Pulver Blessings

My Young Man

2012-02-06T10:45:00.000-07:00

My baby turned 12 on Friday. We had a fun party but that will be another post.
He was ordained Sunday, by his father, as a Deacon in the Aaronic Priesthood.
It was a bittersweet day.
I have the best calling in the ward. That of primary pianist. One of my favorite parts of the Sunday meetings is when I get to see my son walk into primary with his class. He always looks over at me with this twinkle in his eye. This week, though, I didn't get to see his smiling face. I was looking at the cute sunbeam boys sitting on their little chairs, thinking, where have the years gone?
I love watching him play basketball and beam at the fact that he makes the A honor roll but nothing has made me more proud than knowing that my husband and son are worthy to hold this privilege given to them by God. I am so thankful for Robb's perfect example. I think it is so wonderful that Heavenly Father trusts my two men with this extraordinary power. My son is now a young man and I couldn't be more proud to be his mother.

Weekend Fun

2012-01-31T15:29:00.001-07:00

Aaahhh. Softball in January. Gotta love Southern Nevada. Robb is in absolute heaven. Here are a couple pics from the weekend.

Seriously. . . have you ever seen cuter grandkids in your life? I think not.

Oh ya. He's still got it. "It" may be a little slower and much sorer the next day, but my man does still have it.

His team is great. They went 1 and 5 but had fun while doing it.

Jazz and her bff Josie were DJs at the Junior Prom. What gorgeous girls!

And, last but not least. . . . drum roll please. . . . We FINALLY got our new house!

We are still living out of boxes but soon it will be our "home" and Ill post more pics then.

ANTIGRAVITY

2012-01-23T19:05:00.000-07:00

Saturday Bobby had two games in St George. Afterwards, we went to Antigravity, which is the happiest place in St George! It is full of trampolines, dodgeball on trampolines, food, arcade, jumping houses, and fun, fun, fun.

The girls had a blast with the camera.

Not bad for a soon to be AARP member.

And, we always like to end a trip to St George by stopping at Krave.

Dont the boys look like they are having a blast?

Grandkids

2012-01-14T18:33:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the cutest grandkids in the whole wide world.

Not much different is happening in our lives right now. Basketball, basketball, student council, etc. Same ol, same ol. So, I thought I would share. This is especially for the "great" grandparents, who havent even got to see this little angel in the flesh yet.

ENJOY. . . .

I never thought I would love anyone as much as my kids but your grandkids. . . its a whole different kind of love.

"A grandchild fills a space in your heart that you never knew was empty."

"Kings Cake"

2012-01-08T14:35:00.000-07:00

I love learning and trying new things. Life is so short. You need to have as many experiences as possible. This is something that I enjoyed learning about this week at work.

"KINGS CAKE"

The roscón de reyes in Spain or rosca de reyes in Spanish America is traditionally eaten on January 6, during the celebration of the Día de Reyes (literally "Kings' Day"). In most of Spain, Mexico and sometimes Hispanic communities in the United States, this is the day when children get presents from the Three Wise Men (not Santa Claus). In Mexico children leave a shoe outside, filled with hay or dried grass for the animals the Kings ride, along with a note, before they go to bed. The Mexican rosca de reyes has an oval shape to symbolize a crown. For decoration, Spanish people use dried and candied fruits like figs, quinces or cherries. The fruit symbolizes the many jewels that a crown would have.

The tradition of placing a bean, candy or figurine doll of the Christ Child inside the cake is followed. Whoever finds it must take it to the nearest church on February 2, Candlemas Day (Día de la Candelaria), which celebrates the presentation of Jesus in the Temple. According to the Jewish tradition, an infant was to be presented to God in the Temple forty days after his birth. Nowadays in Mexico, people who find the figurines in their piece of the cake usually agree to host a party on February 2 and to provide the guests with tamales and atole.

(As you can see, I was one of the lucky ones to find a baby in my piece of cake. We tweaked this a little at work. There were 5 "babies" in the cake. Each one of us that got one agreed to bring money for pizza, not tamales, and we will have a lunch on the 2nd of February at work.)

See, I bet you learned something new today, too!

Christmas Fun

2011-12-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

(Turn off my music so you can hear the videos)

Our Christmas Eve tradition is to get together and play games, read stories, trivia and eat, eat, eat. Up until 5 or so years ago, we used to get together with the Nichols and go to the LDS Church gym in Lovell. Thats how many of us there were but we are all scattered and dont do it anymore. That was so fun!

This year, it was just our immediate family, but we still had a great time.

Here are the kids doing a Christmas songs lyrics game. Looks like they are thinking so hard.

Hope and Casey and our grandkids (still love saying it) spent 3 days at our house. Robb and I were in heaven. Kymbre and Kempton, who live in Mesquite also, came over every afternoon and we played games and ate big dinners. I swear I've gained 20 pounds.

Here is Bentley Christmas morning opening his first present. He really didnt understand but I'm very excited for next year when he will be so fun. Christmas just isnt as fun when they kids stop believing in Santa.

Our favorite past time.

One of the games we played was reverse charades. This is when your whole team does the actions and one person guesses. It gets pretty amusing at time. I dont know if you cant hear but this is the order of the clues: Nutcracker, snowman and jingle bells.

Jazz got Just Dance 3 for Christmas and we played for hours and hours. Even Robb joined in. He's such a good sport. I know he will get crap for this but I think he did an awesome job. Hes a pretty excellent dancer for being an old, white guy.

Might have to turn up the volume to hear the song. Robb wanted an 80s song and they are dancing to "Take on Me." Boy, I love this man.

I've said it before and I'll say it again. Having my family close is the best Christmas present I could ever ask for. I love love love my kids and I feel so blessed that we all adore one another and truly love each others company.

Robb and the Kids

2011-12-24T10:35:00.000-07:00

Robb had a service in Riverside, CA last week and since the kids are out of school, Jazz went with him. I think they had a pretty fun time except that Robb must have had a horrible case of road rage and almost got in a couple fights while driving. Thank heavens we dont live in CA or my husband would most likely be in jail a good percentage of the time.

Then, on Thursday, Robb and some friends took their boys to the Maaco Bowl. Boise State vs Arizona St in Vegas. It was coooold for us Nevadaans that day. I think they had a good time too. Anywhere you go with Robb is going to be an entertaining time.

Someday maybe my husband will actually blog his own adventures, but for now, I will do it and talk crap about him while doing it. I love you honey.

World. . . Meet Kai Lyn

2011-12-20T18:21:00.004-07:00

On December 18, at 1:30ish in the morning, the Pulvers were blessed to add another beautiful member to their steadily growing family. Meet Kai Lyn. 5 lbs, 13 0z, 18 inches long. Kai has been stubbornly trying to come meet her new family for a few weeks now and luckily, she only arrived 3 weeks early. We are so happy to have her in our lives. Hope was a champ. Jasmine, Kymbre and I were allowed to witness this little miracle being born. Hope made it look too easy. Kymbre and Jazz both mentioned that it looked waaay worse on tv and movies.

(The pics are all jumbled. Sorry. I tried to do it a little chronologically but it didnt work at all.)

Grandma snatches her right up.

Proud grandpa. This big, strong man teared up the second he saw her. Its crazy how much you can love someone after just meeting them for the first time.

Big brother on the way to meet his little sister for the first time.

Pretty curious. . . .

We have this exact picture with Bobby and Bentley. Pretty neat.

I love this picture of Kymbre.

Shes so tiny. She looks like a little doll. I think even smaller than a doll.

My most favorite thing to do in the whole wide world.

First "brain squeezer", as my dad disgustingly calls them.

This little girl sure gave us some scares these past few weeks. We are so so happy that she and mom are healthy and perfect in every way. What a precious, precious Christmas gift we have been given!

Mary, Did You Know

2011-12-12T19:54:00.001-07:00

(Remember to turn off my music before you start the video.)

I love music and nothing tells a story or makes you feel something deep in your soul more than a song.

This is my very favorite Christmas song.

I can't imagine the anticipation, joy and tremendous responsibility Mary felt when she was told she would give birth to this perfect person. What an amazing woman Mary must have been.

I love this Man with all my heart and soul and dont know where I would be or what kind of person I would be without him. I yearn for the day when I finally get to see Him face to face, so I can look into His eyes and put my arms around Him, embrace Him and tell Him thank you for everything He has done for me, personally. He literally has changed my life.

I just love this time of year when we get to celebrate His birth and life.

Merry CHRISTmas!

Family Pics that Missed

2011-11-19T18:48:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my wonderful friend, Heather took some family pics for us. She had never done it before and we'd really never done outside shots, so it was a new experience for all of us. All in all, it was really fun and we ended up with some great shots.

These, however, did not make the cut but I thought it showed what a good time we had. We always have a good time when were all together.

Life would be so boring without Robb.

How I love my family. I am thankful that we are the exception and that we legitimately get along together. Im also thankful for good friends who arent afraid to try new experiences with me.

Thanks Heather!

Update on Hope and Kai

2011-11-17T10:30:00.000-07:00

This is mostly for my own journaling purposes.
Hope is still having contractions. They did what is called an FFN test on her and it came back positive, which means this baby is most likely going to come early. Hope is only 33 weeks along. She has been in and out of the hospital with contractions. They thought maybe it was a kidney infection. . .negative. She was severely dehydrated and they thought maybe that was causing the contractions but after 2 bags of fluids, she was still contracting. They have given her steroids to aide in the development of Kais lungs. The Dr did say that if Kai is born right now, she has a 90% chance of survival. Poor Hope. Shes been stabbed, pricked, poked and swabbed more times in the past week than you should be in a lifetime. She is on bedrest but she is a little like her mom and thats virtually impossible to do when there are things to be done around the house and you have an 18 month old running around. She has an amazing boyfriend who is a great help and support to her. She has to go to the hospital everytime she starts contracting to get evaluated and monitered. Thankfully these contractions arent making her dilate yet. She did have a beautiful blessing from her daddy and I know she has positive thoughts and prayers coming from many people.

6 Weeks and Counting

2011-11-13T11:58:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Amy threw Hope and Kai a wonderful baby shower last night. Only 6 weeks until this little one makes her appearance. (Hopefully, its that long. Kai is already showing her stubborness and isnt growing like she should. Last week, Hope had an ultrasound. She is 31 weeks and Kai is only measuring 26 weeks in everything but her legs. She measured 29 weeks there. Hopefully she will have those long Marchant legs.)

Doesnt she look beautiful? She looks like she has a little volleyball in her dress.

Thanks Amy for everything. It turned out perfect.

Halloween Happenings

2011-11-01T14:10:00.000-07:00

October is one of my favorite months of the year. The weather is finally cooling off, the trees are changing colors and, lets face it, when else do I have the availability to watch a scary movie every night, the excuse to dress a little provocatively and a reason to forgo my diet and gorge myself with my favorite Halloween treats, candy corns! Our family was busy with many extra activities this month. Here are a few.

Here we are at the Staheli Corn Maze, which is a must with the Pulvers in October.

Robb and I were invited to an amazing Halloween party. The theme was celebrities. There were probably 75 people there and not one person dressed the same. I loved it! These were some of my favorite couples. I thought the sunset in the first pic was just gorgeous. As you can see, they had a red carpet and paparazzis even. The second picture is a girl wearing "holly" and her date wearing "wood". Pretty clever. Then we have Cher slapping Kim Kardashians bodonka butt. And my favorite couple, Burt and Mary Poppins.

Robb and I won the prize for best TV personalities. We were Dog and Beth from Dog the Bounty Hunter. I had many a women envious of my breastesses that night.

Then, there was my "Witches Night Out". There were 22 witches and we all went to a Mexican restaurant and ate, cackled and just had a blast.

And, at work, this year, we dressed up as "worker bees". We had our boss be the Queen Bee, with her tiara. One girl had worked there 11 years and she informed me that they had never dressed up. Not one stinkin year. Na-ah. Not acceptable. Not when Jem is around. I probably wasnt the favorite co-worker that day, but I think for the most part, we had a good time. (Its okay to step outside of your comfort box once in a while, ladies.)

And, finally, my family. This is Kymbre, Kempton and Bobby.

And Hope and Bentley.

So, I bid fond farewell to candy corns, scary 80s movies and 30 something mothers dressed in slutty costumes. Until we meet again next year.

Its Your Day

2011-10-23T21:55:00.002-07:00

My baby girl turned 15 today. Last night we threw a surprise party for her. This was the look we captured when we yelled surprise. She really had no clue. Theres nothing much better than scaring the crap out of your kids.

They went swimming and played the kinect and then went to the movies.

What do you get a 15 year old girl? I didnt even want to chance it. She got money and can get whatever she wants with it.

It took me a good hour to put the money into the balloons. Took her about 1 minute to pop them all.

I have learned that youre kids grow up so fast and then they are gone. Enjoy the time that you have with them. Relish every second. Laugh, cry, talk, sing, dance, love and try not to miss a thing. Im so thankful that I get her for at least 4 more years.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!! I love you!

Side note: On her birthday she had 3 different boys bring her gifts. One brought her roses and a balloon, another a box full of Mary Kay and the last brought her a cupcake with a candle and sang to her. Oh my. . . Im not ready for this.Shes going to be locked in her room for the next four years.

Homecoming and Go-Karts

2011-09-29T13:30:00.001-07:00

We had two fun happenings last week.

First, it was homecoming. We are the Bulldogs down here too. They also have the same fight song tune, except with different words. We are green and white. Sorry dad. I know you detest those colors. They do a homecoming parade. I remember when we used to do that in Lovell. I specifically remember sitting in Brett Morrisons garage, listening to Whitney Houston and Atlantic Star, working on a float. And then we would go to the elementary and middle school, when they were sitting right next to each other, and all the kids would come out and watch. Those were fun times. I wonder why Lovell doesnt do that anymore?

Well, both kids were on a float. Jazz was for volleyball. (Did I mention she made varsity as a freshman?) And Bobby was on a float for middle school student council. I could be a bit biased, but I think our kids are pretty awesome.

Jazz went to the dance with a group of girls. "The Single Ladies". (Lets keep it that way for a while, Jazz. A looong while.) She was nominated for homecoming attendant but her best friend won.

On Saturday, we had our company picnic for the credit union. They rented out a go-kart place in Vegas. It was very fun. Bobby has been waiting 3 years to be able to be tall enough and drive the go-karts and he finally got the chance. Poor kid, he is a little height challenged, like his dad. He was pretty fast. He even beat me. They fed us yummy food and gave away some amazing door prizes. Bentley was a hit, of course. I will be so sad when I dont get to kiss that cute little face every night.

Dont look too close at my pic. Remember, last post when I said I picked up a nasty infection from the even nastier motel we stayed at in LA? Well, it turned out to be impetigo, and Im still trying to fight it off.

We sure are having fun with our kids. I so wished my mom and dad lived a little closer and were able to enjoy them too. Its what they live for. I know they would be here in a heartbeat if they could. And thank heavens for blogs so they can be part of it, even just a little bit.

My Mini Vacay

2011-09-17T16:23:00.000-07:00

I love Robb's job. Thankfully, Im not the one that has to deal with the angry family members, grieving widowers or sleepless nights. I just get to enjoy the perks! Last weekend, Robb had a graveside in Los Angeles and I had Friday off, so off we went. I hadnt been anywhere farther than Vegas for over a year so I was looking forward to getting out of Dodge. Weve had more than a houseful for a while now and I was excited to get away with just my sweetie.

Trips are always exciting at first. We're singing with the radio, and, like always, making fun of people we pass. (Robb is the hands down, the king of insults. I can say with the utmost surety, that anyone reading this post has been the brunt of a Robb joke.) We passed the "Tallest Thermometer in the World" and once we arrived into the OC, the towns all started running together. By this time, we are pretty tired and hungry. The rush of a new adventure had began to wear off and we just wanted to eat and go to bed. Thats what middle aged people live for, right?

Im a huge "new experiences" kind of person, so we had to choose a restaurant that we'd never eaten at before. It was a pretty good steak place. (It must have been. I actually saw a lady getting the Heimlich and then proceed to sit down and continue eating.)

After our bellies were more than full, we set off to find a place to stay. It shouldnt be that hard, right? We're on the freeway in LA. Wrong. There was nothing. We finally saw a Motel 6 and pulled over. It was a pretty sketchy part of the city, but we were both exhausted and decided it couldnt be that bad. Wrong again. I really cant put into words how the room smelled when we opened the door. Maybe dirty feet, with a little rancid smoke and old man body odor mixed with morning breath and rotting eggs. There were hairs, not from the head, on the floor in the bathroom and blood stains on the carpet by the mirror. Robb was wondering how many bodies had been taken out of the room. We almost got a body bag from the van, zipped up and snuggled up in it for the night. BUT, we took our chances. (I came home with a nasty infection on my mouth and I KNOW it was from that bed.)

After a sleepless night, we woke up to a gorgeous California morning. We headed over to the most beautiful and largest cemetery I'd ever seen. We were on a hill and could see all of the LA Valley. The graveside went perfect, of course, and with that being done, we headed to the coast.

We ate at our favorite Newport Beach restaurant.

I dont know if any of you know, but my husband is deathly terrified of sharks; because we all know that the little buggers just lay and wait for some extremely white, small town, farmboy to step into the water before they ruthlessly attack. Besides swallowing about a gallon of sea water, he faced his fear and even body surfed a time or two.

We then went to the Newport Beach temple. And saw behind the gate, the LA temple. Robb and I decided that after driving and staying in LA for only 2 days what a wonderful refuge that temple must be. That amid the chaos and anarchy, there is a place of solace and tranquility, where you can go to rejuvenate spiritually and emotionally.

It was a quick trip but as you've seen in my other posts, almost anywhere we go turns into some sort of adventure and I wouldnt want to get lost, stuck or contaminated with anyone other my Robb.

Missin Home

2011-09-05T20:16:00.000-07:00

For the most part, I absolutely love where we live, but this weekend I was missing home.

3 years ago, I was more than upset when Robb told me we were moving to the desert, but was pleasantly surprised when we got here to find that we actually live in a little valley surrounded by "mountains".

Because I was missing home, I decided we should go have a picnic in these so called mountains today. I was anticipating 5 Springs, but this is what I got. . . .
Can you say baron?

Where is the turn off to fill our cartons with that fresh mountain water?

This is the amazing campground covered with trees and mountain smells with picnic tables and built in campfire pits. . .

The lush pine trees with their wonderful smell. . .

Sagebrush. . . .

And the gorgeous creek filled with rainbow trout covered by the wooden bridge. . .

I know its hard to see but our new "home" is down in this beautiful valley. A different beauty than Wyoming but a beauty that we've grown to love, all the same.

Sometimes, the Wyoming girl in me sneaks outs and I really miss home but I've learned that home is where you make it and right now, Im happy to call Mesquite my home.

Happy Birthday B!

2011-07-31T09:55:00.000-07:00

I cant believe that my grandson is already 1. It seems like yesterday when we were anxiously pacing the hospital halls last year waiting and waiting for his arrival.

I love him more than words can say. Happy Brithday B!!!

Your Happily Ever After

2011-07-12T19:38:00.002-07:00

Last week I had the privilege of attending girls camp as the assistant ward camp director, in beautiful Kolob, UT. Our theme this year was "Waxing Strong in Confidence", which is something, as the days went on, we realized, was perfect for what these young women are struggling with right now. It surprised me that the girls I thought had pretty high self esteem were actually the ones having the hardest time with their confidence.

We also did a fairy tale theme from President Uchtdorfs conference talk "Your Happily Ever After." In the talk, he speaks about how you are born a princess and that you can have your happily ever after, but its what you do with the middle of your story that really counts.
The first night we arrived, Heavenly Father blessed us with some rain. The girls took it in stride, though. Two of the tents were totally ruined and 6 of the girls had to go sleep on the pews at the gun range. I semi-slept in the fetal position in the back of my car that night.

The girls did shooting and archery. Jazz did awesome on the shooting. She got 49 out of 50. I know its in her blood on both sides of the family.

One of the leaders did a devotional on Jesus washing the disciples feet. We then gave the girls pedicures. Most of the focus of camp was being beautiful on the inside, but its important to look good on the outside too!

The water slide was my favorite non-spiritual activity. They had about 8 billboard covers hooked together and then they were running soapy water down it. The dog was having more fun than we were. Boy was I sore the next day but I would do it again in a heartbeat!

An activity that the stake did was candle waxing. They explained how we need to wax our confidence by adding just a little goodness everyday. Like a candle, pretty soon, you will be strong and firm, but it takes time.

Our fearless leaders! (Some smokin hot mamas, if you ask me!)

Another one of the stake activities was the certification challenge. Our ward was in charge of that and it turned out super, except that it rained all through it. Again, the girls didnt even blink. This is Jazz and Hannah doing the knot tying portion. (There werent supposed to be winners or loser but I think Jazz and Hannah won.)

This was one of the most rejuvenating experiences for me; physically, emotionally and spiritually. I came home ready to take on the world. I am so glad Heavenly Father guided our camp director to call me as an assistant. I am a little guarded and have a hard time letting people in, so, its tough for me to make new friends and Ive been very lonely lately. I now have 5 amazing women I can call my friends.

I also was blessed to able to be there with Jasmine. What a wonderful young woman she has grown up to be. I am so proud to call her my daughter. I hope and pray that her love for the gospel keeps blooming and that the middle of her fairy tale story is filled with happiness and positive choices so she can have a happily ever after.

It was tons of hard work and meticulous planning was involved but I wouldn't have changed a second of it and I cant wait to do it all again next year!

Dodgers/Angels

2011-07-01T13:36:00.001-07:00

(I try and get Robb to post, but he refuses. So, I will try and do my best, even though I wasnt even close to being there.)

Robb had an extremely tough call last week and needed to get out of town to get his mind off things, so, Friday morning, he woke up Bobby and told him to hop in the car. He didnt tell him where they were going, just that they wouldnt be back until the next morning.

They drove to Boulder City and picked up Tyson and Dodger and then proceeded to LA to attend a Dodgers/Angels baseball game.

They drove straight back after the game. They rolled in around 430 am. Luckily, Robb had that day off also, so they got some much needed sleep.

Bobby couldnt stop smiling or talking about it. His favorite part was a man on the big screen dancing to "Dont Stop Believing". Im pretty sure alcohol was involved in this incident. My two men are huge baseball fans so this was a great experience for them plus a super bonding time for father and son.

Lessons Learned

2011-06-07T20:37:00.006-07:00

(This is a tad long, but if you want a good laugh, at our expense, read on.)

Yesterday I had training in Vegas. Robb took the day off and went with me. I got done early so we decided to take the kids to Lake Mead for FHE. One thing that Robb and I enjoy doing is going for "Sunday Drives". Last week, on our Sunday Drive, we were exploring the back roads outside Mesquite and we could see the lake from the road.

So, we packed up the tubes, fishing poles, swimming suits and lawn chairs, made a yummy picnic and headed out. The weather couldnt have been better. It was in the 90s, sunny and there was no wind.

I love being with my family. The trip started out great. We were all in good spirits; singing with the radio and joking with each other.
After about a half hour, we came to the turn-off that we assumed should lead directly to the lake. There was a sign in front of it that read "4X4 Recommended". We didnt even blink. Even though the Titan is only 2 wheel drive, we knew we had driven it on much rougher roads than this in Wyoming, so we go forward. We then came to a fork in the road. Again, it warned us. . . 4X4 Recommended. We started joking about it. The next sign will say, "Turn Back Now" or "We Told You. . No Farther Without a 4X4" or "Last Chance Stupid". The fork had two ways to go; Fishermans Cove or Virgin River Landing. We tried the landing first but only got about 200 yards before we hit a hill that we couldnt even make halfway up. Did this bring our spirits down or did we even think for a moment that this might be a terrible idea? Nope. So we turned around and headed down to Fishermans Cove. I decided that our FHE lesson would be on Perseverance. The sign said 3.0 miles. The road was getting pretty bumpy but nothing we couldnt handle.

After what seemed like 20 miles, we come to a large sign that says "NO VEHICLES BEYOND THIS POINT".
But theres still visible road and Robb wants to keep on going. Im starting to feel a little iffy about things but keep my mouth shut. We get about 20 yards past the sign and our tires start spinning. We are stuck. I decide the FHE lesson should be on Recognizing the Holy Ghost.

We all hop out and start walking. The lake cant be too much farther. The problem is, there are no visible trails anywhere and everything is so overgrown, we cant even go 100 feet anywhere. Plus, there are sheer walls on either side of us. I could have sworn we were in the same place they filmed The Hills Have Eyes. I half expected to see a deformed hillbilly creeping in and out of the rocks.

This does bring our great moods down a notch but we decide to make the best of it. We drag out our tubes and chairs, pull out the cooler and have a picnic. About this time, the other couple that we invited show up. They laugh that we are stuck with no lake in sight but join in with their chairs and food.

We take advantage of the time and wonderful weather and do some sand fishing,

some shooting,

play some frisbee and football,

and make sand castles.
I decide that the FHE lesson should be about the pioneers and how they could have fun without XBoxes, Wiis, IPhones or portable dvd players.

Its now starting to get dark, so we decide that we better start working on getting the truck out before it gets too late. Luckily, our friends have 4 wheel drive. Unfortunately, neither of us have tow ropes or chains. I change my mind and decide that the FHE lesson will be on Preparedness.

So, we start digging out the wheels with the beach buckets. No luck. We try putting rocks under the tires. Nothing. We all push. Nada. We're actually digging ourselves in deeper and deeper. Robb's friend, Jared, remembers he has some tie downs, so we back up his truck and double and triple tie the tie downs to our truck. The moment of truth. . . It works! Jared brags that he prayed before he started his truck up and thats the reason we got unstuck. I then decide to switch the FHE lesson to The Power of Prayer.

The tie downs are now so tight that we cant untie them so we cut them loose. Both families then get in their vehicles to take off. We dont go but 5 feet until we are stuck again.
Im thinking we should most assuredly have our FHE lesson on humility.

Its pretty dark now and we have run out of options, so Jared makes a phone call to his brother and dad to come and help. (Thank heavens we had cell service out there)

Spirits are down, were dirty from digging and dirt flying, the baby is crying and we are just plain miserable, but we settle in because we know its going to be a good hour before Jareds brother can get out to us. Robb and I lay in the back of his truck waiting and Im looking up at the night sky. Its so beautiful. There are so many stars and Im in awe. I decide the the FHE lesson in going to be on The Beauty of the Earth.
Finally, we see headlights on the rock walls. They arrive and it literally takes them 1 minute to pull us out. We are all ecstatic because soon we will be home taking showers and climbing in our comfy beds.

Being the wise people that we are, we decide to head out first in case something else happens. But, what else could go wrong?

When we finally get out on the semi-paved road, an alarm goes off in the truck. Robb gets out and discovers that we have a flat.

Jared and his family pull up behind us, we can hear them all laughing. They all get out and help Robb change the tire. I then decide the FHE lesson will be on Service.

We get the tire changed and are heading down the road, when I receive a text from Jareds wife, Angelina, "We have your tube." What?? Our tube flew out. Of course it did. Also, the truck isnt really running like it should be. Robb looks down and notices that hes been driving with the emergency brake on. At this point, I feel like we must be related to Eugene Proctor, the unlucky character in the movie Pure Luck, and we half expect to actually see our rear tire roll up ahead of us.

We do finally make it home. When we get out, we see one of our chair covers are hanging halfway out of the tailgate and that we've been dragging the chain from the spare tire holder. We must have been a sight. Sparks flying from underneath and a red flaglike material flapping in the wind from behind. At this point Im laughing so hard I cant even breath.

Robb never got angry or even swore the whole night. I decide the FHE lesson should be on patience.

We trod into the house, tired, but relieved and in good spirits, even though we never even came close to the lake. We found out from Jareds brother that those signs we saw were from years ago when the lake was a lot higher. The place we got stuck used to be 50 feet under water.

We seem to find adventure wherever we go and whatever we do. Plus, look at all the FHE lessons the kids were apart of that night.

It will be a day/night that we wont soon forget!

Success!!

2011-06-04T16:56:00.000-07:00

We had our "Pulvers Amazing Race" again this weekend and it was a big success.

Team s"traveled" to 4 different countries: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iceland and Transylvania. There was also a "Roadblock and a Detour.
The pink team in "Egypt". They had to make a 6 person human pyramid. There were only four to a team so luckily there were other people at the park they could grab.

In Ethiopia, team members had to bring water from the river in a cup on their heads and fill up their buckets. My husband is a big cheater and threw one of the other teammates in the water. Hard to believe, isnt it.

Heres the whole gang. In Transylvania, they had to find some info from a headstone and in Iceland, they had to get jewels from a cooler full of ice with their toes. The detour was X marks the spot. There is a huge outdoor events complex with tons of picnic tables. They had to find 4 Xs of their teams colors. In the Roadblock, they chose to either find 3 rocks in our swimming pool or make 3 baskets at our basketball court. . . blindfolded.

We had a potluck after and ate yummy food. The weather was perfect. No wind. Im glad it was a huge success. I put A LOT of work into it.

Watch this time next year for the same post!!

It Happened

2011-05-21T17:46:00.000-07:00

Well, the inevitable happened; I turned the dreaded 40. People keep telling me, its just a number, and Im trying to take it in stride but am having quite a difficult time. This picture helped me get through the day.

Its been a fun ride so far. I hope the next 40 dont slow down at all and I am around to post the same thing when I turn 80.

I love this Ode by Andy Rooney.

As I grow in age, I value women over 40 most of all. Here are just a few reasons why:

A woman over 40 will never wake you in the middle of the night and ask, 'What are you thinking?' She doesn't care what you think. If a woman over 40 doesn't want to watch the game, she doesn't sit around whining about it. She does something she wants to do, and it's usually more interesting. Women over 40 are dignified. They seldom have a screaming match with you at the opera or in the middle of an expensive restaurant. Of course, if you deserve it, they won't hesitate to shoot you if they think they can get away with it. Older women are generous with praise, often undeserved. They know what it's like to be unappreciated. Women get psychic as they age. You never have to confess your sins to a woman over 40. Once you get past a wrinkle or two, a woman over 40 is far sexier than her younger counterpart. Older women are forthright and honest. They'll tell you right off you are a jerk if you are acting like one. You don't ever have to wonder where you stand with her.. Yes, we praise women over 40 for a multitude of reasons. Unfortunately, it's not reciprocal. For every stunning, smart, well-coiffed, hot woman over 40, there is a bald, paunchy relic in yellow pants making a fool of himself with some 22-year old waitress. Ladies, I apologize.

Something to be Proud of

2011-05-14T19:14:00.002-07:00

Jazz had her last Border League Basketball game today. Their little team of 6 took 2nd. I am so proud of them. Its been a long season and I have so enjoyed watching these girlies and getting to know each of them. They each brought something extra to the team. I have a mothers love for all 6 of them. I am excited for high school. I think they will dominate.

Jasmines coach was amazing. He was always, always positive with the girls and it brought out the best in them. They wanted to win, not only for themselves, but for the coach, too. Jasmines self confidence has shot through the roof. Thanks for a great season, Coach Mike.

And I just had to throw this in. When Bentley eats, this is his mmmm face. It means "This is some great grub!"

My Mom

2011-05-03T10:04:00.003-07:00

I have, arguably, the most amazing mother on earth. I just want to share some things she has taught me:

* Youre never too old to have fun

* Dont complain - theres always someone worse off than you

* Laugh, laugh, laugh - especially at yourself

* Family first

* Love the gospel

* Keep your husband happy in the boudoir

*Give everyone a second or third chance

* Its easy to find joy in even the smallest of things

* Theres always someone who needs help - always be looking for those service opportunities

I wish I was an eloquent writer and could better put my feelings into words but here goes: My mothers love is pure, unwavering and unconditional. I thank Heavenly Father everyday for sending me to her. She is strong and wise and loving and I couldnt ask for anything better. I hope that I am half the mother that my mom was, and is, to me.

Sis

2011-04-19T20:23:00.001-07:00

Last weekend Kymbre came down. We havent had all our family together for over a year. I can understand the concept of letting your kids spread their wings, but I sure would like to clip all my baby birds wings so they cant go so far.

Three pictures of Kymbre. Its a record.

Hurry back, sis. We miss you already!!

The Parentals

2011-04-02T17:09:00.000-07:00

My mom and dad came to Vegas for my dads job last week. So, like the good mom that I am, I took my kids out of school for two days and we hung out in Vegas for 4 days. We hit all the usual places.

M&M Store

I got hit on by a creepy Storm Trooper.

The Rain Forest Cafe. That snake sincerely freaked me out.

Bobby got to spend one of the days with my dad at the convention.

Robb couldnt get off, so, mom and dad came to Mesquite and got a quick tour of our home and the mortuary, etc.

But, this was the very best part of the whole trip. Mom and dad had been anticipating this moment for 9 months now, and Bentley didnt let them down. He couldnt have been any cuter or sweeter. Im pretty sure they were seriously thinking about stashing him in their carry on bag when they left.

I sure miss these two amazing people. I miss my moms laugh and my dads big hands that give the best hugs in the world. He always makes me feel like a beautiful princess. I know it sounds corny but my mom is really one of my best friends and sometimes phone calls, emails and texting just isnt enough. I took as much of them in as I could. Hopefully it doesnt have to last me another two years.

Nothin But a Good Time

2011-03-06T20:28:00.001-07:00

We had another fun filled weekend. Have I said that I love where we live? I think I have too many times to count. Anyway, Vandenbooms came down for the Nascar Races and this is the 3rd time we have gotten together with them when they've come down. Jazz had a tournament close to there, so it worked out perfect. We were able to go to her games and spend time with Corey and Amee.
We stayed in the New York, New York with them. And Saturday morning, Robb and I went on the roller coaster. My poor hubby, was sick the rest of the day. We found out that he has a little girly stomach and cant handle even roller coasters. I guess I'll have to find someone else to go to the Stratosphere with me. Its okay, honey, I still love you.

After the race, we went to some MMA fights. It was a lot of fun.

A little story behind us taking Bobby to the fights. I didnt go to the last fights and, from what Id seen of UFC fights on tv, there is general debauchery at them. Drinking, swearing, scantily dressed girls, etc, so I didnt even consider taking him to these. He was pretty upset about it. Robb decided that it would be okay so I reluctantly agreed. I sat down and had a one on one with him while he was in bed explaining that he was my baby and I didnt want him around those kind of things. He calmly told me that he was not a baby anymore and to please stop calling him that. I apologized and started picking up his room. Pretty soon he quietly said, "Mom", I said, "What?" He said, "But I will always be your baby boy."

Oh that one. . . . He is my sunshine. I dont know what Id do without him.

And, the fights werent as bad as I thought. No drinking and no swearing. There were girls walking around with their behinds hanging out but we just made him cover his eyes. ;)

Lets Celebrate VD!!

2011-02-15T18:56:00.000-07:00

I am very anti-Valentines Day, but will always find an excuse to have a couples party, so Saturday we had a "Lets Celebrate VD Party". Pretty fitting, I think.

We played reverse charades. Sooooo fun. I have video of it, but its not letting me upload it so heres the gang. The videos are hilarious, though. I highly recommend this game for any upcoming parties.

Happy Birthday, Bud!

2011-02-04T18:59:00.003-07:00

From infant to young man. . . .

But, you will always be my baby boy.
(And no, I dont know how to work the scanner)

Lovin Every Minute

2011-01-28T20:19:00.000-07:00

My life at the moment has a ton if this. . . .

A whole bunch of this. . .

With a little bit of this mixed in. . . .

And I'm loving every minute of it!

We signed Bobby up for a rec team. After one of his first games, a man approached us and asked if we would be interested in having him play on his travel team and we said sure.

Jazz, who has never played basketball before, tried out for the middle school team. Out of 46 girls, they picked 11 and she was one of them.

Yes, Im bragging.

Bobby has games Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays and Jazz has games at least 3 times per week. She mostly plays Vegas teams. My poor little small town white girl daughter was pretty intimidated by those big black inner city girls at first, but it didnt take her long to toughen up.

And, what can I say about Bentley. He's the love of my life. Short and simple.

Just Do It!

2011-01-04T16:58:00.005-07:00

"Help, someone call 911! There's a lady having a heart attack," were the frantic words I heard yelled while I was working the drive through at the credit union this afternoon. I work in a beautiful large building that not only houses the credit union but also a few other small businesses and a conference room that people can rent out for receptions, etc. It so happened that the red hat ladies had the room rented today and were in the middle of an exciting game of bunco when one of them fell to the ground and went unconscious.

As one of the tellers called the ambulance, I went into the room full of anxious ladies to see if I could help. I was able to get a pulse and could see she was breathing, and even with my basic training, it was clear to me that she was not having a heart attack, but a stroke.

Im happy to say that I didn't have to do any lifesaving techniques today, as the ambulance arrived very quickly, but I have to tell you that it felt so comforting to know that I do have that training in case something horrible were ever to happen.

If you didnt put it on your list of resolutions, I suggest that you make it a top priority. Even before losing that 20 pounds or learning a second language or to ballroom dance. Give yourself that piece of mind that this simple procedure can do . . . save someones life.

Massage Blues

2010-12-31T10:54:00.004-07:00

Robb got me a great gift for Christmas. . . a massage. I love to get massages, pedicures, etc. Its good to pamper yourself a little. Plus, I deserve it, right?

So, yesterday I had the day off and decided to take advantage of my gift. Well, today I feel like I've been ran over by a truck. I could barely get out of bed and I hurt physically. But its affecting me emotionally as well. I am depressed, anxious and cranky. I don't really remember ever feeling like this when I've received massages before. Why is something so wonderful making me feel so horrible? Well, I googled it and I found out that this is quite a normal experience.Its called "massage blues".

I pulled this info from an article in the June 2007 issue of Healthy Living.

A classic Swedish massage is like 7 miles of hiking to the circulatory system because of all the stuff that gets all loosened up during the massage. Later on, all that released lactic acid, waste products, chemicals and "other" just get processed out of the body the next day.

(That's why I was told to drink a gallon of water. To get all that waste out of my system.)

I find the most common "emotional" stuff that comes up after a massage is just irritability and sadness for no reason. This is totally natural. Its just the combination of the chemicals and hormones that were sitting in your tissue that have been released to be cleaned out AND the emotions that may have been "stored" in places that were released and relaxed during the massage.

She does say to not let the downside of a massage keep you from getting one. The freedom from pain, pattern and holding is far worth the 24 to 36 hours of slight discomfort that comes after a massage.

As of right now, I think it will be quite some time before I get another massage. It is good to know that the feelings, both physically and emotionally I am feeling are normal, though.

22

2010-12-28T17:57:00.012-07:00

Today marks 22 years of marriage to Robb.

I have listed 22 reason why I've loved being married to this remarkable human being.

1) His laugh

2) His hands

3) His butt

4) His kind heart

5) His sense of humor

6) His work ethic

7) His love of the gospel

8) Our "Sunday" drives

9) Singing with him

10) That life in the bedroom is still hot

11) That he's not afraid to get dirty (he's a manly man)

12) But. . . he's not afraid to cry

13) His athletic ability

14) That we can agree to disagree on politics

15) That he refuses to grow old gracefully

16) How we tease people

17) That he's first in line to help someone in need

18) Kymbre

19) Hope

20) Jasmine

21) Bobby

22) That he truly is my best friend

This literally took me two minutes to do. I think I could have easily put down 22 more. I love you, babe!!

(Sorry about number 10 everyone, but it is true.)

Believe

2010-12-23T13:01:00.004-07:00

(I stole this amazing picture from a friend's blog)

I have many decorations in my home right now that say "Believe", but I think this picture says it all.

"Loy" to the World

2010-12-16T17:14:00.005-07:00

Ive said it a million times. . . I am not crafty. I was trying to think of a clever Christmas card this year and I saw a cute idea online. This is my attempt at trying to be even a smidgen crafty or creative:

Besides the fact that Robb looks like he REALLY does not want to be participating, I am making an L instead of a J. (I actually printed 30 of these at Walmart and brought them home before I realized the J flaw.) Oh well.

Needless to say, no one will be receiving cards from the Pulvers this year. So, from our family to yours. . . An online very Merry Christmas!

And Robb. . . .

2010-11-26T16:34:00.011-07:00

We've started a new Thanksgiving tradition of going to Ernstroms, as they are the closest thing to family we have down here. Its a great tradition.
This is Amy "Crocker".

We ate. . . .

And Robb watched football.
We talked. . .

And Robb watched football...

We played games. . .

And Robb watched football.

Then, Jazz, Bobby and I went to Harry Potter and Robb. . . .
Just kidding, of course he went.

Its been a good Thanksgiving weekend so far. We are going to put up decorations and tree tonight. And, I will be listening to Christmas music the whole time. Jazz wont allow me to until the day after Thanksgiving. So, Jazz. . . FA LA LA LA LA, LA, LA, LA, LA!!

4 Things. . .

2010-11-18T15:55:00.003-07:00

The 4 things I learned while helping out in Bobbys classroom today:

1) Bobby has an awesome teacher. She has a great energy, she's positive yet firm with the kids and you can tell she loves her job.

2)I can barely do 5th grade math.

3)Lovells school lunches are the creme de la creme of school lunches.

4)My son is still not embarrassed to show me affection in public. Even in front of all his friends. He wanted me to sit by them at lunch and he hugged me and told me he loved me when I left. I truly hope this is something he never grows out of.

Valley of Fire

2010-11-16T18:42:00.010-07:00

Last weekend, Jazz, Bobby and I, at the last minute, decided to go to the Valley of Fire State Park. We pass it every time we go to Vegas and decided we finally should stop and see what all the hype was about.

There were petroglyphs everywhere. We were all trying to decipher them and Bobby had some good ones. We did finally come to a spot where they explained what they thought each picture meant. Hand meant "death", so every time we saw a hand print, Jazz would freak out. She just knew that the Indian spirits were floating around us and that we were walking all over dead Indian bodies.This is a small arch. You cant really see it in this picture.I am convinced that an Indian spirit possessed Bobby that day. His name was "Jumping Squirrel". He couldn't hold still. We were doing everything in fast motion, though, because we didn't even leave until 2:30 and it gets dark around 4.We hiked 1/2 mile to see this amazing thing. Talk about disappointment. It was said that the natives would drink out of this as it would hold water for months after it rained. It was full of algae and I'm sure millions of bacteria floating in it. I am so very very thankful that I live in the 21st century.I love all the red rock.Nature is amazing. How in the world did this plant grow out of rocks?And this was the gorgeous sunset we were able to witness as we were leaving.It was a fun 3 hours. Ive decided that spur of the moment trips are pretty fun. I need to suck it up and not be so anal sometimes.

Honoring our Veterans. . .

2010-11-11T16:16:00.006-07:00

I am a crybaby. Weddings, babies being born, sappy movies, etc. But nothing moves me more than honoring our country and our soldiers. I love Veterans Day. I am so proud to live in this amazing country.

Bobbys class made this tree for the "Festival of Trees." It was my favorite. Every ring on the chain around the tree has a soldiers name who has died in our "Terrorism War." It took them a long time to finish it. How touching it was to look at every name on there and know that they died fighting for us, for our freedoms, for our liberties.
Jazz sang at the Festival of Trees.

Here is a poem I found on the internet. I couldnt find who wrote it.

Eulogy for a Veteran
Do not stand at my grave and weep.

I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the mornings hush.

I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.

I am not there, I did not die.

Busy Weekend

2010-11-08T19:34:00.004-07:00

This weekend was very busy. We had a Veterans parade and a regional football game, both of which I didnt post pictures of because Im way too impatient.

We also met Vandenbooms in Vegas. I talked to my dad last night. So far, this year, I have seen Vandenbooms more often than Ive seen my mom and dad. (twice) That is way too depressing. Hopefully they will be coming down for Christmas. (My mom and dad, that is.) That would be the best present ever.
I still think we look really good for being a bunch of old farts.

On Sunday, my wonderful husband blessed Bentley. What an extraordinary experience. Did I cry. . . . Of course. I am so very proud of Robb. He really is my rock. He is such a great example. I am so glad that he honors his priesthood and is worthy to use this amazing power. I fall more in love with him everyday.

Booo!

2010-11-01T16:30:00.007-07:00

This Halloween goes down for being the biggest bust in my book. Jazz, Bobby and I dressed as zombies and headed to the Funeral Home to hand out candy on Saturday. Not one person showed. Luckily we got some good pics.

Sunday, we didnt have one trick or treater either. We live in a gated, mostly retirement community. Booo! At least we were able to watch some good scary movies on tv.

The setting on the camera must have gotten tinkered with because these pics turned out very spooky. I like it though.

Reality Check

2010-10-25T14:37:00.017-07:00

Wouldnt it be great if blogs emulated real life? If we had only happy wonderful times? Baby announcements, extravagant vacations, joyous birthday parties, rainbows and butterflies, sugar and spice and everything nice? Well, reality isnt like a blog as Robb and I were blatantly reminded of last weekend.

It was Jasmines 14th birthday and the day started off perfect.

She got her first pedicure. . .

Instead of doing birthday cakes, we do birthday dinners. She picked tacos. . . Her best friend, Erika, from Vegas came up. . . She went riding with some friends. . . After that, we planned on going to St George to watch the UFC fights with some friends. She asked if she could stay and go to a friend from the wards house until we came back. She has never gave us any problems, so we didnt even hesitate to say yes.

Well, halfway through the fights, Robb gets a call on his phone. "This is Officer Gonzalez with the Mesquite Police Department, is Jasmine Pulver your daughter?" Robb looks at me, "Yes?" "Well, we have picked her and some friends up in your car. Does she have permission to be driving?" "Umm, no." (Remember, she just turned 14 that morning) "Well, you need to get someone down here to pick up your vehicle or we're going to have it towed."

So, Robb called his receptionist and her and her husband went and picked up our daughter and our car and held them at their house until we got back home.

Look, Jazz even took a pic of her night. How special. At least she has her seat belt on.Luckily, she wasnt driving when they picked them up so she didnt get a ticket. She did get in VERY big trouble.

I love my kids and want them to be happy. Ive seen my two older daughters choose the most difficult paths and I dont want Jasmine to stray in that same direction. Hopefully she learned a lesson and we can laugh at this story in a few years.

Phoenix

2010-10-21T16:23:00.010-07:00

Last weekend, Robb, Bobby and I went to Phoenix to watch Robbs nephew Dustin play baseball. I didnt realize Phoenix was only 5 hours away. I also didnt realize that besides spending the night in Vegas, I hadnt been anywhere since we moved to Mesquite 6 months ago. Can you say "Cabin Fever"?

This is the new 900 foot bridge over the Hoover Dam. We were lucky enough to be some of the last people to drive on the old highway. It was packed, though. It took us over an hour to drive 4 miles. If you ever have the chance to see the dam at night, do it. It looks like a town from a science fiction movie.

Me, Deb and Robb.

Dustin

Robb and Bud huggin on a saguaro.
We thought we might as well do a little touring while we were there. We went to Chase Stadium where the Diamondbacks play.

We also went to US Airways Stadium where the Suns play.

It was a great little mini-vacation. Jazz didnt go because she had volleyball. Im very proud of her for that. I gave her the choice and she took the responsible route. We are lucky enough to have Hope live 30 miles away. Her and Bentley came and stayed with Jazz while we were gone.

On a side note, Bobby was chosen "Citizen of the Month" at school. Im not sure what it is, but if it has anything to do with someone being kind and caring, then it is perfect for my son.

And I just threw this picture in because its so dang cute!!

Day Off

2010-10-11T14:42:00.004-07:00

There are many things I love about my job and one of them is getting pretty much every holiday off, so, today I took advantage and went and saw Bentley. Hope wasn't feeling good so Bentley and I took a walk to the temple grounds.

It was so relaxing. The weather was perfect and we just laid there, listened to the music from the visitor center and hung out. I feel so lucky to have a place to go where you can forget all your troubles, even for a short time and just relax and rejuvenate.

Thanks for the great day Double B!

"Plig-a-Vision"

2010-10-05T15:00:00.003-07:00

Move over Gosslins and Duggars, the Browns have officially taken over the TLC reality shows.

I love this show! I dont know if its because I feel a personal connection because I went to school with Kody or just because the show is very real.

Having lived 40 miles from a huge polygamist community for the last 3 years, I find this family to be totally opposite from the families I see in Walmart or Smiths. These women arent cowering, submissive or uneducated and they arent afraid to speak their minds. They dont dress like pioneers or have their hair so swoopey that a good hard wind will blow them away. The kids dress like "normal" kids, they have a Wii and they really seem like your everyday mainstream society kid, despite having 3 moms. The Browns have raised these 12 children to make their own choices, even if it involves marrying out of the "sect," which also deflects the typical "plig" stereotypes.

I find it refreshing how they answer the questions honestly and how raw their emotions are. It totally drew me in. I found myself thinking about how it would feel to "share" my husband and it literally made me sick and insanely jealous and that was just a hypothetical question for me. This is real life for these women. These are human emotions, that of course these woman are going to feel. I also understand that this was their choice and that they werent forced into it. They truly embrace this lifestyle even when you can see that its sometimes difficult. I also appreciate how they make it clear that they are not associated with the LDS church.

The way they live is different and I cant help but be curious. I have to say, though, that they must be doing something right, because they have been doing this for almost 17 years. How many of the rest of society can say that?

Firehouse

2010-09-14T18:41:00.001-07:00

I love "firsts." Last weekend, Robb and I took Bobby to his first concert, Firehouse. It was at the Dixie Sunbowl. This is an outside venue. The weather was perfect and we all had the best time. Bobby wiggled his little body through the crowd and ended up in the front row right at the stage. Robb and I stayed back a little. It was great hearing those old songs. When they played "Love of a Lifetime," Robb hugged on me and it felt like we were back in high school. The next day, I took Bobby to look at Firehouse's "That Was All She Wrote" video on youtube. They filmed it in St George at Tuachan, our gorgeous outside amphitheater. He giggled and giggled at their hair styles.

I think they rocked just as hard now as they did 20 years ago.

Fatty Fatty Two By Four. . .

2010-09-10T14:33:00.005-07:00

Since we moved to Mesquite, a short 3 months ago, I have gained 14 pounds. 14 pounds in 3 months!! It has been a complete mystery to me how this has happened. Is it the water? The elevation? The heat? The complete lack of exercise or motivation because of the heat?
Well it wasn't until a few weeks ago that I finally figured it out.

This is what is sitting around at my work almost everyday. And this is only the front counter. I don't know why people feel the need to bring us food. Do they think we will slip them an extra 20.00 in their deposit for freshly baked cookies, erase their overdraft fees for warm brownies or defer a loan payment for them in lieu of a dozen cupcakes?
Since I have solved the mystery, it takes every single bit of will power I have to walk past these plates and plates of yummies everyday, but I am a pudgy woman on a mission. I have promised myself that in the next three months I will lose the 14 pounds plus 6 more. By Christmas I will look fantastic. So today I say goodbye to goodies and hello to Goddess!

"Morning Scare"

2010-09-07T10:05:00.004-07:00

Robb and I woke up to a scare this morning. Bobby was not in bed or even in the house anywhere. He likes to sometimes sleep behind the couches, so we checked behind every couch, under every bed and in every nook and cranny. We checked in the cars and the bathtubs with no luck. This is where I started getting very very worried. It was my turn to carpool so I picked up the neighbor kids and dropped them and Jazz off at school. I searched for him on the way and back from school, but still nothing. When I got home, and started looking closer, I realized that the clothes he sat out for school were gone as well as his rip stick and backpack. His school is 5 miles away and I wondered if he might have decided to ride his rip stick to school and wanted an early start. As I was getting ready to head off to his school, he walks in the door with a very scared look on his face.
What I was feeling at that moment were a barrage of feelings; angry, relieved, confused, joyous. He walked up to me and hugged me with tears in his eyes. I asked him where he was and he said when he woke up, his clock said it was 8:10 and his bus leaves at 8:15 so he hurried and got dressed and ran to the bus. What he didn't realize was that his clock was an hour ahead and the bus he got on was the bus to the high school. He rode the bus quietly with the big kids to the high school and when the bus driver realized she had an extra small child on board, she brought him back to his bus stop.
What a scary morning for all involved. I cant imagine in my worst nightmares ever losing a child. Bobby adds so much sunshine and happiness to my life. I don't know what I would do without his fifty hugs and kisses a day, his silly jokes and his kind, sweet heart. I am so blessed to have him in my life.

LONGEST SUMMER EVER. .

2010-08-30T13:40:00.003-07:00

Goodbye late nights, sleeping in and long days of doing nil,

Welcomed are bed times, a schedule and expectations to fulfill.

So long boredom, loneliness and a general sense of despair,

Hello sports, friends, homework and excitement in the air.

We have never been so happy to see this nightmare end,

So we bid a grand farewell to summer 2010!!

"2-fer"

2010-07-25T18:53:00.006-07:00

4th of July, Robb and Bobby were able to go to Wyoming for a much needed vacation. Robb was able to go to his "favorite place on earth" - Devils Canyon. These pics are backwards, sorry.

On the way home, they stopped at the Logan Temple. This is where my parents were married.

He was able to do some golfing.
He went to Colstrip, MT and saw some old friends. That is where he grew up.
Devils Canyon

Moss Ranch

Can you see that truck going up the mountain. My baby was in there. I try not to think about it too much.

The gang - Robb and Bobby, Brook and Larissa and Macey and James and Evan.

Look at all that green and the hoodie. Obsolete images living in the desert.

Evan and Bobby with supper.

Are they not the sweetest things you've ever seen??? I was alone while they were gone and I went crazy. Ill admit, it was great for the first three days but then I just wanted them home. Im so glad that they were able to go, though. They fit a lot into the week they were gone. They were able to go through Yellowstone Park on their way home. Great bonding experience for father and son and like I said, a much needed vacation for Robb.

Now, if you havent heard yet, Robb and I are grandparents!! I was very apprehensive when I first found out I was going to be one. First of all, Hope is so young and second, I am just not old enough to be a grandma, right? For a while, I thought of many alternative names; Nammy, Gangy, Mama Jem but when it came right down to it,

grandma it was. I wouldnt have it any other way. Bentley Paul Bravo - Born July 21st, 2010. 6 lbs 13 oz, 19 1/2 inches long.

Perfect in everyway.

Proud papa and mama. Jhofer did excellent. We each held a leg and I didnt once see him get faint or gray or have to step away.

What an amazing experience. Hope did awesome, with a little help from her best friend, epideral. Robb was also able to give her a blessing. I am so thankful that he is able to do that now. I laughed and cried and cried some more. I am so glad that they live close. There will be many many miles traveled on the road from Mesquite to St George. I am so very blessed.

Sappy Fathers Day

2010-06-20T17:40:00.004-07:00

Im most likely a little prejudice but I think I have two of the most amazing fathers in my life right now. My dad and my husband.

Anyone who knows these two men know how wonderful they are so I wont brag or gloat. I thought Id do something a little different.

2 Things you probably know about them:

My dad:

1) He is the most unjudgemental person I know. I think that is truly being Christlike and I try and emulate that in my life.

2) He loves my mom more than anything in the world. He is always complimenting her and hugging and kissing on her. I never thought I would be able to find someone that loved me as much as my dad loves my mom.

Robb:

1) He has the funniest sense of humor. He is constantly making the kids and I laugh. I have to say that life would be dull and boring without Robb around.

2) He always gives 110% no matter what he does and sometimes this isnt always a good thing but I wish I had half of his drive.

2 Things you probably dont know about them:

My dad:

1) He had this crazy idea when he was a young boy that he could fly and he actually jumped out of his second story bedroom window.

2) He has a hard time hunting. It hasnt always been like this. As he has gotten older he turned too tender hearted and he just cant kill anymore.

(Well birds are another story, huh mom?)

Robb:

1) He is absolutely terrified of spiders. I do all the killing of the eight legged creatures in our home.

2) Of all the crazy stunts Robb has pulled, and let me tell you there are too many to count, he has never broken a single bone.

I am so very blessed to have these two outstanding men in my life. I love Fathers Day and the opportunity I have to celebrate and honor them.

Our "New" Life

2010-06-12T18:15:00.009-07:00

We have officially moved. I am not notorious for being long winded and my blogging is known to be the same. . . short and sweet. Mostly this is for my mom and dad because we are just too far away to see each other.

This is our new town . . .

This is our new house . . .

This is my new job . . .

And this is Robbs semi-new job . . .
On a different note. I was able to attend the funeral of a great man last weekend. At that service, this great man was there. I was able to not only hear him speak but also shake his hand. What a great day that was.

This is our Memorial Day jaunt we took to Logandale.

We have had no computer for three weeks now. None of us have died from internet withdrawals yet but hopefully we will get hooked up again soon.

A Look Back

2010-05-21T16:27:00.004-07:00

This birthday has been really hard for me. I've officially entered the last year of my 30s. They do say that 40 is the new 20, but that still doesnt make me feel any better. Today I was thinking about the fads and fun I have been able to be a part of during these first four decades of my life and these are just a few of my favorites:

1970s - Bell bottoms, Strawberry Shortcake Dolls, Star Wars, John Lennon, Saturday morning cartoons and my first kiss.

1980s - Leg warmers, Speak and Spell, Breakfast Club, Prince, videos on MTV and my first child.

1990s - Flannel shirts, Jenga, Silence of the Lambs, Nirvana, Friends and a college degree.

2000s - As my husband would say "guys wearing their little sisters pants" (theyre not my favorite but always make me laugh), XBox, Lord of the Rings, Linkin Park, Reality television and an eternal family.

Ive lived in New Mexico, Montana, Nebraska, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming and soon to be Nevada.

Ive made and lost great friends.

Ive had four of the most amazing kids. I hope that I've instilled in them some of the wonderful lessons and qualities my parents taught me.

I pray that the next 40 years of my life are filled with just as much health, happiness and love that the first 39 years have brought me.

I Never Thought...

2010-05-15T21:43:00.007-07:00

Last week, Bobby was able to be a part of the Hersheys Track Meet. Each school held a track meet and then took the top two placers from each event to the Hersheys Meet. Bobby was able to place in two different events. The 200 and the long jump. It was so fun sitting there all day and watching these elite kids participate.

I love you Bud and am so proud that you are my son!

Also, this weekend is our stake conference. Tonight, Robb wanted to go to the adult session and then out to ice cream afterward. . . on a Saturday night! I never thought in a trillion years that this would be his idea of a good time. I feel so privileged to have him in my life and in our kids lives. He has turned into the man I always knew he could become. He is my rock. He is such a good example to everyone he comes in contact with. He has a kind heart and a strong testimony and pushes me to learn and to be the best I can spiritually.
I love you babe and am so proud to call you my husband!

(Do you approve of my song, Aunt Joan??)

Bittersweet Farewell

2010-05-05T16:44:00.004-07:00

WARNING: This post includes tons of pics. I wish I was clever enough to make collage out of them and someday I will but for today. . . deal with it.

Last weekend my loving relief society presidency threw our family a going away barbecue. This is us.

Sexiest relief society presidency EVER!

One of these things are not like the other, one of these things are kinda the same. . . I love my little leprechaun.

Nat

Afterwards, some of us got together at my house for spa night. We did facials. . .

and waxing. . .

and pedicures!!

I feel so very blessed that the Lord has let us be a part of this amazing ward family. We have never been happier. This move isnt too far and we will still be able to see these wonderful people whenever we want to!!

Thank you Hidden Valley Ward!!

Red Cliffs

2010-04-27T15:35:00.003-07:00

For FHE last night, we went to Red Cliffs with Hendricksons and McDougals. There are so many places around here to explore. You could go hiking/camping everyday and always go somewhere different.

Emily and Shaylie on our hike. Shes so funny. She kept saying, "time for rest" and she would just lay down on the ground right where she was. I wish it wasnt such a chore for me to get up off the ground or I would do the same thing sometimes.

This is where our hike took us. It was just a small pool but there were people there cliff jumping. They said they could jump off the top and not touch bottom of the pool. There were also frogs everywhere. I love frogs! This was the only negative aspect of the night. Look at all the caterpillar nests in the trees. They were everywhere. There were falling on us all night long. I am not easily skittish but I didnt much like that. McDouglas roasting marshmallows. Out of focus shot of my fam. Shaylie and her new trick. She can go cross eyed on the spot. Too funny. Ken and Emily. It was tons of fun. I take solice in knowing that when we move, our friends wont be too far away and we can still have many more nights like this.

Betty Crocker, I am Not.

2010-04-26T09:28:00.004-07:00

11 days ago, my friend gave me some Amish Friendship bread to make. I dont know if anyone else out there has done this but it takes 10 days before you actually make something to cook with the dough. She also brought over a finished product and my kids waited impatiently for the 10 days to be up because the muffins were delicious.
Well, last night the 10 days were up so I excitedly whipped up the recipe. Here is what I ended up with.

I've never said I was a superb cook. When we were first married, Robb teased me that I could burn water but I've improved a lot in those twenty years. I guess Im allowed a mess up every now and then.

That Time of Year Again

2010-04-19T11:03:00.004-07:00

Its that time of year again. The annual "Kite Festival." I love this day! I am a people watcher and this is a perfect place for me to just lay in the gorgeous St George weather and watch, watch, watch. I also love it that my kids are at the age where I dont really have to worry about them.

Kymbres "50 years old and she loves it"!

If you dont know by now, Robb and I are going to be grandparents. Hope is 6 months along.

Kymbre and Rachael

Hope and Jhofer

Jazz and Jess

The whole clan.

It was a fantastic day. At one point, a whirlwind picked up a whole booth and papers and food went flying. The whole crowd was screaming. It was chaos and mayhem. Too funny. Already looking forward to next year.

Easter Weekend

2010-04-13T16:08:00.006-07:00

For Easter we were able to go to Cheyenne and visit Robb and my family.

"Uncle Bill"

Please remember that we are not the usual family and we do not take boring smiley pics. Thats just not us. Angie and her girlies. Look how big they are getting!

The grandkids.
One of my most favorite men in the world.

Jazz and Nani.

Playing Dance Dance Revolution. Go Bobby, go Bobby.

Angie and I putting in our own moves.

It was a great time. We played tons of games and laughed and talked and ate and then we laughed some more. I wish we all lived a little bit closer to each other, but this just makes the times we are able to get together that more special.

Never and Always

2010-03-17T11:27:00.008-07:00

My cousin did this post and I liked it. I tried not to do the usual answers about family, etc.
Also, if you are reading it, you are tagged.

NEVER AND ALWAYS.....

I will never . . . have a love of bats or snakes. Look at that thing!
I will never . . . be known as a chatterbox.
I will never . . . like the cold.
I will never . . . have a good sense of direction.
I will never . . . be crafty, artsy or hip.

I will always . . . love to make lists.

I will always . . . have a gummy smile.
I will always . . . listen to music while I clean.
I will always . . . have my clocks set ten minutes fast.
I will always . . . give someone a second chance.

The Forgotten

2010-03-05T11:12:00.009-07:00

I had the unique experience, when we lived in Portland, to do first calls. For those of you who dont know what this is, it was our job to go and pick up the deceased and take them to the funeral homes. I did around 1000 removals in the short year that I worked out there. We did work for the Medical Examiners Office so we picked up all the homicides and suicides. I saw a lot. It was one of my favorite jobs though.

There are a couple of calls that have stayed with me. Some for positive reasons and some for the reason that they just broke my heart. One of these was my first medical examiners call. We were called to Portland University to the high rise dorms. There, we picked up a student who had been deceased in his room for approximately two weeks. It wasnt the look or smell of his body that has stuck with me but it was thought that this boy, who should have been having the time of his life, had no friends or family that checked on him or worried that they hadnt heard from him in two weeks. What a terribly lonely existence that young man must have lived.
Last week, Robb picked up a Jane Doe that had been sitting at the Las Vegas Morgue since 2005. She has been there 5 years and nobody has come to claim her. Robbs funeral home is going to give her a paupers funeral. This woman was someones daughter or sister or maybe even mother. What could she have done to make no one care that she is gone?
When I see these things, it just makes me appreciate so very much the wonderful family and friends that the Lord has let be a part of my life.
I am also grateful for the knowledge that I know those poor souls arent lonely anymore.
So, today I challenge you, blogger world. Next week, find someone who maybe isnt as fortunate as you. . . say hello, send them a card, take them a meal, invite them for coffee. Lets try and make sure that no one is forgotten.

Boogity, boogity, boogity!

2010-02-28T22:04:00.009-07:00

I love new experiences and was able to do something Id never done this weekend. Thanks to the Vandenbooms, we were able to go to a Nascar race in Vegas. They were so wonderful. We stayed in their room in the Luxor and talked until 230am then we had to get up at 630am. Not an easy task for a bunch of almost 40 somethings.

It was waaay cold. I hadnt shivered like that in years. I have been so spoiled living in St George. My muscles were sore the next day from all the shivering. Look at all the rednecks! I'd never seen so many mullets and missing teeth in one place at one time. They certainly are a different breed of people. They are true fans though. We drove by the area where the fans follow the racers in their RVs. There were lots and lots and lots full of RVs. And some of the RVs Im sure cost more than our home. If you are going to travel, travel in style. Also, look at the man with his earplugs. I had many people tell me how loud it is but you cant even describe or imagine the sound of all those engines roaring past you. We had great seats. Just past the finish line. The cars getting ready to go.There was a lot of standing and sitting, standing and sitting. I felt like I was at some bizarre Catholic gathering. Robb and I doing a little commentary for the Speed Channel. I promise I wasnt drinking.This man was actually a worker. I think it was like 10am when we took this pic and he was literally slobbering drunk.

It was a good time. Thanks Corey and Amee!

Oh, the games we play

2010-02-20T17:13:00.007-07:00

Most of the time I am very thankful that I dont have small children anymore. Almost every Sunday, Robb and I give each other high fives when we glance around and see mothers fighting with kids and fathers taking screaming children out into the hall. There are those rare occasions where I miss having little kids. I miss doing the girls hair, I miss putting frilly lacey dresses on them and sometimes I even miss the games we used to play.
I came to the cunclusion today, though, that I should still be able to play the little kids games if I want to, so, today we finger painted and it was a blast!

Jazz and her camera shyness again.

These are my friend Amys two wonderful sons.
Yes it says "I love mom". Do I not have the sweetest son in the world?

Finished projects.

Next week.....blanket forts in the living room!

Cupid - Friend or Foe?

2010-02-12T10:44:00.005-07:00

Are you aware that some people compare Cupid to Satan? Now I wouldnt go that far but I have to admit that I am not a fan of Valentines Day. Dont get me wrong. The idea of celebrating love is great but why should we be forced into it on one day of the year with a sappy card, a stuffed animal that just gets thrown in the toy box or a cheap box of chocolates? Its definitely a retailers holiday.
I feel so sorry for those unfortunate souls who are single on Valentines day. Its like poring salt into an already open wound. Even those in relationships usually end up disappointed on Valentines Day. Expectations are just too high. I read somewhere that break ups are actually the highest around February 14th.
And what do you get your man for Valentines Day? I remember buying Robb a bracelet with his name on it when we were in high school. Now what do I get him? I think every woman knows what her man wants for his "present".
I know that Robb loves me. He shows me everyday with random acts of kindness. He brings me home a Mt Dew when he goes to the store, he does the dishes if I look tired or he rubs my back after a long day of work. These acts of love arent forced and thats what makes them so special.
So, hats off to you who are pro Valentines Day but I'd rather express my love to my husband no matter what day is showing on the calendar.

2 Milestones

2010-02-06T16:53:00.003-07:00

We hit two milestones in our little family this week.

First of all, my baby turned 10. Hes been waiting to turn "double digits" for two years now. Hes growing up way too fast. Dont you love my elaborately decorated cake? We are such a simple family.Kymbre made him this poster for his birthday party. We let him have 2 boys stay the night last night. I was dreading it but they were actually pretty good.

Top 3 things I love about Bobby:

1)His laugh - he has an infectious laugh. Even if I had the worst day at work, all I have to do is hear his laugh and Im all better.

2)His kind heart - I always have teachers and mothers tell me what I kind person he is.

3)His hugs and kisses - I bet I get 20 or 30 hugs a day from my little son.

Happy double digits, Bud!!

Our second milestone was one of my daughters moving out. Hope moved to Billings today.

Top 3 reasons I will miss Hope:
1)Her craziness - Frankly, it will be a little dull without her around. She has the funniest personality.
2)Her willingness to help. I know if Hopes been home that when I get home from work the house will be clean as a whistle.
3)Her friendship - I am proud to say that my daughters are my best friends.
I am sad to see her go but I know this mother hen needs to let go. I know she will do great at whatever she decides to do.

Cheap Thrills

2010-01-30T16:11:00.003-07:00

This morning we went around beautiful St George and took pictures.

When youre dreadfully poor, you have to find things to do that are cheap. We had a good time listening to music and laughing. It was a good day.

Another One Bites the Ice

2010-01-16T22:46:00.005-07:00

Today we went to the ice skating rink. It was great fun!

This is me and my friend Chris, who is moving to Mesquite with me. (She doesnt know it yet and I dont care what her husband says. . . shes coming)

(Make sure you turn off my music so you can hear Hopes music on the video she made)

We all did our best "ice skating" pose. This is mine. Falling down. Wow, Im uncoordinated.Kymbres speed skatingHopeJazz and Braelie Bobby - He hates skating. Hes good at pretty much anything he tries but he just cant do this. It makes him so angry.

Thanks Hope for making this little montage of the day!

"Our Story"

2009-12-29T22:17:00.002-07:00

On a dark and dreary night, twenty one years ago, a young boy with a "bitchin" mullet and a rail thin naive girl got married. Since that night, theyve traveled to magical, mystical lands for work and met interesting and unique townspeople. They've been blessed with four amazing children who bring their own set of charismatic personalities to their always entertaining home. Theyve encountered their share of trolls, goblins and also kings and princesses but always find their true happiness at home.

Yes, I cried the WHOLE wedding. Even when he smashed cake in my face.

Here we are tonight before we head off to dinner.
We've come a lot farther than anyone thought that we would. I remember the first time that I met him. He was throwing gum in my hair in high school math class and I hated him. A few months later, I saw him at the swimming pool while I was lifeguarding and I knew at that moment that I was going to marry the boy with the mullet. I was right!!
Maybe it isnt a fairytale, but its OUR story. . . . I wouldnt change a thing about our marriage and I cant imagine my life without him!
Happy Anniversary Babe!!

Goodies and theTemple (Sounds like a Disney movie)

2009-12-22T16:45:00.007-07:00

One of our holiday family traditions is to get together and make goodie plates to take around to friends and neighbors. I do miss doing it with my mom and sisters but I have still kept the tradition alive. Saturday, we went to my friend, Amys new house and made our yummy plates.

Last night for family home evening, we went to the temple and watched the nativity story and then went inside and walked through the "Reflections of Christ" exhibit. We then went and watched "Joy to the World" in the theater there. Here is a little excerpt from it.
I am so glad that I finished my shopping a little early and can now focus on the true meaning of Christmas.
I am so thankful for a loving Heavenly Father who would send his son to live in this cruel, evil world. The sufferings that he endured on my behalf are incomprehensible to me. I am thankful for the atonement and the peace it has brought me in my life. I know that Jesus lives. I love him and am so thankful for this time of year that we get to celebrate his birth.

Ugly Ornament Party

2009-12-03T21:23:00.005-07:00

Wow, I havent blogged for a long time. Tonight we had an "Ugly Ornament" party for Relief Society. It was great fun. I'd never been to one before. I also learned about Christmas Neighbor Gifts. I guess thats a Utar thing. Good to know though.

I made this ornament at work today. I thought it was beautiful. I ended up with it. Note to self: Never offer to be first pick at one of these parties.

I made this one at home. I think Tayler Lautner is ugly so I thought it was a great "ugly ornament". I did end up winning funniest ornament for this. And this one was our big winner. Ha! I just love Christmas time. It is my most favorite time of year!

Alzheimers Memory Walk

2009-11-14T16:45:00.004-07:00

Today Bud and I participated in our first Alzheimers Memory Walk. We were part of team "David and Goliath."

Amy Ernstrom raised over 700.00 for our team and we came in 3rd place in donations. Next year we hope to come in first.

Our team

I feel very blessed because I couldnt think of anyone in our family to walk for. I had to call my mom and ask her for some names.
Amy and Bobby

I love it that my son still likes spending the day with his mom even though we dont do the funnest things.

Murder Party

2009-10-24T15:36:00.004-07:00

Last night, I hosted my first "Murder Party". It was a blast. I didnt get a picture of the invitations but my friend, Chris helped me plan. She is the party queen. The invitations were pill bottles and the invite was on the prescription inscription. With the invites were a background on the invitees characters they were going to play. Everyone came in character and that made it extra fun.

The setting was Chicago. We had Chicago playing in the background and everyone brought "pizzas".
We just sat and ate while we tried to figure out "who dunnit".

Bryson aka Professor Harold Chung

Tyler aka mafia man Louis Cagliostro

Katie aka Art Director Margaret Chun

Ken aka party boy Bobby Herrera

Emily aka mysterious woman Pauline Thompson

Chris aka "I get around girl", Fiona McAllister

Robb aka PhD Candidate Timothy Kane

Of course I had Robb be the killer. He fooled everyone for about two hours. I knew he could be sneaky and that he was a good liar. That made him the best actor for the job.

We had a very entertaining night. We even made up our own game called "Hitchhiking to BYU."

Cant wait till our next party!!

Jasmines Birthday

2009-10-23T14:09:00.003-07:00

My baby girl became a teenager today.

Things I love about Jasmine:
1) She is a natural leader
2) She has great maternal instincts. She will be an amazing mother one day.
3) She has good self-esteem. Thats an accomplishment when you are this age.
4) Her laugh (It sounds just like my sister, Angies)
5) Her best friend is her grandma
6) She loves the gospel
7) Her athletic ability
8) Her beautiful singing voice
Theres a song by Brittany Spears called "Not a girl, not yet a woman". I love the chorus. It says: "Im not a girl, not yet a woman. All I need is time, a moment that is mine, while Im in between."
I know that Jazz will make her moment great. I am so proud to call her my daughter.
Happy Birthday, baby girl!!

MY NEW LOVE

2009-10-12T12:56:00.003-07:00

My new love is Zumba! Thanks Amy!!
Tuesday and Thursday nights, me and 50 other women, (and one man, and I use that word loosely), meet in a dark warehouse for some intense aerobics with a Latin flare. Our teacher is a peppy, energetic Latin Goddess who looks like she is 20 but is actually 45. Boy can she shake it! Thank heavens its very dark, because although I feel as coordinated and sexy as the teacher, Im actually a stumbling, gyrating klutz.
I took Jasmine and Bobby with me Thursday and Bobby came home and told Robb it was torture. "Old ladies shaking their boobs and butts!"
I've never looked forward to exercising before but I love my Tuesday and Thursday nights. Ive even sacrificed my Thursday night television, which isn't even that good anymore anyway.
If you haven't tried it, you should give it a try!!

26.2 &18

2009-10-05T12:02:00.006-07:00

He did it!!
Robb ran his first marathon on Saturday. He has been training with a running group for months and months. Its not only a sacrifice for the runners but for the families of the runners. It takes a lot of time to train.
The race started by the Pine Valley turn off and one of the group members has a cabin in Pine Valley so the whole group spent Friday night together at the cabin.

I was able to see through the anarchy and calamity of what is called the finish line and see him cross it. I am so proud of him. He ran it in 4:11, which is excellent for a first time runner. The running group had a get together Saturday night and everyone was saying how impressed with and how quickly Robb progressed and finished, but thats just my husband. He excels at everything he attempts and he lives life full out. Its just one of the many many reasons Im so attracted to him.
Congratulations, babe!!

*****************

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!

Hope turned 18 Sunday. I sure have enjoyed this last year with her home. Im most definitely not ready for her to leave. She is one of my best friends and she IS Jasmines best friend. The little saying about how Heavenly Father makes is easier for the parents to let go by having the children be horrible that last year at home isnt ringing true for this one.

Things I love about Hope:
Her exotic beauty, her artistic talents, her gorgeous singing voice, her spunk, her independence, her love of those less fortunate and her gummy Marchant smile.
I know that whatever she decides to do with her life, she will succeed.
Word of advice from your mom: Take your time, dont grow up too fast. Live life. Experience everything. Love those around you. Dont forget who you are.

Shinedown and the Carn Maze

2009-09-28T20:17:00.003-07:00

This weekend, we gathered up our blankets and goodies and went to the park next to the Sun Bowl and listened to Shinedown play. We met some of the girls friends there and just layed around and listened, played a little football and sand volleyball.

Jazz and Tori. (Tori trying to make the sideways smile face) Hope and her friends. They look nice and calm but dont let them fool you. Hope and Taylor Bud, me, Robbs sister Kari and Robb. Same again minus Bobby.Robb was having terrible allergies so he took two allergy pills and was out about twenty minutes after this picture was taken. Lightweight.

*************

Then, tonight for FHE, we went to the Staheli Corn Maze. (Thats said carn, if youre in the Larson family)

My gorgeous daughters.

This picture looks very freaky. I look like Gollum from Lord of the Rings. Pretty sexy.

Jazz and Hope

The Boys

Robbs brother Bill, Bud and Robb.

(Normal face for Robb)

The girls.

Jazz me and Hopeful.

I love October in St George. The weather is perfect and there are always tons of things to do.

My Favorite Things

2009-09-22T13:44:00.006-07:00

Its that time of the month where absolutely everything is aggravating me. I feel so negative and short with everyone, especially my family. Im sorry guys. I love you always and forever. Today, I decided that I would do something constructive and think of the positives. The things in my life that I love. I truly am blessed and Im also very simple. I dont need extravagant jewlery or vacations in Paris. Its the little things that make me the happiest. So, besides the obvious. . .my family, the gospel, etc. I dug down a little deeper and came up with this list.
While you're reading it, sing the words with the "Favorite Things" tune.

CSI, House, no reality tv.
Thunderstorms, hot baths and kisses from RP.
A clean house, a good book and hummingbird wings.
These are a few of my favorite things.

Cold milk, warm bread, fresh cut grass that I didnt mow.
Sleeping in, days off and singing in alto.
Tar Heels, The Doors, my unique wedding ring.
These are a few of my favorite things.

Aromatherapy, pedicures, massages; deep tissue.
Texting, soft skin, a day at work with no issue.
Spontaneous weekends with whatever they bring,
These are a few of my favorite things.

When the bills come. When there's bathroom scum,
When Im feeling sad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
and then I dont feel so bad!

Football, volleyball and Ghost Towns?

2009-09-19T17:09:00.005-07:00

I love fall in Dixie. The weather finally starts to cool down and fall sports start. This weekend was Homecoming. We lost, but it was still fun. We went out to eat with Thompsons and then went to the football game with them.

Hope and her friends with their game faces.

Jazz tried out and made a traveling volleyball team. Today they had a tournament in Hurricane. (It is said hurricun, for you not from southern Utah)

She is soooo fun to watch!

After Jasmines tournament, we went to Grafton, UT. This is a ghost town.

After the Mormons settled the Salt Lake area, Brigham Young began to send numerous families and single men down south, who were advised to immediately marry and make settlements. He hoped that they would be able to populate the region and make it a place where they could live and worship without persecution. The town is by a river, though, and after three floods and many Indian attacks, they moved to a nearby community.

Boy am I thankful that I wasnt a pioneer. Ill take the trials and tribulations of today anytime.

Labor Day

2009-09-08T13:03:00.005-07:00

I know Ive said it a million times, but here is a million and one... I love, love, love where we live! There is always something to do. Labor Day Weekend was fun. On Saturday, Hope, Bud and I went on a hike in the gorgeous Snow Canyon State Park. Hope liked it so much she wants to make it a Saturday tradition. There are tons of different trails for us to try.

Isnt is awesome!! I love our red rocks.This is where we ended up. It is called 3 Ponds but there was this little pond and then a couple of puddles. We were a little disappointed but it was a good bonding time.One of the many creatures we saw on the way.Then, on Monday, Jasmines friends dad took the kids to Quail Res. They had a great time and while they were boating, I shampooed ALL the carpets in the house, touched up the paint and rearranged the living room furniture.

Huge crawdad.Jazz playing Titanic

Bobby and Savannah.

Jazz, Tori and Hope. Thats Toris dad lurking in the background, not some random creepy guy. The kids have made such good friends here. We are truly blessed.

P-U-R-P-L-E

2009-09-01T19:12:00.004-07:00

Aaaahhh. Girls Camp. Good times.

Jazz attended her first girls camp this year. The theme was PURPLE. Prayerfully Understanding Righteous Principles Leads to Eternity. She had a wonderful time. They only stayed 3 days though...whimps!

If you havent noticed, Jazz is very camera shy... not!

I was talking to one of her leaders after they got home and she said that all the leaders got together to make camp certificates. She said that almost every idea they came up with could have gone to Jazz. She ended up getting camp friend. That sure makes a mom feel good.

She had some good stories. My favorite one was that she actually touched a snipe! Better luck next year with that babe!

I have fond memories of girls camp. The testimony meetings and friendships will never be forgotten.

You're doing what? Why?

2009-08-24T07:42:00.002-07:00

Robb is training for the St George Marathon, which is but two months away. Saturday, he woke up at 4AM to run 20 miles. Now that is what I call dedication. I am in total support of him. That morning, though, I was supporting him from my warm comfy bed. Go Robb, go. . . . zzzzzzz.

Finally

2009-08-17T08:09:00.003-07:00

Well, the day that I have been patiently waiting for for 20 years finally came. It was better than I could have ever imagined. I thought it might be bitter sweet since only two of our kids were sealed to us but I only felt tremendous joy and peace. I know that we will get the other two there eventually.

My little eternal family.

Robb and I and Amy. I had to take one shoe off so I wouldnt be taller than Robb. =) Amy and her husband, Dan have been such good examples to Robb and I.

Jazzy Jo sitting in the shade. Isnt she beautiful?

My parents came down. I love them so much. My mom is a trooper. I know she was in excruciating pain all week but she never complained and she participated in everything. I know they have been waiting just as long as I have for this day.

It was a perfect weekend. At our small wedding, twenty years ago, at my parents house, Robb and I only invited 5 friends to come. At our sealing, three of those friends were there. It has come full circle and we are so blessed to have such wonderful, faithful, worthy friends. Thank you all so much for sharing our special weekend with us. We will remember it forever. (Literally)

Gone But Not Forgotten

2009-08-08T12:50:00.004-07:00

August 6th, a man who was a huge part of my life passed away. Now I didnt know him personally, never got to shake his hand or even flash him one of my gummy smiles but I will carry a part of him with me for ever.

If you were like me and grew up in the 80s, Im sure John Hughes played an integral part of your life.

Even though I never wore a bra on my head, gave my panties to a nerd, sang in a parade or even served early morning detention, I became close to all the characters who did. John made us feel as if the embarassments and social calamities we went though in high school were totally normal.

Who watched Breakfast Club and didnt relate to at least one of the characters? Who didnt want to have Ferris Beuhler as your best friend or even John Candy as your uncle and who cant recite every word to those movies. If you're in your thirties, Im willing to bet you can.

Today I pay tribute to John Hughes. Thank you for making my awkward teenage life a tad bit more bearable.

Sand Hollow

2009-08-04T08:39:00.011-07:00

Saturday Robb got off work early, and since the temperature was running at a cool 109, we decided to go to the lake.

Here is Jazz and Olivia catching a teeny tiny lizard. I love it that my girls arent too prissy.

Bud found a rock out in the middle of the lake. The camera doesnt show how far out he actually is. This is the side of the lake that I stay on. I just lay on my float and relax and tan and Ive been totally oblivious to what is happening around the corner.

This is the side of the lake that my kids like to go to. Now, we've gone out to the lake a few times and I've never been over here before. My kids will most likely hate me now because I dont know if I will ever let them go back. Heres a pic of my crazy husband going off the top of the rock.

Heres a pic of Jazz going into the water. The white water of the person that just jumped in was a FIVE year old child! He did have a lifejacket on but that is just crazy dangerous. I am getting old. I dont think this would have bothered me so much a few years ago.

Bobby goes off of them to. I didnt get a picture of him going off but heres a picture of him at the top. I am glad that my children inherited Robbs "no fear" gene and I will try not to have a panic attack next time they wander over to the "dark side" of the lake.

Jazz and Olivia on the way home. It was a fun day. We were all definitely toast when we got home. Everyone physically. . . . . and me mentally. Let it go, Jem, let it go.

You Are Invited

2009-07-29T13:11:00.002-07:00

It took a long time, but Robb and I are finally going to go through the temple. We will take out our endowments on August 14th and then be sealed to Jazz and Bobby for all time and eternity on Saturday August 15th. This will be in the St George Temple.
I've been patiently waiting for this day for a very long time. I love Robb and all my kids with all my heart and soul and cant imagine life and especially eternity without them in it.
Robb is a rock and he is the one that has pushed and pulled and finally got us to this point.
We would love for all of you that can come to join us on this very joyous day.

2009-07-29T13:09:00.001-07:00

"Serenade" Me

2009-07-27T12:43:00.003-07:00

I hate buying Fathers Day presents. Ties, shirts, etc. . . lame! I decided to do something a little different this year and I graced Robb with Secondhand Serenade tickets. Of course I got one for myself too, so I thought it was an excellent present.

Some of the crowd waiting for the show to start. There were three bands total and they were all good.

Because I didnt know Secondhand Serenade very well, I decided to download a few songs and listen to them for a few days so I could enjoy the concert a little more. I also googled the band so I would know what they looked like. Im glad I did. This is a picture with me and Lukas Vesely. He is the lead singers brother and plays keyboards/guitar. He was standing listening to one of the opening bands and I went and bugged him. He was very nice.
(Horrible, horrible pic of me though. . .fat and gummy)

My honey and I waiting.

Blurry but we were really close to the stage.

It was a good time. We were there for 5 hours. I was really proud of Robb. He doesnt do big crowds very well. I had an awesome time just people watching. I already have great ideas for next years present.

Hurry Back

2009-07-15T20:52:00.004-07:00

Tonight we had a going away party for one of my friends, Keri. She and her family have done so much for our family. She is truly Christlike. She was one of the first people to sit by me in Relief Society when I was feeling very alone. They were one of the first families to invite us over for a bbq when we didnt know a single soul in the neighborhood. She takes Bobby when she knows Im at work and he is home with his sisters during the day. I could go on and on. This family is a big reason our family is going to get sealed next month.

And now they are moving. Her husband is going to go back to school and get his Masters degree in South Carolina. After he is done, they hope to move back. We wish them the best and want them to hurry back.

Look how many other lives she has touched.

"A memory lasts forever, Never does it die. True friends stay together and never say goodbye."

Much needed R and R

2009-07-12T17:19:00.005-07:00

(Not sure why the pictures are so small. I will try and fix it asap)
Last weekend, Robb and I went to Palm Springs for some R and R. It was the first time that I can think of that we have been anywhere without the kids. We had a really nice time together.

The reason it is called Palm Springs. Palm tress EVERYWHERE!! and they were very well manicured.

Me at the pool. Robb couldnt even be outside for an hour before getting burned. It was 115 that day. He did get up and run 10 miles though, one morning. He said it was his most beautiful run hes ever had.

Inside the hotel. It was pretty fancy. We werent used to it. Tipping the bellhops, etc. We're more the Super 8 couple, but this was still a good experience.

Gandala ride to the restaurant.

Robb looking might sexy with the swans.

I spent a marvelous three hours at this spa. I was pampered and treated like a queen.

Just part of our hotel. We stayed on the top floor.

We took a tram from sea level to 8000 feet. It took only ten minutes and the temperature changed forty degrees within that ten minutes. Max Thompson took the picture of us. We spent a great day with him. He showed us around town and then we barbecued at his home.

Top of the tram.

Some of the artwork.

Another picture of the artwork. I was actually awarded this trip from my boss. It was a fun time and I thank him for it immensely. Robb and I did great together without the kids. Next trip, though, they are coming for sure!

20 Year, Lovells Days and Family Fun

2009-07-01T13:11:00.022-07:00

Last week we went back to Lovell for Lovells Days. We hadnt been back since we moved and we were all very excited. Robb finally got to cash in his biggest loser prize of a flight anywhere from his boss. This was Bobbys first time flying and Jasmines first time in a small plane.

It was a three hour trip and Bobby was sick for a good two hours of it. He did hold it in until we landed and opened the doors. Then he puked. (Still sitting in the plane) He did make it into the little barf bag though.

As you can see, Jazz didnt do very well either. I, myself, felt a little nauseous at times. It sure feels different in a small plane.

Robb up front with his boss. He had a great time.

It was also our 20 year reunion. This is me with Dawn Jolley(Rowland), Jodi Duncan(Somer) Becky Layne(Aholt). They were some of my best friends in junior high and high school.

This is us on the float. I remember my moms 20th. I remember thinking how old they were. I certainly dont feel that old.

Dawn and I again. This is at the family barbecure at Horshoe Bend. They sure have fixed that place up. It looks great!

Hope and Karson

Kymbre and Michelle at the fireworks. Bestest friends. Kymbre sure misses her.

Robb and I trying to keep warm at the fireworks. There was also mosquitoes! I realized how much I didnt miss them.

Bobby and the Spann boys.

Angie Spann and I

If course we had to bbq at the Spanns garage. Good times have been had there for many a years. It was great to be back. Thats Kevin and Olivia and Robb.

My gorgeous sister and sister-in-law and I

Mom and the little ones on her porch. Those are Jennie and Davids. They are so fun.

Grandpa and Bobby.

Me and my parents. My wish is to take about 20 people and just transplant them down here with us. I wish we lived closer but I know that this is where we belong. We had a fantastic time but it was nice to get back home!

Yes, I went

2009-06-11T22:50:00.003-07:00

Tonight I attended my first "Twilight Party." Why sit home and watch the movie alone when you can hang out with your friends and watch it? Theres just something fun (and a little disturbing) about 8 grown women getting together to watch this movie. Boy did our hostess go all out. Im certain she missed her calling in life of being a professional party planner.

These were our invitations. If you've read the book, you'll totally understand the concept of the apple and the Fork.

Her front door.

She had EVERY picture in her house plastered with Edward and Jacob pictures. Her husband was sure a good sport. (Im sure he'll be compensated somehow =)

Our group of ladies. I had my Cullen shirt on with the Cullen coat of arms. One lady did her hair like Alice and one had sparkles all over her body.

The Menu

Yummy yummy food.

Our gift bags. Full of different kinds of red candy.

We played trivia games, ate, laughed and I learned a bunch of "behind the scenes" facts. For instance, the author, Stephenie Meyer is in a scene in the movie and the baseball scene is taken by Multnomah Falls. . . .been there!! Thanks Chris for a fun night. You are definitely the hostess with the mostest!!!

Rainy Days

2009-06-07T12:46:00.003-07:00

For Memorial Day, we went to Boulder, CO, attempting to watch Robbs nephew, Dustin and my niece, Allyssa play some ball. However, the weather decided not to cooperate with our plans.
Dustins whole tournament was cancelled and we only were able to watch Lyss play a game and a half. We did get to see her pitch and she is amazing. I certainly can see myself watching her play in the college softball championship on tv in the next few years.

Anyway, that just meant we were able to spend the whole weekend together. I hadnt seen Angie and her fam since Thanksgiving 2007 so it was heavenly. I miss my family so much. So, an 18 hour drive to watch a game and a half was totally worth it. Cant wait to do it again soon!