Hollomon Family

10 peso version...

2012-01-18T07:55:00.000-08:00

Well hello!

2012-01-18T07:42:00.000-08:00

Hi! Its me! Miranda! You know, the girl who used to blog here? Yeeeeah....about that. Here is my excuse: We had a freakin' hectic summer and fall! We have moved from Pocatello back to Utah. First there was the packing, the loading, the driving. Then the unpacking certain items to my grandma's house (who is a saint!) and living out of a storage unit occasionally, and finally the move to the basement apt at the Taub's home in Sandy. Then of course the holidays, which were amazing! So, one of my many new years resolutions is to keep up on my blog. Don't you feel special now? And probably a little bad for cursing me, right? Well, stay tuned! I have pictures I will be posting today :)

Easter

2011-10-16T22:28:00.000-07:00

A Bit of Summer

2011-10-16T21:51:00.000-07:00

Boring Post (but informative)

2011-10-13T21:49:00.000-07:00

We have moved to Salt Lake and we are now living in my grandma's basement. She is such a blessing in our lives :) But after 3 months, we are really looking forward to our move into our new home in 2 weeks. I hope to update this blog very soon, but most definitely after we get moved in. Its been a very stressful summer so I have been horrible at taking pictures. But I'm getting back on the obsessed mom train!

While I'm decorating our new home, I will be posting my crafts, designs and other tidbits on my other blog called Picadilly. I'll post that blog address as soon as I am ready to post on it.

So - stalk away down memory lane if you feel like it, because I'm gonna bombard this blog and my followers with pictures, anecdotes and more :)

Stay tuned...

"Be prepared..."

2011-09-21T15:56:00.000-07:00

We hear this in church all the time. So how many of us follow this very important teaching? I would love to say that we do. But we don't. We don't have food storage. We don't have a savings right now. We will absolutely be working on these 2 problems as soon as we are moved into our home next month. If we are smart with our money and make an effort to start the storage - it will be quite easy, we just have to do it.

Last week my father-in-law suddenly had to have a triple bypass. This morning, our neighbors house caught on fire and melted the siding on my grandma's home.

My father-in-law is healing. He is a very healthy man with a loving wife who is a nurse so she is able to help him as much as she can. Hopefully he will be home to stay this week so he can get back to semi-normalcy. I no doubt chalk his healing up to him being as healthy as he is.

Our neighbors home is a complete total loss. They lost a dog, cars, clothing and family pictures and other special things. They are alive and healthy and....smiling.

So here is a question I want to ask you. Are you prepared? Not with your savings or your food storage, but emotionally? Will you be able to cope? Do you have your loving Heavenly Father to lean on? Family? Friends? Have you made memories that will live on - no matter what happens to you or your home - with your children? Are you healthy enough to get through the trials that will be given to you?

No. I don't know that I am.

When I came out of the house (because I heard glass breaking) I saw all the people standing around, the mailman was on the phone yelling that they needed to get there fast. I turned my head to the side and saw the flames coming out of the garage. A guy was yelling at me to get everyone out of the house (things were starting to pop and break). I ran into the house, suddenly out of breath and panicking. I got my grandma and Harry out of the house safely. While I was in the house, I looked around to see what I could grab. I grabbed my phone and my purse. Interesting. A man helped me move our cars that were next to the house and the heat was almost intolerable. I have to say, I was quite disappointed in myself. I should be under more control. More aware so I can do what needs to be done. Then I can panic. Its what I've done before, and I prefer it that way. So I sat on the grass with my grandma and sick son and gave what bottled water we had and diet cokes to the family and firemen.

I have become lazy in my prayers and scripture study. I have become lazy when it comes to keeping the house clean and organized. It makes sense that my mind would also become lazy.

As far as my father-in-law goes, I know I'm not healthy enough to recover as well as he has. Me and my family could use some more "health" in our home. No question. And thats about to start happening right away.

So to sum it up: WHEN something horrible happens to you or someone in your family, will you be prepared?

2011-01-24T21:04:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

2011-01-24T20:59:00.000-08:00

The Rockettes

2011-01-24T20:55:00.000-08:00

Aidan's Class Party

2011-01-24T20:48:00.000-08:00

We take sledding Very seriously!

2011-01-24T20:44:00.000-08:00

2011-01-24T20:34:00.000-08:00

Mario and Luigi!

2010-10-23T21:30:00.000-07:00

This was my first attempt at making Halloween costumes! I'm really glad the boys chose something quite simple. I made Aidan's first and then Harry had to have the Luigi costume. Not too shabby!

2010-09-22T12:27:00.000-07:00

2010-09-22T12:24:00.000-07:00

2010-09-22T12:22:00.000-07:00

2010-09-22T12:18:00.000-07:00

Hawaii

2010-09-22T12:12:00.000-07:00

BATHTIME!

2010-05-24T21:30:00.000-07:00

Aren't they just cute!?

Randomness!

2010-05-24T21:24:00.000-07:00

Aidan is 5!

2010-05-24T21:14:00.000-07:00

Aidan turned 5! He really wanted a surprise Mario Bros/Hot Wheels party so I planned one. Lucky me, he thought his surprise party was a party they had at school so he was completely surprised! He was so confused and happy to have his friends and cousins and aunts and grandma there. Grandma gave him a slip n' slide and he couldn't wait to use it. It wasn't the warmest day, but we all had a lot of fun. On one hand, I can't believe he is 5. On the other hand - I can't believe he is ONLY 5! He is so kind, and wise and smart. I'm so excited to see where his life takes him.

Muse!

2010-04-06T21:39:00.000-07:00

A slightly different concert than Michael Buble. My friends had an extra Muse ticket and offered it to moi! I was so excited because I had wanted to go but I couldn't find anyone to go and then I lost my job and it just seemed like everything was against me going. lol Anyway - went to the concert, awesome, awesome, awesome! Awesome seats, awesome people, awesome party. It was so good and I am so glad that I got to go.

He Lives!

2010-04-04T08:31:00.000-07:00

What a selfless act performed by a perfect man. I know that Christ lives. I know that he loves me. I know that he does not leave us alone to go through this world alone. And when I think more about it all - I am overwhelmed. I know that he loves me because he died for me. I know that he lives because on the third day, he left that cold tomb. I know that he does not leave me alone because I can feel his love when I am doing my best to be like Christ. He has given us prophets in these days to guide us and to speak to us. President Monson is a true prophet who has been appointed by God the Father. I am so excited to listen to him speak today at General Conference.

Because of my Savior Jesus Christ, I can be happy. I can have my family with me for all of time and eternity. All I need to do is follow him.

MICHAEL BUBLE!

2010-04-04T08:16:00.000-07:00

Me and the mum went to see Michael Buble in concert on Wednesday. He was so amazing! He put on such a good show - I can't wait to go again. He sounded even better live and was so funny and always mentioning how thankful he was for everyone and to be where he is. Definitely one of the best concerts ever!

2010-04-04T08:03:00.000-07:00

We bought passes to the Living Planet Aquarium in Sandy. We have been 3 times already since then and the boys still can't wait to go back.

Harry adopted a nice old lady that he kept calling 'Nana' and he would lead her around by her hand. She was with a couple friends of hers and was so nice to oblige Harry.

2010-04-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

Jeff's friend Chris Bean flies a C130 for the Air Force. We were lucky enough to go see him and his plane when he went to Salt Lake for some classified modifications...shhh....

Jess and Noah came with us too and it was so much fun! Jeff was like a little kid. I was so much fun watching my boys.

Lava Hot Springs

2010-02-18T19:11:00.000-08:00

Me and Jess and Shayne had a girl's night in Lava and saw they had a new hot pool! It was like a perfect hot bath. Shayne loved it so we thought we would take the boys. We went after the field trip this morning and they all loved it! They were swimming and playing and everyone was happy and good - it was a dream! We will definitely be going more often.

2010-02-18T18:58:00.000-08:00

Jess and kids came up for a few days and we had a blast! The reason we have pictures of the last day and nothing else? We didn't do anything! And it was fun. The boys played Wii and Jess and I talked and watched TV - loved it! Thursday we all went on Aidan's field trip to the Police department here in Pocatello. They both loved it!

2010-02-03T08:50:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Jeffrey!

2010-02-01T18:03:00.000-08:00

Jeff turned 33 on January 21st! He was in Omaha for work so we had a little family celebration at when he got home. Cake, and ice cream and his favorite dish 'The Peff'. I love you Peff!

SLEDDING!

2010-02-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

The boys have been wanting to go sledding but we just haven't had enough snow until today! I forgot how much fun sledding is even if I was carrying 2 sleds and a 2 year old up the hill.

Harry and Aidan both had their first whitewash (face plant in the snow) and while Aidan wanted to keep going and crashing, Harry was done after that. Enjoy!

(reposted video)

2010-02-01T17:44:00.001-08:00

Christmas with the Schafers

2010-01-07T22:45:00.000-08:00

Always good times when we get together, especially on Christmas! I'm so glad we were able to be with them this year! I love you guys! (yes - even you, Adam ;) )

Merry Christmas!

2010-01-07T22:31:00.000-08:00

Finally getting some Christmas pictures up! We spent Christmas in Salt Lake at my mom's this year. It was so much fun because Aidan was TOTALLY and COMPLETELY aware of what was going on! We tracked Santa online and when he was getting close he turned on his side, closed his eyes and fell asleep. They were so incredibly adorable on Christmas eve. I don't think industrial chains could have kept them away from their stockings and presents long enough for me to get the camera ready. All pictures are action shots because they were so dang excited. At one point Harry opened a present, saw it was a box and said (while pouting) "A box!?!" and I had never seen him so disappointed! It was hilarious. When he opened his big remote control truck from grandma he patted the box, squealed and clapped his hands. I think he even hugged it at one point. Aidan was extatic every time he opened a present. He loved everything he got. I think he was on a bakugan high but I swear he was obsessed with everything! His most odd gift - an anatomy kit. And he loves it. He is so into that stuff. He can tell you all about your epiglotis, where certain bones are in your body and the function of some of them as well. Genius! Jeff and I both had an awesome Christmas as well. As always. I love Christmas!

Uh-oh

2009-12-21T15:11:00.000-08:00

I LOVE these pictures. Aidan called me to the kitchen because Harry was playing with the powdered sugar. You'll notice that Aidan is asking if they will be in trouble but Harry thinks its funny!

This one was right after the first and you'll notice Aidan trying to Hide behind Harry while Harry has now realized it wasn't very funny. It is hilarious now! But I was having a rough, rough day...

Poor Harry

2009-12-21T14:49:00.000-08:00

I debated on whether or not to post anything on here about this because I know there will be some people that will say stuff about how much sugar or soda we give our kids. Truth is - we don't give our kids any more sugar than anyone else and they rarely ever have soda and they don't go to bed with juice. So - here is the dentists educated/statistical explanation: some people are just born (genetics)with bad saliva and teeth that make them more susceptible to cavities or weak teeth. I was also sick during the 1st trimester so Harry's enamel didn't form correctly on some of his teeth. So - put that all together and you end up with a sad baby needing 4 crowns on his molars and 4 teeth pulled. Whenever his front teeth would come in they would just break off. Thats just how they came in. 2 of his back crowns were precautionary so we wouldn't have to do this again.

We had this all done at the hospital so they could put him under so he wouldn't be completely traumatized.

He slept for quite awhile and its taken us almost a week to get him back on schedule. He was super clingy and cuddly and I loved every bit of it! He is doing just fine now. The dentist said that he will be able to bite down with his front gums eventually and until I have a little vampire baby. The dentist also told us that his adult teeth will come in just fine, just need to take more precautions than normal and his other teeth are just fine too. No cavities. :) Yeah!

My Favorite Ornament EVER!

2009-12-21T14:18:00.000-08:00

Aidan made this Christmas tree ornament at school and I absolutely love it! He told me that when he is nice he can put his nice picture on. Then he flipped it over to show me his naughty side and I thought I was going to die from laughter! It is the most adorable thing ever!

Sadly we haven't had the naughty side showing much, but it makes me smile every time I see it.

2009-12-20T23:00:00.000-08:00

2009-12-12T22:52:00.000-08:00

We had an early Christmas with Nana and Gramps last night. (pictures to come) and it was great! The boys got some movies, books and light sabres, Jeff and I both got iPod docking stations - he will take his to the office - and we got a Wii. I asked Jeff for one, but I honestly didn't think he would get it. He has never really been a big video game fan, but he is loving the Wii! I haven't had much chance to play, but the 15 minutes I did play today has made my arm incredibly sore. I think its going to be great to get the family moving and its something we can all do together.

Aidan's favorite game is bowling. He's really pretty good at it when he gets going! Harry just likes to hold it and pretend he is playing. Cute kids!

Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays!

2009-12-12T22:46:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas. Everything about Christmas is magical, from the pure joy in children's eyes, to the giving hearts of grown men and women. I always think what a shame it is that I can't have my tree up all year, but having everything up for one month makes my decorations all the more special to me. I love our tree! I love the multi colored lights and mismatched ornaments. I love that the cat sleeps under it and the kids rearrange the ornaments.

I painted this village with me mum a long time ago. I still have more I need to paint. I really enjoy doing this stuff! Its a good outlet :)

Aidan and I did some popcorn stringin'. He had so much fun doing it - so did I! Its getting really fun being able to do more things with Aidan.

I love our house! Have I ever mentioned that before? Though our house is small, it is perfect for us! Its so amazingly cozy and happy and it really is home. I'm so thankful to have a home and to be able to stay here for as long as we want to. It breaks my heart when I hear about the -5 temps outside at night and I think of those without homes or family. It truly puts everything into perspective. I think its extremely important that we do what we can to help those less fortunate than us. Everyone has something we need and we have something they need. Even if its just a hello or a warm scarf for a cold day.

Merry Christmas!

A Christmas Story

2009-11-14T23:31:00.000-08:00

Today while playing in the snow, Harry involuntarily acted out a couple scenes from A Christmas Story for our entertainment.

Hey! I can't get up...I can't get up! Ralphie! I can't get up!! Ralphieeeee!

I can't put my arms down!

SNOW!

2009-11-14T23:20:00.000-08:00

They have been watching snowball fights on TV for a couple weeks now and they put their new found knowledge to use. Harry started off more quickly, grabbing handfuls of snow while Aidan was upset that the snow wouldn't stick together. Here you see Harry chasing Aidan around the yard with his handful of snow.

Harry came after me with some snow. Luckily it blew off into the wind before it was able to hit me.

Aidan was catching snowflakes on his tongue. Harry was concerned about the snow accumulating on Aidan's back.

Snow Angels!

LEAVES!

2009-11-11T09:17:00.000-08:00

Harry thought jumping in the leaves was the best thing in the world. But he didn't like that the leaves stuck to his head.

I just love this picture of the Bob!

Harry liked throwing the leaves up and letting them land on him...

Aidan would throw them and then try to outrun them...

Trick-or-Treat!

2009-11-10T21:33:00.000-08:00

Aidan shed his transformer accessories quickly while trick-or-treating. I wasn't quick enough at getting a picture with everything on. We met up with Jen and Brandon (the dinosaur) and as you can see they couldn't go from house to house fast enough.

Harry was fine at first, but I was glad I took the stroller so he could sit during his breaks.

After 3 hours of trick-or-treating and me begging to go home - we headed off to find another neighborhood because Aidan insisted on going again (and Halloween only comes once a year) but about 3 minutes into the car ride - they were both gone.

a little accident...

2009-11-03T21:59:00.000-08:00

I was reading on the couch while Aidan and Harry were playing and somehow Harry fell into the end table. It looked okay for a minute until I picked him up and the blood started flowin'. It was sooo sad! Aidan started freaking out and running around the house saying "its an emergency!" He helped me get a towel to try and wash it up a little bit, but the blood just wouldn't stop. I had to hold him over the bathroom sink while Aidan went to get the phone to call daddy. Aidan was really the hero of the day! He called Jeff and told him we had an emergency and we would meet him at the urgent care. Then Aidan kept saying "I don't know what happened! This should NEVER have happened!" It was really adorable seeing how concerned he was about Harry and it was really nice that he was able to help me in a situation like this. I just taught him how to dial 911 also so I had to make sure he called daddy and not 911. All the way to the urgent care, Aidan kept telling Harry that the shots were going to hurt soo bad, but they would give him a Bob the Builder band aid and it would make it feel a lot better. So helpful. :)

Harry got away with just having it glued together so hopefully that will be just fine. He was really brave. And while I was very concerned about Harry, I was really truly amazed at the way Aidan reacted to it all. He was very mature about it, he wasn't telling Harry how disgusting it was, just kept telling him that he was bleeding and we needed to go to the dr to get it fixed. He didn't wander around the house waiting for me to yell at him, he just did what I asked and then some. I was truly amazed. He is getting so big!

Hawk and a Hacksaw

2009-11-02T07:33:00.000-08:00

This was such a fun night! We got to see my cousin, Heather and her band perform at the Urban Lounge on their tour through the states. They've been touring through Europe for quite awhile so we were totally excited to hear she was coming to Salt Lake! Heather is between me and Jess in the back - can't even see her lol You guys were awesome!

Heather Ricks, Carly, Jessica, Whitney, Amanda and Tanna partyin' at the Lounge

We all got in on Jess' self photo - op

Heather and the band - Hawk and a Hacksaw. Chris is playing the....guitar thingy, Heather on the violin and Jeremy on the accordian (Aidan is a HUGE fan!). You can't see the other guys too well.

Me and Jess!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2009-10-28T12:43:00.000-07:00

Aidan picked out the pumpkin and I carved it. This was our 3rd pumpkin for the season and Aidan is currently at his 4th Halloween party. I finally have an excuse to get all giddy about the holidays - or rather, someone to blame it all on :)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Apples!

2009-10-25T08:46:00.000-07:00

I tried canning for the first time with our apples! I did some spiced apple rings and apple caramel butter. The butter is awesome! I hope to try the apple rings on Halloween in some cider...mmm....

Boys helping me wash the apples.

Lots and lots...and lots of apples....

Random Pictures

2009-10-25T08:40:00.000-07:00

Jeff took a poor little boy's shark head. Maybe I should let him be a shark next year.

I came out of the kitchen to see this...I love it!

This is my cheese ball. Fresh from the bath.

And cheeseball #2 holding Harry. I mean..uh.....

Pumpkin Carving!

2009-10-25T08:33:00.000-07:00

Aidan refuses to touch the inside of a pumpkin! When he wants to carve pumpkins it usually means "lets watch mommy carve and scrape out pumpkins". Fine with me! I love it!

When mom came up last week she bought a couple pumpkins for the boys so we could have some jack-o-lanterns.

Bob. Such a weirdo!

Random food post...

2009-10-25T08:20:00.000-07:00

Well I found a super easy dish online that Jeff is obsessed with. That doesn't happen often. We had it 4 nights in 1 week if that tells you anything. So I thought I'd post the recipe if anyone wanted to try it.

Before you start, boil your water

Sautee 1/2 onion in about tbls butter

Add your pasta (we use shells) to the water (your pasta will be done when the rest is ready for it)

add 1/2 c chicken broth

frozen or canned peas (however many you'd like)

1 can chicken chopped up (its just easier to used canned chicken)

After the chicken broth has reduced, add 3/4 c heavy cream.

season with salt and pepper or seasoning salt. Simmer for about 5-10 min until the sauce thickens a bit. Add pasta. You can add more cream for more sauce if you'd like. We usually do. :)

It orginally called for ham, but we didn't have any. We also used green beans instead of peas once. I'm sure any veggie would taste fine. This is a 20 minute recipe. Enjoy!

(let me know if you try it and if you tried anything different with it)

Halloween Party

2009-10-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

We decided to have a little halloween party last night. It was loads of fun! (but I think we need a big party house next time we buy)

Firs I must state that I find it totally unfair that Jeff fits into his skinny jeans and I don't even own skinny jeans anymore. :( Second - how hot is he?!?!!? Good heavens...

He didn't want to dress up so we looked online and found his costume. A sign around his neck that says "Nudist on Strike".

Thats little Tyler Hadlock in the chicken costume

I couldn't really get a picture of the kids because they were so pumped up on sugar and running around and - to be honest - I avoided Aidan's room where they were all playing like the plague. I didn't want to see the destruction.

I looked hot. Admit it. I had a good unibrow going on that you can't see and I stuffed my bum. Aidan was afraid of my makeup so he wouldn't really come too close to me. Thats Jen in the Supergirl costume! It was awesome. Todd was pretending to be horrified...

Apple Pickin'

2009-10-03T17:54:00.000-07:00

We have an ugly, old apple tree in our backyard. We never bothered trying to pick any apples because they would all fall off or have worm holes all over them. Jeff pruned the tree last year and we got a ton of apples this year! We went outside to clean up toys and grabbed a couple apples for Bob and we ended up picking apples for 45 minutes! We still have 1/2 the tree to pick. We had a lot of fun too!

Aidan and Harry loved climbing the ladder to reach the high ones.

Jeff found the perfect apple!

Here was my best apple I picked.

Today's pickin's! We still have double that on the tree waiting for us. Time to learn how to can! :)

Paintin' Punkins

2009-10-03T17:44:00.000-07:00

Seemed much easier to find small pumpkins and let them paint them. Maybe more messy, but definitely easier!

Thats pretty much Harry's complete pumpkin. Aidan made his a ghost pumpkin.

The Greatest Show On Earth!

2009-09-28T23:32:00.000-07:00

Nana (Jeff's mom) was completely amazing and bought Aidan and I front row seats to Barnum & Bailey's Circus last Saturday. Aidan was so excited from the moment I told him we were going. Every day he would ask how many more sleeps until the circus. He definitely wasn't disappointed.

His favorite part was the clowns. I was a little concerned - but he loved them! He really enjoyed everything else too, but couldn't wait until the clowns came back out every time.

My favorite was when the ladies were shot out of the cannon. If I wasn't afraid of heights or had the dreams where you jump or fall and you can't see the ground at all...I would totally do that!

You can't have a circus without elephants and they were awesome. I have always loved the circus and I'm so glad that Aidan can't wait to go again. Next year, Jeff will be able to walk and Harry will be older. It will be so much fun to go with the whole family.

Gardner Village

2009-09-28T23:13:00.000-07:00

We went to Gardner Village with my mom this last weekend. Its one of our favorite places to go! We were looking at some of the witches and watching the ducks when Aidan got sad (couldn't get to the candy store fast enough). Harry sidled right up next to Aidan and asked him if he was okay. I love these boys!

Aidan informed us that the witch did not crash into the building - she was climbing to the top!

The boys got to ride the ponies. Aidan rode by himself for the first time and he loved every minute of it. Harry didn't even want me to touch him. I had to hold onto his shirt so he wouldn't keep hitting my hand away.

Aidan held Harry's hand everywhere. We had forgotten the stroller, but he said he would help us keep Harry safe. And he did a great job!

Aidan 'The Bob'

2009-09-22T22:18:00.000-07:00

This kid is a freak. And I say that with as much love as I can! He is an amazing child with the biggest heart I have ever seen. The things we have learned from him go beyond what anyone has ever tried to teach me before. His love and understanding of the pureness and unconditional love of our Saviour is amazing. He is always saying the most hilarious things and having the most odd dreams (nose fields?). He loves his brother even though he tends pick on him. And I love seeing them hug whenever they've been away from each other. He is the greatest big brother and one of the most amazing sons ever (the other being Harry)

Like I said - he likes to pose and act out stories. Maybe someday he'll make a lot of money posing and acting!

Such a silly Bob!

School Days!

2009-09-22T22:10:00.000-07:00

A good healthy meal of mac n' cheese (a favorite in our home). For the first time I had to force the boys to sit and eat because Aidan was so excited to go to preschool!

Aidan likes to pose for his pictures! Such a nerd. Harry of course couldn't let Aidan have a picture of his own.

This was Aidan's idea of being ready for school. Nice try bucko!

Use 2,000,0001 for Vaseline

2009-08-22T23:03:00.000-07:00

Vaseline is a beauty product that should be in every woman's make-up kit, every mother's first aid kit and in every diaper bag. Vaseline can be used as a substitute for mascara, helping plump your tired eyes, help heal diaper rashes and that is only the beginning.

Recently it has been discovered that Vaseline can also be used to make your hair silky soft or make your family laugh. It only takes 3 days and 8 hairwashes and the wiping of the hair with a wet wipe at each diaper change to clean out. But the results are marvelous!

Family Reunion

2009-08-22T22:41:00.000-07:00

We headed to our family reunion out at Hidden Canyon Ranch earlier this month. I had finally talked Jeff into coming, but obviously he couldn't make it. Uncle Adam and Uncle Byron took the boys fishing and Byron took the Aidan 4 wheeling. This was Harry's first time reeling in.

Adam caught a fish for Aidan but Aidan got to reel it in. He was so excited the whole time! I wish I could touch fish without gagging because I would love to take him again. Harry was a little excited and tried to steal the pole.

Bob being a Bob. Aidan and Noah kept sucking the jello cups to their faces. When the cups would fall they would have jello bits all over their faces.

Harry loved camping too. He felt like such a big boy. Check out those rockin' shoes!

Lemonade out of lemons...

2009-08-18T07:50:00.000-07:00

Been a stressful few weeks and this morning was any different. So when we came home from taking Jeff to work, there was a big truck in front of our house leaving us nowhere to park except across the street. I was irritated, but the boys were so excited about the truck being in front of THEIR house they could hardly contain themselves. Aidan wanted a picture of the truck so I tried to be kind to all those around me and took this cute picture of the boys.

I am Optimus Prime

2009-08-02T08:59:00.000-07:00

If you didn't want to go to the Ranch - you could have just told me!

2009-08-02T08:28:00.000-07:00

Sunday night, Jeff and I were cleaning up and got in a good groove getting the kitchen cleaned and the cupboards organized. Aidan's room was burning up so Jeff had gone downstairs to get a fan. I heard a bump and Jeff started yelling "I broke my leg!" I wasn't going to freak out until I saw what had actually happened. His knee just didn't look right. Now let me tell you a little something about our basement. Our house was built in 1930 when people were 5'2 and 112 lbs. Our stairway to our unfinished basement and laundry room is about 2 1/2 ft wide, an overhang you have to duck under and the wooden stairs are extremely steep. I knew I wasn't going to be able to get Jeff out of there and he couldn't even straighten his leg. I had to call 911 for any help with him. 5 minutes later the firemen were there. 2 minutes after that the EMTs got here. There were 7 grown men, 6 of them could actually stand up on their own and 2 of them had to sit on the stairs just to see what was going on. I was out of the situation so I did what my family does in a situation like this because this isn't new - minus the 911 call. I took pictures, called my sister and laughed. Really?! It just figured - sometimes you have to just laugh or you're going to fall apart and cry. Amanda helped me pass the time and the neighbors laughed while I took pictures of the firetruck and ambulance.

Here is the firetruck at the side of the house. The lights obviously brought out the neighbors at 11pm. Usually in our part of town if you see this kind of stuff going on you assume someone has beat their husband or wife or someone's boyfriend is causing trouble.

Here is Jeff in the basement with some of the guys. Our basement has since been cleaned and will remain that way. I'm too paranoid now. The 2 stairs you see behind Jeff are the stairs he slipped down. There was a jacket on them and he stepped on his left leg to catch himself and his leg just fell under him.

After our trip to the ER we found out something was wrong with his kneecap. We all got home at 3:30 am (thank you Flatlands for watching the boys!) and finally got some sleep. 1 MRI and a visit to the surgeon later, we found out that he had a bone spur on his kneecap that could have caused it to weaken the tendons. He tor his kneecap off his patellar tendon and after the surgery on Tuesday morning the surgeon said he had "shredded" his tendon and pulled it a little off his tibia. He will be in a straight leg brace for 4.5 weeks and a hinged brace after that.

Good times ahead! Thankfully Jeff has amazing parents and Judi has been here since Wednesday. She leaves next Wednesay and while the boys and I are down at the family reunion, Chet will be here to help Jeff out. I really don't know what I would do without them.

2009-07-08T06:36:00.000-07:00

This is a Bob. This is a Bob on popsicles. Jeff bought these new swimsuit/floaty things the other day for the boys to wear to Lava. Aidan wore his almost all day yesterday. So cute! I think he finally feels semi-ok with going in the pool now.

You can see the guy climbing the tree in the background. Aidan was sitting on the counter to watch him better since I wouldn't let him go outside to watch.

This is what we spent our afternoon doing. :) We hired someone to cut down our 2 dead trees. We had powerlines running through the tangled branches of one of them. I was teasing my friend yesterday, telling her that we had a guy climbing our trees like a vampire! Then I found out his name was Kellan! For you non-Twilight fans out there, one of the vampires - Emmett - his real name is Kellan. Just thought it was funny.

EARWIGS!

2009-07-06T21:38:00.000-07:00

I have lived with cockroaches extra large and small. I have had a mice scurrying in the kitchen when we lived on the farm. I have disected frogs and worms and had spiders crawl across my face. But nothing - I repeat NOTHING is more slimy, disgusting, horrifying or nauseating to me than earwigs! And we have tons of them here! For the last 3 summers we have had them everywhere in our yard and even some brave ones that decide to go to the basement. Well, I decided to do a little research on these wretched insects. I learned that they don't nest inside - this is very good. I also found a natural way to kill them which I am happy to do.

We put an empty tuna can (we didn't rinse it) with olive oil and bacon grease behind our bbq near our laundry room window. I had forgotten about it. We just put it out last night. Well Jeff came running in the house all out of breath, grinning from ear to ear and nearly prancing like a little girl because he was so excited. He took me outside to show me and I thought I was going to throw up! There were probably 100 or more in that little can! It was completely full! As I type this, Jeff is on his way to the store for more olive oil and bacon. I'm sacrificing full cans of tuna to the neighborhood cats tonight as well.

So - if you have earwigs - do it! It seriously works. I'm just so happy that so many are gone now that I had to blog. How sad is that? BUT I didn't put a picture up with this post because if any of you feel the same way about those things as I do - you would never look at my blog again.

Happy earwig hunting!

A little experiment...

2009-07-06T14:37:00.000-07:00

Peff - get ready - because you are fully involved in this one!

Those of you who really know me know that I LOVE the old shows like Dick Van Dyke, I Love Lucy, Leave it to Beaver...you get the idea. One of the things that fascinates me about them is how perfect the wives and therefore the children are. Now I know there is no such thing as a perfect wife or mother - but I want to try. I have been wondering though - did they have it right? There is a book called Fascinating Womanhood by Helen Andelin that makes some points for moms back then. I'm going to try it out and see if it really does make a difference or if it just leaves me feeling like a slave and unsatisfied.

I've started a blog so I can have somewhere to put my results, thoughts, feelings. If you want to follow me - that would be great. Its always nice to know that I'm not talking to myself. Please leave comments and ideas too. And if you're a femminst - lol may as well not even look.

www.momofthe50s.blogspot.com

At the end of the night...

2009-07-04T23:13:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July is so much more than fireworks and great food. When my boys can sleep peacefully without a thought of anyone that might hurt them and me and the Peff can sit together and not worry about needing to protect our children - that is the true blessing of the 4th of July. Without our freedom, I feel sure our nights wouldn't be so peaceful.

The Festivities

2009-07-04T22:56:00.000-07:00

(sorry! pictures loaded backwards!) This was our grand finale tonight! It's funny how fireworks bring out the pyro is grown men. They were sure these fireworks would be better if they put it on a ladder. Gotta admit - it was pretty cool!

I think there were only 2 kids that didn't like the fireworks - but everyone else was outside enjoying the show.

Everyone sitting and enjoying!

Because of the rain we spent the first part of the night inside. The kids thought it was fun to beat Wade and Jeff with balloons! We all thought it was pretty funny too...

The day was absolutely gorgeous! Then at 7pm which was when we were supposed to be to Crystal's house - it started to downpour! This is what happened in about 15 minutes. Walking from our car to her house was like walking across the Portneuf. I wasn't expecting the power and it almost took me out! :) It was gorgeous and clear just in time for fireworks though which is what really mattered most.

4th Of JuLy PaRaDe!

2009-07-04T22:37:00.000-07:00

The last 3 years we've been here, we have been meeting our awesome group of friends at the parade. Aidan has met his best friends here and so have I. I love these gals!

It took Harry a bit to catch on to the whole thing of the parade. Sitting on the curb and putting the candy in a bag we normally use for garbage was a completely foreign concept. :) He would pick up a piece of candy, eat it and then wait for another piece. By the end of our (very short) parade he finally understand.

Aidan couldn't wait for the parade! Every day for the last week he has been counting down how many "big sleeps" he had until the parade and fireworks! His big blue lips were a gift from his older girlfriend at the snowcone shack.

We made the boy's rad shirts at our playgroup last week. Our friend Courtney helped us - she's awesome. You mix flour and water to a pancake consitency and put it in a squeeze bottle. You use it to make whatever design you want. Aidan wanted the transformer face thingy and Harry just did a bunch of squigglies. Then you water down fabric or craft paint and put it in a squirt bottle and spray it on the shirt. You can't see them very well here - but they are awesome and the boys have worn them every day since we made them. (had to wash them at night!)

My 'New' Home

2009-06-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

I had been wanting to do this for awhile now - and now that I have - what do you think? I put the shutters up, new house numbers and a new mailbox. When Jeff gets back we'll replace the porch light. As of now I am finished with the front of the house!

Our Home

2009-06-15T22:48:00.000-07:00

I've been struggling with the idea of possibly selling our home the last couple of weeks. Its a little small and I felt like it might be time to get some more space. It wasn't until this time that I realized I have been having a 3 year affair with my home! I love this house so much - I would be completely content to stay here forever. I love my hardwood floors, original woodwork inside, the windows, the amazing character, my clawfoot tub...

What is the point of this blog? Its to say 'Thank you Peff!' Because I know he wanted a house in the country, but he still wanted me to be happy and let me have this beautiful home instead. I love you baby!

RaInY dAyS

2009-06-15T22:37:00.000-07:00

Though I love Seattle and La Push - these pictures are proof that my sanity would be lost with 2 weeks of straight rain. If sunshine had been seen, I don't believe this type of cheap entertainment would have been necessary.

This is my FAVORITE of Aidan's Mr. Chinn. Such a sport! Let's hope he continues down this way and makes us a LOT of money by becoming a brilliant actor.

Seven Years!

2009-06-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

This post is a little late - but I still wanted to put this up. Seven years ago Jeff and I said 'I will' in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on May 24. I still remember every detail of that day. Even crossing the street and seeing Jeff waiting there for his belt he had forgotten! I remember sitting with him, waiting our turn - holding hands and watching the other couples sitting nervously around us. We were whispering and laughing and so excited! I knew then that we wouldn't be just any married couple. We love to have fun and hang out and I'm sure anyone that knows us would say we are pretty wierd. Good wierd I hope!

In 7 years we have lived in Mississippi while Jeff finished his classes, lived with my mom, had 2 amazing little boys and bought a house in Idaho. Jeff has made me so proud with his work - always in the top group of guys and going on these catastrophe calls to help better himself at work and ease our pockets a little at home.

I have no idea what I would do without this man. The love and support he has shown me through rough times, writing my book, my work and most importantly as a wife and mom - amazes me! I am so in love with this beast!

I love you, Peff! I'm so happy you chose me!

SPRINKLERS

2009-05-30T19:27:00.000-07:00

No better way to start a blog :)
I put the sprinkler on to water the lawn, but the boys found this to be a great opportunity to have fun! Could take a page out of their book, eh?

My 2 favorite boys! Dibbles McGee and Cheesy LaRoy.

Birthday Party!

2009-05-09T17:14:00.000-07:00

We had Aidan's party today. I'm really happy with how it turned out. We invited 6 of his greatest friends and their parents (though the dad's wussed out!), had hot dogs, cake and ice cream, presents and a lot of fun. I didn't plan any games because I didn't want to stress myself. And it worked because I had a great time. Mom was able to come up for the party and I know both the boys were super excited about that!

Aidan had to have a Transformer cake and party theme. He has been huge into them ever since Jeff introduced him to the great toys of the 80's. He bought Aidan Optimus Prime and its been a ride ever since.

It was a gorgeous day - but a little windy. How many mom's does it take to light birthday candles? In our case...4.

We had a Pinata (Amy - I'll get you later for getting me in the picture) and everyone loved it. We had to keep the kids in their rightful places so everyone got a turn and no one got hit with the stick.

Aidan had some good whacks at it - but it was Coty (in the tye-dye) that smashed it open. The kids went nuts. Definitely had teh effect I was hoping for. Good job Coty!

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T13:08:00.001-07:00

Nana has been out to visit this week while Gramps is at the Masters in Georgia. We love it though because Nana gets to spend Easter with us!!

She bought these adorable Easter outfits for the boys along with some other outfits.

The boys wore their Easter Church outfits for the short time we were able to stay at church today. Bob got to go up with the primary to sing a song.

Bubbles are a big thing in our house. :)

Like I said. Bubbles are big. Huge. True story.

And apparently so is chipped paint.

Happy Easter everyone! Remember that it is because of Christ that we are able to live again with our families and our Heavenly Father. :)

Keep one eye open

2009-03-11T09:34:00.000-07:00

Aidan fell asleep on the couch while Harry was taking a nap. You can see what happens if Harry doesn't want you sleeping! Like I said - one eye open, folks.

He looks sweet and innocent - but I heard Aidan groaning and whining underneath.

Just before the mayhem...

HI YAH!

2009-03-11T09:10:00.000-07:00

We've been toying with the idea of putting Aidan in Karate. I have a friend that teaches Kenpo to a small group of kids (and adults on Thursday which she talked me into going - we'll see...lol) She was amazing! Aidan had so much fun. He lacks the..uh...focus, but he really did well.

During his warm-ups he showed mad skill at balancing. It was so much fun to watch him. He seemed so big and so little at the same time. :)

Karate Bob

2009-03-11T09:08:00.000-07:00

Family Pictures

2009-03-03T21:59:00.000-08:00

Jess' friend (and mine!) took family pictures for us yesterday and they turned out dang good! Not such a fan of me in the family picture - but what do you do? And so what if Aidan looks pained! My favorite family pictures are the imperfect ones. :) I can't wait to see the rest of the pictures!

2009-02-27T20:43:00.000-08:00

We had to get something great with part of our tax return. Great and still useful! We had Jeff's parent's old dining room set, then we had my mom's old table which I used old mix and match chairs with. Jeff's friend was in town for work so we had him over for dinner. Before any of us realized what had happened, Scott was on the floor amid pieces of broken chair. Our original plan was to only buy chairs. I found a local store here with furniture that I absolutely loved and had Jeff go in to look at the chairs. I want it on the record that I never said anything about the possibility of getting a table as well - not out loud. So this was all Jeff - and I love it!

Art Work - Priceless

2009-01-21T18:17:00.000-08:00

I let Aidan play with his water colors while Harry was taking a nap - and silly me - I forgot to put the pains away when Harry got up! I shouldn't have been surprised when Harry came out with a big handprint of paint on his face. But I was. I told Bob he looked like he had warrior paint on his face so he took it a step further so he could be the strongest warrior ever!

Harry - the warrior in training.

Happy Birthday Peff!

2009-01-21T18:00:00.000-08:00

No - this is not an 11 year old picture. Aidan decorated Jeff's cake and put the numbers on backwards - be hes a bob so we just left them. The back part where the frosting is missing - Aidan tried to use a cookie cutter to make it a car cake. He is so sweet!

The Peff chose waffles for his birthday dinner. He has become a maple syrup junkie! Fine by me - I love me some waffles. Happy birthday, Peff - you're an amazing man and I love you so much! Thank you for everything you do for us and every support you give me. I love you. Happy Birthday!

Our little Zoolander

2009-01-11T21:34:00.000-08:00

Apparently Aidan's favorite pictures to take now are pictures of him and Harry eating. He got up on the bench and posed and wanted a serious picture. Such a goof. I think he might end up in front of the cameras when he's older.

I can't put one of Aidan and not one of Harry.

Femote Control Car Truck

2009-01-11T21:22:00.000-08:00

I love this picture! Aidan got a massive remote control car for Christmas which he insists is actually called a 'femote control car truck'. We tried it out inside and it was just to powerful and hard to control that we had to wait for the snow to melt. We've had sunshine the last few days which made way for perfect femote control car truck driving.

Harry insisted on chasing the car...and being chased by the car.

Batman also drove the car. He didn't think it had enough power.

Sunday Goofs

2009-01-11T21:19:00.000-08:00

They're just cute!

Pea Toes

2008-12-27T21:38:00.000-08:00

When Aidan was born, we were in the hospital and I was inspecting his peas..er...toes and they looked like peas! Ever since then we have called them pea toes. We were extremely delighted when we saw that Harry had peas too! So now if you ever hear Bob argue that they're peas instead of toes or piggies - now you know why. We figure we'll tell him they're actually just toes when he's about 12.

Casualty

2008-12-27T21:33:00.000-08:00

Harry was jumping on our bed when he saw the m&m candies on our dresser from Christmas. I turned to get them and turned just in time to see him fall off the bed. He cut his lip pretty bad and it bled quite a bit. He was a little sad through the day, but he's a tough guy. :(

Throughout the day...

2008-12-26T11:45:00.000-08:00

They had to take a bath. Fortunately they didn't have to leave new Christmas toys alone in order to do so. Harry got new bath toys from a very thoughtful Santa.

Jeff played with his new camera - hopefully this doesn't mean more pictures of me. Let's hope he knows whats good for him...

Harry wore Aidan's watch when Aidan didn't want to.

They played...
And played....

The Mayhem

2008-12-26T11:40:00.000-08:00

Self explanatory.

Again.

Santa Came!

2008-12-26T11:32:00.000-08:00

Santa was far too generous this year. He brought beautiful jewelry, dvds, too many toys and hunting stuff.

Of course we had to hang our stockings. Aidan said he Santa wouldn't come to his house if we didn't have them hung up.

Christmas Eve

2008-12-26T11:27:00.000-08:00

Not sure why these pictures are backwards - but I'm hoping you figured out that Bob fell asleep AFTER the next picture. ;) After Harry went to bed, we watched The Polar Express in 3D. Hence the 3D glasses. It was really awesome!

Here we are in our Christmas jammies. Awww....

Our Trip to the North Pole

2008-12-23T21:10:00.000-08:00

Judi and Bill were incredibly awesome and bought us tickets to ride the Polar Express in Heber. We got the tickets for a night when they would be able to join us when they came out for Christmas. Unfortunately, while Nana and Gramps were on vacation, Nana broke her ankle in two places and needed surgery. We're so sad they couldn't come out to be with us on Christmas! We can't wait to see them at the soonest possible opportunity.

Jessica and Noah were able to come with us on the train. We stopped to eat on the way there to get something to eat at Chicks in Heber and headed on to the train station. When we were on, we were greeted by chefs and elves! We all read the story The Polar Express (a first for Jeff), drank hot chocolate and ate magic cookies which happen to be Santa's favorite. We all sang Christmas songs and listened to jokes too. Aidan loved the giggle elves (the elf giggles - long story) and they all got to meet Santa at the North Pole!

It was a lot of fun and I'm so glad we were able to go. We missed Nana and Gramps though, but we thought about them the whole time.

Merry Christmas!

The Polar Express

2008-12-23T20:52:00.000-08:00

Aidan with Santa!

Harry wasn't too sure about leaving the safety of daddy's arms.

Cupcake the elf and Noah were teaching Aidan how to have a thumb war! The kids a pro now!

Harry was so good the entire time! He actually posed for this picture! This kid is gonna be trouble.

We saw Santa standing outside at the North Pole. The kids were so excited!

The Polar Express

2008-12-23T20:32:00.000-08:00

On the train we all read along in the Polar Express book - though some of us were a little more excited about it than others...weirdo!

They had adorable little elves, one of which, named cupcake, inspired Aidan's latest joke (knock knock! who's there? Jo! Jo who? Jo cupcake!)

I just love this picture.

They gave us hot chocolate and Harry was definitely a fan! (*jedi wave* ignore the woman in the picture)

The Polar Express

2008-12-23T20:23:00.000-08:00

Harry was very excited about going to the North Pole!

Aidan was very excited about his magic Santa cookie!

Aidan - still very excited. I think. I'm pretty sure he was more irritated that we were making him stop looking at everything to take pictures.

Aidan and Harry - still very excited about it all!

Christmas Sweaters

2008-12-23T19:58:00.000-08:00

Don't they look cute? These sweaters were given to the boys last year and I've been so excited to have them wear them! I love these sweaters! They wore their little matching outfits Sunday and everyone thought they looked adorable. Duh! Of course they did!

Temple Square

2008-12-23T19:51:00.000-08:00

We attempted a trip to Temple Square so we could see the lights. We took trax down, ate at Crown Burger and then headed to the temple. Amanda, Byron, Jessica, Adam, Noah and mom were with us. It really was a blast - lots of people - but awesome. I'm always in awe at the temple.

We made Aidan and Noah pose

Thats more like it!

Ghetti!

2008-12-08T12:57:00.000-08:00

Our puppy (aka: Aidan or Bob)

The face (aka: Harry)

SNOW!

2008-12-08T10:20:00.000-08:00

Hollomon Family

10 peso version...

Well hello!

Easter

A Bit of Summer

Boring Post (but informative)

"Be prepared..."

Merry Christmas

The Rockettes

Aidan's Class Party

We take sledding Very seriously!

Mario and Luigi!

Hawaii

BATHTIME!

Randomness!

Aidan is 5!

Muse!

He Lives!

MICHAEL BUBLE!

Lava Hot Springs

Happy Birthday Jeffrey!

SLEDDING!

Christmas with the Schafers

Merry Christmas!

Uh-oh

Poor Harry

My Favorite Ornament EVER!

Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays!

A Christmas Story

SNOW!

LEAVES!

Trick-or-Treat!

a little accident...

Hawk and a Hacksaw

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Apples!

Random Pictures

Pumpkin Carving!

Random food post...

Halloween Party

Apple Pickin'

Paintin' Punkins

The Greatest Show On Earth!

Gardner Village

Aidan 'The Bob'

School Days!

Use 2,000,0001 for Vaseline

Family Reunion

Lemonade out of lemons...

I am Optimus Prime

If you didn't want to go to the Ranch - you could have just told me!

EARWIGS!

A little experiment...

At the end of the night...

The Festivities

4th Of JuLy PaRaDe!

My 'New' Home

Our Home

RaInY dAyS

Seven Years!

*SPRINKLERS*

Birthday Party!

Happy Easter

Keep one eye open

HI YAH!

Karate Bob

Family Pictures

Art Work - Priceless

Happy Birthday Peff!

Our little Zoolander

Femote Control Car Truck

Sunday Goofs

Pea Toes

Casualty

Throughout the day...

The Mayhem

Santa Came!

Christmas Eve

Our Trip to the North Pole

The Polar Express

SPRINKLERS