LOVE * LAUGH * LIVE

wow...its been a while

2009-10-18T19:52:00.002-06:00

I knew I hadn't blogged for a bit, but wow it has been a while! I will post some pics shortly of a few of the fun things that have been happening.

24th fireworkers..at home

2009-07-24T22:35:00.007-06:00

Josh had a full day of fun today. The majority was spent on a play date with his best buddy Connor. They went bowling and played fort. After we went to pick up a few items for our camping trip this weekend and Josh is just beside himself with excitement. So he decided he wanted to lite fireworks at home...in the dark.

The wind was a bit much and I finally got smart enough to lite the sparklers to use as a lite for other fireworks.

It was just us, but we had fun!

summer softball

2009-07-23T21:41:00.004-06:00

For the last few summers I have been lucky enough to play with my little brother on his work softball team. We play all through the summer and I have so much fun spending time with Jordan.

I get a bit serious in my face when I am up to bat!

The majority of us...there a few missing.

Spears, Rawson, Sarg, Glen

Joel, Gabe, Jordan, Heidi, and Me

fric 'n frac

2009-07-23T21:35:00.002-06:00

Fric (Amy) 'n Frac (Rebecca) have birthdays a couple of weeks apart, so we threw a fric 'n frac party in Susan's backyard. We grilled food, had yummy drinks, music, and friends. The night air was perfect and we all had a great time.

family night

2009-07-13T19:46:00.005-06:00

A girls night with families adventure was in store for us long time friends. In all the years, the 8 of us have been having get togethers we have not had all of our families invited. We realized that there are 19 kids amongst us! Nikki offered her home and all but one was able to enjoy each other company, food, and lots of laughs.

Nikki, Me, Buzz, Jenny, Rachel, Boyden, and Chi Chi
Buzz and her troops are moving to South Dakota. We were all glad to be able to get together before they move.

And a pic of the cousins with their babies was a must. We don't have one outside of this one I don't think.

I love my girlfriends!

I love that we can pick up right where we left off as if no time has past at all.

And our kids followed suit!

city of rocks 4th of july weekend

2009-07-05T21:16:00.009-06:00

My 4th of July celebration was spent with my students at City of Rocks, Idaho. They were doing a climbing trip and I was able to tag along.

This is the weather we rolled into on Friday night. I was a bit worried.

However, we were lucky enough to miss most of the really bad weather and when we got up on Saturday to climb, my first attempt ever, the weather was gorgeous. We had a great day of climbing by the Twin Sisters. Another storm rolled in that afternoon and brought a great wind storm and then kept on moving.

Sunday we did a multi-pitch climb on Jackson's Thumb (the skinny rock next to the big mountain). We hiked up to the base and then started our climb. It was only my third climb ever and I am hooked!

These were the views from the top of the thumb and man were they amazing!

To finish out the "sick" experience as the weekend staff say, we had to free repel off the back side of the thumb. It was one of the most amazing wilderness experiences I have ever had. I can't wait to go again!

a birthday bash

2009-07-05T21:09:00.003-06:00

My friend Amy had a birthday last weekend. Rebecca, April, Jenny, myself, and of course the birthday girl spent the day at East Lake enjoying the water and sun.

We had an amazing afternoon, then headed for some yummy food and birthday cake.

arts festival

2009-07-01T10:43:00.002-06:00

I love the arts festival and look forward to it each year. Heidi and I were able to have some sis time while enjoying the art. This is the newest addition to my art collection.

saturday playdate

2009-06-21T19:40:00.005-06:00

Josh and I got to have a Saturday play date with our cute friend Elsie.

We picked up Elsie at her mom's art studio and we were off...

McDonald's for lunch...

then Gateway Mall for the Children's Museum, and we were lucky enough to run into the chalk art festival and a break in the rain.

We still hit the museum and had a blast.

What a fun Saturday afternoon!

a preview

2009-06-19T20:50:00.003-06:00

New York, Martha's Vineyard, Boston, and girlfriends...

It doesn't get better than that!

a golfing afternoon

2009-06-19T20:32:00.005-06:00

This afternoon Josh and I met Vicki Gus at the Forelakes Golf Course to hit a bucket of balls...the first of the summer, well for us, not for Vicki Gus.

Josh took our pics while we 'model' posed complete with the wind in our hair.

...the other 'model' pose :-D

Josh and Gus did most of the swinging and man they are good! I got in a few decent swings, but left my skills to taking pics and catching up with Gus.

This video isn't Josh's best swing, but it gives the idea. We are going to do a par three course in a few weeks. Luv you Gus!

life has happened...i am just behind

2009-06-19T19:36:00.016-06:00

a little stomach flu....

kick ass forts to sleep in...

swimming...

art shows with friends and a new piece of art for my home...love it!

a new tattoo...

playtime with cousin dylan...

more swimming...

the natural history museum and kissing some frogs...

and WICKED, which was absolutely amazing!

sea world, la jolla sea lions, & the end

2009-04-25T21:22:00.008-06:00

Our last day in California we spent in Sea World. We finally had some warm weather and had a great time enjoying the animals, shows, and rides. We were sad that Amy and Lee headed back to LA and missed the fun!

We then stopped in La Jolla to see the sea lions in their 'natural' environment. There was also an amazing tide pool with lots of little crabs. And fortunately we were there at dusk and I got my beach sunset to fill my soul.

The next day we left and drove to Las Vegas. We were able to play in Vegas, shop at the outlets in Primm and stretch out our vacation just a little bit longer.

...and its nice to be home :-D

tide pools...and of course shopping

2009-04-25T21:13:00.006-06:00

We got up this morning and went to check out a tide pool. I love the beach. I love the ocean. And more importantly, I love the sun. Josh had so much fun looking for crabs, anemones, star fish. Another tide pool looker actually found a star fish and shared it with us.

Next it was off to shop. Hansen's was a must as were the Carlsbad Outlets.

Josh and I wanted to go back to to the beach even though it was chilly. Amy and Lee were up for brisk weather. They bundled up for a nap while Josh and I built a house in the sand. He used his boogie board as the door. It was a very relaxing afternoon.

wild animal park

2009-04-15T23:32:00.006-06:00

My favorite place in San Diego so far...The Wild Animal Park

Josh and I posed for pictures on my favorite animal, an elephant.

We explored, played, fed animals, and had a great time!

balboa park

2009-04-14T23:05:00.008-06:00

We were ready to visit some San Diego sites and started with Balboa Park. Because not all of us could agree where we wanted to be, we split up and enjoyed different things. My parents, Heidi, Dylan, Josh, and me went to the San Diego Zoo. The boys, Amy, Lee, and Knox decided to check out the museums.

Josh unfortunately was a bit grumpy so when we met back at the hotel for lunch, we stayed at the hotel for down time, while the rest of my family headed back to Balboa Park.

Before dinner, the siblings headed over to Seaport Village to shop, sight see, and enjoy time without the kids or my parents. It is so fun to hang out with my sibs now that we are all grown up!
Josh helped Amy with Knox's bath and then the kids went to bed...

...and the grown ups played!

the beach

2009-04-14T00:27:00.026-06:00

Amy and Lee drove down from LA last night and are now with us for the week.

I love my nephew Knox!

We decided to take a lazy dazy morning and then head to the beach. It was a bit cold, but we braved it and enjoyed a lazy dazy afternoon.

After the beach, we went back to the hotel and since the ocean was freezing, jumped in the heated pool. I was the camera woman.

Finally, the day ended with dinner from my favorite Mexican restaurant El Torito. I was so excited to see it was 10 steps outside the door from the hotel. YUM!

easter my way

2009-04-14T00:27:00.017-06:00

I was not going to let the ER visit stand in the way of my vacation...or our Easter celebration. We started the morning with the visit from the Easter bunny and a small Easter egg hunt. Dylan had a great time finding the eggs and Josh knew what was coming next...

DISNEYLAND!

My brothers decided to stay back, so it was my sis, my parents, and the grand kids. We were lucky enough to start our day with a hello from Mickey right on Main Street.Dylan was so excited to spend the day with his cousin Josh, following him all around the park.

We took full advantage of the park, beautiful weather, and relatively small crowds. There was very little wait on any of the rides.

The first time in my Disneyland history, we actually left around 7:30 pm. We had seen, rode, eaten, played, and enjoyed all that we could, and there was an hour and a half drive back to the hotel. Note to self, there is no line for pictures at the entrance at 7:30 at night!

The boys crashed on the drive home. What a perfect way to celebrate Easter!

time to travel

2009-04-14T00:27:00.007-06:00

The Reese clan has packed up the cars and headed on vacation, a feet that hasn't happened with all of us together since we were all living at home. The Utahans drove through the night on Friday to start the one day trip to California. We stopped for breakfast in Barstow and actually all look put together! Amy, Lee, and Knox flew to California from Boston.

When we arrived at our hotel, we were all a little stir crazy. Josh put his stuffed animal's underwear on his head...still not sure why. We went grocery shopping, and took naps. Unfortunately, I didn't hit the zzz's fast enough and a migraine took hold. I spent the next 4 hours in the emergency room getting medication and CAT scans of my brain.

Started the trip with a bang!

1st grade program

2009-04-14T00:09:00.005-06:00

Josh's first grade program was last week. He practiced his songs everyday at home for a least a week in preparation. He was so excited to perform for his friends at school and for his dad and me.

The program was absolutely adorable and Josh did a great job. He would look over at his cheering section, myself, his dad, my parents, and my grandma, every so often and just grin from ear to ear. I can't believe he is almost through the first grade!

Josh's job was the red kite waver.

sunday night fun

2009-04-05T21:58:00.002-06:00

If anyone needs a bomb shelter for any reason...there is a very sufficient one in my living room!

babysitting

2009-04-05T21:41:00.005-06:00

Josh and I got the opportunity to babysit my friend's beautiful little girl, Elsie, while she was teaching her art class. Josh was so excited to be able to be the babysitter and was absolutely adorable the entire night. He road bikes with her, played a music while she sang, and even was the client at the hair salon. When it was time for Elsie to go to bed, Josh changed her diaper, got her in her pj's, and then read her stories. Watching him and listening to how he played and helped Elsie just melted my heart. He would be a very good brother...too bad that won't be happening on my end.

It was a late night for both of us and we snuggled in while we waited for Christy to get home. The funniest part of this picture, however, is that Josh is covering his smile with the blanket because he couldn't stop giggling!

movie time

2009-04-05T21:32:00.002-06:00

Josh and I haven't been to the movies in I don't know how long. We decided that for Tuesday's play date we were going to a show. Josh's taste in movies is expanding as he gets older, but I hope he is never to old for a good cartoon!

Monsters vs Aliens is hysterical. He giggled through the whole movie. And what I love best is that he is starting to pick up on more and more adult humor. We give this flick 2 thumbs up!

dinner with grandma

2009-04-05T21:22:00.001-06:00

My mom helps me with Josh after school. Last Monday, she took bug to her haircut appointment while I finished up my meetings. They finished about the same time I did, so we decided to get some dinner. Josh picked his favorite place for cake. surprise, surprise!

my cute nephews

2009-04-05T21:11:00.005-06:00

I have the sweetest nephews. I am so lucky to be an aunt! It is different than being a mom and I love it.

Dylan, Knox

girl party utah 2009

2009-03-29T20:56:00.008-06:00

Girl party officially started Friday night, but i joined the fun on Saturday. Rebecca and her girlfriends meet in different cities through out the year for girl party. I was lucky enough to be invited to play this year. We started at Rebecca's for bunch while we waited for the karaoke taxi to pick us up and take us to Park City. The ride up was a blast complete with a microphone, disco ball, and flashing lights. Then we enjoyed the free concert at the Canyons and jammed out to the Wailers. We spent the rest of the time cruising main street with dinner and drinks. When the taxi came back to pick us up to take us home, we got filmed for a Park City commercial. It was a very fun day with new friends and lots of laughs.

Amy, Mel, Susan, Me, Traci, Ann Marie, Niki, Rebecca, Tracy, and Jessica

I can't wait until the next Girl Party weekend...although Utah may be a hard one to beat!

The Literacy Fair

2009-03-25T16:40:00.008-06:00

Josh's first grade class today had a literacy fair. The students put together a number of written assignments and displays throughout their classroom and hallway for the parents to enjoy. He was so proud of his work and showing it off to me.

Mrs. Jones and Josh

They also did a presentation of some of their great works as a class. This is a video of a song that the class wrote the tune and words. Each student helped in some way. Josh's piece was added the last line about going for ice cream.

My little guy is getting so big!

my little home body

2009-03-24T19:08:00.004-06:00

Today is play date day. I picked Josh up from school and he was 1, hungry and 2, wanting to go home. He is my little home body right now. We stopped at Costco for food and some new books and then headed home to play.

Josh's favorite thing right now is hockey. He has been setting up a hockey rink in the living room. Today he had figured out a hockey outfit and even got out his little stuffed animal buddies to be the doctor and fan club.

After the game where I lose every time because he gets a hockey stick and I get the bow from the bow and arrow set, we snuggled up for the viewing of the Mighty Ducks.
We had a great home play date!

RED ROCKS

2009-03-22T20:56:00.004-06:00

I love my RED ROCKS....their last regular season meet was Friday against the cougars at BYU. The utes dominated winning the meet with the highest score of the season 197.80. They find out where they go for regionals on Monday and then most likely off to nationals. I wish the season wasn't coming to an end!

Josh's favorite treat

2009-03-22T20:12:00.000-06:00

Chocolate Molten Cake...need I say more?!

St. Patty's Day

2009-03-22T19:29:00.003-06:00

Josh was so excited for St. Patrick's Day. My mom helped encourage the excitement around the mischief of the leprechauns. Josh wrote a very cute note, drew a picture of himself with his leprechaun friend, and left him a lucky coin.

He was thrilled to see the next morning that his prizes were taken, a note was left for him, and mischief had happened in the house. He said, "mom, the leprechaun left me a note, a game, and a big mess!" His reaction was priceless.

basketball time

2009-03-22T19:18:00.002-06:00

The weather has been gorgeous. For this play date, Josh wanted to just be at home and take advantage of the weather. We shot some hoops outside.

spring time fun

2009-03-22T19:10:00.002-06:00

...

2009-03-22T19:09:00.002-06:00

I have been behind...yes activities have been happening and yes I have pictures, and now they will be posted. Enjoy! :-D

utah basketball

2009-03-05T15:25:00.005-07:00

The last Utah women's basketball game was last night against Arizona State. After a trip to the toy store, and dinner, Josh and I headed over to the game. It was a double dose of play time this week!

It was an exciting game and came right down to the last seconds. Utah held on for the win.

GO UTES!

can't come soon enough

2009-03-03T21:16:00.002-07:00

Josh is my water bug. I don't know where he gets it, but he loves the water!

Today for our play date, we went swimming and Josh couldn't have been happier. The hot weather can't come fast enough for the outside pools to open!

girlfriends

2009-03-03T21:06:00.005-07:00

Thank goodness for girlfriends!

enjoying the weather

2009-03-03T21:03:00.002-07:00

Aunt Heidi brought Dylan over to Bonneville last week and the weather was so awesome they went in the back and played. Josh loves being the big cousin!

art playdate

2009-03-03T20:59:00.002-07:00

I am a few play dates behind, but last week Josh and I decided to become artists for our activity. He painted a puzzle dino I had brought back from Boston and I was attempting to sketch.

unvalentines day party

2009-02-22T13:52:00.008-07:00

Valentines is one of my least favorite holidays...with someone or not. I just don't see the point! Fortunately, some of my friends feel the same way, so we put together an unvalentines day party at Rebecca's with the girls. We had dinner, games, music, and a great time!

RED ROCKS

2009-02-22T10:15:00.003-07:00

I have been out of town for the last two UTAH meets, so I was super excited to be able to go on Friday. The #1 utes were up against #15 michigan and it was no contest. The utes dominated with a 197.525 win over michigan.

GO UTES!

Kristina Baskett on the floor
I meet Heidi and Dylan for some dinner and then we went over to the huntsman center. I can't wait until the next one!

covered in rain

2009-02-18T22:08:00.007-07:00

I have been tagged...

1. Put your iPod on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS!
4. Tag 5 friends who might enjoy doing the iPod Shuffle as well as the give some linky love to the person that tagged you!

IF SOMEONE SAYS "IS THIS OKAY" YOU SAY?
the reason i go on - celion dion

WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
born at the right time - paul simon

WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
satellite - dave mathews band

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
spun - flipsyde

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
you belong with me - taylor swift

WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
picture - sheryl crow

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
welcome - disneyland entrance music VERY FITTING! LOL

WHAT IS 2+2?
upside down - jack johnson

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND(S)?
drive this road - peter breinholt and the big parade

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU FANCY?
i kissed a girl - katy perry

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
love will find a way - christina aguilera

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
young love - gavin degraw

WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU FANCY?
top of the world - dixie chicks

WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
chanch - slightly stoopid

WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
go tell it on the mountain - james taylor

WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
slipped into a dream - adam roth

WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
1 thing - amerie

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
do you like the way - santana feat lauryn hill & cee-lo

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
god's top ten - inxs

WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
gravity - sara bareilles

HOW WILL YOU DIE?
what you wish for - guster

WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
orphan girl - gillian welch

WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
poor boy - blind pilot

WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
i'll be back - shawn colvin

WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
for a little while - tim mcgraw

WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
suburbia - the samples

DOES ANYONE FANCY YOU?
the beloved - yusuf aka cat stevens

IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
this place is on fire - gavine rossdale

WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
christmas eve song - peter breinholt

WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS?
covered in rain - john mayer

I tag Tristine, Amy, Vicki Gus, Deanne, and Nikki

playdate a day late

2009-02-18T21:58:00.004-07:00

Josh has been at his dad's because there was no school Monday or Tuesday. So our play date happened today. After I backed into a car in the Chili's parking lot, we went in and had dinner. Next we were off to Barnes for some new books.

The night was in three's, so we ended our evening up at the Huntsman Center watching the Utah Women's basketball team crush Colorado St.

We had a great night!

mr. smarty pants

2009-02-11T21:33:00.002-07:00

Josh had his semi yearly parent teacher conferences today...and boy is he a little smarty pants! He is a pro in just about everything. He still needs work on his handwriting, but otherwise he is rocking and rolling!

The first graders are shooting for 20+ words a minutes with reading...and yes that says he reads 102 words per minute!

We went for dinner to celebrate his love of learning. He picked Red Lobster which is his current favorite because of the rolls. But fun story - his dad's parents used to take his dad to Red Lobster as a kid for his school success. Josh giggled that he was celebrating the same was as his dad used to!

few more boston pics

2009-02-11T21:28:00.003-07:00

blackjack in boston

2009-02-09T15:32:00.005-07:00

Saturday night was the 2nd annual blackjack tournament in my honor.

We had a blast and although some came out as bigger winners than others, most of us didn't loose too big, except of course the host and hostess who weren't as successful in the winning category!

boston 2009

2009-02-09T15:00:00.008-07:00

It is that time of year again....and I needed a trip to visit my sis and her family in Boston. It is cold and you have to bundle up, but it is one of the best, relaxing vacations I have ever taken. This year's visit has been no different.

We walk to most of our destinations and then take the subway. The sun has been shining most of this trip and although the trees are bare, the scenery is gorgeous. These pictures were taken on the bike trail at the spy pond in Arlington.
We met Amy's cute co-worker Emily for breakfast. We didn't make it to a show this time, but enjoyed each other's company over yummy potato cakes.

Shopping....lots and lots of shopping!

The rest of the time has been hanging out with Knox,

playing games, and

taking fun funky pictures with my camera!

My ultimate regrouping, rejuvenating vacation destination is Boston!

family dinner

2009-02-03T22:54:00.003-07:00

The family got together for dinner...a late birthday gig for me and josh and a early one for Curtis whose birthday is tomorrow.

We came in like a tornado, but had a great time and some yummy food.

happy bdays to all of us aquarians!

winter playdate

2009-01-31T21:05:00.002-07:00

a double birthday celebration

2009-01-24T22:47:00.012-07:00

It was a birthday celebration of big proportions this year. Josh and I did some celebrating of our big days. My day started with dropping Josh off at school and heading for a hot stone massage which was a PERFECT way to start my birthday. Then I met Heidi and Dylan for lunch at Kyoto's - yum! And then the day started to get a little crazy...starting with Josh's birthday party with some of his friends at Fat Cats.

They were a handful and so stinking cute!

There was bowling, pizza, video games, presents, cake, and lots and lots of fun!

*The birthday stars*

Thanks for lunch Heidi and Dylan!

Next up was my party. I was kidnapped for the night by my girlfriends, Rebecca, Susan, Amy, and Emily. We started at Rebecca's, moved to Rio Grande for yummy Mexican food, and then to a few other places to hang out and dance. At each stop, I got a prize related to the island I live on combined with some birthday princess attire.

It was one of the best, rowdy nights of my life. It was the perfect way to sign out my 30th year and welcome in the 31st!

all about me

2009-01-21T20:34:00.004-07:00

In Josh's first grade class at Bonneville, the kids each get to create an all about me book and then present it to the class. Josh was able to do his today on his birthday week. He was so excited to put it together and has been working on it for a week. I was able to go watch the presentation and he was so stinkin' cute and he knows that it is all about him in this household! :-D

sundance pics

2009-01-21T20:30:00.002-07:00

We have no idea who the guy is, but he wanted a pic with all us hotties!

always a favorite...

2009-01-20T22:31:00.003-07:00

Three things Josh loves, play dates, cousins, and the children's museum. Today, we were lucky enough to have Dylan join us while his mom went to a staff meeting. We decided to head down to the children's museum and PLAY! Heidi ended up joining us for a pic and then dinner.

I love watching Josh show his cousin the ropes. He is such a great kid and I am very lucky to be able to spend as much play date time as I do.

sundance pictures

2009-01-19T21:57:00.000-07:00

Amy, Rebecca, Kelli, Me, and Jillian
more are coming...

weekend play

2009-01-18T12:56:00.006-07:00

Lots of fun weekend play took place this weekend. Friday night started with girls night out to a friends art show, dinner, and dancing. We even hit the village at the end of the adventure and met a leopard cowboy. We had a great time!

Amy & Susan Me and Rebecca

Saturday night, after a day of lounging, was even better. Amy, Rebecca, Kelli, Jillian, and I went up to the Sundance Festival and partied with the stars. We went to the My Space party and the Def Jam party and saw a number of big wigs including Cuba Gooding Jr., Tom Arnold, Spike Lee, Ryan Caberra. We had a blast!

Thank goodness for girl friends!

the next utah season

2009-01-10T19:53:00.003-07:00

I have had to wait all year and today finally came....the first meet of the Utah gymnastics season.

Heidi, Dylan, and I went for dinner at the Soup Kitchen. It was yummy! Then we headed over to the Huntsman Center with my friends Rebecca and Susan to meet my parents for the big meet.

RED ROCKS
Daria Bijak, above
Jamie Deetscreek, below

The Utes first meet was against UCLA who last time they visited Utah, beat the Utes and stole their 25 year home floor winning streak. Neither team looked amazing, but it was the first meet of the season. The Utes almost blew their lead with 2 falls on the floor on the final rotation, but held on for a .1 win over UCLA.

I love my Utah gymnastics!

play date

2009-01-06T21:32:00.003-07:00

Josh and I took it easy today. We put up the birthday board at his school, and he played out in the fresh snow for hours. Then we headed home and relaxed. Josh played Mario Kart while I got him some dinner. We read books, and he kicked my butt in checkers. We had a nice afternoon.

SISTERS!

2009-01-06T21:27:00.001-07:00

a few family parties

2009-01-06T21:10:00.005-07:00

I forgot my camera at both extended family parties. I stole some pictures from my sis so I could post late Christmas fun.

The Hughes Family party - food and of course games!

The Reese family party - food and lots of fun!

last night of fun

2009-01-01T23:06:00.006-07:00

Amy, Lee, and Knox leave Utah tonight to head back to their home in Cambridge. We got together at my parents to have a little more family time before they board their plane at midnight. We even had enough time to squeeze in a few more games. We missed my brothers who were both being responsible adults and were at work. The next time we are all together won't be until April during Spring Break.

Josh had so much fun with his cousins over this holiday. I can't wait until they get a little bigger. Josh will definitely show them the ropes!

new year's eve 2008

2009-01-01T22:51:00.006-07:00

New Year's Eve for as long as I can remember has been spent at my Aunt Connie Jeanne's eating food and playing games into the wee hours. When I was little, all of the cousins used to sleep over, which really entailed eating junk and watching movies all night. That part of the tradition no longer exists, but there was plenty of food, games, & family.

Here's to a rockin' 2009 year!

playtime

2009-01-01T22:43:00.002-07:00

Amy, Lee, Knox, Josh, and I took advantage of the sunny skies and did a little after Christmas shopping at the outlets in Park City. We enjoyed each other and spending a little cash.

Afterwards, we went to Citrus Grill and ate some yummy food. Josh was done with pictures, so he was the photographer. Josh and I continued our play date at the University of Utah Women's' basketball game against USC. Josh loves getting popcorn and sour patch kids and running around while I watch the game. We had a great day!

christmas day

2008-12-25T22:44:00.005-07:00

After traveling through the blizzard that hit West Jordan this morning, I made it to my parents with my sis and her family. We started the morning (late according to my brothers, but who doesn't sleep in when the kids are 20+?!) with the Hughes tradition of blueberry muffins and bananas in orange juice.

We have gotten bigger, but we are the same crazy kids we always were.

We opened some presents, played games, and had some hang out time.
Merry Christmas!

christmas eve

2008-12-25T22:07:00.012-07:00

Christmas Eve festivities were at my house again this year. All the fam came over for games, food, and of course presents!

Based on the Reese family tradition, we have a yummy seafood dinner including my dad's fabulous clam chowder (mine made with corn instead of clams), crab, shrimp, bread. It is a feast!

Games are always a must when we all get together. We a number going, the Wii, Pass the Bomb, and of course hand and foot.

Then it was time for presents...

starting with the Christmas pj's.

The best present was from my little guy and having him with me to for the celebration.

a holiday spin

2008-12-18T21:22:00.002-07:00

Who needs a gingerbread house when you can make a gingerbread ship?!

holiday lights

2008-12-17T21:55:00.004-07:00

Three girls with three boys all bundled up for the cold to enjoy the lights.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

my sis is in town

2008-12-17T21:47:00.003-07:00

Let the party begin. My sister Amy arrived home on Saturday and brought a nasty storm with her from Boston. Fortunately, she made it in time for a birthday lunch for Heidi. Happy Birthday Little Sis! And we all got to meet our new nephew Knox.

She is in town for 3 weeks so we will have a lot of time to play during the holidays.

I love my sisters!

a few pics

2008-12-17T21:29:00.002-07:00

Josh and I have had lots of fun over the last couple of weeks. We enjoy spending time with each other. Here are a few pictures of the different activities we have done.

slacking...

2008-12-12T15:36:00.001-07:00

There has been tons going on at my house and I have been taking lots of pictures, but slacking on getting them posted. They will be coming shortly!

i am thankful

2008-11-28T19:36:00.006-07:00

I am very grateful for my family, especially my little bug. He is absolute sunshine for my soul.

Thanksgiving festivities started with a yummy meal and games at the Monsen's.

Then we moved to my aunt's for more yummy food and of course more games.

It was a full, fun day of family and friends. I am a very lucky girl!

I should have stock options

2008-11-25T23:14:00.002-07:00

I need stock in three things...

...build-a-bear, the first stop on our Tuesday play date;

This is Sarge the navy dog....McDonald's, the second stop for chicken nuggets and chocolate milk;
...and the University of Utah Utes, the final stop for the women's basketball game.

I love my bug!

monday play

2008-11-24T21:42:00.002-07:00

Josh's favorite activity was the Michelle play date today...SWIMMING!

THE HOLY WAR

2008-11-22T21:41:00.006-07:00

ITS GAME DAY!

I love football. I love Utah. I love the holy war.

I was invited to Kelly's house to watch the big game with a bunch of BYU fans....well they claim BYU, but also go back and forth with rooting for the "good" play.

Fair weather fans is what I call them!

It was a GREAT game for the RED.

Utah 48 BYU 24.

GO UTES!
BCS bowl game here we come...

utah basketball...a new play date activity

2008-11-22T21:30:00.003-07:00

I have had Utah gymnastic season tickets for years and this year became a new season ticket holder of the Utah women's basketball game. Josh was able to attend a game last Tuesday and had a great time.

One of his buddies was also at the game sitting across the arena. He went to sit with friend for a little bit of the game. I pushed him out of his comfort zone, but he enjoyed himself. And of course the Utes won!

santa is here

2008-11-22T21:25:00.002-07:00

Josh and Michelle went to one of his favorite places, build a bear, last Monday for their play date...his first of five according to him each week. He of course had a blast and came home with a new friend appropriately named Santa. His antlers have Christmas lights that light up!

utah vs byu

2008-11-15T22:48:00.002-07:00

Not that Utah vs byu game...

but it was a showdown! The Utah women's volleyball team was in action again BYU on Friday night and I was lucky enough to be in attendance at the sold out match. I haven't been to a volleyball game before and I was not disappointed. The win came down to the last match and of course Utah pulled out the win. I hope that is foreshadowing of good things to come next Saturday!

GO UTES!

the hotel cafe concert

2008-11-15T22:32:00.002-07:00

Concert mania is living strong for me. I was lucky enough to go with friends to The Hotel Cafe concert who was a number of up and coming female artists including, Lenka, Meiko, Emily Wells, Rachael Yamagata, Thao Nguyen, and Kate Havnevik.

It was at the very small venue the Avalon. We stood at the base of the stage and had an amazing time dancing and rocking out!

my playdate

2008-11-11T21:28:00.004-07:00

Josh is such a cutie. He loves his play dates. Yesterday, after his play date with Michelle, he informed me that he saved going to Madagascar 2 for our activity. He was so excited to go to the movies with his mom. Can that last forever?!!

The show is cute and worth the trip to the movies AND the time I get with my bug is priceless!

swimming!

2008-11-10T21:43:00.001-07:00

This isn't a picture from today, but my bug a boo spent the afternoon with Michelle at the Kearns Rec Center doing his favorite activity...swimming! He was so excited to be back in the water even though it was freezing cold outside. I think he has found a new favorite hotspot for playdates!

full weekend

2008-11-10T21:25:00.006-07:00

Saturday was a day for the books, busy and full of fun activities. I started off at the Lia Sophia jewelry party. Next was the Stitch 'n Bitch at Michelle's aunts. We get together for yummy chili and crafts. I get all of my Gateway employee gifts put together every year at this event. I love it!

Next it was on to the UOFU women's basketball game. It was the first game of the season and of course the girls pulled out a win. I am excited to be a season ticket holder this year!

To finish up an amazing, full day music of course needed to be involved. Matt Nathanson was the artist of choice at the Avalon. I was a little bit apprehensive by the venue, but it was actually a small venue that was perfect for the an amazing artist. It was a great day!

first "real" snow

2008-11-05T19:10:00.002-07:00

Thanks to daylight savings, we didn't make it out to play in the first real snow of the season until after the sun had gone down. There were new boots and snow pants to buy, plus dinner and homework. But Josh finally made it out to play in the really fresh, snowball making snow. I am NOT ready for this weather!

fishin' around

2008-11-05T18:58:00.003-07:00

Every Monday, Josh is lucky enough to enjoy a play date with Michelle. This week they visited the aquarium. Josh feels like the know it all of these places because we go way too much, but he had fun showing Shelly the ropes.

...and of course he left with prizes from the gift shop!

trick-or-treat

2008-11-01T14:42:00.007-06:00

TRICK-or-TREAT

Josh, my mom, my sister, and my nephew Dylan met up after school today to do some early trick-or-treating. We of course had to stop by my grandmas' and my aunt Laurel's to visit.

My army man

Then, we headed up to Foothill Village for their candy collecting. We had fun. Josh will have more trick-or-treating tonight with his dad.

Dylan was wiped out by the end of our afternoon and Josh had fun using the balloon string to move him like a puppet on our drive home. We had a fun afternoon!

halloween school party

2008-11-01T14:08:00.003-06:00

Josh was so excited to go to school and enjoy a Halloween day. It started with a parade around the school and the block. All the kids looked adorable and were all smiles.

After they did regular school work, the Halloween party began. The party moms put together a great to do with a bunch of different centers including cookie decorating, games, crafts, and bingo. Josh had a blast. It was great start to the Halloween day!

carving the pumpkins

2008-10-30T21:34:00.005-06:00

Last night I had my mom and brother Curtis over for dinner and to carve pumpkins with us. My mom and Josh started with a little MarioKart waiting for the pizza. Josh loved doing the hardest race tracks trying to get my mom to lose.

Curtis got to dig out the guts and help with the artistic piece of pumpkin carving. Josh helped some, but really lost interest quickly.

So Michelle and I finished the skull pumpkin while Josh and Curtis played MarioKart. I think the pumpkin turned out pretty good!

tuesday playdate

2008-10-30T21:03:00.002-06:00

Josh and I haven't had a play date for quite some time. We have been missing our time! Tuesday we went to build a bear and made a new friend. Josh picked a husky and named him Jeff Gordon to go with the race car driver clothes. We had fun playing.

pumpkin hunting party

2008-10-25T21:41:00.007-06:00

The Monsen annual pumpkin hunt was held this morning. Everyone is able to pick out a pumpkin as long as they can carry it to the wagon. Josh spend quite a bit of time checking out every pumpkin to make sure he found the perfect one.

This pumpkin was the winner!

We had a great time and even enjoyed lunch at Hires after the pumpkin hunting.

first field trip

2008-10-23T21:34:00.005-06:00

Today was the first field trip with Josh's first grade class. He was so excited to go to the pumpkin patch, in part because I got to drive him and one of his friends Jackson. We got to the pumpkin patch and his whole class got to sit in a giant tee pee and listen to Mrs. Jones read Halloween stories. Then we got to explore the pumpkin patch.

Each student got a dollar to pick out and buy a pumpkin. They were so excited! At school tomorrow they are have a math pumpkin center with the pumpkins they bought today. We had a lot of fun and I am grateful that I am able to go and spend time with Josh at school.

Happy Halloween!

fiesta fun

2008-10-18T23:08:00.006-06:00

We had another relaxing day today. We slept in while the rest of the crew did a hike. I wanted my sleep. Everyone came over to watch the Utes dominate over Colorado St. GO UTES!

After the game, we did a little shopping at the outlet stores.

We met up for dinner at Texas Roadhouse. The steak was just what we needed!

Then it was time for some fun. Denice, Deanne, JoyLynn, Mons, & I decided we needed to play so we headed over to fiesta fun for arcade games, go karts, and miniature golf.

We had a blast goofing off. Laurie met up with us for some ice cream and then it was off to bed. We drive home tomorrow. It has been a fun weekend!

so much time and nothing to do

2008-10-17T22:12:00.004-06:00

I love the kind of vacations when there is really nothing planned and you can just relax. This trip is just like that! We woke up, had breakfast, played some cards, got ready, did some shopping, came back and too a nap, and then headed to the movies.

We went to the flick Eagle Eye. It was a bit long and the idea of the storyline is quite frightening, but it was worth seeing.

Then it was time to celebrate. Laurie came down and is staying at her sister's. We all went over to say happy birthday and enjoy cake and ice cream.

I love that I know have spent two years in a row celebrating Laurie's bday out of town. I love my Disneyland, scrap booking, Utah fan friend!

UEA Trip

2008-10-16T21:27:00.005-06:00

It is too cold for me and I am not ready for the hot weather to end. So we are taking advantage of the UEA weekend and heading to St. George...

Unfortunately, the rest of the people up north had the same idea!

When we finally got to our destination, the weather was beautiful! We got settled at the Monsen condo after hitting the grocery store. We fixed dinner and got ready to watch the Y get a beating. I was prepped for it!

Joylynn, Denice, Mons, Deanne, Carole, Me, Denice and Lorinda

The beating came in a BIG way. We had fun hanging out and given I was one of very few Utah fans in the room, I had a grin on my face the entirety of the game while the rest had tears. We will play tomorrow in the warmth and sun and then of course get ready for the next big game on Saturday.

playdate

2008-10-14T21:53:00.002-06:00

Our Tuesday playdate consisted of a number of activities today. Josh had a short day at school thanks to SEP conferences and UEA weekend. So we hung out at home until his SEP conference at 3. He is doing amazing in school and is one of the highest readers in his class.
After the parent teacher conference, we went to Color me Mine where Josh picked a skull to decorate. Next, some window shopping, and then we visited the pet store. And then it was time for his soccer game. They lost tonight, but Josh made his first goal of the season and it was the only goal for his team. So of course we had to go celebrate with ice cream. We had a packed and fun day!

my army man

2008-10-13T19:32:00.002-06:00

Josh is fascinated with the military...anything military. He has decided he needs 2 costumes this year. I have no clue where that came from. We had already gotten his Indiana Jones garb at Disneyland for Halloween. Recently, he decided he would do a costume change before trick or treating and Army man was the winner.

We went to the army/navy store and he got to pick out his fatigues.
These were the winners and his pal Nathan put his fatigues on when we got home. We played army for the rest of the night!

lake powell party

2008-10-12T22:15:00.005-06:00

I miss Lake Powell! It is so beautiful there and so peaceful and so much fun. Tonight we had a Lake Powell party at Deanne's with all the gang (although we were missing quite a few). We got to see every one's pictures from the trip and put together a DVD slide show.

We had some grub, and then got busy reminiscing and choosing the best songs for our DVD.

Goose, Steph, JoyLynn, Gus, Me, Mons, and Deanne. We missed the rest of the crew who were all traveling to fun and exotic places. It just means we get to have a reason for another party. We have to show off our hard work!

Gus gave Josh a chopsticks piano lesson. He learned it pretty quickly. Thanks Gus!

UTAH ROCKS!

2008-10-11T17:20:00.006-06:00

I LOVE FOOTBALL SEASON...and I LOVE THE UTES! 7 and 0 with a 40-7 win over Wyoming today.
GO UTES!

the music is still playing

2008-10-11T15:33:00.003-06:00

Summer concerts did come to an end because the weather forces it here...but the music hasn't stopped! Reba and Kelly performed at the energy solutions center last night and it was one of the most entertaining concerts I have ever seen!

Their voices alone are amazing and together was pure bliss.

Up next...Neil Diamond!

crazy hair day

2008-10-09T19:39:00.002-06:00

Bonneville had all sort of fun activities this week, one of which was crazy hair day. Josh went with spiky blue hair. Today he got to wear his pj's. He was in heaven this week!

lost tooth

2008-10-05T21:23:00.003-06:00

Josh came home tonight with a huge grin and one less tooth. He was so excited to show me that yesterday he had lost a tooth. The tooth fairy brought him a dollar. I told him to start loosing more so he can rake in the big bucks! :-D

saturday errands turn into a day at the er

2008-10-05T13:36:00.002-06:00

Saturday started out as any other...getting up and ready to run to the grocery store, pick up a present for my nephew's first year birthday party, grab lunch, etc and during our running around Michelle and I got rear ended.
Michelle's truck was stopped back behind the white line at a red light (where the car that hit us is sitting) and the saturn slammed into us pushing us right into the intersection. The force was so great that the hat Michelle was wearing came right off her head!
The truck took the damage pretty well and yes that is the bumper from the other car attached to the truck's bumper.
His car wasn't so lucky! We went up to the hospital just to make sure we were ok. Michelle took a lot of the force and was put in a neck brace for precautions. We missed the birthday party (sorry Dylan!), and we cancelled the rest of our errands. We stopped at Denice's for hugs and food (thanks Denice!) and then went home to rest. Plans can change in a flash!

early play date

2008-09-29T21:32:00.003-06:00

Michelle was able to pick Josh up from school today. Josh was very excited for an extra play date. They decided to go up Millcreek Canyon and enjoy the beautiful 80 degree weather and the gorgeous fall leaves.

They had a great time and Josh found a lot of fun treasures. And can you believe the color of the leaves?!