tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74992101667939660822012-01-30T10:56:17.639-07:00heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.comBlogger4971100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-62111094380475377232012-01-29T15:15:00.006-07:002012-01-29T15:30:19.758-07:00

This winter has found me spending a lot of time at home since I just don't have the energy or pain tolerance to be up and about for more than a couple of hours at a time. Luckily I've been surrounded by lots of good books, my little bean while the other kiddos are at school and good food. I've been trying out new recipes and have rediscovered a love for cooking and baking I'd forgotten was there.

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-59574247605577199562012-01-16T14:24:00.008-07:002012-01-29T15:56:57.970-07:00

After six years of living here with an unfinished attic and a new little bambino on the way we finally decided it was time to expand upward and make the attic into a bedroom. Our two girls could not be more opposite in their habits...the younger a free spirit who likes to throw erything in her closet and consider the room clean versus our oldest who firmly believes everything has a set place. She

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-27531116192243337412012-01-08T19:52:00.005-07:002012-01-08T19:59:28.361-07:00

This has been the weirdest winter in that we have next to no snow. So, we were absolutely shocked when we woke up Saturday morning to some fluffy white stuff. By 8:30 Am my entire family was dressed in full gear, out shoveling the walks and then dad helped them build a snow fort, which we call our igloo. They spent the entire day until sun down outside making and throwing snowballs and forts.

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-10901967853775053872012-01-06T19:39:00.007-07:002012-01-08T20:02:27.515-07:00

Friday night we attended our first ever Jazz game as a family. Our visiting teacher was king enough to give us six free tickets so we figured we would give it a shot! The first thing Caleb noticed when we gt there was how high up the seats were. He is scared of heights and looked a little green the higher we kept climbing, then turned to me and said "Mom, I am so so scared right now." Luckily his

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-23409159813499474202011-12-28T10:00:00.006-07:002012-01-08T17:03:10.930-07:00

I went in for my ultrasound today on baby #5 and it's a boy! I guess we really may have to name the little fetus "Ninja Meats" per his three year old brother's suggestion. They measured me at 22 weeks last week during my midwife appointment and today the due date they figured was May 1st instead of May 7th so I may be ahead of what we thought. It's been so cute to see how attached Spencer is of

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-39129141775149076842011-12-25T16:30:00.001-07:002012-01-08T16:56:36.294-07:00

By far the most memorable part of Christmas this year was the Spirit we felt in our home watching movies. These two were our favorites...

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-74944057405810568002011-12-20T19:38:00.003-07:002012-01-08T16:12:41.244-07:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-88898748340479235172011-12-19T14:40:00.000-07:002012-01-08T14:45:31.533-07:00

was discovered early this year in the back of Dad's car. So here is our little monkey the night they were found in his new jammies and monkey hat. Finding new pajamas was quite an adventure. My question is why in the world do department stores put clothes 12 feet up the wall where no one human can reach? After talking to customer service and attempting to use a fallen dummy arm I found to unhook

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-68419868649077778952011-12-16T14:53:00.006-07:002012-01-08T17:29:55.125-07:00

We had a super crazy month of dental trials in December. Both Meghan and Caleb had their first dental surgeries at age 2 and since then Spencer had almost all of his teeth replaced by caps or crowns last year at Primary Children's Hospital. We learned he has an enamel defect and knew as soon as his molars came in we'd have to go back to check for decay. So this month at their 6 month check up we

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-73887601454830411452011-12-12T14:47:00.003-07:002012-01-08T16:49:53.920-07:00

Mr. Grinch visited our home for family home evening tonight. Our three year old wasn't so sure, in fact I think he was scared to death. But hey...

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-22299204886903725792011-12-11T16:20:00.011-07:002011-12-11T17:43:53.392-07:00

2011 Christmas Cards are printed and sent. YAY! I can never decide, so we printed two of our spontaeous family photos from the year. Todd took one look at the cards and said "wow...that is a lot of kids!" Yep. Ever growing, ever growing family we are.

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-37461177990049315362011-12-11T12:56:00.002-07:002011-12-11T16:28:43.679-07:00

If you've never tried Philosophy bath products you have to try them NOW! This morning I introduced our little bean to Double Rich Hot Cocoa bubble bath and he was in heaven. Pure yuminess in a bottle. Their holiday packs are one of my favorite parts of this time of year :)

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-12759274629505641192011-12-07T13:04:00.006-07:002011-12-11T17:45:00.912-07:00

A few months ago I was referred by one of the authors I reviewed a book for, Lani Woodland to shoot a sitting with her friend YA author Angela Corbett. Her book Eternal Starling just hit shelves December 6th and I attended the release party at The King's English book shoppe on the 7th. It is an awesome feeling to have been a little tiny part in her dream come true. My author photo was published

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-26556664793108135112011-12-04T10:19:00.012-07:002011-12-04T15:45:24.434-07:00

Thursday morning around 2 AM we were all awakened by the sound of howling winds outside our windows. Todd had heard a wind storm was coming in so we took down our summer shade scaffolding and put it away. But there is no way we could be prepared for what was on its way. The first thing we noticed was the sound, then the windows started buckling inward from the pressure. Soon it evolved into our

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-6615259680800658992011-11-28T10:03:00.012-07:002011-11-29T03:09:10.679-07:00

I'm done. What a last couple of weeks! I can now officially empathize with people who get morning sickness. I thought the light on the horizon would magically appear with the start of my second trimester, but alas...no. Instead I got an added sinus infection that we have battled in our home for three weeks armed with a neti pot (how do you use that thing?) homeopathic remedies, garlic, juice. You

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-24228881442709141142011-11-04T09:30:00.001-06:002011-11-14T09:40:48.086-07:00

Our little Emmalee turning 6? Where does the time go? She is a very happy girl, very literally living in her own little world. She loves to play with our dogs and the stay cats in our neighborhood. This year she had a ladybug birthday party and some yummy gluten free cupcakes from the Sweet Tooth Fairy. She was hoping for an Easy Bake Oven, Furr Real Pet, and secret password journal. We started

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-50820026340075214772011-11-02T18:25:00.008-06:002011-11-14T09:30:06.575-07:00

About 10 months ago I met two fabulous authors at the LDS Story Makers Conference, Danyelle Ferguson and Lynn Parsons who co-wrote the book (dis) abilities and the Gospel. At the time we were going through a horrible process with our local school over my son's IEP (individualized education plan) and a series of complaints with the District. Both women were so helpful in pointing me towards the

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-17078542742140427702011-10-20T18:20:00.003-06:002011-11-13T18:24:19.540-07:00

This year for UEA when plans fell through to go to St. George we decided to do a mini stay cation here near by. Our fist thing to do was drive up the anyone into Park City where we shopped and ate on Main Street, of course stopping in at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Then we drove Heber where we visited the old Heber Creeper Railroad Station and found a hotel. We went on the Haunted

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-31310793046232271912011-10-02T09:15:00.009-06:002011-10-03T12:57:18.088-06:00

I got to see the tiny little bean in my belly this afternoon, so amazing it already has a visible heart beat. I'm due May 7th! This time around I'm trying a midwife since the last two times the person who delivered our babies wasn't our physician...it was whoever was in the hospital hall at the time. I want to try to deliver without pitocin or an epidural like we did with #3 to avoid post

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-31358952442398046782011-09-22T09:07:00.002-06:002011-10-02T09:39:09.818-06:00

Our Fall schedule has been filled with soccer, soccer and more soccer! Meg is playing on a competitive team , Caleb on batnam and Emmy rec league. Spencer meanwhile loves kicking a ball along on the sidelines and cheering. Looks like we have a couple of very talented goalies on our hands!

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-32326639547570124192011-09-08T08:37:00.000-06:002011-10-02T08:44:00.390-06:00

Little man was so excited about his first day at preschool complete with Yoda backpack and a locker with his name on it!

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-5227226318987070142011-09-01T08:30:00.000-06:002011-10-02T08:35:29.659-06:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-88736723067889483492011-08-26T08:45:00.000-06:002011-09-18T08:46:27.598-06:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-34354559947022645362011-08-22T17:40:00.016-06:002011-09-11T20:03:47.763-06:00

This year we made a big decision for our family and after lots of prayer and thought decided to switch schools. There were several reasons going into our move. But I should have trusted my gut six years ago when we very first sent our oldest to pre-school at our neighborhood school and had numerous problems. It's been uphill since then working with administration and the special education team,

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-62609535281278737712011-08-05T11:08:00.016-06:002011-09-11T18:42:14.265-06:00

Every summer we head up to Idaho Falls for the Chile Santiago West Mission Reunion at my President Walker's house. It is so fun to see everyone and our kiddos love the back yard. This February, I'm hooping to travel with the mission back to Chile. Fingers crossed for lower airfare.Breakfast hot off the grillHermanas Morales, Sheen and IOur kiddos on the horse tire swingTaking turns on the huge

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-8285830245554962062011-07-24T11:11:00.000-06:002011-09-04T11:26:22.794-06:00

What better way to send Pioneer Day than at This Is The Place monument and park? I think our kids would have done much better back in the simpler days of living on farm with manual labor and lots of time outdoors. They had a blast. We need to find one of the hoops that you roll with a stick! I just wish the park weren't so expensive for big families

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-24506102328688007902011-07-21T08:44:00.001-06:002011-09-04T09:42:49.082-06:00

Our family took a fun little side trip over the 24th weekend to St George and Vegas. We hit the Dinosaur museum which I loved for the giant red sand box outside where the kids can dig for bones. Then it was a tour of the Brigham Young home and historic downtown. We found the most amazing little old general store called the Thomas Judd Store with a every kind of soda and penny candy imaginable. A

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-87064418260387592072011-07-09T08:12:00.003-06:002011-09-04T08:30:38.956-06:00

Saturday July 9th I went to my sister Danielle's baby shower in the Parley's First Ward where my great grandmother, grandmother and mother all grew up. It was so fun to be back after not seeing so many of those families for about 24 years. It's a beautiful neighborhood and my sister has been surrounded by support from families like the Mecham's,

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-30050277859160707842011-07-02T20:43:00.002-06:002011-08-15T08:35:51.521-06:00

We ha d super fun and busy Fourth of July Weekend this year. It started out with a getaway overnight up in the mountains. We played a round of mini golf, fed the goats, rode on a carousel Had a taste of "the beach" and swimming in the crater Heard cowboy tales around the campfire Saw him in action branding wood Ate a HUGE breakfast the next morning with Nate who stayed with us

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-51752643312712010782011-06-25T20:32:00.000-06:002011-08-11T20:38:56.995-06:00

To sum up the two things Caleb wanted for his birthday this year...legos and a new bike with pegs. He got a super cool Red Line that his friends can ride on the back of and he plus two of them took it for a spin during his bike party. Happy Day!

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-59211127712983439522011-06-19T19:13:00.005-06:002011-06-19T20:19:40.881-06:00

Yesterday we spent ALL day at out local amusement park and had a blast! We learned Spencer is more of a Bulgy the Whale and Bumper Car kind of boy...he wouldn't go anywhere near most of the rides. Meanwhile his big brother and sister braved Wicked, Colossus, The White Roller Coaster and Rattlesnake Rapids. Meg had fun getting me soaked on OdySea and the kids all had a fun battle at Whac- a- mole.

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-23061516156985368882011-06-05T19:01:00.005-06:002011-06-06T07:21:50.379-06:00

Some of you might know that on the side I dabble in photography and most revently I've been working with author Michelle Zink on the trailer for her upcoming book Circle of Fire to be published August 3rd from Little Brown books. Today, Michelle released a teaser trailer on YouTube featuring my photos which I costumed, cast and shot starting back in February for Michelle. SQUEE!!!A full trailer

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-28626888854444027482011-06-05T14:10:00.007-06:002011-06-05T14:30:22.650-06:00

Emmy had her Spring recital on May 21st as part of the Dance For The Cure benefiting the Susan G Komen foundation. She did wonderfully and is such a good little dancer. She loves being on stage! Both of her grandparents came to watch. And, before the recital we went out to dinner with Uncle Chad and Aunt Susie, Grandma and Grandpa Gardner, cousins Nate and Allie to the restaurant where Hailey

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-8461620941401946022011-05-20T09:32:00.006-06:002011-05-20T10:07:50.321-06:00

To our tiny little bean...today is your day! You are a piece of heaven in our home. May you enjoy plenty of Mickey Mouse, Thomas the Train and legos today. You are a strong little boy with a contagious smile and sweet demeanor. You really like to twirl hair, get piggy backs and give diaper drops. You aren't so fond of getting your hair cut, or the sound of the vacuum. Your best friend is your big

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-26255142526684600882011-05-01T09:05:00.025-06:002011-05-01T20:13:06.290-06:00

I know most of the world may be tired of hearing about the Royal Wedding, but I must admit that I was surprised by my reaction to it. I'm not a regular follower of Royal happenings. But then, I woke up and I was drawn to the ceremony. I just had to watch!Several things struck me. One, Kate was beautiful and graceful, stunning and humble. She and Prince William looked genuinely in love. And after

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-12801790902132086292011-04-29T21:04:00.003-06:002011-04-29T21:08:57.315-06:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-27372033763076127552011-04-24T10:41:00.002-06:002011-05-01T10:43:01.495-06:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-65539916804317984742011-04-17T19:45:00.008-06:002011-04-18T08:17:25.278-06:00

I don't know about everyone else but I am ready for the sun to come and stay a while. It's been a tough winter full of medical appointments, procedures and surgeries. I'm pretty sure if I never see another I.V. needle I'll be happy. Hopefully I'm done for a little while. I am so incredibly grateful for: the kind nurse I had on Thursday at Salt Lake Regional, homemade meals, prayer, my electric

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-40763105888995557682011-04-17T18:59:00.004-06:002011-04-17T19:01:19.621-06:00

I just love the look on Spencer's face in this photo. He looks up to his Papa Chicken Leg.

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-36669922237306364662011-04-09T18:19:00.012-06:002011-04-17T20:15:55.903-06:00

Meghan was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints April 9, 2011 by her father. What an amazing experience it was to see her and Todd all dressed in white. She takes her covenants seriously at the tender young age of 8. It was beautiful. We had family and friends gathered including Brother Murphy her Primary instructor, the Salcedo family the Sowbys, The

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-62331099368992312982011-04-02T19:28:00.002-06:002011-04-17T19:45:27.406-06:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-71986503808225814512011-03-27T19:23:00.010-06:002011-03-27T20:37:57.753-06:00

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heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-91168425049949942222011-03-23T08:49:00.007-06:002011-03-23T08:56:49.829-06:00

Happy Happy Birthday to our oldest who turned 8 today!! Meghan is so excited for her baptism and is such a wonderful example for all of us. She's artistic and smart, sensitive and caring. To celebrate we're throwing a fairy party and she got a shiny new purple 21 speed bike which has already been on a spin down the street. Meg plays bantam competitive league soccer and plays the piano. She

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-18781957714941257122011-03-17T10:06:00.005-06:002011-03-17T10:47:53.048-06:00

To our daddy who loves the Red Sox, makes us laugh and paints our toe nails green in the middle of the night. We love you!

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-91066840058874754852011-03-10T09:48:00.017-07:002011-03-10T21:39:09.076-07:00

When I came home for the doctor's offices yesterday I realized that there are some things in this life that may never be healed. That despite our valiant human efforts and those of experts, we have mortal bodies which carry imperfections and wounds. I've returned to a medical specialist I first visited back in 1995. And after several labs that continue to come back showing no sign of change or

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-35083675947330858392011-03-10T09:45:00.000-07:002011-03-10T10:48:48.399-07:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-14809722960559489682011-03-01T16:03:00.009-07:002011-03-01T20:20:59.814-07:00

With the snow melted off I decided it was high time I get my tooshie back out on my road bike and start pedaling again. Oh my how I've missed it. Absolutely nothing beats a nice long ride...you, your wheels and mother nature. I'm so excited to be on the trail again and training for another Tri. Now, I just need some new work out music. Suggestions anyone?

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-91216093052963460832011-02-27T09:45:00.004-07:002011-02-27T09:55:33.113-07:00

Our little two and a half year old asks to see this VW commercial ceaselessly and uses "the force" on things quite frequently now :) Must have his father's Star Wars genes.

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-71466235800368001552011-02-27T08:49:00.015-07:002011-02-27T09:56:22.141-07:00

photo by Simply Bee PhotographyThis week has been a little hard for us as we lost one of our neighbors, Jonas Webster. We remember him as a wonderful dad who cheered on his little boys at T-Ball and always had a smile on his face. His wife Brittney is an example for me of kindness and optimism. We served together in Primary and on the PTA. She reached out to us in so many ways and has served her

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-69573825959642383722011-01-30T10:06:00.012-07:002011-01-30T20:17:10.246-07:00

This past month Todd and I have been talking about me getting a part time job to help pay off all of our past medical surgery bills. I started revamping my resume and in the process realized it's been 5 years since I was in the professional work force as a social service worker. Most of my contacts are long gone as are work references. I decided more than anything I want to find a way to get paid

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-60020614100226077182011-01-23T09:42:00.000-07:002011-01-23T09:43:37.800-07:00

When you have laundry baskets...

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-48765792172968680852011-01-23T07:44:00.009-07:002011-01-23T18:50:05.203-07:00

To be honest, I'm not sure if anyone reads our family blog anymore and that's okay. I decided months ago I would use it as a family record. For us...A way to remember all that is coming and going on in our home. Something we can print and keep. These last few months we have been on the search for answers to some of my medical questions. The first suggestions I got just didn't feel right,

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-62855878320859240812011-01-11T10:26:00.000-07:002011-01-16T10:27:12.522-07:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-15037189709481146062011-01-01T09:08:00.002-07:002011-01-16T10:20:11.485-07:00

Thus New Year's Eve we decided to head downtown for their celebration. The kids had fun on the inflatable slides and in a room full of 2011 inflatable beach balls of all sizes. That is, until Emmy got plowed down by a teenager and giant ball. Two trips to first aide and an ice pack later we changed venues for the Tabernacle. We sat on the front row for Cherie Call and Sam Payne in concert. I love

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-37667506120821448572010-12-25T23:00:00.000-07:002011-01-16T10:08:26.130-07:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-7455246144441827332010-12-24T22:00:00.000-07:002011-01-16T09:57:20.314-07:00

My mom, sister and I got together at our home this year for Christmas Eve. We had a cousin's gift exchange, made gingerbread houses and watched funny videos on YouTube. I'm thinking we'll make it a tradition from here on out. Here are our two favorite videos of the evening.

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-8256347181244072562010-12-24T13:14:00.002-07:002010-12-24T13:18:37.602-07:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-33344009158082139472010-12-24T12:19:00.005-07:002010-12-24T12:54:51.182-07:00

These are a few of our favorite things.

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-40928883215335122212010-12-24T07:00:00.004-07:002011-01-16T09:46:46.906-07:00

The Gardner party was quite interesting this year, to say the least...it was a Redneck Christmascomplete with slim jims, cheap chips and gas station delicacies. We tried to get a red pom pom to stick on our nose with vaseline and jungle bells into a tissue box strapped to our back.Spencer made new friends with cousin Lauren and her boyfriend Matt. Emmy got her first set of Polly Pockets. Caleb

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-32347434142274738972010-12-07T12:26:00.001-07:002010-12-24T13:16:15.353-07:00

For the past two years I have been serving as our local PTA Reflections chair. This year the theme was "Together We Can." and our Elementary school had 50 entries. My job is to sort, photograph, and get all the works judged by City Council members. Then the fun part (not so much) comes from labeling, organizing and turning all of the artwork, photographs etc. into the next level. I let a huge

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-62440077865321552482010-12-04T20:00:00.001-07:002010-12-24T12:05:30.538-07:00

What a blessing it is to live so close to Temple Square where we can see the huge Christmas Tree in the Joseph Smith building, the thousands of lights and luminaries. This year our favorite part was seeing Spencer run around enjoying pure freedom. and getting piggy back rides from his older brother and sister. Downtown was packed with families and onlookers. Next year I think I'll bundle up even

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-37630665625423032632010-12-04T11:20:00.003-07:002010-12-24T11:45:42.693-07:00

If you know our little Emmy you know she is quite the ham. She loves being onstage and dancing to music. This year for the Winter recital she danced to "Suzy Snowflake."

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-2360449992491812132010-12-01T11:11:00.004-07:002010-12-24T11:34:12.450-07:00

Meg had her very first piano recital on December 1st. She's been playing a little over a year and it's so fun to see her enjoy practicing. Here she is onstage...I'm so proud of her for being brave and playing in front of all those people! (you'll want to turn the volume up to hear her.)

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-60511701161493440422010-11-25T12:14:00.002-07:002010-11-25T12:17:24.009-07:00

This hymnThe knowledge that I have a Father who loves meHot ChocolateMy sweet little familyOur fireplaceSalt City CandlesThe whisper of peace in my heart

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-44205934679734036582010-11-21T16:59:00.013-07:002010-11-21T22:22:50.630-07:00

Somewhere along the line here I lost my blog mojo. But, it's been a busy last couple of weeks so I thought I'd update.Spencer had dental surgery last Monday. It was quite an adventure and he has 8 new teeth. Poor little guy is kinda' off kilter now sensory wise and I am praying we get back to normal soon. Bless his speech therapist and early intervention worker who have saved us with their

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-70979372616873149372010-11-07T16:12:00.009-07:002010-11-07T17:56:21.037-07:00

Between the earthquake back in February and the mine rescue last month, my converts and families from Chile have been on my mind and in my heart a lot this year. This video is one I watched on October 13th as the ninth miner, Mario Gomez was pulled out after spending 70 days trapped underground. Once he is rescued he drops to his knees and bows his head in prayer and thanks to His Heavenly Father

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-12584892544997110062010-11-04T10:11:00.006-06:002010-11-04T10:58:20.399-06:00

Happy Birthday to our wild and crazy little girl! She loves swimming, dancing, playing with her friends, dress up, drama, and making silly faces. Emmy has a personality and she's not afraid to use it. This birthday she wished for a Littlest Pet Shop stuffed animal, Rescue Pet dog, play food, Polly Pockets, a little mermaid karaoke and play dough. Here's to one fun day ahead!

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-63080671089837666542010-10-14T20:59:00.001-06:002010-10-31T21:13:55.216-06:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-41488888644967423352010-10-07T17:39:00.002-06:002010-11-07T17:57:24.783-07:00

This song inspires me. Thanks to Amy H for sharing it. When I bought the CD and heard the Spanish version at the end it brought tears to my eyes and warmed my heart.Mi AnclaAnchor by Mindy Gledhill

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-87554658053321651682010-10-02T20:08:00.001-06:002010-10-31T20:36:21.014-06:00

Conference Weekend while Dad was at priesthood, the rest of us went to Ladies' Night at Deseret Book. I maintain a book review site and wanted to get a few books signed and meet new authors who were set up there. It was a blast! We met so many new people and came away with the cutest new book called "Libby Boom I Want To Be Baptized" for review. I love taking my children with me to bookish

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-40612951502765176442010-09-24T16:08:00.007-06:002010-10-31T16:33:14.306-06:00

Meg started playing Bantam League soccer this year which is a more competitive league and I have to say it's been impressive to see her step up to the plate. She's had practices twice a week and games every Saturday with other girls, most of whom are already 8 years old.. She is awesome at what she does, a fast runner and excellent goalie. She has a competitive spirit. It is so good to see her

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-48855179246930882332010-09-06T16:38:00.005-06:002010-10-31T20:21:36.168-06:00

Labor day 2010, I finished my first triathlon. After eight weeks of training I took the plunge... literally. Looking at these photos now, a couple of months later I get a little teary eyed. I still cannot believe both Todd and I accomplished our goal! I have always had a genuine fear of water and am not a good swimmer. So each time I had to go under the ropes to the other side and make a lane

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-75138768444679958952010-08-29T19:55:00.018-06:002010-08-29T20:50:58.853-06:00

About seven weeks ago, Todd got this idea that he wanted us both to train for a triathlon. Him, sure, I could see him doing that. But I was thinking he was a little cookoo for cocoa puffs at the hope of me doing one. Nevertheless we started on our journey. I bought some running shoes and a road bike, we both geared up and started getting up early 5 days a week to work out. We've been going ever

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-32830552793875651652010-08-29T19:20:00.008-06:002010-08-29T21:10:31.349-06:00

Ah, the first day of school. It always creeps up so fast. This year as I have been taking bike rides in the morning so I felt a little shift from summer to cooler temperatures. The weather changed, I noticed a chill in the air and mother nature prepared me for the coming of fall. I could sense it was coming. What I was not prepared for is how grown up my second grader seems all of the sudden, or

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-50143188310153633832010-08-22T13:46:00.012-06:002010-08-22T17:42:00.389-06:00

The view from my Dad's back patio.Spontaneous family photos after church on Sunday. I love the old farm trucks in Montana!The boys!Dad's BackyardFun scrap metal sculptures at the Sweet Pea FestivalI loved this blue wall spotted on the way to our carFace paintingMeeting Miss MontanaAARRRg Matey!

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-15571075607485049672010-08-16T10:39:00.012-06:002010-08-22T17:54:43.386-06:00

The last couple of years when we have been passing through West Yellowstone on the way to my Dad's there is this old car show. Really it just makes me squee. I get all giggly inside like a little girl. Look at all these beauties! We also decided to stop at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery and got some really cool shots...I'll post the rest of the photos as I finish them.

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-45859861177473294242010-08-16T09:06:00.011-06:002010-08-16T12:09:36.720-06:00

Yesterday during Sunday School we had a lesson about good friends. It really got me thinking. These last few years I would say I've become somewhat of a recluse. It's been time for me to stick to improving me and my own little family. I have been happy sitting back and watching instead of being so actively involved. We've been working on sweeping our own front porch. It's been five years of

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-66705349613398608152010-08-15T14:42:00.013-06:002010-08-15T15:42:51.036-06:00

Friday, after our play date, we hit the road and left for my annual mission Reunion with President Walker in Idaho Falls. It's been 12 years since we were all serving as full time missionaries in Chile, hard to believe! This year has been especially rewarding because I've been able to reconnect with many of our converts and families back in Santiago thanks to the internet. When the earthquakes

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-7009066304959439152010-08-15T13:57:00.013-06:002010-08-15T20:03:00.509-06:00

Wow, once again I am way behind on my blog. How does that always happen? It's been a crazy busy, but fun last couple of weeks. A week ago Friday we made our first family trip to the mall. Yep. Being a mother of four young children; I have never once ventured out on my own to clothes shop with them all in tow. We had a date to meet up Provo canyon for a hike but got to Utah County early. Emmy had

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-33130545443043180952010-07-26T10:37:00.012-06:002010-07-26T13:30:59.028-06:00

Met Iceburg shake man at Handcart Days Snow Cones, hot dogs, smoothies, slides... Desert Diamond horshoe rings for all the girls Fevers, sad faces and lots of this... Four sick kiddos with the flu. So glad it's a new week!

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-86154448334040003262010-07-18T17:03:00.004-06:002010-07-18T17:13:32.602-06:00

We took a trip to the Country Store this week to look for flowers and had a blast. It's one of my favorite parts of living away from City life. Garden gnomes, fountains, trees, live Chicks in Springtime, horse feed, Schelich plastic animals and tractors, country gear and hometown service. The main attraction was a 10 cent mechanical ride on that got plenty of use... Gidde up horsie!

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-10921451183744290922010-07-18T13:11:00.008-06:002010-07-18T19:38:37.847-06:00

I have been thinking a lot about change lately. Mostly because my life felt static. It seems the little steps in the right direction weren't being noticed as I was going through the motions of every day life. So this week I spent time focusing on what I could see shifting. Todd and I went out on a date last week and on the way home were discussing if there were one thing we could to run our

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-30888966964947802982010-07-11T14:34:00.002-06:002010-07-11T14:37:43.104-06:00

This book is a breath of fresh air to women all over the world. It teaches that when we create and show compassion we are becoming more like God. My favorite quote is on page 28-29 "Don't let the voice of critics paralyze you-whether that voice comes from the outside or the inside. If you still feel incapable of creating, start small. Try to see how many smiles you can create; write a letter of

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-5301158212113469232010-07-08T16:02:00.011-06:002010-07-08T21:00:22.975-06:00

Okay so where we live there are no REAL beaches...but this is as close as we can come! Being in Disneyland "California Adventure" made me realize how much I miss my home state. There is so much to do and love in Cali: orchards, gold country, San Francisco, the Oakland Temple, Monterey Bay, Fisherman's Wharf. My heart longs for the Bay Area and my friends there. Some people and places just

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-56779084456844513692010-07-08T15:26:00.011-06:002010-07-08T15:59:46.677-06:00

We spent the weekend at our local parade where they threw more candy than we could ever know what to do with. It was super fun seeing all of floats and the Leger's took the cake! Then mom spent the afternoon at the park taking pioneer era photos for the Arts Council booth. As a family we spent 12+ hours putting together a GIANT playset for our back yard. Within one hour we had two bloody

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-37036559372402890402010-06-25T08:40:00.001-06:002010-06-25T08:42:24.491-06:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-81598816617777377652010-06-25T08:39:00.002-06:002010-06-25T09:03:15.853-06:00

Happy sixth birthday! Meghan says "He is awesome" Emmalee says "He shares with me." Spencer loves his piggy back rides and hot wheels, Dad loves him very much! Here are some things mom remembers and loves about Caleb: He loves to snuggle, he is super smart and memorizes whole movies, he is awesome at legos, he's an amazing baseball player. He loves pokemon cards, Star Wars, Toy Story 3 and How to

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-81788711159926021502010-06-19T10:53:00.002-06:002010-06-25T09:34:16.203-06:00

800 photos later...

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-68199991438413507632010-05-30T20:36:00.004-06:002010-05-30T20:39:56.729-06:00

Singing on the way home from church What our two year old does when he is thirsty...

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-54056595866134750292010-05-23T13:19:00.006-06:002010-05-23T13:38:37.406-06:00

We started out with baseball, then hair cuts at Cookie Cutters...what a great place. Spencer was NOT a happy camper this time. It makes me wonder if he didn't want the clippers near his ears since the surgery this week. It took three of us helping to do a quick cut. Emmy got an updo complete with ringlets an glitter spray for her dance recital, Caleb a trim and Meg a french braid. I so wish I

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-32486477478777996462010-05-22T21:04:00.006-06:002010-05-22T21:27:41.497-06:00

Well, it's official, Spencer is two and he is definitely the fourth child. Everyone but my mom (and us) forgot to wish him a happy birthday. Slacker me didn't have a friend party for him. BUT, Lest you think he is deprived...He got his own little family party tonight with his Gardner grandparents. They brough over sorbet for all of us. My favorite part of his birthday were watching his eyes

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-35347814193437532542010-05-20T17:52:00.005-06:002010-05-20T18:04:31.093-06:00

Spencer is an absolute joy to our family. He is a miracle and balances us out completely. A snuggle bug, baseball player, and little man. He says hi to everyone, loves to dance and holds his own as the fourth child. We started off the day at Toys R Us where they gave him a balloon and birthday crown. If we had a million dollars he would have picked up every baseball and bat in the joint, a

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-33858604831390253712010-05-17T08:42:00.012-06:002010-05-18T05:43:18.701-06:00

Click here to view the video on a separate page http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Sv2yzIrpaYI wouldn't even know where to begin with all that has happened these past few weeks. I will say I feel richly blessed. My life has been touched by the hand of the Lord and wonderful people have come into it. I have closure and peace. Heavenly Father knows and loves us. He lives. All of our trials in life add

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-11188018646205053452010-05-05T13:14:00.008-06:002010-05-05T13:27:55.671-06:00

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-17740294936725329322010-04-18T13:11:00.005-06:002010-04-18T13:43:28.738-06:00

It has officially started...soccer season and this year Caleb is tyring his hand at baseball. Friday night we went as a family to the Bee's opening game. I have to admit there is something magical about being outdoors with the smell of hot dogs and cotton candy in the air. My boys are following in Dad's footsteps. They are BIG baseball fans. On our way out of the stadium, one of the workers was

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-77443134541800153362010-04-04T19:37:00.003-06:002010-04-04T20:34:07.065-06:00

Our festivities started on Saturday when we went to the neighborhood Easter egg hunt where over 750 eggs were hidden. MAN was it cold! You'll notice the traces of snow on the ground and little red noses. Where did Spring go? We listened to conference and then Sunday morning the Easter bunny came! The kiddos got piggy banks, Little Pet Shops, flip flops, bouncy balls, tiny plants to grow and

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-82903698299115515492010-04-03T16:49:00.005-06:002010-04-03T16:54:42.711-06:00

Loved his talk in the afternoon session. The feeling I came away with from this session was the need to cultivate values and strenthen our ability to teach our children right from wrong. Testify to them, teach them. Scriptures are more readily accessible than ever before but are in disuse and not opened. Society is teaching us there is no right and wrong. Stand up and shun sin. If the show is bad

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-3209566314565445112010-04-03T13:10:00.006-06:002010-04-03T16:55:26.497-06:00

I think there were two main themes I personally got out of the talks I heard this morning during LDS General Conference were the importance of Humanitarian aid and the role and influence of women. The first talk by President Monson mentioned the aid the church is sending to places in need and amongst those was Chile (YAY) http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=148&sid=10256499. Immediately following

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-49249768214785676012010-03-28T18:31:00.004-06:002010-03-28T18:58:13.314-06:00

Started out by weeding in the back yard, to find that my tulips are coming up, we have Irish moss, poppies and a sensory garden full of steppable plants coming back!  And hubby bought me a cute new garden gnome plus hanging plant for our outdoors Shepard's hook.  Saturday morning he let me go shopping by myself because I am in desperate need of new church clothes.  I went to REI and actually

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7499210166793966082.post-74107325454364268712010-03-25T12:25:00.008-06:002010-03-26T12:36:35.887-06:00

sometimes if it really was such a good idea to keep all of my old letters, photos, gifts and journals? Don't get me wrong...I am a keeper. And I have always been a writer, for as long as I can remember I have kept a record of my feelings and thoughts. I love history and memories but sometimes the closure I seek does not come immediately. When I returned from my mission it took me over five years

heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01158774233225970559noreply@blogger.com0