sale items that were promptly put away after this incident)

And that brings us to today. While I was on the phone with my parents, and trying to clean my room at the same time, she was watching a movie in the family room (or so I thought). I kept checking on her and she was just chill on the couch.
I went in the room about 5-10 minutes after checking on her and found this:
She got a hold of my kitchen shears (which are brand new, I can't believe she didn't cut herself), and cut up her cute new shirt, pants, and handmade beaded socks Stacia made. When that wasn't enough, she started on my couch cushions.
What was I doing you ask, while this mayhem was going on? Let's see, changing Reed's nasty diaper, taking a shower, and helping a friend upstairs.

I was able to get them patched, sewn and now they are turned backwards/upside down. Let's just hope something doesn't happen to the other side. She's wearing her lovely altered outfit all day today. If you'd like to come and see her new fashion design, come on by. You might even find her on the porch with a "FREE" sign around her neck.

For Sale

One sister for sale!

One crying and spying young sister for sale!

I’m really not kidding,

So who’ll start the bidding?

Do I hear the dollar?

A nickel?

A penny?

Oh, isn’t there, isn’t there, isn’t there any

One kid that will buy this old sister for sale,

This crying and spying young sister for sale?

-Shel Silverstein