SKINNER SAGA

Ty's Birthday!! "14"!!

2010-05-07T10:39:00.019-06:00

Well, my boy is 14!! Seems like just the other day he was coming up to me with his binkie and blankie saying, "Mama hold you." Where does the time go...
It was a fun day...he has wanted this "BLITZ" RC car forever...that's ALL we've heard about for months! He wasn't quite sure if he was getting it or just getting money to put towards it so, as you can see, he was very happy! (The look on his face when he opened it is priceless!) LOVE getting them what they want!! :o) Fun times! HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUD! Love you tons!

Spring Break 2010

2010-04-12T10:47:00.014-06:00

The boys and I decided to take a San Diego trip this year during Spring Break...and we are sooooooooooooooo glad we did!! We had the best time! We spent time in Vegas...went to the Hard Rock Cafe for lunch and toured the M&M Store. We had the prettiest hotel in San Diego...rose garden and fountains right outside our door. (The opossum that showed up nightly kind of freaked me out though!) We had never been to Sea World before and seeing the whales up close was amazing! After that we went to Coronado Island which was a lot of fun. We had a yummy BBQ lunch, shopped around, walked the pier, etc. Driving across that bridge was a little scary for me, but it was fun. We did some shopping at the outdoor mall by our hotel. The boys really liked that actually, especially at night. The next day we spent at La Holla Beach and LOVED it!! The boys liked that better than Sea World for sure. We spent a couple hours walking over rocks finding crabs...hundreds of crabs!! Then we walked just a ways further to the sandy part of the beach and just played ALL day! The weather was so nice and...it just really was a perfect day for all of us. And much to my surprise, the boys got along the ENTIRE trip!! I KNOW!! Even driving!! And they were so patient with their Mom...finding our way around...I have to admit...I did pretty dang good...and no GPS!! :o)

What We've Been Up To

2010-04-02T14:40:00.006-06:00

The boys were cute to color eggs with me still! We had a fun...they're good to 'humor' their mom! :o)
With the crazy Utah Spring weather teasing us...we take advantage of the sunny days! The boys and their friends spend a lot of time riding their bikes down at 'the jumps' near our house. They even took our old couch down there!! LOL!

FHE With Friends

2010-03-22T19:38:00.003-06:00

Jared and Ian were with us for dinner and Family Home Evening tonight. They made it much more lively! :o) We talked about Stephen Covey's 90/10 Principle...10% of life is made up of what happens to you...and...90% of life is decided by how you react. We really have NO control over 10% of what happens to us. "It only takes willpower to give ourselves permission to make the experience." Everything we do, give, say, or even think, it's like a Boomerang...it will come back to us...

Day Off

2010-02-16T07:40:00.003-07:00

After setting up the neighborhood flags for President's Day, a few of the boys came over for breakfast...what a group! They keep me laughing!

Ty Gets Braces!

2010-02-10T08:08:00.002-07:00

The day finally came...I don't know if that's good or bad! ;o) He's still dang cute though!

Super Bowl 2010

2010-02-07T21:47:00.008-07:00

We had a Super Bowl Party at our house. Lots of good food, family and friends. Me, Tyler and Barton were the only ones rooting for the Saints. We had a great time dancing around and rubbing that one in!! Let's see...I get cookies from 3 nephews, from Kyle's friend JAKE and from Ty's friend KAYDEN...and...bragging rights up the wahzoo!! :o) It was fun - thanks guys!
(S&P)

Tons of good food and of course...the Chocolate Fountain!

A "Happy Present"

2010-01-17T15:54:00.005-07:00

I got us a little "happy present" the other day. We LOVE it! :o)

Sleepover at Aunt Kari's!!

2010-01-01T12:57:00.010-07:00

Some of the cousins came and had a sleepover during the Christmas break...what a blast! Chocolate fountain (of course!), playing in the snow, pizza, games and chatter! :o)
(S&P)

The kids totally cracked me up playing Catch Phrase! LOL!

Christmas Day 2009!

2009-12-27T07:01:00.005-07:00

I can't believe it's Chrismas already!! The boys were cute. They had a fun day. They got snowboard season passes and their gear this year so they pretty much knew what all their presents were. BUT...'Santa' was still able to surprise them with a few things! :o)
(S&P)

Christmas Eve 2009

2009-12-24T21:19:00.010-07:00

What a fun Christmas Eve!! The boys and I spent the day at Sundance and had the best time! And yes, it would not be complete without a "LUCY" moment! I'm just glad Kyle didn't have the camera! I don't know...something to do with...ME, some screaming, a snow bank, a small TREE...skis sticking straight up - stuck in snow up to the bindings...me sitting there, totally stuck, and laughing histaricaly!!
After a nice, long hot shower we all went to Tempanyaki for dinner. YUM! Then it was Christmas Eve jamas - our fav!! Fun times!
(S&P)

Christmas Sunday 2009

2009-12-21T08:55:00.002-07:00

Had to get a picture of my handsome boys on this Christmas Sunday...they're growing up on me! Kyle gave his first talk in Sacrament meeting and did an excellent job! Now they both have that out of the way! ;o) We just want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas!!

Christmas Party!

2009-12-16T09:04:00.011-07:00

We had a good time at the Christmas Party last weekend! Good food and lots of fun! A friendly game of Gestures would not be the same without you, Barton! LOL! There was even a little wrestling durning 'intermission!' ;o) Everyone always loves the White Elephant game. The big hit this year was the Sparkling Apple Cider! We missed all of you who couldn't make it. We hope everyone has a very Merry Chirstmas!!

Girls Night Out!

2009-12-05T11:53:00.004-07:00

New Moon and Red Mango made for a fun night out with the girls! It was a draw which was more delectible...the melted Red Mango that Marcie snuck in for us or Jacob's abs!!

Thanksgiving 2009!

2009-11-30T07:26:00.007-07:00

What a fun time we had! Good food! Family! And FUN!
My FAVORITE! Every morning the turkeys would come in the yard. Grandma would toss them some apples and 'talk' to them. They were content as could be!
Ice sculpture and magic show! This guy is the best Utah has to offer????
Tyler, Emmy and Hailey on the camel!
Kyle and Derek on the camel!

We finished our day/night on the town with ice-skating!

Then came home and made carmel apples! YUM!!

FALL 2009

2009-11-11T08:30:00.011-07:00

Fall is my favorite time of year! I just wish it would last a bit longer!

Gunner just hanging out!

So intense! LOL! The boys carved on their own this year and did awesome! I was in charge of the seeds! (Yucky!)

Summer Fun 2009

2009-08-14T14:23:00.018-06:00

We've had a fun summer! Starting at the bottom...Weston was able to come home from Texas for a week and play with us! It was nice to have him home.
We all enjoy Salem Days every year. The boys made another cool Skindog Regatta Boat and did great in the race. They were very "chiverous" (?) and let the girls win. ;o) We all ran in the race again this year. The guys all ran the mile and I ran the 5K...I have to admit...we did awesome! I was so proud of them! (7:33min/mile!) :o)
We went on a little hike last week to "the big tree" up Loafer Canyon. We turned around and there was Kyle and Dallin sitting up in a tree!! Then...yes, that's the boys licking a cow salt lick thing!!! No comment needed! ;o)
We've had a good time together this summer, despite some hardships.

Kyle is a Deacon! 6-21-2009

2009-06-28T15:47:00.007-06:00

Kyle was ordained a Deacon on Father's Day Sunday. (Thank you to everyone that gave up a little of thier "relaxing" Father's Day to come and support Kyle.) I can't believe he is that old!! It seems like just yesterday "I" was 12 and checking out the hot Deacons as they passed the Sacrament!! I don't EVEN want to think about girls checking out my boys!! Kyle, you are such a fun kid. You keep us laughing. You are a good boy - a good example for your friends and for the younger kids that look up to you. I'm so thankful you are in our family!

He looks so old!!

The Priesthood Holders!

Cousins!

Barton opening his chocolate! :o)

Happy Father's Day!

Lake Powell June 2009

2009-06-15T15:35:00.015-06:00

What a way to start out the summer!! I could get used to this!! We swam, we fished, we hiked, we boated, we wake-boarded, we knee-boarded, we ate, we played games, we slept under the stars, we had the best time!!
The "Party Barge!"
Our hike to what we dubbed "Chimney Rock!"
Rainbow Bridge
Ty's 1st catch!

Kyle's 1st catch!

Mom even caught one!

Kyle

Ty

Boys going over CPR for one of their Merit Badges

Ty

Kyle

Kyle's 12th Birthday! 6-09

2009-06-12T11:30:00.008-06:00

Well, my "baby" turned 12!! He's getting so grown up. Kyle keeps us laughing. He does set the mood for the home though! He is usually a pretty happy kid who likes to joke and have a good time. He works hard too once he puts his mind to it. He is a good boy with lots of friends, both guys and girls. He cares about others and tries to do what's good and right. He is a fun kid to have around. Happy Birthday buddy! We love you!!

Opening Skull Candy earphones from Ty

Opening what he thought was his suit and was kind of bummed...but it was actually a new chest protector that he's been wanting! :o)

He wanted steaks on the barbi for dinner that night! The Jackson's brought him over his favorite homemade treats which is Indoor Smores (YUM!) and Kellie and the boys brought him over his other favs...Green Apple Jones Sodas and Milk Duds! Thanks guys for making it a fun birthday for him!

Kari 40? Nah...

2009-05-30T09:27:00.006-06:00

Well, I guess I've officially crossed over! Not quite sure how I feel about this yet! My heart is stil 19!! Thanks to my guys and my friends for helping to ease the pain! ;o)

I laughed so hard when I came home and saw this! Thanks guys!!

Okay, so thanks to Randy and my friend Gina at the gas station...those who know me know I'm 40 and the rest of the town thinks I'm pregnant!! ;o)

Friends know your strengths...AND your weaknesses!! I can say no to lots of things, but never could turn down a chocolate glazed Krispie Kreme! ;o)

The Melting Pot - my new FAV!!

The boys got me a fun purse (that wasn't a 'MOM' one!) ;o)

End of School Year 2009

2009-05-27T15:35:00.009-06:00

Well, this is it...no more Elementary School for us! (Not quite sure how I feel about this yet!) It's a new chapter in our lives. We're so proud of the boys...for their achievements in school and Scouts and also in the fine young men they are becoming. They are good boys. They always make it a fun ride! At least an interesting one! ;o) Yes, I bawled at Kyle's graduation, just like I did at Ty's...everyone always tells me, "Oh, your first and your last are always the hardest." Well, that's all I have!! So I'm probably always boobin' about something! ;o) I do miss my "babies", but am having fun with this new stage too. Love you boys!

Court of Honor...Ty is now a STAR Scout with 17 Merit Badges and Kyle is a 1st Class Scout with 7 Merit Badges. Way to go boys! (and Mom!) ;o)

Kyle did it! He graduated from Elementary School! ;o)

Kyle and the boys...fun group of kids!

Kyle and ah, yes...the GIRLS!

Kyle and Jake (cute boys!)

Ty was surprised with an award of achievement in Spanish! Muy Bein!

This is an apron Ty made at school...I wanted to get a picture of him with it so he finally said "Fine!" and POSED! :o)

2009-05-15T14:44:00.007-06:00

Kyle competed in his last Hershey Track Meet for Mt. Loafer Elementary. He participated in three events...the 100, the long jump and the softball throw. He did great!! He came in 3rd in the first 100 heat so he got to run in the semi-finals! (Well, if you ask him...he "had" to! Wish they loved running as much as I do!) ;o) He was leading for half the race in the semis and ended up taking 4th -
I was so proud!!

First heat in the 100! Go BUDDY!!

On your mark...

Get set...

JUMP!!

Kyle and buddy Jake

Happy "13" Tyler!

2009-05-13T08:01:00.010-06:00

Well, it's official...there is a TEENAGER in the house! :o) Can't believe Ty is 13! Seems like just the other day he was coming up to me with his blanket and his binkey saying, "Mama hold you." Ty is such a great kid. He is funny, smart, thoughtful, hard-working, pleasant, a great motorcycle rider, and just look at those good looks! You really are a great kid, Ty. I honestly enjoy being with you and watching you grow. Let's hope you continue to "like" us over the next few years! ;o) Happy Birthday buddy! We love you!

Since it was a monumental birthday, we had to do a little something special! We let the whole town know! :o)

Go BYU!

Ty wanted a steak dinner at Fridays! YUM!

Ty LOVES Cold Stone! He got to customize his own cake, complete with oreos and gummie bears! Mmmm Mmmm good! :o)

2009-05-06T07:47:00.011-06:00

So one of my goals this year was to learn how to make bread. I wasn't sure exactly how I was going to go about this. Mom and Barton make excellent bread so I thought about maybe having a bread making party one day there. Then I went to a little mini class with some gals from our ward and now look at me go!! So much for my "no carb" diet! :o)

Here it is before baking.

So this is my very first loaf! Not real pretty, but I'll work on that! ;o)

Of course one of the first things I just HAD to make was PIZZA! It was delicious!! I made another one with ham and little tomatoes on it that was even better! ;o)

Kay, so this is a first...I made something everyone liked!! (The pizza) They ate the whole thing! They rated it from 1-10...it got 10s!! A history making moment for sure! (Randy just forgot to hold up his other hand!) ;o)

This is filled with a fruity cream cheese spread-YUM!

And Ahhh, yes...cinnamon rolls!!

Supercross 2009!

2009-04-27T07:16:00.011-06:00

For his birthday, Ty wanted to go to the Supercross in Vegas. (He settled for the one in SLC.) We all had a great time despite the rain and cold. We walked the "pit" where they got cool face tatoos, saw all the riders bikes and busses, bought a T-shirt, and of course took pictures with the 30 second girls and the Monster Energy Drink Girls! (Ahh, ummmm...)
It was a lot of fun and an exciting race...Bubba and Reed passing eachother three times before Bubba held on to win!

Bubba's Bus!

Bubba! He da man!!

Cool face tatoos!

Waiting for the race to start...soooooo glad it finally stopped raining!!

Ah, the 30 second girls! (Love Ty's face in this one!) ;o)

"Monster Girls" YES!!

Fun with the Cousins! 4-09

2009-04-18T16:44:00.008-06:00

We got to spend some time with Shane and Dusty's families this weekend. A little swimming, some delicious meatloaf, games and even some unique DRESS UP from the kids! Thanks guys! We had a fun time!!

Kyle swingin' on the rope at the pool.

Ty swingin' on the rope.

Guess now I know what our "daughter" would look like! ;o)

Derek? :o)

Hailey, Frisco and Kyle hammin' it up!

Easter Fun! 2009

2009-04-15T18:35:00.005-06:00

The boys were kind of bummed Easter landed on a Fast Sunday this year and that they had to wait until after church to to the whole Easter thing. So the "Easter Bunny" made them really hunt for their eggs and baskets! They were left clues in eggs and had to go all over, inside and out to find everything. Was kind of fun. Heck, what do you do when you only have two kids and they're almost teenagers?! They're cute though...they "humor" their mom! :o)

Gimme Drugs!!

2009-04-11T20:15:00.003-06:00

Kay, so I know this is disgusting, but had to show it! I'm usually pretty good at these things, but this made me kind of queezy this morning! This is my foot after the second doctor dug out the nasty planter wart. (I'm too young for this stuff!!) Believe it or not, it actually feels better than it has for months! No kidding!

A Little "Foolin'" Around!

2009-04-07T07:03:00.002-06:00

What a fun day we had on April Fool's this year!! (Thanks to some good sports!) Kyle set the alarm for a little earlier than usual...Ty didn't much care for that one! He also took syrup and honey to school and put it on the kids' pencils! I made some "yummy" chocolate-covered cottonballs!! Kyle took some of those for his friends too and I took some to work. That was pretty good! Like I said, I'm glad they were good sports! Tyler and Kyle both put salt in eachother's water bottles and Kyle put food coloring in our milk!! I made some delicious "fish sticks" (out of waffer cookies, peanut butter and corn flakes) but the boys caught on to them...Kyle touched one and said, "I knew I smelled peanut butter!!

The very best though was getting Barton!! He usually gets ME!! I don't even answer the phone on April Fool's Day anymore! No one can ever really get him. This year though, I had my friend call pretending she was calling from the bank...long story short...we got him!! Again, glad he was a good sport about it all...well, after a while anyway! ;o) I haven't laughed that hard in a long time! Thanks Barton!! You know we love you!!

It was a fun day full of laughs and YES, I am very nervous about next year!! I know about paybacks! ;o)

...Blast Off!! (Rockets! 3-09)

2009-03-30T13:19:00.006-06:00

The boys finished up a 3 week Scout Merit Badge Pow Wow along with the Hunter's Safety class at the same time! It was a busy few weeks but they hung in there and passed everything off! We're so proud of you boys!! This was the last thing they had to do...shoot off the rockets they made. I couldn't believe how HIGH they went! It was so cool and the boys had a "blast!" ;o) (Thanks Marte for helping the boys out with this!)

Ty's Launch!

Kyle's Launch (Nice shot Dad!)

I love this picture!

Backyard Races!

2009-03-24T07:25:00.007-06:00

What a fun afternoon! A few of the neighborhood kids came over Saturday for some fun on the track! Randy and Don were in the mist hollering cheers and "advise!" Hope the neighbors didn't mind the dust!!

And they're off!

Don is hollering, "Get off the break!" :o)

Ty on jump

Kyle on jump

Kyle's battle scars!

Ty's battle scars!

SUN!! Finally!!

2009-03-16T07:24:00.009-06:00

It was such a beautiful, sunny day! We couldn't stand to be in the house any longer! The boys and I (and the dog) spent the afternoon at the park and had fun just being out in the sunshine. They are such hams!! :o)

By the look on their faces, you can just tell they're up to something!

Ty's 1st Deacon Basketball Game!

2009-03-11T07:34:00.007-06:00

Saturday Ty played in his first Deacon's Basketball game! And what a game it was!! I can't remember how many times the score was tied up throughout the entire game! We were on the edge of our seats the whole time! Ty played awesome and had fun. I'm so proud of him! Oh yeah, and they won!! :o) (He is #11)

Happy Birthday RANDY!!

2009-03-10T07:36:00.004-06:00

Randy turned 48 on March 1st! It was a fun day, despite the fact that it was Fast Sunday!!

Signs, Signs, Everywhere A Sign!

2009-02-26T07:22:00.008-07:00

Ty got to spend the day with Randy at the sign shop for Jr. High Job Shadow Day. Of course they had a blast!

"Master" Sign Maker!

Hard at work!

Here's what they did at "break time!" Too fun!!

Also had to ride a few wheelies on his new toy! :o)

Draper, Utah Temple Open House

2009-02-23T07:21:00.004-07:00

Saturday we headed up to Draper for the Temple open house. It is a beautiful temple tucked away in the mountains. It was neat to be there with the boys. They let us use a wheelchair since I still have my cast on which I was very thankful for...and so was my family as that allowed us to cut in every line! ;o)

What The Boys Are Up To 2-09

2009-02-20T07:46:00.011-07:00

Winter Badmitton...of course! Why didn't I think of that! Ty always has a good time.

Kyle really got into "Crazy Dress Up Day" at school! He is so fun!

Weston is living in Texas with Randy's brother, Kal. Kal works for Willie Nelson. Wes has been having fun playing music and shooting pool with Willie!

Valentine's Day 2009

2009-02-15T20:03:00.006-07:00

What a fun day! I made pink heart-shaped pancakes for breakfast. There is not a picture of those because, well, let's just say those didn't go over too well. Then I gave Randy and the boys some gourmet cupcakes and cake bites (and some for me too of course.) Too yummy! The boys each gave me a box of chocolates and Ty had a card attached to his with a little poem he wrote for me. (Sweet) Randy gave me a beautiful wrapped rose the day before. We went to movie then came back and made crab legs for dinner! I had never made these before and was praying they'd taste ok!
Let me tell you...they were soooo good!! That might just have to be a new tradition! Kyle of course had steak, but did taste the crab! ;o)

They love me! ;o)

Was sooooooooooooo glad the crab turned out ok!

Yummy gourmet cupcakes! Delish!

Boys in Wyoming

2009-02-06T07:57:00.008-07:00

Tyler and Kyle LOVE to go to Star Valley, WY and visit their Uncle Ronell...oh, and do a little of this too!

Kyle...being Kyle! ;o)

2009-02-03T07:11:00.009-07:00

Kay, so after years of my ankle giving out on me...and months of limping because of the pain of what we thought was a callous on the bottom of my foot, I finally had surgery. The doctor reconstructed the ligaments in my ankle that I injured in an accident clear back when I was 11!! And he cut the yucky, painful planter's wart thing out of the bottom of my foot. (That will be soooooooo good to have out!!) So, now I'm in a cast for another 5 weeks, which is NOT so fun. I've never had a panic attack before and ashamed to admit that I've made fun of people who have. But I am a bit chlostrophobic (sp?), even more so as I grow older. I don't know...one of the first nights home with the cast on...Randy had me all set up with the ice and all and all of the sudden I just got all hot and sweaty, my heart began to race and it was like hard to breathe. I tore the ice off and tried to sit up. Randy didn't know what was going on, but stood there and just told me to take deep breaths. (That's more than he did when I was in labor!) ;o) It was the strangest thing...I just wanted to rip that cast off! Even still...sometimes I have to concentrate really hard on something else to get my mind off the cast if I'm just laying there in bed or something. Crazy.
Anyway, thanks so much to our friends who have come by to visit. And Kell and Jen, thank you so much for the yummy dinners you brought for us! Those were unexpected and greatly appreciated, especially that first night. Steve and Janean the rose and cake were so sweet of you. Love all you guys!
Mom, what can I say...I know I could've done this as easily without you. Thanks to you and Barton for so much. I love you guys! It was fun having you here! And Randy, thank you for trying your best to help with everything and having to be "Mr.Mom" for a while.

I'm not much of a pink gal, but thought my boys would like this! Have to admit though, I do like the toes! :o)

This was the sweetest thing! Our good friends The Jackson's brought over this beautiful rose and darling cake the night of my surgery. So sweet...it made me cry! Thanks guys! You are great friends!

25 RandomThings About Me

2009-02-01T19:22:00.002-07:00

Okay, so since I had to do this on Facebook and since I haven't posted anything on my blog since New Year's, I thought I'd post it here to. Have fun!

25 Random Things About Me

1. I turn 40 in May
2. I still have 80's hair, no matter what cut I get!
3. I love country dancing, even though I have no rhythm
4. I had a secret crush on Wesley Sever forever
5. "My girls" are real! ;o)
6. I went skydiving on my second date with Randy
7. I had a crush on Nate Rob all through high school
8. I accidentally knocked out my boyfriend (Phillip McCauley) in a friendly ward flag football game
9. I buy hairspray by the gallon
10. Lisa Saiz and I used to cross the quad singing "Ok, Fine" at Ahwahnee Middle School, laughing our heads off!
11. My first kiss was Timmy Thomas!
12. My first "French" kiss was Phillip McCauley - I told my sister it was like having a slug in my mouth
13. I drove a little OLD Datsun in high school - had to flirt w/the guy at the shop to pass emissions!
14. Robert and his friend stole gas and beer then drove up to Squaw Peak with me in the car!!
15. I'm a hopeless romantic
16. I love to hear children laugh...anybody laugh
17. Running a marathon is on my "Bucket List."
18. My down fall is Krispie Creame Chocolate Iced donuts
19. I'm a good cook as long as I'm not cooking for my family!
20. Anyone who knows me knows if I read a book or watch a movie...he better be rich, he better be good looking, and it better have a happy ending!
21. Coming back from Wyoming on a date w/Randy-we were driving in the motorhome...I was throwing up in the sink and having bad diarhea in the toilet all at once and hollering at him to PLEASE stop!!
22. During a small fight, I flipped Lisa off...she shoock her head, took my hand and told me, "If you're going to do it, then at least do it right." And she taught me how to do it!
23. I like to watch old movies
24. I love it when my mom or my sister call with their latest "Lucy" happening!! It's in our blood!
25. I want to be better at 40 than ever before! No, not ready to reveal myself in a bikini on Oprah!

Bringing in 2009!

2009-01-02T19:29:00.004-07:00

This New Year's Eve was a little different...a little more low key. We spent the evening at the Jackson's playing games and eating ourselves sick! :o) We did have delicious food including cheese fondue and a chocolate fondue to die for with you name it to dip in it! It was a fun night. Last NYE Kyle said he'd go all year without drinking pop for $100...I knew he "could" do it...I honestly didn't think he "would" do it! He did though and I am so proud of him for following through and for his integrity. There were a few times when his friends would say, "Your mom won't know", etc. Kyle told them, "No, she probably wouldn't, but I would." I am a very proud mama! :o)

Congrates Kyle! Way to go!!

Kyle couldn't wait to chug his first pop in a year!!

NYE dinner and games with the Jackson's!

2008-12-29T20:19:00.004-07:00

This is our Salem Pond at Christmas time! It's called Pond Town Christmas...I think it's so beautiful and romantic all lite up! :o)

2008-12-27T15:41:00.020-07:00

What a fun Christmas!! The boys had the idea to stay up until midnight thinking that would help them sleep until 6:00...the time we told them they could get up. Well, I don't think any of us slept much at all! I never do!! I think I get more excited than the kids do! Christmas Eve we took the boys to Tempanyaki for dinner and had a blast! Our chef was REALLY good with the kids and yes, we ALL tried SUSHI!! The guy swore to me it was all cooked! He kept saying, "Not all sushi raw, some cooked, you try, you like!" I kept saying no until he finally brought us some out on a plate and said, "You try...all cooked...you like!" Ty had to be bribed with $5 before he'd try it and Kyle had to be bribed with the $5 plus promised free ice-cream for the whole family from the waitress if he'd try it. He was a sport, bless his heart. On our way home we drove around Salem Pond and looked at all the beautiful lights, then drove to a house in Payson where all the lights were sycronized to music. It was so cool! After that we came home and opened our traditional Christmas Eve present...new jammas! Kyle wanted me to read a version of the Nativity story before going to bed that night. Thanks Kyle...that made it more special, especially since you asked instead of ME saying we're doing it! ;o)
Christmas morning was so exciting! (I think more so for Randy and I waiting for the boys to open their presents than anything else!) We are so thankful for family and friends and all of our many blessings. We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!!

I always say my house looks like a little gingerbread house...I think it REALLY does at Christmas time! I love it when it's all lite up and decorated for Christmas!

Ripsticks from Mom & Dad

Thinking...trying to figure out if it's really what they think it is!

Realizing it IS what they think it is!!

So excited!!

JAMMIN'!

Later that night we went over to our good friends, the Jackson's to play some Wii!Here we're getting some tips from Steve.

Us together at the Jackson's. What a fun Christmas day! :o)
The day AFTER Christmas we woke up to about a foot of snow! Too fun!!!

Love this picture of Ty!

Goofballs in the snow! We tried making a snowman, but the snow wouldn't pack. :o(

Ty and Kyle having fun in all the snow!

I love this picture! So thankful to have the Christmas vacation off with the boys!

Gingerbread Houses!

2008-12-21T22:32:00.003-07:00

We had a fun time making gingerbread houses at the Ward's house! We got started a little late due to the BLIZZARD that night, but had a blast! The houses, well, they ended up being more like the home makeover show...one was the "before" and got totally demolished and one was the "after" that ended up looking great! :o) It was a fun night! Thanks guys! :o)

THE GANG!

"Inspectors" - Randy and Bruce :o)

Christmas Party at my house!

2008-12-18T07:58:00.012-07:00

I LOVE having everyone over! Wish my house was a little bigger for everyone, but we got cozy and had a fun time. Th choclate fountain was a hit!! I won't have another party without one!! :o) Was glad everyone weathered the storm and came...Love you all!

The kids had fun with the White Elephant game...and no one got mad or sad! :o)

Everyone crammed in our little house and had fun playing games, eating good food and just being with each other.

Donnie got the "prize" from Grandma! LOL! He was a good sport!

Randy and Barton entertained us after with their harmonicas! LOVED IT!!

The boys wanted Grandma to open her present from them. She had seen a sign with this saying on it at a craft fair so Randy made one for her. Sweet. It reads: Grandma's House...where cousins go to become friends.
We love you Grandma!

Skinner Christmas Party!

2008-12-06T18:24:00.010-07:00

We had a great time at the Skinner Christmas Party today! I'ts always so good to get with everyone. So glad Weston made it! (I can't wait to get the pictures from the family volleyball game!!!) It was a fun day - we love you guys!

Patiently waiting to open presents!

Guitar Hero and goodies!!

Randy and his nephew KC

The brothers!

My guys

2008-12-02T09:32:00.003-07:00

What a fun Thanksgiving!! We had wild turkeys and deer right outside our yard each day! We played games, ate wonderful food, watched movies, ate some more great food, went for walks and ate more yummy food! Friday we went to town for Vernal "Holly Days!" It was so fun! We saw a hynotist show, which was hillarious, had lunch and shopped a little. We had a great time...missed the rest of my family though. The boys had fun with Grandma and Grandpa, but still wish their cousins would've been there. It's all about family guys. Life is too short...we don't know how many Thanksgivings we'll have with everyone. I know...the guilt trip only works on ME! Just know I love you all...and Mom, we had a wonderful Thanksgiving with you guys. Thanks for everything!

2008-11-18T20:28:00.001-07:00

So Thankful!

2008-11-18T09:26:00.008-07:00

Did you not sleep well last night? Was your bed a little too lumpy? Was it a little too warm or a little too chilly? With all that's going on in the world, I am just so thankful for so much. We are so blessed.

20 Things I'm Thankful For:

1. My family

2. Our good health

3. That we're able to live where we do

4. That we're able to have all the modern-day convienences that we do

5. The Gospel, the Scriptures and the Priesthood

6. The opportunity to go to the Temple and to meet together as Saints

7. My job (even though I complain about it...right now, I'm thankful for it!)

8. That, for the most part, my kids are HAPPY!

9. Good friends and neighbors

10. Vehicles that run well

11. Hairspray!

12. The beauty of the earth...mountains, pine trees, animals, starry nights, beaches, etc.

13. A nice, cool breeze on a warm morning run

14. Music and Dancing

15. For all the men & women who serve our country so we can be free and have all we do

16. For our extended families and the times we're able to get together

17. Children's laughter, my husband's laughter...laughter period!

18. Good Food!

19. Washing machines and dryers! (Clean sheets!)

20. My Testimony of the Gospel

FALL FUN! Boondocks and Some Serious Building!

2008-11-11T07:21:00.022-07:00

We have had a fun Fall! First we took our annual "Fall Break" day at Boondocks-our fav! We took our good friend Will with us this time and he now understands our addiction to this place! Boondocks really brings out the "kid" in all of us! Due to pure geniusness (and tube socks stuffed in his shoes), Ty was tall enough to drive the go-carts this time! There would've been no questions asked if he wouldn't have let Kyle press on the gas! After nearly taking out a very paniced, whistle-blowing worker, they interogated Ty but we were able to talk our way out of it and they allowed him to continue with his "license to drive" as long as there were no more close calls! (Whew!)

The go-carts are our love, but we also played arcades, laser tag, and miniature golf. We always have the best time and are always surprised when it's time to leave!

Randy and the boys spent a couple months building them a clubhouse in the back 40! It's awesome! (Or "sick" as the boys would say) They weren't too thrilled with the work at first (and by the way, thanks hon! You're a sweetheart to do this for them!) But once they got into it and started seeing a finished project, they were pretty excited! They each took a wall and put up what they wanted. I have to say, I was pretty impressed with the whole thing. It is complete with a floor, two windows, a perfect red door and even has a picnic table inside!

This is the new hang out! The neighbor kids come over and they all go in the clulbhouse to "practice their math." Yeah, I was confused by this too so I asked the boys one night at dinner what that meant. They said, "Yeah Mom, we practice our math! We practice our math Vegas style huh Dad!" Kyle says with a wink. I gave Randy that look and said, "What did you do?" Yeah, well, the kids are playing 21!!!! (Thanks, dear!) I nonchalantly asked who all plays this? They said the name of one boy and I thought, "Okay, that mom will be okay." Then they named another and I thought about the same. Then they named another little boy and I about choked as I thought, "Oh no! Not that Mom!" I haven't gotten a phone call yet thankfully, and I've since talked with the boys about a few things! It's been a fun thing for them to have though. The other day I looked out and there was a long, orange extension cord running from our house, across the lawn and clear to the back 40 to the clubhouse. They were using it for their stereo! They're cute.

This last picture I just had to throw in because it's so Randy! He and the boys went to his brother's in Wyoming for an ol' fashioned barn raising! It was kind of fun for Randy to work with all his brothers again and have his folks over-seeing things!

Halloween Night 2008!

2008-11-07T16:59:00.019-07:00

Halloween this year was on a Friday and how fun! It was a beautiful Fall day...the weather was a wonderful 60 something! We had dinner of homemade cauliflower soup and "yummie mummies."
Then the kids all headed out for some
grueling trick-or-treating!

Kyle and his friends

Ty, Walker & Lexi

"Cap'n Gunner!"

"Miss Randy!"

"Yummie Mummies!"

While the kids were trick-or-treating, Randy and I scared kids at the door while passing out candy, visited with friends and played cards with my folks. Yes, this IS a full PINOCHLE!! :o)

Canning CHICKEN?!

2008-10-30T07:13:00.004-06:00

Okay, so I don't have pictures of my own to go with this one...mainly because I was too bloody tired! My intentions were good, but after reading this you'll understand!

So this year I've been working on getting our food storage set up and organized. I've gotten great tips from others in our ward and neighborhood and have learned a lot. (Yes, some from just pure "trial and error" but have learned.)

Anyway, my next venture is this Saturday when I am going to attempt to bottle chicken. Yes, CHICKEN! So after a hot tip that chicken was on sale I went out Monday night and bought a 40 lb. box! I wasn't aware, however that I would need to cut ALL the chicken up before I could freeze it!! Thanks to my good neighbor who was willing to let me put it in her extra fridge, I was able to store it until I got time to cut it all. Well, last night was the cutting fest!! Yeah, let me tell you...if you think chopping everything up for salsa is bad...that is a walk in the park compared to this!!

At first Randy couldn't help but he walked by saying, "You need a sharp knife, it makes all the difference in the world." Knowing (or so I thought) that the knife I was using was the sharpest I had, I just smiled and said, "Yeah, I know." That was 7:00pm. At 10:30pm (yes! still standing there cutting chicken!!!) Randy comes in and wants to help so we can get in bed. I was not the most pleasant person by this time. I had been silently cursing him over the previous couple hours for not making helping me more important than ANYTHING else, my right wrist was just BURNING from cutting with that dull knife, and my legs just wanted me to sit!! I was just tired and cranky. He was patient and went out to the garage to find a cutting board, I guess, from his fishing stuff. Okay, so he comes in with not only a cutting board but two BEAUTIFUL, SHARP KNIVES!!! I did breathe...and did count to I don't know what, before I took the knife and said, "Now THIS would've been nice to have about 2 HOURS AGO!!!"

Needless to say, it went much quicker after that and I was able to get into bed before 11:30. 4:15am still came much too soon this morning though. Not to mention that I about cut the tip of my finger off with the sharp knife! :o) (No! I did NOT tell Randy that!) Thanks hon though for your help. I really was grateful!

Pumkin Carving FHE!

2008-10-27T21:15:00.013-06:00

Our Fun Halloween Family Night!

Mom & Kyle get it just right!

Dad LOVES this!

Ty carved his own PIRATE one!

"Arrh!"

COOL!!

And Mom was in charge of treats!

Everyones fav!

"Come in my pretties!!"

We had a fun night! It's always one of our favorite times. Ty got way into the carving this year and did his pretty much all his own. Kyle got into all the "gushiness" of scraping them out this year! Randy and I both said now that the boys can pretty much carve these on their own, we're each going to do one next year! I love carving them...as long as Randy will clean mine out for me first! (Love you, hon!)

I've Been TAGGED!

2008-10-22T20:37:00.005-06:00

Okay, thanks to Marcie being bored, I've been tagged! Here goes...

8 Things...

8 TV shows I like to watch...
1. Oprah
2. Desperate Housewives (w/Randy!)
3. American Idol
4. Brothers & Sisters
5. Army Wives
6. CMT
7. Discovery Channel
8. Hallmark Movie Channel

8 Things that happened yesterday...
1. Woke up FREEZING because Randy sleeps with the window open!
2. Worked (that's all I have to say about that)
3. Helped boys with homework
4. Checked out Ashton's cool, new bike
5. Had my first taste of RED MANGO!! (Thanks Marce!) I'm hooked!
6. Watched a little Oprah (Gotta love TIVO!)
7. Watched Kyle's flag football game and hung out with my friends!
8. Made hot chocolate and omlettes for dinner after the game (9:00!)

8 Favorite places to eat...
1. Red Lobster
2. Fridays!
3. Los Hermanos
4. PF Changs
5. Bajio
6. Papa Kelsies
7. Magleby's (love the breadsticks!)
8. Breakfast Buffets! (Miss Shoneys)

8 Things I'm looking forward to...
1. The next day off work!
2. The holiday season! Everything about it...snow, lights, goodies, Christmas, family, friends...
3. Ward basketball with the girls!
4. Evenings and Saturdays with my family
5. Our next family vacation (Preferably in Lake Powell!) :o)
6. My next run
7. Serving a mission with my husband
8. Our 15 year annivery! :o)

8 Things on my Wish List...
1. For my boys to be little again
2. But if they have to, then for them to be good, hard working, smart respectful men and all go
on missions (Amen, Kellie!)
3. Not to have to turn 40 next year!
4. For all of us to stay healthy and safe
5. Be a stay at home mom and able to do volunteer work (and play with my friends!)
6. I could always know the right things to say and do
7. For my dream home!
8. Lots of grandkids!!

8 People I Tag...
1. LeAnne
2. Mom
3. Janean
4. Krista
5. Lezlie
6. Lani
7. Randy!
8. Heidi

Flag-pullin' maniac!

2008-10-20T20:32:00.003-06:00

Kyle's last year of flag football. He loves it! He sticks to the guys until he gets the flag no matter if their pants come with it! (More "action" pictures to come!)

Summer Fun!

2008-10-10T07:53:00.006-06:00

"Air" Ty!

"Air" Kyle!

The boys make this look so easy!! Trust me...it's NOT!

We all sure have a fun time with it though! I'll have to get

some pictures of Randy and some of our friends doing it

too!

First Blog!

2008-10-03T10:42:00.000-06:00

Okay, I've conformed! I'm now officially a "blogger!"
I guess we'll start this first one by telling a little about ourselves.

Randy and I have been married for 13 years now. Wow! How time flies!
I work at the Nebo School District office as the SubFinder Secretary. I am basically over all the substitutes for the District. It gets kind of crazy sometimes, but I love the job and love being able to be home when the kids get home. I also love having all the days off that the kids have off including summers! That makes it all worth it! I do miss not being able to be there with them in the morning, but Randy does a good job getting them up and ready for the day. He EVEN made them French toast one morning this week!!! That was HUGE!!
I enjoy most anything, especially when it involves my family. My most favorite thing is the sound of my boys laughing...I mean the big, full-blown belly laughs. I love the outdoors...camping, hiking, BBQs, picnics, boating, (I'm learning wake boarding), and fishing if I can go with Randy and the guys and play poker until the fish bite! I love sports, both playing and watching, although I'm not fantastic and any. I play on our ward teams and I think my family just enjoys watching me make a fool of myself more than anything! But I have fun. I enjoy playing cards, scrap booking, running, visiting with friends and reading (especially TWILIGHT!!)

Randy works for IHC in the sign shop. So ALL the signs, big or small that you see in and around the hospitals, he has made! He too enjoys most anything (except dancing and Chinese food!) His favorites are probably boating, wake boarding, fishing, hunting, motorbikes, and most recently has become a "master" gardener! He likes to do things with his hands and teaches our boys so much. He is the "instigator" of most of the teasing and joke playing!

Our oldest boy, Weston is 23 today! (Happy Birthday!) He currently lives in Sandy and enjoys his job at a music store there. He likes to go boating with us when he gets the time. His passion is the guitar and he is a master at it! He also writes beautiful music. He is a happy person. Not much bothers Wes!

Tyler is 12 and started Jr. High this year! He likes most anything. He is our Internet "guru." Anything we need or want to know, he will find it out for us! He enjoys boating and makes wake boarding look so easy! He likes skateboarding and riding his bike too, but his favorite is motorbikes! (He's going to razz me for not knowing what his bike is!! I know it's a Kawasaki!) When he and his dad were first looking for a motorbike for him, I saw one and said, "What about that one?" Ty said no and when I asked why, Randy said because it's the wrong color. I said, "Well just paint it!" I have since learned a lot more!
Ty is a happy, go-lucky kid. He likes to joke and keeps us laughing. He doesn't like anyone to be sad.

Kyle is 11 and in 6th grade this year. He is loving being "king" of the school! He likes to be around people and makes friends easily. He is not afraid to talk to anyone! When he was a toddler, we'd be in McDonald's and before I even placed the order, he had made three or four new friends in the play area! As all of us, Kyle likes boating and wake boarding and he too makes it look so easy! He also likes skateboarding and video games. He likes reading as long as it's a book about something he likes. He is a happy boy. He is always quick with a joke or a story and is good at making up songs. (He usually does this while taking a shower!) You've heard the saying, "If Mom's happy then everyone is happy." Well, at our house...if Kyle's happy, everyone is happy! He brings life to our home.

Oh! I can't forget our little dog, Gunner! He is a cute miniature dachshund. He has a sweet personality (most of the time.) If you're a runner or a bike rider...he turns into dog from you know where though! He is a smart little guy. He learns tricks pretty quickly as long as you have lots of treats!! He can sit, roll over, jump, and do paralysed. The last is our favorite...he crawls on his front paws while dragging his back legs! It's the best!

Well, that's us. Like they say..."we may not have it all together, but together we have it all!" Stay tuned for more from the Skinner Saga!