I am (almost) the only one!

Have you ever wondered if you are an "original" name bearer or, more realistically, how many other people in the US share your name? I most certainly have- especially since I married into the "21st most popular last name in America." Thanks to Jane, I was able to search it out, and I found out that with my current name, I AM NOT ALONE!

HowManyOfMe.com

There are 49 people with my name in the U.S.A. How many have your name?

I don't share it with too many others as you can see, but then comes the interesting part. When I put in my maiden name, I AM ALONE!

HowManyOfMe.com

There is 1 person with my name in the U.S.A. How many have your name?

Kinda cool, huh? This website also tells you how your individual (first and last) names rank and other fun stuff. How about you?

My word! They start this young?

Not that I am the least bit happy about it, but my son, who is still only 4 years old, has aquired his first girlfriend. I think they "liked" each other before she joined our preschool class in January. Emily is in our ward, but they have never been in the same primary class as far as I am aware of. I think that's where they met, because the day she joined my class, Dallin started saving her a seat by him. We have noticed the past few weeks that they quickly find each other after Sacrament meeting and hold hands on their way to primary. (Her mom pointed out that this has been going on for a while now!) On Sunday, right after Stake Conference got over, she was suddenly right by us, holding Dallin's hand. We just laugh about it. Then, today during preschool I had to end up separating them because Dallin kept putting his arm around her and they couldn't do anything because they were too busy holding hands. He even told Hunter to "Get away from her, he had her first!" That's when I told them that they are a little too young for this. I didn't know what else to do, so McKade told me to take a picture, which I did. I am so glad Emily's mom finds this funny, because I may be having a little more difficult time with it. (Yes, I think it's pretty cute, but I have to still be the mother here!)

Some missing Preschool pictures

These pictures were taken during our safety unit when we talked about fire safety. Doesn't everyone look thrilled to be wearing the hats I spent hours making! Emily got left out of the picture and wanted me to add her, but Cauley's too busy to photoshop her in right now.

New Temple

Yay! I just found out there will be a new temple built here in Queen CreeK! I believe it will be on the SE corner of Pecos and Greenfield! I am so excited! This is awesome. It will be close enough that I don't have to get a babysitter for 3+ hours or more! For more information, click here.

Results from the EIP

So the Deveolpmental Specialist from Children and Family Services for the state came today. Talk about driving me crazy! She had me put out my preschool chairs all around my living room (WAYYYY NOT SAFE! They tip over when Tyli stands on them, resulting in bloody lips and bruised heads- the only way they can be is out against the wall or the couches like in preschool.)) and put a bunch of other toys out so she could see how Tyli "interacted and climbs" with things. Of course, if you know my daughter at all, you know she is too stubborn to do anything but sit on my lap when there is a "stranger" in the room, so what do you think she did- sat on my lap looking at this lady like she was crazy thinking Tyli would get down and go play. Apperantly I was being out of line by asking Tyli to go climb on the chairs like this lady wanted her to, because I was asked to stop. Tyli never did, but she did get down and play with some blocks for a little while. Then the nice lady made Tyli hold her hand and walk to her toy zebra so she could see how Ty did at riding it. Tyli wouldn't stop screaming. It wasn't a long visit, after that the nice lady just told me that nothing physically is wrong; The results were that I spoil my daughter too much and that she should start walking within a few months. Then she told me I need to start putting my preschool chairs around the house so she can practice climbing which was said as Tyli climbed onto the couch next to me. (Much higher than those chairs!) Tyli is actually begining to walk, taking between 3-7 steps here and there. She'll stand in the middle of the floor and do "Once there was a snowman" during preschool and even will just stand up to "shake he booty!" Needless to say, I didn't appriciate this visit at all and I most certainly won't be letting her free climb on the preschool chairs!

I just loved this!

My friend Jaclyn had this linked to her blog through others and once I clicked on and read it, I decided I too had to add the link to my blog. Enjoy!
The Truth about Mormons

Thankful Thursday

Even though I sound busy (yah, right!) I'm not! I am just exhausted, but hey- it's called being a mom of 3 with my oldest not yet being 5. I don't know how those of you with more little ones do it! Kudos! Anyways, survival is what I am thankful for today. I have a long list, so please bear with me.

First of all, I am thankful for the Dollar Store. How else could I afford toys for my kids every now and then? Especially when we have been out running errands for 4 1/2 hours straight and they have found something they "really need!" at every store- I get to bribe them with the knowledge that we'll be hitting your store last and you are bound to have something "totally awesome" that they will get to pick out. Oh ya, I forgot- your thank you is a double one. Thanks for making your toys so cheap so the really cheaply-made toys my kids end up choosing break and are usually in the garbage by the end of the week so I don't have to feel guilty that I only buy my kids toys from the $ store!

Next, I am thankful for Baby Einstein Videos. Yes, I am an awful mother who puts her kids in front of the TV for 1/2 hour every-other day with this video so I can run in and shower without my kids standing at the door banging while yelling "MOM!" or just crying until one of them is successful in getting the door open only to have three very cute peeping toms invade my shower. I had to invest money into this- I think I got it from Wal-mart for $14 or something, but that is 10 minutes of quiet that I get to enjoy- and that is $14 well spent!

On to the Costco baby wipes. I love them. No, they aren't as good as Pampers sensitive skin or whatever else you want to compare them to, but they have always gotten the job done for me. In fact, I keep one package on the changing table, one under the sink, one in the diaper bag, one in the car, and another in the kids bathroom and I must say I use them to clean up EVERYTHING unless it is germy enough that I need a Lysol wipe! They are very cost efficient too- I am too cheap to buy them otherwise. My mother-in-law thinks I should just use a wash cloth for most of my clean-up needs, but I don't like the smell (even if it's a new wash cloth) or the residue left behind. Plus, it just seems that my kids' faces shine so much more after using a wipee!

While I'm on a roll, I am VERY thankful for my bug guy, Kevin, that comes and sprays, and sprinkles, and gets rid of cobwebs, and anything else he does. I love how he tries to ignore my kiddos who are standing at the window with their noses pressed against it watching his every move! Plus, I hate bugs (shudder!) so I owe him a BIG thanks!

Ok, my kids are driving me nuts as I am trying to type, so I will finish up and get off the computer now. I do have one last thing before I go, and at risk of sounding corny, I am thankful for my kids routines throughout the day. Even though they get up way early (6:00 a.m.), they have a routine that we all follow and if we deviate at all, it's ok. I just love that they are always in bed by 8:00 p.m. without much struggle most nights (they aren't perfect!) except during football season and that we are following the word of wisdom with our "Early to bed, early to rise" routine. (yes, it's part of it!) Plus, with them in bed by 8:00, I get some much needed down time and when Cauley happens to be home, we get some much needed alone time!

That's how I think I survive in a nut shell- ok, so I didn't mention the chocolate and Caffeine-free Diet Coke, but those will have to be saved for another time- they deserve their own posts!

Anything new?

Ok, so I have been a total slacker blogger lately, but life gets busy sometimes. I have been reading all of your blogs thanks to google reader as I am preping for preschool (I CAN do 2 things at one time!) so I have kept up with all of your happenings, but sorry about the lack of comments- I haven't even posted anyhting new on mine!) I just finished one of my favorite topics in preschool today- "Super Safety!" It was almost too much that I crammed into the past two weeks, and after my first student left today, I realized I had forgotten to go over the stop, drop and roll in detail-oops! (today was all about fire safety and smarts.) Anyways, the kids had a great time and I am worn out, but next week is a new topic which is already to go so no more working on preschool this week- yay! Now I only need to get ready for the mini enrichment which I am in charge of tomorrow night, get caught up around the house, restock our bare pantry and frindge, throw a baby shower on Sat., have fun at Parker's b-day party, and attend Stk. Conference. Tyli is being evaluated on Friday for her lack of getting around upright, but that should only take a few hours in the morning. Maybe I'll have time to post something else this week! KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED- it just might happen!

I have come to my decision...(I think)

I believe I have come to my decision about whether or not I will teach preschool again next year. I decided I WILL be teaching beginning early August (same as Cauley's school schedule). I will be making lots of changes in areas that will absolutely bore you all to death, but some sort of contract needs to be made for next year, as apposed to this year. I also decided to change the days I teach from Mon. and Wed. to Tues. and Thurs. Anyways, I am only going to take 8 next year and have already got 3-maybe 4 signed up, so if anyone is interested, please feel free to email or give me a call.

jamirclark@gmail.com

First swim of the year

This week has really started out hot. I decided it was time to get into the water for our first swim of the year even though I have yet to turn on my AC. (I'm cheap, what can I say?) I mowed the lawn, blew up the pools, filled them, and then sun screened my kids, got them into their swim stuff, and we headed outside for what I thought was going to be about 10 minutes of fun. WRONG! After the first 20 minutes of laughing at and with my kids, being splashed and doing some splashing of my own, I couldn't coax anyone inside. Oh well. The boys had fun running and jumping into their pool, and didn't care that they were filling their pool up with the grass I had just mowed. Tyli liked crawling around and splashing, then got brave and started standing up and then jumping down. Then she really got brave and got out and crawled over to the boys' pool so they could splash her when they jumped in, which she found hilarious! They really had a great time in their new pools Grandma Kathy gave them for Easter! They lasted a little under an hour before the wind came up and McKade and Dallin got chilly. Tyli I had to literally take out of the pool kicking and screaming! It is supposed to get a little cooler the rest of the week, so we'll have to wait until it's warmer again before we swim again. I am just excited because Aunt Jeni starts her swim lessons the first part of May, and all of my kids are VERY excited!

You know you're really a mom when...

• You count the number of sprinkles on each kids cupcake to make sure they're equal
• You have time to shave only one leg at a time
• You hide in the bathroom to be alone
• Your child throws up and you catch it
• Someone else's kid throws up at a party and you keep eating
• You consider finger paint to be a controlled substance
• You mastered the art of placing food on a plate without anything touching
• Your child insists that you read "Once Upon A Potty" out loud in the lobby of a doctors office and you do it
• You hire a babysitter because you haven't been out with your husband in ages, then spend half the night talking about and checking in on the kids
• You hope ketchup is a vegetable because it's the only one your child eats
• You fast-forward through the scene when the hunter shoots Bambi's mother
• You obsess when your child clings to you upon parting during his first month at school, then you obsess when he skips in without looking back
• You can't bear to give away baby clothes--it's so final
• You hear your mother's voice coming out of your mouth when you say, "Not in your good clothes."
• You stop criticizing the way your mother raised you
• You read that the average five-year old asks 437 questions a day and feel proud that your kid is "above average"
• You say at least once a day "I'm not cut out for this job," but you know you wouldn't trade it for anything!

Thankful Thursday

Yep, it's Thursday again. Today I am grateful for our beautiful spring weather. How thankful I am that it is warm enough, and not hot, so that my kids can go play outside. Is that bad? I love that I can send them out when they get too wound up or when I just need it quieter. No, really, this year we've been blessed with great weather! I love taking my kids to the park, going for bike rides, taking walks, playing in the dirt hills (Pecan Trees) by our house, and just being out in our backyard playing baseball, soccer, football, and light sabers. Dallin has discovered hopscotch and wants to play all the time, and the boys LOVE racing Daddy around the pecan trees. Tyli's favorite is the sandbox. We get diaper fulls of sand, leaving more sand on the changing table than in our sandbox! Bath time always makes me laugh as the water turns a dark brown color from my kids being so dirty. Hey, they're kids- they wash up well! The only downfall is that we all have seasonal allergies, leaving my kids with swollen red eyes and runny noses for the past 4 months now, but now we have Children's Zyrtec- and it's WONDERFUL! This weekend is supposed to get hot- lower 90's, but I'm sure we'll still play outside. Maybe we can get the new little swimming pools out and have our first "swim" of the season!

Tyli's 15 month check-up

I took Tyli to her most favorite place on earth today- the Doctors! (She actually started to cry as soon as I dropped off the boys at Grandma Kathy's house, and it just got louder and louder from there!) Everything went well, other than the screaming on Ty's part! She is still monsterously HUGE weighing in at 23 lb, 12 oz. (85th%) and measuring as tall as a tree at 32 1/2'' (still 99%). Her head matches the rest of her body, measuring at 19! (95%). The only concern is she still isn't walking (Dallin didn't walk until almost 16 months, so I'm not overly concerned) so we are being proactive and having a physical therapist from the state dept. come and evaluate her. Dr. Jones checked her hips, knees, ankles, feet, leg bones, and spine for anything unordinary, but he thinks she may just be too stubborn to want to walk. (She'll walk perfectly fine around the house holding onto just one of my fingers, but the second we let go, she heads to her knees! Talk about frustrating!) I agree, but have also agreed to be proactive. After the 3 shots we got to leave, but because Dr. Jones wasn't around, she didn't even really cry for the shots. He told me today that he is making it his personal goal to get her to smile at him sometime in the future- if even just once! Tyli got a care bear sticker when we left that she wouldn't let out of her site until bedtime tonight. It was so much fun!

Thankful Thursday

I can't believe it is Thursday again already! My how time flies! Today I am very thankful for my hearing. I am not blessed with the ability to hear everything as most of you are, but I can hear lots of things, and I delight in all the sounds of spring, as well as the everyday sounds. As a child, we discovered I wasn't hearing everything I was supposed to, and after extensive research found that I can hear only 80% in my right ear and 05% in my left. My family hated it because I was constantly saying "What?" (Cauley probably hates that too.) Anyhow, I can hear lots of things and as I sit here typing (which has been a while now because I never learned to type right) I can hear the birds singing outside, airplanes flying overhead, cars and trucks driving down the big road by our house, Dallin sneaking food out of the pantry (DALLIN!), dogs barking, and children playing outside. Most of these are pleasing, but what a blessing to be able to hear these wonderful sounds! In situations like mine, you learn to not take advantage of the small, everyday things. Let's "hear it" for our ears!;)

Happy Fools Day!

Dallin is hilarious! Yesterday, during preschool, we were calendaring and talking about it being the last day in March- today being the first of April. I told them about April Fool's Day and gave them a few examples of some tricks or jokes that they could do. Dallin kept smiling and I could see his little mind going a mile trying to find a way to trick me. All day long yesterday he kept saying "I am going to joke you so good, Mom!" Well, he went to bed and everyone woke up as usual at 6:30 except Dallin. I went about my morning as usual, and when walking into the kitchen around 7:30, I heard him yell "Come on, Mom! Wake me up!" I went into his room and could tell he was fake sleeping so I said "Wake up Dallin. You really slept in this morning. It's time to get up!" He started laughing, threw off the covers showing that he was already fully dressed, and yelled "Happy Fools Day, Mom!" It was so cute I started laughing. I told him to say April Fools next time, but that he got me good and he said he couldn't remember what he was supposed to say. It was really cool that my 4 year old came up with that by himself! Now he keeps hiding and jumping out and scaring eveyone with April Fools!

Google Reader

I have had a lot of you asking me about this. I only know about it because of Jane (thanks, Jane!) and it is fabulous! IT is Google reader. Like all of you, I have hardly any time to sit and read everyone's blogs, but find them so uplifting and fun that I make time, only to find out that most of you didn't have the time either therefor you didn't update your blogs. That is wher Google Reader comes in. If you go to your gmail account inbox (your gmail email) up at the top there is a little word that says Reader. Click on it. Then, click on add acount and add your favorite blog addresses. Then, instead of clicking on everyone's blogs to see if they are updated, just go back to Reader and it will tell you who updated and you can read their blogs on that page or click on them and it will take you there! (the only downfall is you can't read private blogs from Google Reader.) Anyways, there you go- that is how I find a few extra minutes to update my blog for all of you to read. Try it-

Prom 2008

Cauley is so cute- He asked me to prom- again- for the third time! (I had to say no last year because Tyli was still too little.) His choice of school dance to chaperon is prom because since more people are a little more dressed up, you would think they don't act as crazy. (supposedly.) Anyhow, we got a babysitter (thanks to my wonderful in-laws, Mike and Kathy!) and drove to Tempe for a night of excitement. We got to the Waterfront on Lakeshore Drive a little late, but we got there and jumped at the chance to be the ones to guard the "Hidden Cove." (Right by the back gate.) We moved a bench in front of it so we could sit next to the lake and still see everyone as they had to come by us to get their pictures taken. It was nice not having to listen to the music they were playing inside and see how awful the kids were dancing! We had a blast seeing a lot of Cauley's students and athletes all dressed up and eating the yummy desserts. I was still in shock at what some of the students actually wore! As a mother, there is NO WAY I would let my son take a girl who was wearing some of those dresses and Cauley and I both agreed it'll be a challenge to find something modest for Tyli to wear when and if Cauley ever lets her go on a date, let alone prom! I do have to say that J.M. (used initials so as not to offend) by far got away with the cheapest date for the night spending a whopping $16! (It cost $120 at the door for a couple to get in, but he ended up getting "hooked up" by a stuco member.) I think it's funny that he and his date ended up eating at Panda Express! We left a little after 11:30- WAY after my bedtime! Cauley and I were both starving so we found an Arby's before heading home. It ended up being a great time! Maybe next year I'll get dressed up for the big event like I did last time we went!

(Dallin took this picture of us before we left. He is a good photographer for a 4 year old!)

Clark Family Car Wash

On Saturday my car got a bath, a much needed bath, mind you! The boys just took off their shirts because they usually get soaked from helping Cauley wash the cars. I love watching this whole ordeal go down!

Fun idea

This was one of my fabulous ideas that I got out of a magazine. I made all my preschool kids a bracelet using jelly belly jelly beans and stretchy string. They turned out really cute, and the kids had a blast wearing and eating them. The only downfall was that they couldn't wear and eat them at the same time or their wrists became incredibly (and edibly) sticky! It was so much fun that I made bracelets for my little nephews in Georgia and also my sister in law and my other nephew who live here. I think these are worth making again, so if you have any requests, please let me know!

Our Other Blog

For those of you who don't know, Cauley has a seperate blog (long story) which contains pictures of my family at crazyclarkclan.blogspot.com. Check it out- he does an awesome job! I just haven't taken many pictures lately so there's not much to add- sorry!

Thankful Thursday

Lets see. I am very thankful for families! (Mine is the BEST!) I am so grateful for my little family of 5. Cauley is the best husband anyone could ever ask for, and my 3 wonderful children make me laugh and smile daily and are always amazing me with new things. Then there is my extended family- the Clarks and the Ruths. Anyone who knows the Clark family and all of Cauley's siblings know how awesome they are! There's Mike and Kathy (Mom and Dad), Cauley, Jennifer (who's married to Ryan with Brent, Mike and ...), Stephanie (who's married to Brad with Parker and Bryce), and then Jeff. I truly am grateful to have all of them in my life! On the Ruth side, there is Jim and Debi (Mom and Dad), Jeni (twin sister who's married to Luke with Carson, Colton, and Brooklynn), me, and then Scott. Wow- how did I end up with such supportive, loving, caring, wonderful, hard working, and amazing family?

Blessed

Sometimes I wonder why it is we are so blessed, but I know. We are children of a Heavenly Father who loves us indefinitly, that's why. There need not be any other reason!

Yesterday, we had to get out the door to our appointment with our favorite tax guy- Kent Ellsworth. (Cauley's uncle. Thanks, Uncle Kent!) Anyways, the car was driving "loose" and I just had to get there, so I did. When Cauley showed up, he noticed the flat tire first thing. By the end of our appointment, the tire was still only about 1/2 flat, so we decided to drive 1/4 mile down the road to a gas station and fill it up to see what would happen. However, by the time we got it to the gas station, the tire was completely flat. We started looking around for a tire store, and lo and behold, there was one right next door. It was a Discount Tire Store, which I had never been to one before. They immediately got to work for us, removing the screw I had run over, fixing the hole, and filling it back up with air. I think they were hurrying because our kids were running around the tire store being a little louder than their usual customers. Anyways, Cauley decided to take pity on the tire people and take the kids next door to the gas station for Slurpee's. As soon as he left, they finished our car. I was a little intimidated, thinking they might charge us a lot for fixing it, but the nice tire guy told me "No charge!" What! It said it was $104 for the big screw hole! Nope, they did it for free! AND, the gas station attendant only charged Cauley for 1 Slurpee! (She said she didn't care when Cauley told her what she did!) Does anyone else ever get this kind of "luck?" I truly feel like Heavenly Father is constantly watching over me and my family. I am so grateful for family and friends in my life who are constantly there for us in all situations. We truly are blessed!

I COULD take offense to that!

Have you ever had a moment with your kids- you know, the moment where you just can't take anymore? Well, yesterday we had one of those moments! McKade was so grumpy, Tyli wouldn't let me put her down without screaming, and Dallin insisted he had to eat AGAIN or he would die! (He had eaten literally ALL day!) Anyways, I tried to be the good mom, take a breath, and sing a hymn. (Better than yelling, right?) Well, McKade started yelling "Stop singing!" over and over again while covering his ears. I told him I like to sing because it makes Heavenly Father and Jesus happy. I started singing again to which he replied with a very grumpy face, "Stop singing! You are making Heavenly Father and Jesus so sad. You sound so bad! Stop singing! You sound aweful!" The only thing I could do was laugh after that. The really pathetic part is that he kept repeating himself- even after I stopped!

Happy Easter!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter. We sure did! The Easter Bunny brought us lots of unneeded candy and deoderant, fingernail polish, and coloring books. We went to Steph and Brad's Sacrament Meeting because they blessed their baby, Bryce. He is so adorable! (Pictures to come soon!) Afterwards, we went to Phil and Gloria Greer's house for a yummy dinner and then we finished our fun evening off by going out to see the cows and going for a ride on the new limo golf cart behing Brad and Steph's house. So much fun!

Thankful Thursday

Today, as usual, I am thankful for a ton of things. However, maybe because it's spring break, I am so very grateful for my husband, Cauley. I can't begin to express what an awesome person he is, but I'll give you a little glimpse as to why I love him so much.
I love it when he doesn't have to go to work and lets me sleep in- even if it's only until 7:30! I love that he thinks he has to make pancakes or waffles for the kids on his days off. I love that he is such a great teacher to his students. I love that those he coaches respect him so much, as they also know that he is an awesome person. I love that he works so hard at everything he does, and isn't afraid to go the extra mile. I love when he calls me from school during his prep hour, or whenever, especially when he calls to see how preschool went for the day. I love when he comes home and after putting everything down, he comes to me and gives me the nicest hugs and kisses. I love that he cooks dinner when I've had a tough day or am too tired, and he doesn't even complain about it! I love that he helps take care of the kids and dishes after dinner so I can clean the rest of the kitchen. I love watching him wrestle with the boys and somehow play with Tyli at the same time. I love that he doesn't mind changing REALLY stinky diapers for me! I love it when he doesn't let the kids treat me unkindly in any way. I love it when he does his church calling, as I know he has hardly any time to accomplish all that is expected and required. I love seeing him go out and serve and exercising his Priesthood Authority. I love it when he lets the kids come down on the field after a football game and run around and play in the ice. I love that he acknowledges his family when everyone goes to his games. I love how he tells me to go unwind by taking a bath and that he'll bring me ice cream while I am having some "me" time. I love it when he takes initiative and does the laundry. I love it when he lets me sleep and gets up with a child in the night, but don't love it so much when he pretends not to hear them. (I just kick him until he gets up!) I love it that he is so big and strong. I love it when he holds me in those big arms and just holds me. I love that he loves me unconditionally and tells me so any chance he gets!
I LOVE YOU, CAULEY!

Dallin's Talk

I love it when my kids get to give a talk in primary! Everytime Dallin has spoken, we have made sure he has his talk memorized, which after primary, he usually comes home and calls everyone he knows and gives them the talk. Cute. Well, needless to say, I was a very bad mom this week and didn't get his talk together until Sunday morning. OOPS! (Ok, so we were all sick all week long, but hey- my bad!) He did an awesome job memorizing it (thanks to 2:00 church!) and was ready to go. The microphones weren't working, which was an advantage point. However, when Dallin got to the picture of Jesus raising a child from the dead, instead of saying "Jesus raised people from the dead.", he said "He helped people from deadness." I just about lost it! I was glad nobody could hear him anyways. And for the record, I have NO idea where he came up with it!Great job Dallin! I love you!

Tuscon

We had a blast yesterday as a family! We kicked off our spring break by going to Tuscon yesterday morning. (If you're a Clark reading this, Tuscon CAN be fun!) We started off by going to the Reid park Zoo. What a blast! Yes, this zoo is smaller than the Phoenix zoo, but I love that you can get so much closer to all the animals and that you don't have to walk for hours in the sun just to see a tiger who is sleeping somewhere hidden in the tall grass. We stayed forever at the polar bear, watching him dive into the water and then under his exhibit, watching him swim around in the water. Another favorite was the flamingos. Why, I don't know. They were really pretty though! The kids thought it was fun in the bird exhibit hunting for birds (by hunting, I mean with their eyes, no weapons!). We found some of the coolest birds I have ever seen! Our other favorite exhibit was the otters. The younger otter was showing us all of his games, while the older one was a little more reserved and content to just swim around and lie on his raft.

By noon, we were starving so we headed over to the park and had a picnic lunch. Afterword, we let the kids play for a little bit on the toys. Tyli was ready for a nap, so we piled back into the car and headed for the Air Force Museum. We were so excited! Cauley has been wanting to do this for forever now, and so have the boys. We went inside, amazed at all the people who were there. We looked at the sign, and had decided we were only going to pay for the bone yard tours. (you get to go out on the runway and look at all the old planes and stuff. You can see some from the road and there are TONS of cool looking jets, planes, and army equipment!) However, when we got ready to pay, the young lady helping us was very short tempered with us and rudely informed us that we couldn't go out there. When we asked why, she almost yelled that it was closed. Cauley asked why, and she, VERY rudely, told us that it is always closed on the weekend. Being taken off guard from all the bad manners, we left. Dissapointed! We walked just outside to the fence and there were TONS of people out on the bone yard! WHAT!!!??? We don't get it, but they will be getting either a very bad review on line or over the phone! The boys cried as we left, and I could tell Cauley almost wanted to cry too. Dallin put it right by saying, "HOW RUDE! She was not nice!"

Anyways, we left Tuscon and decided to go see some good friends of ours- the Reynolds. We drove to Arizona City and stopped by for a few hours. McKade asked, as we got there if we could get out and have some fun. I told him he could have all the fun he could handle! (Which he did!) Jenn and Elliots's kids are getting so big! It was fun seeing them, as we don't get together very often anymore. And, by the way, I do have to say that Jenn is looking FABULOUS! A big thanks to the Reynolds family for letting us crash their Saturday afternoon!

When we were gassing up after leaving the Reynold's, McKade said, "I am so, so hungry. Mom, are you so, so hungry? Dallin, are you so, so hungry? Tyli is so, so hungry! (She was asleep!) Mom, tell Dad that we are so, so hungry!" (I think the poor little boy was starving!) So we went to Golden Corral and had dinner. It was a little more than what we normally spend, but we all got full and had a blast and enjoyed whatever it was that we wanted to eat! Afterwords, McKade told Cauley, "I am so, so full!"

All in all, it was a pefect way to start our spring break. We had a great time together, as we usually do!

Bugged

Generally, we are usually a pretty healthy family. This year, however, we have definitly been sick a LOT! Cauley has been fighting something nasty now for a week, as is McKade. Dallin started in on Monday, and Tyli got it Tuesday. Theirs is all a never ending runny sinus thing with a fever. On Wednesday afternoon, I got the fever (103.2!) and something aweful got my body. (It feels like somebody is poking me with a million needles whenever something touches my skin.) I still think I have an ear infection, as my ears are constantly throbbing now, but I will still play the wait and see game with them. However, I don't have the sinus stuff everyone seems to be consumed with, so that's good news! Preschool was cancelled all week because my kids had fevers, and will be next week because of spring break, so we should all have time to recover. However, I believe it is because of preschool that we are so sick this year. I have sent an endless supply of notes home to parents and even tried calling parents to come and get their sick kids from preschool (but of course they don't answer!), but one little girl keeps coming sick. Any suggestions?

"Those Who Hike Together, Stay Together!"

That is an actual quote said by a fellow hiker who also made it to the top. (I think she was trying to convince her boyfriend of that!) Cauley and I had an amazing adventure together on Saturday. We dropped the kids off at Grandma and Grandpa's and then headed to Apache Junction for a day of hiking. We hiked what is called FlatIron- the titanic looking part of the Superstition Mountains. I don't think hike is the right word. Maybe I should say we climbed the mountain, because we literally had to climb the mountain, using legs (of course!), arms, hands, feet, fingers, and even fellow hikers helped us up and down some very difficult, steep terrain. It was beautiful! This weekend marks the start of the wildflowers being in bloom, which was a nice touch for me. The entire hike was beautiful though, and I am so glad we did it! The first part was easy, just uphill walking with some occasional rocks to watch out for. It got progressively more and more difficult until my whole body was aching from moving only a few feet (straight up!) at a time. Once on top, looking down over the entire Phoenix area, it hit me- we also had to go back down! Going down was more difficult for me. (I think I have an ear infection, which totally threw off my center of gravity so whenever I leaned forward, I fell.) We were so exhausted once we got to the bottom, we just wanted to sleep, so we went and got pizza instead. Once we were all home again and the kids had had a bath and were in bed, I took a long hot bath and discovered many battle wounds. My legs look like I played soccer without shin guards and my ankle which I twisted a little is bruised and a little swollen, not to mention my hands, which feel raw and the fact that my body hurts in places it never has before. Cauley, the poor guy, came home sick on Friday from school and slept all day. He still wanted to hike, but I thinks he's rethinking that now, as he's still feeling miserable! (Not to mention that he's sore too, especially his hips.) Altogether, I am so glad we did it! Now, I will NEVER do it again, but at least I can say I've hiked to the top of the Superstition Mountains! Cauley was an amazing person to hike with; so encouraging, helpful, and uplifting. I am so grateful that he is so patient with me and that he shared this experience with me! I love you Cauley! Thanks for the good time yesterday!

My Little Cooking Monster

Tyli, you are supposed to bake with them, silly girl!

Thankful Thursday Part 2

It's still Thursday, and I have something else I am really thankful for today- the fact that

the new Super target is finally OPEN!!!

Esther and I went today, along with our kiddos, and I just have to say- they have some pretty cool carts!

Thankful Thursday

I love this! However, I have way too much to be thankful for! Today I am going to say I am thankful for blogging. Silly? Oh no! I don't talk to anyone in my family ever (except for my identical twin, of course!) and I hardly ever see some of my friends who live farther away, and for those who I see weekly at church or the park or just around, it's still fun to see pictures and hear your thoughts on things! This is my only means of communication, people! Seriously- I NEVER know what's going on in Idaho except for with my sister's family, and I hardly ever see Cauley's family, especially the Johnson's who live way too far away! I really have never seen my new nephew who is at least 6 weeks old now, right, Steph? I really am greatful for those who update their blogs so I can know what's going on in everyone's lives! I know it's hard because we have so many other things we should be doing. I am making it my personal goal to post more pictures of my kids so I can share their adorable faces with you. (That means I gotta take more pictures too!)

A Little pick-me-up for all you mothers

"To you women with small children, yours is a tremendous challenge! So often there is not enough money. You must scrimp and save. You must be wise in your expenditures. You must be bold and strong and brave and march forward with a gladness in your eye and love in your heart! How blessed you are, women. You have a child(ren) who will be yours forever. I hope that you appreciate that your family has been sealed to you and will be an everlasting family in the Kingdom of our Father! May you have the strength to carry your heavy load, to meet every obligation, to walk side by side with your good and faithful and caring man, and together with him, rear, nurture, and bring up your child(ren) in righteousness and truth. Nothing else you will ever own, no worldly thing you will ever acquire will be worth so much as the love of your child. God bless you dear, dear young mothers!"
-President Hinckley, General Conference 2003 (October)


I found this today while I was cleaning out something in Tyli's room. Cauley had hand written it for me as a reminder of our prophet's love and concern for us as young mothers. I remember when this talk was given at the Relief Society Broadcast and how it brightened my day. I hope it lifts your spirits as it does mine!

Tagged

A.The rules of this game are posted at the beginning.
B. Each player answers the question about themselves.
C. At the end of the post, the player then tags 5 people and posts their names, and then leaves a comment on their blog letting them know they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog to get the directions.

Questions:

5 Things on my list of things to do today:
*shower, *get myself ready for church, *get the kids ready for church (that alone should count as 5!), *go to church, *make lasagna for dinner
Things I would do if I suddenly was a Billionaire:
*buy a bigger house, *buy a new truck for Cauley, *set aside $ for a new car for me, *purchase a years supply of food and anything else we've been asked to have in case of an emergency, *buy new sandals for my boys and new shorts for Dallin so he isn't sporting the "70's look" anymore!, *SAVE!!!
3 of my bad habits:
*I also chew the skin on my lips, keeping them nice and chapped, *I don't fold my laundry right away after it comes out of the dryer- I also don't put it away once it is folder and that is why all my clothes are forever wrinkled and my favorite product is Downey wrinkle releaser!* I don't express my feeling very well. I don't tell people how I am feeling like saying I love you to family (except for my kids and Cauley) and I just don't let people know when they've hurt my feelings and then it causes problems because I keep it all bottled up and nobody ever knows how I am actually feeling. And then i get I get depressed because I feel like nobody cares and/or loves me.
Places I have lived:
*Chubbuck, ID
*Rexburg, ID
*Pocatello, ID
*Gilbert, AZ
*Queen Creek, AZ
Jobs I have had:
*In high school I worked at Nel's Bi-Lo, a small grocery store as a checker, bagger, stocker, and deli girl. (Ok, everything except butcher and produce boy!), *Telemarketer/ survey person during first year of college, *Daycare at Naturally Women- a fitness club, *cleaning lady for Dobson High school's fitness center, *Weight room supervisor for varsity athletes at Ricks college during our last semester at Ricks, * Assistant Manager at Afterthoughts, *Arctic Circle, *Server/hostess at Red lobster, *Server at Wingers, *Hostess at Sizzler, *Mother of the best three children in all the world!, and *preschool teacher to 6 awesome students!
Things most people don't know about me:
*I cannot stand hamburger- of any kind! (I love steak and roasts and stuff, just not ground meat!) Um, what else don't you know about me? *Most people think I'm quiet and reserved, but I am the most stubborn and opinionated person you may ever meet! *I love baseball. * I really enjoy cooking. -And anything else you don't know about me, feel free to ask!
Okay I tag...
Jeni
Esther
Stephanie
Jennifer
Jaclynn

Little Miss Tyli

Tyli is such a character, bring lots of laughter and not so pleasant sounds into our home. She comes up with the funniest things sometimes and can clear a room with her screaming others. Now at 14 months old, she is amazing us every day. Tyli has learned lots lately, except she is still missing courage to walk. She can do it, we've seen her when she doesn't know we're watching and she'll walk while holding onto one of our fingers, she's just a chicken to do it consistantly on her own. Tyli has discovered singing and loves the songs "Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree," and "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes" to which she does the actions to quite well. She lets us know she is happy by singing in whatever language it is that she speaks- we call it ewok. Her other new trick is prettending to be a duck. She knows all the animal sounds and will tell you what all of them say when asked, but her favorite is the duck. She puts her hands on her chest and flaps them like wings and quacks at us, making all of us crack up at her! Tyli is starting to say more and more words, but not a ton like my neice, Brooklynn, who must be a genious! (Brooks can say anything when prompted!) Tyli likes to yell "stop!" to her brothers and says a few other things, but my favorite is that she is signing and saying a lot of words like more, please, milk, drink, food, stinky, and one that she made up for binky. (That sounds like "bo-ty") Tyli loves to be outside and cries whenever we come in. She loves climbing the big slides at the park and playing (laying) in the sand. She is facinated with birds and airplanes and loves looking for dogs whenever she hears them bark. (we have annoying dogs that bark all the time living behind us!) Although her hair is getting longer, she won't leave anything in it for long, and usually eats whatever it was that was in it. (she especially likes the little elastics!) Like both my boys, Tyli is very cuddly, and when tired, will give the best loves a daughter can give. Although sometimes I wish she had a much quieter voice, we love her and are happy she is a part of our family.

Family Time

One of my favorite things is hanging out with my cute little family. Cauley had another long week, getting home late and staying busy so one night this week, Tuesday, I think, we went outside after dinner to ride down the "dirt mountains," as Dallin calls them. (It's actually the little area in front of our subdivision where the pecan trees are supposed to be- or should I say will be once the landscaping is complete. The ones that were there died and were removed, leaving small mounds of dirt and lots of happy bike riders!) The kids were so excited to play in the dirt and Tyli amazed us by sitting on her little "bike" and scooting right along!

My boys passed this test!

My sister put her kids to the test with these questions and Dallin had so much fun when I read him their results that we decided to follow suit. I think my boys did just fine!

1. What is your favorite color?
Dallin: "Silver, like these teeth."
McKade: "Um, green."
2. What is your favorite song?
Dallin: "Jesus Wants Me For A Sunbeam."
McKade: "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes."
3. What is your favorite TV show?
Dallin: "Funniest Home Videos."
McKade: "um, Choo, Choos, yes. Trains."
4. What is your favorite movie?
Dallin: "Transformers"
McKade: "DINOSAURS!" (?)
5. How tall are you?
Dallin: "4 and 1/2. That's how."
McKade: "um, big."
6. How much do you weigh?
Dallin: "8 pounds!"
McKade: "2 pounds."
7. Who do you want to be when you grow up?
Dallin: "The train driver."
McKade: "Big like Dad."
8. What is your favorite thing to do?
Dallin: "Walk around the sandbox."
McKade: "um, play truck!" (said as he plays with the truck in his hands.)
9. What is your favorite food?
Dallin: "Hmm..., uh, sandwiches." (pb&j's made with my homemade strawberry jam- freezer
jam.)
McKade: "Dinosaurs! , the chicken nuggets!"
10. Who do you want to marry when you grow up?
Dallin: "I thought you said I didn't have to think about that till next days!"
Mckade: "um, Mommy- like Daddy."

My 3 WONDERFUL kids

I just have to put in a special plug for my amazing kids. I had to go get my car tuned up for it's 30,000 mile service on Friday, and they were FANTASTIC! I woke them up (they for once were sleeping in past 7:10!), hurried and changed them and threw them in the car and drove to Desert Kia for our appointment. I got there a little early, but I couldn't get the carseats out (I love/hate the latch system!) and the people there weren't allowed to help me so I called my friend, Esther, and told her not to come pick us up as planned because we didn't have carseats. So, instead, I took out the double stroller and headed inside only to be told it would take around 4 hours. PANIC! "OK," I told myself, "We can do this!" So I fed them their breakfast of dry cereal and then let them play with their cars I had packed, then read books from the "church bag" for a little while before everyone started getting wrestless. I looked at my watch only to discover an hour and a half had gone by. I didn't want to cross any major streets to go anywhere (we were on Arizona Ave./Country Club) and it was raining, so I got out my umbrella Jeff gave me for Christmas and we headed about a mile down the road to Costco. (We did have to cross Guadaloupe, but we were fine.) Anyways, we literally made a pit stop at Earnhardt's car lot for Dallin and then made it to Costco 20 minutes until it opened so we sat under the umbrella playing Dallin's favorite game, "I spy with my little eye..." (It's nice that McKade now knows his colors so it isn't always just Dallin and I playing.) The kids were so excited to go in and eat pizza but became very dissapointed when we walked in the doors to find their food court under construction:( We still had at least 2 more hours to kill so we walked up and down every isle in Costco and then decided we were hungry. Going out, we found a little hot dog cart on the side of the food court construction so we all had hot dogs for lunch and then I bought us some frozen yogurt for dessert because the kids were taking things so well. (Those are the only 2 items on their menu, so why not!) After the ice cream and a quick stop in the bathrooms, we trecked back to Desert Kia only to discover our van was still NOT done. We waited about another 40 minutes until they pulled our van up front for us. All three of my kids started jumping up and down cheering, bringing laughs and smiles to ALL who were in the building. After paying A LOT of $$, we headed home, only to have everyone fall asleep from their big adventures. I guess it takes a lot to be so wonderful and obedient, but they were perfect little angles in a time when I REALLY needed them to be. THANKS, GUYS! I LOVE YOU!

Eye Eye, Captain!

McKade has been wonderful with his new glasses! I can hardly believe I was as worried about him with them as I was because he never tries taking them off and doesn't really complain about them. I do need to go back and have them adjusted again because they keep slipping down. Well, we went back to the Eye Specialist on Thursday and was told that his eye is still not strong enough with the glasses so now he gets to wear a patch over his good eye (the right one) for 3 hours every day. I usually wait until after nap and then once his patch is in place he gets to play with his light sabor (his "sword") while he transforms into a pirate for the next 3 hours. It is so funny because he repeatedly tells me, "I'm a pirate, arrrrrrr!" He is just as wonderful about the patch as he is with his glasses! I just wish they made the patches smaller for little two year old eyes! (If you cut it down, you lose the sticky stuff around the outside.)

Our Wonderful Stake Conference

Today I was blessed to be a part of church history! Our Stake, the Queen Creek East Stake, along with the Queen Creek, AZ Stake, and the Queen Creek South Stake all got together for a BIG Stake Conference. There were over 17,000 members involved and that included over 34 wards! OK, so the meaning of our BIG Stake Conference was to take our 3 Stakes and make them into 5. What an amazing experience! I will sadly miss our old Stake President, President Brian Soloman (who is now the Stake President of the Queen Creek North Stake), and all my friends who are in the Ironwood and Ranch Wards, but our new Stake President, President Laws is an AWESOME man! (I served with him at the cannery a few times, and also at a STK. activity we worked together.) I loved the words that were spoken, most of which I can hardly recall at this time, but truely the Spirit was present at this meeting. I remember being told that just 10 years ago there were only 2 wards in all of Queen Creek, and we didn't even have our own Stake. MY how we've grown! I am so greatful to live in this area and I know that it is by no coincidence that we do.
*If any of you get the church news and if there is an article about this HUGE Stake conference, will you please send it to me?

100 things about Me

100 Things about ME
Boring, I know, but I needed to post something new. Hey, who knows. You might learn something new about me! ( I got this idea from one of my old roommates from Ricks- thanks, Kristen!)
1. I was born in Pocatello, Idaho
2. I have an identical twin sister
3. Her name is Jeni
4. we don’t look like identical twins
5. I have a brother named Scott
6. I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
7. I have been a member of this church for 13 years now (14 in June!)
8. I love Cauley very much
9. Cauley and I met at Ricks College
10. We met in the fall of 1999
11. Cauley and I were married in July of 2000
12. We were married in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple
13. I love ALMOST everything about Cauley
14. I have 3 kids
15. I love our children oh so very much!
16. I love to play with my kids
17. I like to wrestle with Cauley (He’s a wrestling coach and teaches me the moves.)
18. I like to go for walks
19. I don’t like jogging
20. I hate running
21. I love rainy weather
22. I don’t like cold weather
23. I have been fired from a job for “foul language” although what I was accused of saying is not true.
24. I would NEVER say what I was accused of saying, nor have I!
25. I teach preschool from my home
26. I can’t decide if I love or hate teaching preschool this year
27. I like teaching preschool this year
28. I love to read
29. I love to read the scriptures
30. I love to read wholesome romance books
31. I like to color with crayons
32. I don’t like coloring with colored pencils
33. I don’t like coloring with markers
34. I love to cook
35. I love to cook for others
36. I like to drink Coke
37. I love Caffeine Free Diet Coke!
38. I like to drink flavored water
39. I like to drink water only sometimes
40. I don’t care for the flavor of water
41. I don’t like milk
42. I get really sick when I’m pregnant
43. it’s a condition called Hyperemisis Gravadarium
44. I’m really lucky not to be stuck in the hospital more often because of it
45. I like being pregnant despite constantly throwing up
46. I am NOT pregnant now
47. I have several friends who are
48. I have a family member who is
49. I have 6 nephews
50. I have 1 niece
51. I love being an aunt!
52. I wish I was a better aunt
53. I like cinnamon flavored tooth paste
54. I don’t like cinnamon flavored gum
55. I love living in Arizona
56. I can’t swim very well
57. I can float really well
58. I am scared of big bodies of water
59. My biggest fear in life is of drowning
60. Because of this, I can’t watch movies where people are in water
61. I am terrified of spiders!
62. I will scream if I see one (even in the church!)
63. I am terrified of scorpions
64. I have broken several bones including both arms, left ankle, all fingers, most toes, both hands, nose (a couple of times), and probably other things I can’t think of right now
65. I love to sit and chat with people
66. I am shy
67. I don’t like animals very much
68. I love the color pink
69. my room looks like a tornado got it
70. I hate folding and putting away laundry
71. I love a clean kitchen
72. I love the smell of clean laundry
73. my tennis shoes are falling apart
74. I have never played in the ocean
75. I don’t think I want to play in the ocean (BIG body of water!)
76. I like chocolate
77. I love to eat turkey
78. I like taking long hot baths
79. I love kissing my kids’ chubby cheeks
80. I love watching my kids accomplish things
81. I love watching Cauley coach
82. I hate going to his track meets but will continue to always do so as long as he’s coaching them
83. I have attended 1 college and 1 university
84. I loved being at Ricks college
85. I like serving in the Relief Society
86. My lips are always chapped
87. I am competitive
88. I hate being competitive
89. I don’t like it when others are competitive
90. I don’t like playing video games
91. I love listening about other people’s lives
92. I love it when Cauley “holds” me
93. I can’t sleep when Cauley’s not in bed
94. I love to sleep
95. I can’t handle it when kids throw up
96. I throw up too!
97. I love the smell of fresh cut grass
98. I don’t like sitting outside because of bugs
99. I am very good at Wheel of Fortune
100. I am starting to get “baby hungry” again, but not ready to admit it to myself!

McKade got his glasses...FINALLY, well, sort of!

So we finally got McKade's glasses yesterday, except they were broke in half when we picked them up. It has been three weeks since we ordered them and I wasn't being very patient, seeing as they told us it would be ten days at the most until they were ready. Well, when they put the lenses into the frames, the frames snaped in half at the nose piece so they had to order new frames which should have taken only 24 hours, but not so- try 5 extra days and still no sign of them. I got a little upset yesterday when I was told it would be Tuesday before they might be in, so the eye glasses place made a deal with me. They gave us the broken frames and sent us to an eye glasses repair shop and they sautered the frames for us paid by the Seville Eye Center PLUS when his frames get here, they will switch over the lenses and we get to keep the extra frames for free. Why they didn't think of this a week ago? I have no idea, but we have them now, and doesn't McKade look adorable? (It still makes me a little sad seeing my 2 year old wearing glasses, but it's for the better.) Oh ya, can't forget the drama. When we went to the repair shop to have them put back together, McKade puked all over Cauley! So here is McKade stripped down to his diaper and Cauley totally shirtless standing right next to Power road! What a sight I'm sure. Lucky for us, we still have clothes in the back of the van waiting to be taken to DI! Cauley wanted to celebrate after McKade's glasses were done and thought McKade was feeling better so we went to Chile's for dinner. McKade chowed down, but lost it all again in the car on the way home. I think he's just hungry and over eating because he's feels starved. (I assure you he's not, he's probably just growing!) Today he's fine and he even slept good last night. Now if only I could get him to stop touching his glasses...

Check this out!

I found this on another friend's blog and Cauley and I both think it's awesome! You should download it and listen to it. I think it would also make a cool song to go with your little kids slideshow! Check it out: http://ashleyharris.com/prophetsprayer.htm

Bryce Hunt Greer

He's Here!

My handsom new nephew was born yesterday afternoon. Bryce Hunt Greer weighed in at a whoppin 9 lbs, 9 oz! I am not real sure on his length, but I know it was 20 in., something. (1/4 I think.) He is so cute! Cauley and I both think he looks a lot like his older brother, Parker, but some people are quick to dissagree. (Over all, they do because they have that Greer face shape, but some things are a little different like the shape of his ears and lips.) Anyways, both mom and baby are doing fabulous and I am so happy for them. I might go visit and take something I have made for Steph over, but it will be a long time before I actually get close to Bryce as I am terrified of small babies this time of year. (After Tyli catching RSV at 6 weeks old- exactly a year ago yesterday, I think all babies born during the months of Oct.-April need to be wrapped in a plastic bubble and not come out until the RSV season is officially over!) Dallin sent in a penny with me he found while out with his Dad for Bryce to put in his piggy bank. (I soaked it in hand sanitizer for about 5 minutes!) Anyways, Congratulations, Stephanie, Brad, and big brother Parker! Thanks for making me an aunt again!
Pictures will follow when I get some!

Happy Anniversary, Luke and Jeni!

Happy 8th Anniversary!

The Foster Family, established January 28, 2000 in the Bountiful, UT Temple includes Luke, Jeni (my id twin),Carson (7), Colton (4), and Brooklynn (1).

I am so sad to hear the passing of our beloved Prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley. He is the first prophet I have personally known as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I am greatful for his example and for all of the things he taught us. Although I am sad, I know that where he is now is a much better place, and best of all, he is with his beautiful wife, Sister Marjorie Hinckley. I will miss him, but already love and support our new prophet, whoever he will be.

Why didn't Cauley just become a doctor!?

Ok, so that question is silly, but for reals, it would save us bunches on medical bills! After Tyli went to the doctor on Friday, Dallin woke up to go to the bathroom at 11:00 p.m. and ended up throwing up at the same time. We went running in to discover he had made it in the toilet (YEA!!!) but was burning up, so Cauley sat with him in the bathroom (Dallin's choice) for about 20 minutes while I prepared his bed with towels and a bucket "just in case." He was up again about 20 minutes later doing the same thing, but this time didn't want to go back to bed, so I "slept" with him on the couch all night. (He actually slept while I tried deciphering his moaning and wriggling as sleeping or being ready to puke again.) Lucky for me, he was done with the throwing up, but the fever continued. The next day he said he was ok, but that night at dinner he got the shakes real bad because his fever was so high. A Tylonol/Motrin combo knocked it out and Sunday he was fabulous. So far, nobody else shows any signs of getting sick here, but with our luck it won't be long. I am going to be sending a note home with all my preschool parents this week reminding them to NOT bring their child if he or she is running a fever, feeling ill, or has a bad cold. I feel mean about it, but something's gotta give- we have never been this sick and for such a long period of time!

UpDate: As I am writing this update a day later, most of what I said above changed about Dallin. He was up most of Sunday night/Monday morning crying because his ear hurt, so of course, me being the wonderful mom that I am, took him to see Dr. Jones this morning. ANOTHER ear infection! Something good did come out of this dr. visit though, and that is that since we were once again prescribed a heavier dose of antibiotics which cost way more than the $4 amoxocillan at Walmart, I was told to try getting it filled at Costco because it's cheaper. It was too! Ty's cost over $42 for the exact same medicine, smaller dose and we got Dallin's for under $35! Plus, we got another discount for being a Costco member- so it came to $32 and some change! (I guess you don't have to be a member to get your prescriptions there?) PLUS, we only had to wait 20 minutes as opposed to 1 hr., 40 minutes at Walgreens and Walmart! Dallin still has a pretty high fever and is hurting real bad so after FHE tonight (which just happened to be on the Priesthood :) Brother Bunker from down the street came over and helped Cauley give him a blessing. Thanks, Cauley for being such a wonderful example for your kids!

Poor Ty!

Drama, Drama, Drama!Our family has been racking up some serious medical bills lately! When I took Tyli in for her 1 year appointment at the beginning of this month, she had an ear infection, which we treated with antibiotics. Done. Today I took her in for a three week re-check, which I was going to call and cancle because she's fine and frankly, I don't want to pay another Dr. bill this month. Anyhow, we went and the dr. started to look in her ear and she started screaming. Then the next words out of his mouth were "Oh, wow." Which he explained as Tyli not having an outer, inner, or middle ear infection- it's a very bad ALL ear infection. WHAT!?! So they immediatly gave her a big shot of a super antibiotic (no, Mom, not just the penicilian one like we used to get.) and had us wait an additional 30 minutes to make sure there was no side effect to the shot and then sent us with a prescription for the $42 antibiotic which she'll take for 10 more days and then we have to back again in 2 more weeks. I feel aweful for Tyli who has been taking a super long nap so far. I should have seen the signs- fevers (but who's kids haven't had a fever lately!), (heat)rash all over her little body, not eating much of anything, crying while sleeping (which I thought was teething- which she is). I should cut myself some slack, afterall, I'm doing the best I can! But Tyli, Mommy's sorry!

What a day in preschool!

No, it wasn't catastrophic, but it wasn't exactly the best day either! I have prepared this fun day of learning about the 5 senses for a while now, but it started with 2 kids not showing up because they were sick. OK, no big deal. The, Lexie shows up announcing she's sick too- up all night throwing up and a bad, bad cold, but that her mom gave her medicine so she could come to preschool. (Mental note to keep her as far away from my kids as possible and to set everything she touches aside to lysol!) So, we go on as usual- no big deal. We were laughing hysterically at Lexie because when we did "Blast Off" today, I changed things up and had us count in Spanish. Going up was great, but I couldn't count backwards in Spanish and when I got confused, Lexie said, "No, not cinco- it's Blegh!" Yes she was serious! Anyways, while we were laughing at Lexie's Spanish help, I wripped my pants up the backside! Ya- everyone could see everything! (The jeans I was wearing were real old!) Ok- move on. So we had a real laid back day and I let the kids paint which is their favorite thing to do. We had three spilled waters, ruining everyone's pictures 3 times! TRAUMA! (For 4 year olds it is!) Not to meantion every time someone spilled their water it always somehow ended up on Emily who was SOAKED by the time her mom came! Ok, so it wasn't a very bad day in preschool at all. It could have been worse- Lexie could have thrown up every where or worse, but according to Dallin, "What a day in preschool!"

McKade Goes To The Eye Doctor

For those of you who have been thinking McKade has had somewhat of a lazy left eye lately, you're right- well kinda. After waiting for almost a month, we finally got in with the Pediatric Eye Specialist here in the East Valley, Dr. Salevitz. McKade was actually real excited and made all the nurses and doctor laugh with his enthusiasm to have the doctor look at his eyes. The nurse dialeted them and then the doctor checked for cross-eyed and lazy eyes while the dialation drops set in. Then we waited another twenty minutes and with the special drops, the doctor was able to tell exactly what was wrong while McKade sat on my lap. He is VERY far-sighted in his left eye, and only slightly in his right eye, causing the left eye to lose muscle control and not want to work- causing his left eye to turn in-ward. So, treatment for now includes glasses and waiting. We will go back in a month to the Specialist and see if the glasses have allowed his eye to straighten itself out some. If not, we do a patch over his right eye to strengthen the muscles. So, after our trip to the Eye Specialist, I met Cauley at Kathy (my mother-in-law's) house and then we went to the Seville Eye Center to pick out glasses. McKade had had enough by then, so it didn't go as great as the doctor, but we found a cute pair that fit (which is hard for this age and size!) that are mocha colored. (bronz) They looked really cute on and wrap around his ears so he can't just pull them off like usual. We should be getting those within 7-10 days. he says he's not going to wear them, but he'll have to. I am just so greatful we caught it early!

I LOVE BROCCOLI

This is Tyli's first adventure feeding herself broccoli, and, as you can see, she loved it!

OUCH!!

McKade has a hard time not climbing on things. Poor little monkey thinks he can climb anything, including climbing from one couch to the next, which I catch him doing often. Well, hopefully tonight he may have learned his lesson. He slipped and fell while he was directly between the couches and smacked his face on the end table which sits back aways between the two. Cauley and I both saw it happen and immediately ran to his aid. I got there right in the knick of time, catching the first drops of blood in my hands as I coaxed McKade into the kitchen for inspection. It took a while, but we think we found that the only cut is on the inside of his lower lip. He's fine now, but has a giant monster lip that he's excited to show his friends in preschool tomorrow!

Preschool Resumes

And we're back. To me, the two week vacation from preschool didn't seem very long at all, but to all of my students, "it seemed like we didn't have school for 17 years!" (Emily Noel, 4) This semester I have added another student, Emily Alger, making my total 5 4-year olds, 1 2-year old, and a little girl who crawls around trying to eat everyone's shoes and backpacks!

(the photo order goes: McKade, Emily N., Lexie, Emily A., Hunter, and Dallin)

PeanutButter Popcorn

This is a great easy recipe my cousin Heather sent me that was a big hit at our home for our FHE "treat" this week:

1/2 Cup Creamy Peanut Butter
1/2 Cup Light Karo Syrup
1/2 Cup sugar

Mix all ingredients together in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil just until the sugar melts. Pour immediately over popped popcorn and stir it in. Let it cool and- enjoy!
We used microwave popcorn, but you can use air popped as well. (My sister likes it better with air popped.)
*just a hint- I put my popped popcorn into an old icecream bucket and it was much easier to clean after we were finished eating the PB popcorn.

Stomach Flu at The Clark House

Yep, it got us! Tyli threw up twice last night before bed, Dallin in the middle of the night, and Tyli and I this morning. Uncle Ray came over last night to help give Tyli a blessing and said it is really going around his ward bad, but what's funny is we haven't had any contact with the people in our neighborhood since we've been home. Somehow it found us!

Tyli Turns 1!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TYLI! Tyli celebrated her first birthday in Idaho at Grandma and Grandpa Ruth's house. Aunt Jeni, my twin sister, made her a castle cake that was adorable! (and Ty really enjoyed it!) She was spoiled by getting some My Little Ponies from my parents, a new dress from my sister's family, and new binkis and the hand-me-down bike that all of our kids have gotten for their 1st birthdays. (Except for Dallin- we got it later at a garage sale.) She is our second child to not be walking by the year mark, but has improved a lot this past week by standing up and cruising along things. She's even getting brave enough to walk between things now. No worries- Dallin didn't walk until he was 15 months old and he's perfectly normal. Anyways, she just had her 1 year appointment the other day and she's right up to par- according to Dr. Jones. She is very tall measuring in at 31 1/2 inches; 21 lbs., 1 ounce which puts her right on the 50% mark for weight, and still has a big head at 17 inches-or cm, I don't remember what they measure it in. She does have an ear infection though, so she is on antibiotics for that. (I love Walmarts new $4 perscription plan-I just wish they had more stuff on it!) She has a few words that are a funny combo, like mama and dada, ball, hi, by-by, and touch down! (This she displayed for Dr. Jones, which was funny.) Tyli is a happy (most of the time) 1 year old who loves to torment McKade by taking his toys away, and makes us all laugh a lot of the time!

Pictures will follow later!