The Jensen Family

Vivian lost her first tooth!

2011-12-13T20:57:00.000-08:00

Vivian was soo excited when her first little bottom tooth was loose! She just told me one day that it was wiggly and next thing I know it Jaren is over there examining it. You know what that means. Her daddy did a little tug, let it hang by a thread and of course Vivy pulled it right out! She had finally lost a tooth and went to bed eagerly to see what the tooth fairy would bring. Well, a dollar came indeed inside a little pouch her Grandma gave her with a dollar in it right around her wrist when she awoke! She wore that dollar for 4 days straight, and it was pretty cute! We are so happy for her even though this means she is growing up.

Our Grandma Emma Birks

2011-12-13T19:13:00.000-08:00

Dallin loved Grandma and learned quickly where to find the treats! Grandma loved Dallin and his cute smile that would pop in and ask for more goodies!
Grandpa Jensen with Avery & Grandma Birks, ready for church!
Grandma playing peek-a-boo with my Avery! So cute!!
Grandma wanted Jaren to check her dentures that were bothering her. She told Jaren she wanted to visit Las Vegas and see his new office and have him be her dentist! Jaren said I only treat kids but I will always be your dentist especially if you have no teeth! That's an easy case he joked! The kids were often fascinated with Grandma taking her teeth out to scare the kids.
Grandma's 5 children and their spouses: Cleave & *Sue, *Dell & Julie, *Rod & Liz, *Jay & Sherri, Ina & *Tom.
Vivian, Britney, Clara, and Grandma at her apartment in Sandy, UT. We loved to visit her and eat her candy, and I would raid her yarn bins!
November 2010 at Jared Jensen's football game with Grandma who loves to watch ball.
Avery sharing a sucker next to Grandma Birks of course!!!
Jaren tells me of so many fun memories he has with his Grandma who use to let him spend a week here and there at her place. He said they would travel in her camper and go to fun places. Grandma loved Jaren and always let him sneak way too much candy from the cupboard. He said he had a lot of great summers at her place.

Our sweet Grandma Birks who was Jaren's last living Grandparent passed away in November. She was a wonderful Grandma who loved her children, Grandchildren, and Great- Grandchildren best! I love this picture because it captures the way I think of Grandma most. She loved it when my kids came in to say hi and get a treat from her. Her face would light up when little Avery would say I love you, I ont a tweet! Then Grandma would give a hug, and open a sucker for her and Avery would eat it in delight next to Grandma on her bed.Grandma was very independent but the last 2 1/2 years her health was failing and she was on dialyses and oxygen and needed help. My sweet mother-in-law Liz Jensen cared for her with much service, selflessness, and diligence. Rod and Liz took her to her Dr. appointments, family events, and much more. Liz cooked for her and did all that was necessary to help her be comfortable and happy in her last years, which was no easy task because of Grandma's stubborn ways, and not wanting to take her pills or follow the doctors orders. I know how much Grandma Birks appreciated Liz because she told me several times that she didn't want to be alone anymore, and that she enjoyed being at their home and in the company of all her family. Grandma had a rich posterity! This is us with her in July of 2011. Dallin, Britney, Jaren, Grandma, Avery, Rod, Vivian, Clara, & Liz.
Grandma Emma Birks didn't always have an easy life. She was married to Lynn her sweet heart who died at a very young age in a car accident leaving her with three small boys and one boy on the way! I asked her in amazement, "How did you ever go on and deal with that tragedy?" She told me what was I supposed to do, what else could I do but go on and work hard to care and provide for my boys! She said to me how do you tell a small boy his daddy isn't coming home? How do you tell him he's up in heaven with Heavenly Father? And how could I cry when my small boys looked to me for comfort and strength. Later she gave birth to her fourth boy and she told me that she sobbed and sobbed in the hospital finally letting all of her grief out until the doctor came and checked her out saying you're crying too much, get back to your family and get busy! I personally couldn't have had this strength.
Later she went on to work nights to provide and was at home during the day with her kids. She went to all their events and supported all that they did. Later she married Othie Young and had her girl Sue. She had a hard life with Othie because he was not a good person, and he drank. Finally, she divorced him and married Howard Birks who Jaren knew as his Grandpa. Jaren tells me he was kind and good. Together Grandma Emma and Howard served missions together. Grandma has 5 children, 32 grandchildren, and 93 great grandchildren with 3 more on the way that I know of!
Grandma loved to do family history, read (romance novels), and crochet! I cherish this talent she has to crochet because when I first got married to Jaren over 10 years ago, she made us a beautiful maroon and white crocheted quilt that I still love and use. I saw her working on the last few squares at just before my reception and I really admired the work and thought that went into her sweet gift. I had wanted to learn how to crochet and I knew this would be my opportunity. When she taught me we started out with a single crochet and stitched a long line. She wanted me to practice my consistency and get each stitch even. She'd have me pull it out and redo it until the skill was mastered. After that came a simple square pattern that included double crochet, and slip stitches. I worked hard and finally constructed a nice granny square...so I thought! I showed Grandma in excitement and she said, "let me see that". I gave it to her and she pulled the whole square out without notice. WHAT! that took me a long time and I was quite pleased with it. She said the stitches are uneven and nobody wants an ugly blanket so try again. And so I did! With the next square I completed she said let me see that, and I said NO WAY it's good enough for me and I'm not going to let you pull it out. She laughed and I have been crocheting baby blankets ever since!
We will miss our sweet Grandma but we know she is with our Heavenly Father, and loved ones again! She left us with many great memories and her testimony of the Savior Jesus Christ, the importance of hard work, and diligence in the things you believe in. We love you!

2011-12-13T19:09:00.000-08:00

Grandma & Grandpa Anderson at Clara's baptismMom and Dad with Clara just before heading off to her baptism.
Grandpa and Grandma Jensen with Clara for her baptism.
Mom with Clara as clean as can be just out of the waters of baptism. I love this picture because I can see Clara glowing with joy!

Some witchy halloween!

2011-12-13T19:04:00.000-08:00

Grandma & Vivian with their Halloween spirit!
Avery & Grandma at the ward Halloween trunk or treating chili cook off
Clara the vampire, Vivian the witch, Dallin the vampire's puppy, and Avery the witch's black cat with Grandpa the farmer who is also married to our Grandma witch!!!
Dallin fell asleep after trick or treating at five houses!

#5 it's a girl!

2011-11-29T16:43:00.000-08:00

She's got good feet!

She's a girl despite Jaren's response, "Are you sure?" Yeah she was sure and I am thrilled along with Vivian who requested a new sister to play ponies with. Dallin voted a boy to play monster trucks with, Jaren was hoping for a boy and so was Clara. We are so excited.
Her first profile picture! Isn't she beautiful.
You see my little fist!
Now I think I'll suck my thumb for the camera!! I am due at the end of April!!! Maybe the middle :)

Clara gets baptized

2011-11-09T14:48:00.001-08:00

We can hardly believe Clara is now eight and is getting baptized. Clara is a very sweet girl and she always makes right choices. We are so blessed to have her in our family. She is a great help to me, and she sets a good example for her younger siblings. Clara is very talented. She loves art, dogs especially her new dog Shadow, swimming, hip hop dance class, and playing with family and friends. Clara decided to be baptized and she knew all the answers at her baptismal interview. I know that she loves our Heavenly Father and Jesus, and that she enjoys primary class. She is quiet in church and listens, and always sings the primary songs beautifully. She is prepared to be baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, this is a special day for her!

8 of 9 of Jaren's siblings came with their families to support her, Both Grandparents Anderson and Jensen, and 3 families from the Anderson's were there with lots and lots of cousins to witness Clara's special baptism day.
It's not very easy to get all the kids to smile in pictures, but hey at least they are all looking at the camera!
Clara Jensen baptized on November 5th 2011.

Easter fun!

2011-04-29T17:00:00.001-07:00

Our Easter Sunday outfits. The kids learned about why we celebrate Easter, and Jesus' resurrection after 3 days and then how spring gives new life. Clara, Avery, Vivian, DallinAnother Easter shot: Clara, Avery, Vivy, Dallin
Now we have our Daddy Jaren in the picture.
Our little Avery
Dallin has taken over Jeremy's red boots and LOVES them! He was so excited finding all the Easter eggs in the yard.
Easter baskets!
Avery quickly enjoyed her Easter surprises! She loves her ring pop and DORA!
Dallin gets a monster ice-cream truck and couldn't be happier.

BIRTHDAYS & BIRTHDAYS!

2011-04-26T08:59:00.000-07:00

BRIT IS ONE YEAR OLDER, can't you tell how old I am by all those candles! Thanks to Stephanie we had exactly 31 candles to burn down the house oo that Reece's peanut butter cake she made, yum! Sherry made me a chocolate chip cake earlier in the day and let's just say I was well fed with all of that and the grand lux cafe dinner we all went to!
Light em up Dad, and Mom! Make a wish!
We spent a week in AZ with the Jensen family for Jayden's birthday & baptism
Clara, Grandma Birks, and Avery
Grandma Jensen and Avery say cheese for the camera
Dallin's little cousin Jaxon who moved away to Texas. He loved seeing him again and playing with him all week.
Party at Amazing Jake's for all the kids. Boy did they love this indoor heaven! Clara & Abby together again! They are like two peas in a pod!
Vivy, Uncle Brice, Aunt Bekah, Dallin, Avery, and Ethan all winding down from the fun party day!
Britney, Vivy, Dallin, Avery, Clara at Jayden Flake's baptism. The kids thought it was so neat to watch their older cousin get baptized.
On our way to AZ we had to make a stop in Prescott to see our favorite Anderson cousins. Vivy loved collecting chicken eggs out of Bailey's chicken coup. She especially loved the green one and enjoyed eating it too! I think I should send Vivy so live on a farm.
Clara rides Ginger....
And Vivy of course has to ride "Coco" who she named and who is really Oakley. She thinks this is her horse that just lives with Brett and Alex, and Bailey because we don't have room for it right now.

Dallin is three!

2011-04-14T09:56:00.001-07:00

For Dallin's third birthday we went to Disneyland with the Anderson family to celebrate!Dallin's favorite things are cars, trains, tractors, garbage trucks, monster trucks, the FOUR WHEELER, the "SNOWBIL" going to Disneyland, and riding his tricycle!
The crew who came to help us celebrate!
hands up in the air Luke, Clara, and Austin! Cuz this here's the wildest ride in the west. Dallin was quite sad that he wasn't tall enough to ride this train yet :(
Pirates of the Caribbean with Grandpa and AVery.
The Tarzan tree house climb was fun for Avery and Dallin. He even got a birthday pin!
We found Mickey Mouse one of Dallin's favorite characters and snapped a shot! Vivy, Clara, Avery, Britney, Dallin.

What we've been up to!

2011-03-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

Avery loved the snow and she was our little snow bear in this outfit walking all around and enjoying this white fluffy stuff! She also loves sled rides, and fell asleep every time we took her on the snowmobile.
Cabin fun is always a treat because the kids can snowmobile, ski, sled, and play in the cabin together. Grandpa is taking them for a ride! Vivy, Clara, Avery, Dallin.Aunt Stephanie with Avery. Jaren's family met us up there too and we got to play with all of Brice & Kathy's family, Stephanie & Jon. It was fun but too short!
This is my attempt to take some Valentine's day pictures. I love these kids! Vivian, Avery, Clara, & Dallin. All the girls handmade their Valentine's and had fun stamping and decorating.
Wee, now freeze so I can capture everyone!
I LOVE YOU!
Dallin, Vivy, Avery, & Clara! THe funny thing about this picture is, I bribed Vivy with a dollar to smile, and Avery with a donut to sit in still. Clara didn't need any motivation, and I was promising Dallin a four-wheeler ride with Grandpa if he tried to look at me and smile.

Caribbean Cruise!

2011-02-25T09:37:00.001-08:00

We went for 10 days on a cruise to the Caribbean islands with Jaren's sister Bekah and our brother-in-law Judd. This was such a fun trip and I'm glad we went! See our big ship.
Formal night all dressed up, and this picture isn't very good because I took a picture of a picture and got in trouble for it. :)
Sulfur baths with mud facials in St. Lucia at an active volcano. Boy did our swim suits stink for quite some time after this volcano visit. It was fun and our faces felt great!!
St. Lucia island overlook. On this island we also visited a banana plantation, and ate yummy rice cakes, and bananas. Our driver was hilarious he caught our attention by only speaking to the ladies of the group, "I'm Kenny the Wheeler Dealer, come with me and I'll show you around."
Britney and a big snake! I actually like snakes but that not Jaren. Notice no photo of him with the snake.
Bekah over comes her fear and holds the snake, way to go!
Judd, impartial to whether he likes the snake or not?
Jaren giving the island kids a dental check up and then paid them for the exam. These boys were thrilled to get some American dollars. In return they picked us some fruit from a nearby tree. St. Lucia
We LOVE this cruise because what's a cruise without love :)
We LOVE to dance!
We LOVE to dive with sea turtles for 60% less than all the other suckers on our boat! The boys are quite the bargainers! Barbados
Another island Barbados!
Waterfalls in Grenada!
Exploring around the waterfalls in Grenada. Bekah & Britney
Sailing away into the sunset!

Jaren and Judd won the basketball tournament, we won the ping pong tournaments, and the water volley ball maybe, and x-box? We played lots of games, and pretty much collected shirts, metals, mugs, and lanyards.
Hot coco anyone!
Ice cream bar of course! This was a regular visit several times a day. Judd, Jaren, and Bekah got ice cream, and I had candy toppings like m&m's & sour patch kids in a bowl. The we sat close to this station and played cards for long hours while refilling our ice cream & candy bowls!!
Our ocean view fine dining, where we ate way too much! Oh and Jaren saved a life of an old lady who needed the Heimlich and after 2 others tried he came over and saved the day! She was very grateful!
Formal night!
Caves we hiked through to get to the beach on Virgin Gorda!
First fish catch of the trip!
The Baths at Tortola in the British Virgin Islands
Jaren jumping into the baths, don't slip like Britney did.
Church in St. Marten
Playing cards, monopoly deal, rook, or golf were our favorite! Bekah and I have got to beat Jaren & Judd after they made fun of us for a long time because they killed us so bad in Rook. Oh well, Bekah is better off with Judd as a partner :)
Dancing again! Because what's a cruise without the dancing!

Monkey named Jack on Jaren's shoulder in Grenada
Eating crab and sitting on the beach in Aruba!
Checking out the Dutch island Curacao. It was very colorful and fun to find some blue and white dutch vases and coin dishes for me and my family. They remind me of the decor in my Grandma Anderson's home.
More fine dining
And last but not least one of my favorites Apple Pie alamode! Judd always requested his scoop of ice cream on top of the pie and it was hilarious. We are stuffed!! But can't wait to go again :)

My sweet Grandpa Anderson

2011-01-26T17:14:00.001-08:00

This is my dearest Grandpa Belmont Anderson. I will miss him so much, but I am happy that he is with Grandma Vivian because he missed her greatly! Grandpa always had a smile on his face and I used to give him raspberry kisses to greet him and slap his cheeks because he patted every ones cheeks to say hi. So instead of dodging his cheek pinches or slaps, I just quickly got him first! He liked that affection.
Great Grandpa Anderson hugging Clara, and Jeremy in the background. He loved all the grandchildren and great grandchildren. He made everyone feel so special all the time. In fact it's a great dispute as to who is the favorite because although I know I am...everyone else seems to feel the same way! One thing he liked to say is, "Out of all the grandchildren I have, I want you to know that you're one of them!"
Britney as a baby with my Grandma & Grandpa Anderson. I just think they are the cutest couple ever! I got to be with Grandma when she died and my Grandpa too. That was sad, but a special experience to be close to Grandpa and hold his hand, and comb his hair like he always liked while he spent his last hours with us here on earth. The veil was thin and he said he could see family in white. When my dad came in the room he'd say, "It's Billy, I'm here!" and grandpa would try to smile and rouse from his sleep. It was very endearing to see him reach out his hand to him as my dad stroked his hair to comfort him. He mustard up a soft laugh as my dad shared hunting stories with him in the hospital. Then he'd ask do you want another and through his oxygen he'd say ya until the 7th story when Grandpa said, NO that's enough. After that he said I gotta get out of here, and I know he just wanted to go see Grandma.

Grandpa adored Avery! He always told me that Avery is the most beautiful baby! They were good friends because he would hold her when I stayed with him. One night she was fussing and it was late, and I was very tired. He said bring that Avery here and I'll show you what to do. Avery was probably only 4 months old and he laid her on his bed and rubbed her tummy for an hour while he watched the news. I fell asleep and he got her to sleep too. Grandpa was selfless and always liked to help others. Everyone else came first and because of this all of his posterity has benefited from his example.
Grandpa was fun, he had a great sense of humor and he loved to tell stories, share the gospel, be with family, play cards, play tennis, go to BYU ball games, watch Glenn Becker, fish & hunt, and be with family. He could talk to anyone and make great conversation. Grandpa was a friend to all. Grandpa loved to give advice! When I was dating Jaren, I asked how will I know he will be good for me? Grandpa said the most important thing to look for in a spouse is selflessness. If Jaren puts you and others first and I know he does, you'll be okay. That is exactly how he lived his life! He loved Grandma selflessly and everyone around him. He truly was an example of Christ like love. He was faithful and steadfast in his beliefs and he never wavered in his testimony. He loved the Book of Mormon and he loved to do missionary work. When I lived with Grandma & Grandpa he always stressed being on time to church, school or whatever. The only problem with going to church on time with them was that it took forever to leave because he and Grandma would visit with EVERYONE! If you got to go to a BYU game with him he'd leave WAY too early and be the first ones in the stadium!
Our AnderFUN family reunion in Aug. 2009. A few months after this my sweet Grandma died. I feel blessed to have learned so much from both of them. They taught me how to can peaches and make raspberry jam. They worked together collecting the fruit, Grandpa peeled the boiled skins from the peaches while Grandma and I mixed the puree for the jars. As we worked Grandpa would tell stories, while Grandma chimed in what really happened. It was pretty funny to hear each of their versions of their dating stories, or my dad's upbringing!
Grandpa & Clara. Grandpa had very unique wooden marble tracks made for all of the grandchildren, modeled after one that belonged to my Dad. This was the favorite toy and all the kids ran marbles down the track as he showed them how to line them up and hold the row until you had quite a few. Then you let them go and watch as all the marbles run down the track. This marble track was crafted by a janitor that worked at the school he taught at and he went to several carpenters to find one that could duplicate it. It was very difficult to find someone who could do it and when they found someone, it took several months for them to be built. Each cost $75. and all of his 5 kids and 26 grand kids received one to pass on this special family toy.

OK this tribute wouldn't be complete if I didn't include a hunting or fishing story! One year while fishing in Alaska the boat assignment was Dad, Grandpa, and I. I had a lot of fun fishing with him and my Dad but the highlight was the camp record that I caught! It was hooked and jumping out of the water, and torpedoing all over the place. I was calling over to the other boat to let Uncle Jeff know I had the camp record. Grandpa yelled, "quit messing around and bring that fish in, you're gonna let it get away!" Then it torpedoed under the boat and my dad said great now you've lost it for sure! I said, "Here Grandpa here's my camera take a picture!" Both he and my dad were dying because I was concerned with a photo and they wanted to see that fish netted. Of course I have amazing skills, I brought that 42 lb salmon fish in, got it all on camera, and my dad removed the hook while laughing! They both said, "I can't believe she still caught, and the line didn't break after it went under the boat, and she still got her picture!" :)
Because Grandma and Grandpa used to can a lot he taught me this phrase: We eat what we can and what we can't can! Then I used to say it wrong all the time to be funny and he'd correct me every time. Another fun thing we used to do is go out to eat at cafe Rio or get a slice of bread from great harvest bread down the street from his house. He and Grandma went to the temple every Tuesday to do sealings and I loved it when my schedule would allow me to join them and their temple group. Grandma would say we're doing the sealings, and later someone will come in and do the floors! Afterward we go to eat at Chuck-a-rama buffet! If I ever left the house he'd say Cheerio, and I'd reply fruit-loops, and no matter how many times I said this he'd always laugh.
Grandpa loved taking care of people, or telling them what to do. So whenever I stayed there, we'd go to the grocery store and he'd insist on buying all the food. I had recipes of meals I wanted to cook for him, and he wouldn't let me be in charge. He made sure I had plenty of snacks and goodies for the kids and I think we always made it home from the store with 3 or 4 different types of cookies. He'd say, "Wow, I haven't spent that much at the store in a while!" Let's just say, we were well fed!

Grandpa in action patting my baby Dallin's cheeks!
We went often to visit Grandma and place flowers by her grave. He would tell me stories about he and Vivy and it was so fun to listen to them.
A bite to eat at our Anderson Christmas party 2010. The Santa at this event was the real deal and Grandpa laughed as he heard each of the kids reactions to Santa as he asked what they wanted this year. Dallin replied, "A PRESENT!" Grandpa got a kick out of that!
Grandpa used to give Dallin rides on his walker while he did his laps around the house to exercise his heart. Dallin at this time was 2 and he called Grandpa, "Grandma" Grandpa thought that was so cute. Dallin would cry, "Grandma BIKE, BIKE, I onna go on the BIKE!" of course he'd take him over and over again! Then Grandpa would say to me, "That Dallin sure is a handsome kid, almost as handsome as my Billy!"
Grandpa will be our angel now! Avery and Grandpa Anderson at the Christmas Eve party 2010

A new year!

2011-01-09T14:12:00.000-08:00

Katy needed some silhouette pictures for her portfolio, so here I am jumping around on top of a mountain up at Red rock. Let's just say I was a little out of shape and very sore the next day. I'm surprised I didn't sprain an ankle. It was fun, and now it's documented- I get air!
Leap into a new year, I did!

Merry Christmas

2011-01-05T22:07:00.000-08:00

This year we are grateful for all of our many blessings, a healthy family, friends, and the spirit of Christmas. I hope we can strive to keep our Savior Jesus Christ in our lives as we approach another year. Here is a short update on each of us and our favorites for 2010. Jaren - is working hard at starting his own Pediatric Dental Practice. Britney- loved Jazzercise, and sewing projects. Clara- loves swimming, diving, riding her bike, and puppies. Vivy- thinks that her school is the best, she got new cowgirl boots, and she always wants to cook. Dallin- only talks about riding the four-wheeler and "snowbill" with Grandpa, Zach or Dad!! Avery- walks all over the place babbling saying wawa, uh-oh, gamma, mama, dada, mo, caca (Clara), hello, bubye, and much more. She gives sweet kisses and we don't want this little thing to grow up.

All about Clara - 7!

2011-01-05T18:18:00.001-08:00

My baby girl is seven and I can hardly believe it. Clara is such a sweet and fun girl. She is very helpful, beautiful, and always ready for something exciting. She loves all the big rides at Disneyland like tower of terror, splash mountain, and thunder mountain. Clara loves animals and creatures. She can often be found holding lizards, horny toads, dogs, cats, or bunnies. Clara loves to swim, ride her bike and electric scooter, and skiing. She hates to go to bed early, she hates waking up in the morning, and she hates reading but she does it anyway. Her smile is a toothless gappy grin that I love and I really appreciate the example and help she is to her younger siblings. I love this girl so much and feel so blessed to have her in our family!swim time!
a toothless smile that is so sweet
showing Avery how to hold her head up!

She's holding a lizard Austin caught
More lizards!! Caught in our back yard in Arizona

Best sisters plotting their next adventure!
Beach girl!
The biggest tomatoes and we ever grew in our garden!
Cute California girl! Culver City, CA
We love our Dog Hawkins who just died and we were all so sad!
Clara love dogs!! So here are her Dog kisses.
Clara as Dorothy with her rubber dragon that she really loved.
Miss attitude!
Her creations! Noah's arc with Lego's and all the animals.
Happy Valentine's to our sweet little Clara who's with Dad at dental school on this occasion.
Clara wondering who that is on the other side of the glass. Omaha Henry Dourly Zoo!
Clara and her little sister Vivian. Always a best friend!
Sweet snow white kisses to Clara's new baby sister Vivian
Dad & Clara getting ready to go out in the snow, one of her favorite things to do!
Cooking with Great Grandma Clara
Turning 2 in Village Green, Omaha! I love how she decorated her own cupcake!!
Kisses for her Grandpa Jensen
Clara and Mom at Thanksgiving at Mark & Anna's. Kisses for mom!
Clara in Omaha, Nebraska. She was our lady bug at the Creighton Dental school trick or treat!
Baby Clara with her Great Grandma Clara 9 months old

Happy Halloween 2010

2010-11-17T20:12:00.001-08:00

We had a fun Halloween with our family in Utah! We all trick-or-treated with cousins Austin, Luke, Alyssa, Ollie, Lily, Charlotte, Uncle Zach the sock monkey, Andrew the woodcutter, Jill & Eric, and it was a blast. We waited till the rain died down, hit up the Provo River woods homes that gave out full size candy bars, and then had a Halloween party at Katy's afterward. The yummy chili, mummy dogs, and bread was to DIE for! It was nice to see all of Jaren's family, Brice & Kathy, trick or treat at great grandma Baugh's and Great Grandpa Anderson's. We game back loaded!! p.s. Vivian's little red riding hood was my favorite because I spent a long day sewing it and creating it. She loved it and insisted on wearing it for dress up even before it was Halloween time. Now that we have all eaten so much candy it's time for a visit to the Dentist. Good thing we've got one on hand!!!

2010-11-16T18:39:00.000-08:00

Vivy is Daddy's girl is FIVE and she loves to swim! Happy Birthday VIVY!!She can be found smelling and picking the flowers where ever she goes. Don't worry Zobrists I saved this one!
She loves dress ups, princesses, and little red riding hood. She can even be found sleeping in her snowwhite dress.

Happy Birthday Vivy is 5

Her favorite color is green like her eyes, she loves to find rolly pollies and wear her red crocs!
Vivian LOVES her school and her teacher Grandma Ruth! This is an understatement!! She is backing her school bag at 7:00 am and begging to get out the door so she won't be late. Her school starts at 9:30. She then asks to go to school on the days she doesn't have class, and one day we goofed and did drop her off. My mom let her out the door and Ruth's mother waved and off my mother and I were. When I picked her up Great Grandma said they played and ate snacks and had chocolate milk together. I laughed so hard when I realized that her teacher had a doctor appointment for a broken arm and wasn't there. Thanks for the morning babysitting!!
Vivy turned 5 on this October Sunday but you might not have ever known because Grandpa Anderson celebrated it the whole month!! She believed him too when he'd sing to her each day, bring home donuts or cupcakes from the office and tell her it's for your birthday! Then she started to catch on but replied to me one morning, "Mom, can you believe Grandpa still thinks its my birthday!" "Maybe I can have my birthday for just one more day and then it can be Clara's birthday!!"

Box it all up!

2010-08-02T22:47:00.000-07:00

Well, we've started organizing, dejunking, and packing up! This is what Jaren and I found when we came up to go to bed. Clara put herself to sleep in a packing box! She is such a darling little girl with quite the imagination. I guess we can pack up her bed or maybe she just doesn't want us to leave her behind!

- Posted from my iPhone

Kindred cousins!

2010-07-27T21:39:00.000-07:00

This is our little Avery with her sweet cousin Olivia that is 10 days younger. These two are having so much fun playing together! We don't want her to go back to Texas!!

- Posted from my iPhone

Stephanie's wedding!

2010-07-23T03:29:00.000-07:00

All the nieces and nephews at the wedding & out come Stephanie & Jon! (I LOVE her dress!!!)

Jon & Stephanie and Jaren's photo shoppin' as a joke to say they are off to a tropical island. Nope really they got married in the Draper temple and headed to Park City for their honeymoon. What a cute couple!Anna, me, Bekah, Kathy, and Emily all ready to enjoy a yummy wedding dinner! I just love my sister-in-laws because they are all so much FUN!
Uh-oh! Who is that handsome hill billy sitting next to me? Yep, Jaren's crown broke off and this is his true smile!! Don't worry folks our favorite dentist in Holden (Jim) has already done the work for a future implant. Until then we all are getting quite a kick out of Jaren's gap that appears whenever he eats.
Anna & Mark (the artistic photo taken by non other than my hill billy husband Jaren).
The commotion this tooth has created at the wedding dinner, and we wondered why nobody would sit at our table?
It's truly a miracle when everybody is looking at the camera and we almost got everyone to smile but Dallin did not want that tie on! We have Vivy, Dallin, Jaren, Britney, Avery, and Clara.Stephanie the beautiful bride with Avery and all the nieces and nephews at the Draper temple.
Dallin's favorite cousin Aubrey who always takes care of him!
The whole family with Grandpa Jensen at the Draper temple. Family photos are getting more difficult but even though none of the kids or Jaren are looking don't you think Rod & I look great! Oh wait I think I blinked never mind. Rod you win the prize for this one!
Jaren and I at Stephanie & Jon's wedding dinner in his back yard for yummy food and fun conversation.
Yes Anna & I are posing again!

Happy Fourth!!

2010-07-19T11:27:00.000-07:00

The Baugh Family Reunion!

Dallin enjoying bubble, Clara telling Vivy to be happy she got a medal even though she wasn't first in her race like Clara was!

Clara jumping off the board at the pool!
Great Grandma Clara Baugh with baby Avery & enjoying every minute of it! Our cute Grandma is 91 I think and she and Grandpa Baugh put on this whole 4th of July event every year.
Grandma & Grandpa holding Avery. Thanks for this fun family tradition, we look forward to it every year.

Dallin was content to push around his cars on this quilt for quite some time.

Clara, Vivy, and Lily always giggling!
Grandma, Me, AVery, and Jaren loving the get together and yummy food! My Grandma makes her famous potato salad, baked beans, and Aunt Julie bring the homemade root-beer, I love Aunt Bev's shrimp pasta salad, and did I mention desserts...YES my favorite!
LIttle Vivy sporting the USA princess look!
And of course their is my fantastic mother who helps it all happen too. She works hard to put lots of prizes, races for the kids, food, and securing/loading all the stuff for this big event. You are awesome mom!!!!
Me and all my kiddos with Grandma Baugh! It's no easy task getting all these little ones in the same picture!
We love our freedoms, we love our country, and we are grateful for so many blessings and privileges of our day. Happy birthday USA and happy birthday to my brother JUSTin!!!

Avery's ONE!

2010-07-16T16:06:00.001-07:00

I can hardly believe this cute little girl is ONE! She came to us so quickly, and the past year has been nothing but sweet smiles, snorts, and lovable kisses with this pip squeek. She is such a sweet baby who is very content and always ready to snuggle right up to you. She loves to climb, crawl real fast, squeeze out of her high chair, eat and nurse, giggle, do peek-a-boo, and best of all roll her tounge making a cute noise while her cheeks shake her whole face. She is absolute the cutest baby ever!! (I know I say that every time around but this time :) Happy ONE yr. birthday. Hugs and kisses to our fourth little AVery Elizabeth. We love yOu!

Jaren in Alaska!

2010-07-15T15:04:00.001-07:00

The whole crew at Portage Creek Alaska!
Ben, Jaren, and Nate bringing in a load of fish. Probably 100 lbs on that stick.
Ben, Jaren, and Zach showing off some pretty fish from the boat!
The mamma fox stealing some smoked salmon!
JAREN AND A BIG FISH! Behind him is the tent they bunk in. Watch out for those mosquitos.
Here are the boys in Alaska Nate, Eric, Jaren, and Zach. Having a slow but fun year...settling to catch their limit by bringin' in the chum.Up closer!
The fish that filled the ice chests! Zach doesn't mess around when it comes to fishing!
G.Q. Alaskan fisherman!
The Dad who makes it all happen...and I wasn't even there to reel in all his fish :(
My sister JIllian and my Dad doing what they love best! FISHING!! Happy Father's Day!
The fox that came to steal the camp's smoked jerky!
And of course for good cause...to feed her little pups who had a whole under an Eskimo cabin where they cooked the food!

Happy Father's Day!!

2010-06-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

Our Daddy Jaren with baby Avery and Mom/Grandma Jensen
Daddy & Vivy cookin' up a storm!
Hubby & I!!!
AVery and Dad out in the snow
Kisses for Dad from Dallin! These boys have to stick together! I love you Dad!
Dad taking care of the kids!
Clara & Dad
Me and my Dad and the 2 point deer that maybe I shot? You never know in this family! I love you Dad and love all the fun hunting, fishing, camping, Disneyland, beach trips that you orchestrate. Thanks for always tending my kids, and giving up your phantom ticket and fishing pole so I can claim the rewards!! You are hardworking, faithful, and a wonderful example to me! Happy Father's Day!
Dallin & Jaren! I must say that his Dad, my #1 father-in-law, Roddy H, did a fine job at raising this one ninth (not to be confused with one night) of his best work...as the joke goes. Jaren is the third of 9 and looks up to his Dad for all the hard work, and great memories he put into bringing up a fantastic son if I might say so myself! Jaren loves to play basketball early morning with his Dad, get beat by him in chess, rook, and backgammon! He loves to hear his jokes that make us laugh, his shot records that put all to shame, and watch as he lives a life of continual service to his kids, and other family members. Once when Avery was just a baby, I left all the kids with Rod to run some errands. Some asked, you even left the infant? I said, "of course! Anyone who has nine kids who all survived childhood can handle my four!!" We love you too Dad, Happy Father's Day!

I have been so blessed to have a wonderful husband who is such a great Dad to our four precious littles ones Clara, Vivian, Dallin, and Avery! I know this is late but I think it still needs to be posted. Jaren got to go fishing in Alaska with my Dad and brothers for Father's Day, so we didn't have to cook, he still got spoiled with fishing hooks, and hot coco in bed, and everyone was satisfied.

Jaren is always working hard for our family, he's always involved in taking care of the kids, except at night! He sleeps like a rock, and I don't mind because he does his part the second he gets home from work and the kids jump all over him.

Jaren you are the greatest and we all love you. Our Superman Dad!! Happy father's Day

Just us!

2010-06-09T20:40:00.000-07:00

This is our little Clara who is growing up way too fast. This is her up at our cabin, and this little beauty loves anything that creeps and crawls. She was mostly found following her cousins around who caught lots of little creatures. She loved holding salamanders, frogs, and horny-toads over memorial weekend.My sister-in-law Katy is always practicing her photography on us! While Katy snapped a few of these shots of me, I think Avery ate a few rocks while sitting on the porch next to me. I hope I got them all out?
Clara is such a good little model, always holding still and posing for us! She is such a cutie!!
Vivy is in love with picking flowers, planting things, and princesses..so here is our sleeping beauty!
Dallin is playing the marble game that Great Grandpa Anderson had specially made by a carpenter for us at Christmas time. This is the absolute coolest toy ever, and it keeps him and my others entertained for very long periods of time! We love it and appreciate the thoughtful gift from Grandpa in memory of our Grandma Anderson. (This gift was duplicated after one that was my Dad's when he was a boy, and all the grandkids go straight to this toy whenever we are at Grandma and Grandpa's house).
Avery is my little crawler who is such a tiny thing. She is now 10 months and only weighs 14 lbs. She has no teeth and she looks about 4 months old. I think this baby is so very sweet and I get excited to squeeze and hold her when she wakes up in the morning! She is very content and always happy. She loves to blow kisses, give slobbery kisses, and click her tongue. She is the sweetest and I just can't get enough of her!!
The whole crew up at the cabin sporting our pajama's and Arizona Charlie hats and loving every minute of our time with the family! Clara, Vivian, Avery, Britney, Jaren, & Dallin

Sweet Cousins

2010-05-23T09:49:00.000-07:00

Vivy, Clara, and cousin Hailey at Hailey's 5th princess party. They played games, ate good food, and wore dress ups. They had so much fun, and they love living close so we can play all the time.Jaxon and Dallin spotted this fire truck in a parking lot, as we were going to the store. I let them check it out and of course take a picture. These two boys LOVE anything cars, especially a big fire truck! Now that Jaxon has moved to Texas, Dallin is always asking, "I onna play with Jakon!"
Vivy, Abby, and Clara got to enjoy a few nights of sleep overs while Aunt Emily packed up her home in preparation to move to Texas. This three little girls are such sweet friends. We can't wait to see them this summer at Aunt Stephanie's wedding!!!
Best Friends! Clara & Abby!!!

Picture this!

2010-05-06T23:35:00.001-07:00

Vivian's photo by: Katy Anderson (my personal photographer is amazing)!
Our little peanut Avery is now 9 months old and she is in the 0% for her weight. Don't be fooled though by her size. She crawls, stands, claps, talks mama, dada, and pulls out all the wipes from the wipe container. Avery is the best baby ever, and we love her little giggle and bright blue eyes.
Better watch out for these three cuties! Clara, Avery, and Vivy (It is quite difficult to get everyone to smile at the same time, and not have Avery crawl away.)
Dallin is two and plays with cars, trains, and his trike all day long! He is so sweet, and loves to talk in full sentences, climb into his high chair himself, he is my little sweet heart, and Daddy's little boy!
Clara and Vivy are such sweet sisters, and I love to listen in on their conversations, or watch them play make believe when they don't know I am! Yesterday's topic while driving was something about Vivy wanting to deliver a letter to a boy in her class. Clara asked if she like him, and Vivy giggled and said YES, but I want to marry him. To which Clara replied okay you can...Vivy chimed in oh wait, but Luke is even more handsome. I think I will marry him! Clara then tells her NO you can't because Luke is your cousin. Okay Vivy tells Clara, Then I guess I'll mary Grant (the kid from school).

I think I'm going to have these girls watch pirates, cowboys, and star wars movies instead of all the princess stuff because all they do is talk about who they should marry. Should I be concerned?

Swing into Spring

2010-04-23T22:57:00.000-07:00

Because Easter fell on general conference, we saved some money and didn't do Sunday Easter outfits. That didn't stop us from taking some fun spring pictures!

Celebrated 30 in style!

2010-04-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

Let's just say that my Big 3-0 turned out to be more than I ever expected. I had an uneventful day, relaxed and didn't do much. That evening celebrated the day when my sister-in-law's Anna and Bekah took me out for a girls night because Jaren had scouts. We ate the yummiest spinach calzone at Spinato's that we all three shared and headed out for a movie (minus Anna when Mark's surgery went too long). Then there was the surprise visit from Jaren's sister Stephanie and her "boyfriend" Jon. It was low key and fun.....but that's not all that was in store for me, little did I know Jaren had been plotting for more celebrations the following day.
Jaren planned a whole day of celebrations for me from dawn till dusk. I woke up Friday morning and Jaren said you need to pack a day bag because I'm taking you somewhere which he wouldn't reveal. Oh, and don't worry about the kids he tells me. The funny part was he totally forgot about Clara and Vivy's school and those drop offs and pick ups had to be fixed into the schedule. Anyway we were off and I got a 2 hr. yes 2 hour message at Bliss and let me tell you this deep tissue message was BLISS, and I am still wondering how 2 hours could pass by that fast. He told me that 'someone' would be there to pick me up at 11:30?? That someone was my sister-in-law Anna who brought along my baby Avery so I could nurse her up real good and be off for my next event.
I didn't know what was to come and Anna wouldn't tell me the day's plans...until I arrived at the location in crime!
Next up was a very delicious lunch at Postino's Winecafe. The food here was very yummy - panini, salads, and soups. The outdoor patio dining was refreshing, and we even felt pretty special valet parking. So I nursed that little Avery and "Whalla" Jaren appeared from nowhere and picked up Avery so I could enjoy lunch with Anna. What a perfect planner because now he could take her home and she was ready to nap for a few hours while I continued to be SPOILED!!
So we were off...and you're wondering how does the Easter bunny play a role in all of these festivities? This is Anna and I at my 3 hour shopping spree at the Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall. Jaren got me a gift card to this mall with specific instructions to spend it all, and buy only things for myself!! How selfish is that, but needless to say Anna made sure we completed the task. It was quite refreshing to shop with out any KIDS!! This didn't stop us from snapping a shot with the Easter bunny in memory of our kids haha. We walked away with lots of shopping bags in hand, cute shirts, shorts, and accessories of lute to show for it!
Then I'm getting kind of hungry so I was glad to hear that Anna was taking me to meet up with our hubbies for a nice dinner. I kept asking questions like, "What about Stephanie and Jon, and How come Bekah and Judd didn't want to join us?" Anna of course had plenty of great excuses only come to find out she was quite the fibber!! When we pulled up to the Melting Pot (a place I'd been wanting to try for some time) The table reserved for us was filled with lots of surprise visitors in addition to Jaren and Mark; Bekah & Judd, Stephanie & Jon, and all the way from Las Vegas were Justin my brother and his wife Katy!!! They all came to celebrate my birthday and you can imagine how delighted and surprised I was!!!

Jon, Stephanie, Mark, Anna, Justin, Katy, Britney, Jaren, Bekah, Judd (and baby Avery)

And then we were off again to another fun activity...Jesterz - a clean, funny improv comedy club. Their last act of the night was hilarious - they acted out what my dream would be that night based on my birthday celebrations from that day. One of the best parts was the guy who acted out Jaren - he kept saying "How awesome am I" when talking about all the things he planned out for me that day. It was hilarious! I was crying from laughter and so was everybody else.

Well, as you can see it was a very special day and I just have to say how much I love Jaren for making my day so special. He is AWESOME! I have the best family ever!!! Thanks for traveling far to see me Steph, Jon, Katy, and Justin it was so fun to have you. I am so glad Bekah watched Anna's kids so she could take me around for all the great surprises. You are the best Anna for spending the day with me "IN STYLE!" I love you all! and then Jaren said, "Don't expect this next year!" (a famous quote from his Dad!) Happy birthday to me (oh and notice the cute shirt I'm wearing, thanks to a birthday package from Natalie). Oh and one more thing, the birdie tells me my sister-in-law Sherry planted the idea for the day whaaooo!

Happy St. Patty's Day

2010-03-17T22:29:00.000-07:00

Well, I must say my kids have never been so excited as they were this year about St. Patrick's Day. It was actually quite darling, how Clara and Vivy eagerly picked out their green attire for the day. Both of them had quite the upset at school with leprechauns. Apparently, they came to visit each of their classrooms and left a mess of the room, a trail of glitter and clovers, and a treat! The day was filled with green jello, green milk, chocolate gold coins, and more! Clara told me, "I can prove that leprechauns are real mom...look they left me this clover, and all the back packs were thrown all over the room! So adorable, and for the record YES I totally believe you girls. So, we of course had to continue with the festivities. At home, the leprechaun was spotted after leaving trails of clovers, green sacks filled with green snacks, and to my dismay a mess! (Now how did I not know until today that these little men make a mess where ever they go?) Not that my house wasn't already a mess, but I found it quite hilarious that Vivy asked me to help clean her and Clara's room so that when we left to pick up Clara from school when we returned we would be able to identify if a "leprechaun mess" was left! HAHA! So each girl returned home from pick-ups to see that their toy basket had been dumped. (OH I am tired of cleaning!) But their excitement was worth it, and for the record we all helped pick up the toys AGAIN together.

We finished the evening off with a yummy steak & taco dinner over here with Anna and Mark Then the kids decorated chocolate cupcakes, with green frosting, and sprinkled their green sprinkles to top it all off. So much fun, and we will surely miss our family when they go back to freeze in Rochester. Please don't go, but if you do good LUCK

happy birthday Jilly Willy

2010-03-14T23:03:00.000-07:00

Dancing at Jill's wedding!! So much fun!
The birthday cupcake pin cushion I made JIll for her b-day! She is an excellent seamstress, and even gets paid to teach a sewing class at BYU. Please don't give me an F on this project. haha!

It's my favorite little sister's birthday and I just wanted to say I LOVE YOU! Jillian is the cutest and I love her to death. I wish we lived closer so that we could hang out and dance around together more! Hope your day is special!!

love ya,

Brit

Grateful!

2010-03-14T15:43:00.000-07:00

Today I got upset at Vivy for pooping (at church), and yelled at her for not going on the potty! Then I felt bad and remembered the talk given in our stake conference today about having Christ Like Love in our home. The part that whispered back in my mind was: speaking soft, kind and loving words more in the home to our spouse, children, and siblings. I knew immediately that I had fallen short of this and I recommitted myself to speak more loving words to my family. I apologized to my sweet Vivy who went through a lot with her tumor removal, and her frequent yet irregular bowls, and frustration with the right medicine and dosage to get her "pooping properly". I know it has only been 7 months that she has been wearing underwear again, but I forget that there are to be expected set backs in this learning process. I began pondering about how GRATEFUL I am to be a mother and how I have these sweet little ones of who I get to raise each day that teach me so much and bring me such happiness.

#1. Clara - This little toothless grin and big blue eyes is such a sweetheart. She loves to do art, and hates school work. She is beginning to read but pulling teeth might be an easier task with this girl. She just learned how to ride a bike, and she gets very excited to spell things out for me that she has mastered. Her favorite color is light blue, she loves to swim, and she desperately wants a puppy! I can hardly believe that my little helper is already 6 and almost finished with kindergarten. She helps holding her baby sister Avery, gets Dallin out of his crib, and plays pet shop with her sister Vivy.

#2. Vivian - My little Vivy is a non stop chatter box who loves to cuddle and give hugs. She LOVES school, her boots and the color GREEN! She has her favorite green outfit, dress, and bowl! I think St. Patrick's Day may just be her favorite holiday. Vivy loves honey-nut cheerios, pancakes, and wheat bread with jam. She colors lots of pictures through out the day with her favorite letter V on them and roles them up, tapes them shut, and gives them to Jaren and I! I think her pictures are so sweet.

#3. Dallin- is all BOY, and boy am I glad to have the dynamic he adds to this family. He too is a talkative one who repeats everything I say! Some of the funny phrases are, "Oh, dang it!" or "K guys," and "Daddy at Wook." Dallin loves his cars and pushes them around all day long. He loves to be outside and to ride his little tricycle, and "Daddy bike rides". Dallin loves raisins, hot-dogs, turkey rolls, apples, fruit snacks, and ME! He runs where ever he goes and he loves his trains!

#4. Avery- is so little and cute with all of her big smiles! She can already crawl all over the place and she is quite flexible. She loves to suck on her toes, her binky, and nurse of course! This little blue eyed baby girl is very happy, easy going, and tiny tiny. She makes me smile all day long with her giggle and curiosity trying to keep up with her older siblings. She coos and says a-da-da quite well! I am so blessed to have this little bundle of joy. She is so cute that I could eat her!! I love this stage where she is so responsive, crawling, and learning to sit up. I wish I could just hold her all day long...ok so I do :)

#5. Jaren- no he is not a kid haha (although I clean up after him too). But I just have to add how grateful I am for him! He is so thoughtful to me and the children. He'll wake up early, work hard all day, come home and immediately play with the kids so I can have a break! He helps with the dishes, and cooks the dinner if I am busy nursing. He doesn't complain that the house is a mess when he comes home, and I just love love love this handsome guy!! This weekend he took the kids to the park & for pizza while I just sat home and watched t.v. (that was nice!) Did I mention that he even went country dancing with me when he REALLY didn't want to! What a good sport and a great hubby! I love you

Okay grateful post, it is late and now that I have reminisced about all my blessings and things I cherish about my family I will sleep!

Big News!

2010-03-06T11:56:00.000-08:00

Yeah, Clara has finally learned how to ride her bike, and you won't believe who taught her how?

Her younger cousin Ethan!!! Yeah for Ethan who let Clara try his bike because it was smaller and closer to the ground. Not only did Ethan loan his bike, but he walked next to her every step of the way coaching her. It was quite funny to hear him give tips to her and they worked. We couldn't be more excited especially since Jaren and I have been trying for quite some time to help Clara and give her confidence. She just didn't want to learn from us, she would rather learn from somebody her size. We are so glad that Ethan taught her how to take off, keep pedaling, balance, and even how to brake or put your feet down when scared. Then the next week Ethan came with me to pick Clara up from school and they rode their bikes home together. It was so darling!

skiing, sledding, and snowmobilling!

2010-03-03T20:20:00.000-08:00

Grandpa and Dallin sledding!Vivy takes off skiing and LOVES it, good thing Grandpa's got her by the rope because she doesn't quite get the pizza pie snow plow thing yet!
Clara's turn to head out and ski with her Grandpa! This was such a fun trip because my dad did all the hard work with the kids on the slope, my mom watched the other little ones in the cabin, and I got to snowboard (on the FREEdom pass) and just enjoy!!
More sledding with Grandpa. Isn't this setting beautiful with all the pretty white snow, and dusted green pine trees.
Avery just chilled inside the cozy cabin and loved every minute of it!
Dallin his hanging out to with his buddy bear!
The tinker toys and Vivy and Clara's creations they made with Grandma. Notice my Dad through the window getting the snowmobiles ready for a fun ride.
Clara and Vivian getting back from an exciting snowmobile ride with Grandpa
The whole crew enjoying hot chocolate, and yummy fish for dinner. The cabin is always a treat!!!

Lolly pop love!

2010-02-27T18:05:00.001-08:00

When I came in to see Dallin sharing with his sister I thought how "sweet"!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Happy Birthday Dallin CHoo twoo!

2010-02-26T21:02:00.001-08:00

The cousins all riding the train at the train park: Aunt Anna, Paisley, Aunt Bekah, Derek, Megan, Jayden, Vivy, Hailey, Kayla, Jaren, Avery, Dallin, Jaxon, Ethan, Clara, Abby
The train cake that took me and the girls all afternoon to make!
Just waiting for our turn on the train!
Jaxon & Dallin
Painting cars (anything with wheels is a favorite of Dallins)
Handsome 2 yr. old pictures Aunt Katy

For the record Dallins 2yr. old stats are: height 90th percent, and weight 26lbs. 20th %.

Dallin can almost peddle his trike, he is a jabber box, he loves to dance, he loves bananas, honey "macks" and "nacks" (fruit snacks), and he is pure JOY!
Because Dallin loves cars and trains we did his 2yr old birthday party at the McCormick Train park with all of our cousins and rode the train. He loved it and loved being at the park with some of his favorite cousins Ethan, Derek, and Jaxon.

While he was napping Clara, Vivy, and I had a lot of fun making him a train cake. We also had his favorite meal pizza with "spite" sprite as Dallin would say.

Dallin is growing up so quickly and he is such a darling little boy. I love how he plays endlessly with his cars, trains, and bikes. He is very quick and loves to run where ever he goes. He adores his sisters calling Clara, Waka, and Vivian, Vivy. He even addresses baby Avery as bebe Avey! Dallin is his little Daddy's buddy. He wants to be where ever he is and follows him around as soon as he gets home from work. Dallin often requests for Dad to take him on "BIKE!!" rides. He loves puppies and wants to pet each one that passes by. He is quite attached to Grandpa's dog Hawkins. He likes to call both his grandma and Grandpa Grandma, and his manners are superb. He will always say Thank you Mummy, Thank you Daddy, or thank you Grandma!! He is such a fun little boy and I love him to death. I wish I could freeze this time with him because he so precious!!!! Happy Birthday Dallin!

Justins free style rap

2010-02-20T19:30:00.001-08:00

- Posted from my iPhone

Location:Red Rock St,Las Vegas,United States

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-15T20:17:00.001-08:00

We had an eventful Valentine weekend! First we did an adult dinner date as couples with Jaren's family, Mark, Anna, Emily, Bekah, and Judd. We did dinner at Mimi's cafe and headed back to our house for a love movie 27 dress. It was nice to get away, have a babysitter, and visit with everyone! These are some pictures of the the girls in there matching Valentine pants that I might add, I purchased for 2.99 at Children's place! I love a good sale and these cute hot pink cords were just the find for V-day. Don't worry Dallin had a cute valentine puppy shirt but as usual he was napping when we had the camera out....so you get his Sunday church photo!

And finally the Queen Bees of the whole thing....Bekah, Brit, Anna, and Emily! Who wouldn't love hanging out with these girls all weekend!!! FUN FUN FUN! Jaren helped me throw a Sunday Valentine dinner with yummy steaks, and salmon, salad, potatoes, squash, jello, and cream corn-corn bread. Then we had the kids give homemade Valentine's and decorate cookies. To top it all of I made a beautiful heart shaped brownie for us adults only to find that they tasted horrible!! OOps, I left the softened butter in the microwave and forgot to add it in. Oh well, that saved us some calories. Playing monopoly deal then occupied the rest of our evening! It was a blast!

sweet sisters

2010-02-13T13:21:00.001-08:00

The other night I put the kids to bed, and then finished up my laundry downstairs. Around 11:00 when I was finished with everything, I went upstairs to check on the kids before going to bed. This is what I found in Clara's closet! Not sleeping sisters, but studying sisters. They play in their closet together when they can't fall asleep, and although I would like them to get some shut eye I have to say that it is pretty cute.
Vivy and Clara are busy playing school even though they should be sleeping because they have school in the morning! I wondered why it was so quiet in there.

Craft days

2010-02-11T21:46:00.000-08:00

We sister-in-laws have a craft day each week while Anna is in town for a 4 month rotation. Sometimes we go out to Denny's for a free grand slam, make what Vivy calls "puff balls" for decoration, hair bows, cards, and much more to come! This is such a fun outlet and it is great to have the kids play together while we craft away, and visit.

Avery Craze!

2010-02-11T20:44:00.000-08:00

This girl has been up to trouble, she's steeling every one's heart & trying to crawl away with it! She is now 6 months old, and she is taking one little crawl, and she rocks on her hands and knees quite a bit. If you hold her you just might not want to give her back!I just love her easy going personality, cute smile with her tongue always out, big blue eyes, and how she likes to suck on her toes. She is my little ball of sunshine!
Great Grandpa Anderson and Avery,
Great Grandma Anderson and Avery Great Grandma Baugh and Avery, and Vivian
Grandpa Jensen and Avery

Grandpa and Grandma Anderson, Avery, and Dallin
GRANDMA Birks and Avery

Grandma Jensen and Avery

We love you little Avery Elizabeth!

t-ball!

2010-02-06T14:31:00.000-08:00

Clara and Vivian started playing t-ball, and although Jaren thinks baseball is the most boring sport ever I think they look so cute out there hitting the ball and running from base to base.

Clara has been practicing hitting a soft pitch, and she is starting to get better at it!Clara is one fast girl, and I had to tell her to stop on the bases because she kept wanting to run all the way to home base! Way to go!
I just love the concentration that Vivy has, and SMACK it's a hit! I think that tongue out helped :)
Vivian was very dedicated to her position on third base! Actually I don't think she moved from the squat position the whole time. I guess the dirt drawings you made had more appeal than running after a ball!

Girls weekend!

2010-02-04T22:17:00.000-08:00

A surprise baby shower for Jenny because it's a BOY!! taking a walk down to the beach, and checking out the historic Crystal Cove beach homes.

Cute little Addy up on the rock, enjoying the ocean air!
Avery is excited about this rock and I think she's contemplating eating it rather than smiling for the camera!
It was sooo much fun to meet up with my girlfriends from L.A. we had a very relaxing weekend get away in Newport where we shopped, ate out, swam, and visited. Not much planned, but that's the way I like it! The weekend held lots of laughs, good food, and a surprise visitor in our Jacuzzi.....yikes! (Let's just say an old man skinny dipping gave us all a scare! Luckily for us Natalie walked right up to him and asked him to leave!!)

The Zoo!

2010-02-03T14:47:00.000-08:00

Clara and Vivy enjoyed petting the sting rays but Dallin didn't want to get near them!
Is that the biggest turtle you've ever seen?
Avery is just happy to be out and about and you can always find her with a smile.
Clara helps Dallin pet the billy goat.

Petting the billy goats is always fun for the kidsChecking out the big Tortoise
The billy goats were ramming each other all in good play and it kind of scared Dallin
The elephant was very active, eating and playing and Dallin was very curious about it.
Vivy and Clara say Cheese, while Avery checks out the lizard and Dallin was very afraid of this big lizard and obviously did not want to be on it!
A few weeks ago I decided to take my kids to the Phx Zoo before our pass expired. It was so much fun to see Dallin's new interest in all the animals. He was absolutely fascinated by each exhibit and it made me happy to see him learning and growing.

Our fabulous four

2010-01-24T22:14:00.001-08:00

Vivy, Dallin, Avery, and Clara at grandma's house just after Christmas! We had a wonderful trip, fun times with family, and we ALL believe in Santa because he even came to Jaren and I! Grandma's house is magical!

- Posted from my iPhone

2010-01-22T13:38:00.001-08:00

- Posted from my iPhone

2010-01-22T13:35:00.000-08:00

- Posted from my iPhone

The ride!

2010-01-20T13:04:00.000-08:00

Well we got to visit my Grandpa Anderson again, and Dallin is quickly taking to Grandpa's form of entertainment! Grandpa had a quadruple heart bypass surgery a few months ago, and he is supposed to exercise by walking laps around his home 3 times with the walker. When Grandpa had Dallin hop up on the walker to go for a ride he was so excited!!! He kept saying, "BIKE, Grandma!! BIKE Grandma!" because he can't say Grandpa yet so he calls him Grandma. I think it makes Grandpa laugh every time. It is so cute and think these two a pals now.

Happy Christmas, & New Year!

2010-01-18T21:47:00.000-08:00

Well all of you friends and family, I am a slacker so here is the card I want to send to you! We had a wonderful 2009 year and have been very blessed with a beautiful new baby girl Avery, healthy children, a firm testimony in the gospel, and a great job. I hope that you all are doing well too and that you had a wonderful Holiday season! More pictures of our skiing adventures to come stay tuned!

I miss my Grandma Anderson

2010-01-18T20:53:00.000-08:00

My sweet Grandma Vivian passed away just before Thanksgiving. I hate that she is gone! I miss her outgoing personality, her vivacious laugh, and how she took care of me and everyone else around her. My Grandma is the funniest person I know and I will forever be a better person because of the example she set for me. She worked hard to serve others, fight for the rights that she believed in, and she was known for her prayers and faith! If I ever needed help she would pray in my behalf and because she was so specific and fervent, many great blessings have come as a result. I love how she and my Grandpa share the perfect love story, and they always put one another first! My Grandma is so talented; she taught me how to make raspberry & strawberry jam (my personal favorite), can peaches, and do temple/genealogy work. She was very faithful in the gospel and had a passion for researching, and putting together her genealogy. I had the wonderful opportunity to live with her for a year when Jaren was attending his first year of dental school. That was such a fun time being with her and Grandpa because they would always feed us and tell us stories of my dad when he was growing up! She is an amazing person and I know that because of the Plan of Salvation I will be with her again. I know that she is happy and has returned with our Heavenly Father and will continue to watch over me.

I love you Grandma!

Our Disney visit!

2009-12-05T09:04:00.000-08:00

We took a trip with Jaren's work to Disneyland & called it Vivy's birthday!
Then we did a birthday thing with some of Vivy's old friends...more pics to come when I download them :)

The grand canyon

2009-12-05T08:59:00.001-08:00

Jaren's sister Emily were taking a trip to the Grand Canyon so we decided last minute to crash their vacation since we had never been. It was so breathtaking!!!
All the cousins loved spending time together, hiking site seeing, and swimming at the pool at the hotel!
Careful not to fall of the edge....it's a long way down!!! Norma, Megan, Jaxon, Abby, Emily, Olivia, Clara, Jaren, Dallin, Kayla, Britney, Avery, and Vivy, (and of course Kevin is behind the camera! )

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-20T11:46:00.001-07:00

Follow the yellow brick road, because for this Halloween we're off to see the Wizard! Dallin, Vivy, Avery, & Clara!

Now let's see if we can convince these cute kids to wear the same costumes the night of trick-or-treating!

Jaren as Wolverine, and myself as Elphaba or the Wicked witch of the west for our Friend's Halloween party. Clara & Vivy and Dallin who is sleeping in this photo are sporting their Halloween jammies that I like to get them each year since their birthday's are October!

We have Andi as the candy land peppermint queen, Hillary the angel, Brit the witch, Christina a butterfly with her baby unicorn, and Dani the fairy!! What cute girls and a fun party!

Careful X-man you might stab pink panther & pop our sumo man Seth!!

Blessing Avery!

2009-10-18T22:28:00.000-07:00

Avery's blessing dress & bonnet. I thought she looked like a little porcelain doll! Grandma & Grandpa Jensen were in town so we blessed our little baby.

Jaren gave Avery a beautiful blessing and I am always touched by the sweet words he blesses our children with.

Most of Jaren's family was in town for Kayla's baptism so we blessed our baby too. This way they were able to participate. It was so much fun to have them.

Avery is zonked out! Sweet kisses from her mom!

I'm back!

2009-10-18T22:07:00.001-07:00

Okay everybody, I"m back & still alive. I just haven't found the time to blog since baby #4 has kept me super busy! Dallin enjoys watching the girls play soccer although he'd rather be out on the field kicking the ball himself. The gatorade is a distraction so I don't have to chase him all around!

Baby Avery is such a good baby, I think because she has to be knowing she's #4!

Vivy at soccer practice, getting ready to kick the ball. She loves soccer and enjoys the games they play and scoring goals!

Clara at soccer too, only she wasn't as interested in it as Vivy. She said she needs new shoes for the game and then she will do it more!

Vivy loves to help out and hold her baby sister!! She is so good to always give her her binki and sing to Avery when she cries & it is too precious. The other day Avery was crying while I was busy doing something and Vivy exclaimed, "That's it Mom, she can't take it anymore...HELP the baby!" Okay little miss mom :) I thought

Clara also is a big help with holding Avery and putting her to sleep when I need a free hand. She absolutely loves her little sister & I can't wait until Clara can change diapers hehe!!

Avery Elizabeth Jensen is here!

2009-07-20T23:39:00.000-07:00

Just three days old and already the princess of the house! My sister-in-law Katy did a photo shoot and took the most gorgeous pictures of little Avery. Here are just 2 to share!

Swimming lessons!

2009-07-09T23:08:00.000-07:00

Dallin, Vivy, and Clara all excited about swimming lessons taken at our community center. The only problem is that Dallin gets quite frustrated that he's not included in the swim lessons. Vivian completed all of the requirements except put her face in the water, while Clara wondered why she was in the little kid class. I thought starting them out together in level 1 would help them both be more confident if they were together.

Vivian's back float, with a little resistance but still smiling!

Clara doing her back float with ease!

Getting those kicks down is very important.

Clara is already swimming all over the place and Vivy is getting more used to the water. They have loved their swim lessons especially the fun games they play! Then we come home and play them in our own pool. We are all glad to jump in the cold water to escape this hot summer!!!

Horse back riding!

2009-06-25T15:41:00.000-07:00

Jordan is fixing up Bailey and Dallin for a fun horseback ride! Dallin thought this was so much fun. He loved petting the main and moving Bailey's hand off the horn so he could hold on all by himself. Vivy, Jordan, Bailey, and Dallin clopping along, and loving every minute of the ride!

Bailey and Dallin riding Ivy

Vivy riding Hopey, but she called him Coco. Alex didn't seem to mind.

Clara riding Ivy

The other weekend we got to visit Aunt Sue & Uncle Jeff and all their cute girls. Jordan, Alex, and Bailey took our kids horseback riding and they absolutely loved it! We always love visiting them because they let us ride horses, feed the cows, collect chicken eggs, play with kittens in the barn, sit on their dogs, and pick out a prize turkey for Thanksgiving!! That's not even all, Susan made us homemade bread, with homemade strawberry jam, and Jeff made us fish tacos (from alaska) with a secret recipe sauce on top. Who wouldn't want to come to this Anderson home and never leave!!!

Soulja "BELLY" #2

2009-06-21T18:57:00.000-07:00

Well because I am prego with another Soulja Belly, and my brother Jeremy who just left on a mission loved doing this dance over and over and over again for several months straight...I thought it appropriate to do a little dance for him!! 4 more weeks and this baby girl will come out dancing like her mama!! Can't wait, maybe this will help me to go into labor! The sooner the better!

Farewell Jeremy!

2009-06-08T08:48:00.001-07:00

This is the whole family 7 siblings, spouses, and grandchildren, all trying to pose for one good picture before Jeremy is gone to Italy for 2 years! Notice we are sitting on the porch swing that the boys made!

Elder Jeremy with all his nieces and nephews. We really enjoyed his wonderful farewell talk, and cello piece, and the food at this gathering!

All of the grand children minus the baby girl in my belly that will be joining us in 6 weeks!

Justin, Jeremy, & Brit at the Las Vegas Temple

We had the wonderful opportunity to attend the temple with my parents, all seven siblings, and our spouses, and a few other family members, and friends one time with Jeremy before leaving on his mission. This was very neat to be there with our whole family. Just a little glimpse of heaven!

Cabin Craziness!

2009-06-08T08:27:00.001-07:00

Eric, Nate, Ben, and Jaren made the coolest log porch swing for the cabin out of fallen logs from around the cabin. They spent several nights until 1,2,& 3 a.m to complete it. I'll post the finish product in the next post.

Clara & Luke on the tire swing, weeeee!!

Of course we can always count on Austin to catch a handful of horny toads!! Lily, Austin, and Clara are each holding one. I think he found 5 baby ones and 1 big daddy one. So are those still alive Sherry?

Vivy with our main course for the weekend, FISH!!! Grandpa was sure to be out fishing and we were happy to eat up the rainbow trout that he cooked so yummy all weekend!

Uncle Zach taking all the kids for a dune buggy ride. Do they all have seatbelts?....I don't think so! Clara, Austin, Aiden, & Luke, hold on for your life!

The twisted forest hike! Andrew, Vivy, Stephanie, Eric, Dallin, Ollie, Jaren, Lily, Clara, Jill, Justin. It was about to rain when we four wheeled over to this hike and luckily Jaren didn't get his vote to turn back b/c this hike is always worth it even if you do get stuck in a rainstorm!!

We made it say CHEESE!

Jill & Eric, how cute!!!

Top of the mountian!!! Brit, Vivy, Jill, & Steph! And there you have it that was our crazy & fun Memorial Day weekend at the cabin with all of the Anderson side of the family.

Disneyland Reunion!

2009-06-03T17:03:00.001-07:00

Grandpa Anderson and Dallin testing out the ocean water! Gotta love it when Grandpa is willing to follow your little one all around so you can lounge on the beach under the umbrella and just relax! Don't worry Vivy didn't get soaked like Jaclyn did on the bear mountain ride, I wonder why? Oh and those cowboy boots were perfect for helping Vivy attain the right height necessary to get on certain rides. You go cowgirl!

Dallin feeding the Disney Ducks

Austin, Vivy, & Grandpa on Thunder mountain!!

Clara splashing around in bugs land!

Luke & Clara: hands up cuz this here's the wildest ride in the west!

"C" is for Clara in California keeping it Cool!

These are the "ZAM" Dancers at the Disney parade, so of course Jaren had to take a picture because after working at Kidzaam...everything is ZAAM!

Luke, Jerermy, Nate, Austin, Andrew, Clara, Jill, Vivy, Eric, Dallin, Zach, Dad, & Britney all at Disneyland!!

Dad & Clara pigging out at the Golden Horseshoe Hill Billies show!

Conference weekend

2009-06-03T10:34:00.000-07:00

Dallin loves brooms, and finds them at any house we go to. Here he is in Grandma Baugh's shed finding the broom!

We had fun dates with Jaclyn & Ben. Jaclyn, Clara, Britney, Vivy!

Vivy shows grandma Vivian her scare from surgery!

Sunday morning session of conference and Grandma & Grandpa Anderson's house. Dallin, Britney, & Jaren.

Grandma Anderson with Clara & Dallin!

Clara gives her Grandma Clara Baugh a foot rub! I'm in line next!

Vivy & Uncle Zach!

Liz's rolls under those towels, and Thanks to Kathy for letting us bake them at her house! Yummy!

Grandpa Jensen & Vivy, "May I have this dance!"

Dallin, Vivy, & Clara with Grandpa Baugh.

Mom, Me & Grandma Baugh!

Grandma Jensen's famous & most delicious cinnamon rolls! The real reason we drove all the way up to utah on a spur of the moment. She makes them every general conference!!!

Brice & Jaren cooking halibut! Yum Yum!

All the kids love Uncle Keith. We loved hanging out with Brice & Kathy & Cousins!

Being at Grandpa's house is always best!

Grandpa & Dallin!

Jared, Jaren, Wayne, and Jim at our dental school brunch over at the Browns. What a fun visit this was. These guys don't miss a beat when they get back together reminiscing over old stories, and village green days!

Here's the whole clan kids included, and let me tell you that is no easy task getting everyone to stay put & look at the camera!!

Busy "BEES"

2009-05-18T09:58:00.000-07:00

We've had a lot going on for April & May & I just wanted to post an over view of my little BEES! Austin comes to visit! Austin and Dallin are buddies, and I'm thinking Dallin needs a brother because in this house he's out numbered with girls!Paisley & her family come to visit! Dates, & dinners was lots of fun with Mark, Anna, & Ethan, but for some reason I only have a picture of her. That's probably because she is so cute, the camera only points to her!!

While Nate, Sherry, Austin, Luke, & Alyssa were visiting we caught some lizards, had a b-day party, went to the museum & killed our bees! Talk about perfect timing...Nate came right when the bees decided to move in the eave of our roof & front tree. How nice is that that he brought his bee suit! (Or should I say Bought this bee suit!)

This huge clump is made up of all bees (not even any honeycomb in that bundle). This is the extra bee swarm trying to make a new home because they didn't all fit in the eave of our house.

Nate or Jaren? Up there dusting the bees, I think this is Nate but he did let Jaren in on a little of the action. There were 7 rows of honeycomb under all those bees. Now we have our food storage of honey for the year! Kidding!! BEE-ware!!

Another Lizard catch in the Jensen home! Don't worry we try to let them go just before they are looking like they won't survive another day. I think this one is named Iggy!

All though we are busy as bees around this house don't worry, Dallin has the cleaning & grocery shopping part covered. He's my little work bee!

...and when Dallin isn't helping he can usually BEE found standing on the table. Walking at 13 months wasn't exciting enough for him, and now he has taken up climbing!

Let's not forget about Clara & the 2nd tooth that she lost on Friday 5/15/09!! She had Dad pull it out and lucky for her the tooth fairy brought her a dollar bill!! Now I'm just wondering where that next tooth is going to fit?

Cute find!

2009-05-17T11:19:00.000-07:00

So today I'm browsing around looking for cute baby craft sewing ideas & came across this site: http://www.babybugcreationsllc.com/
Baby Bug Creations has some cute handmade baby items & a give away right now, so check it out! I'm going to get some "bug legs" for my expecting little girl.

These boots were made for walkin'

2009-04-29T21:33:00.000-07:00

If any of you know my Vivy, you know she has been seen in ONLY these boots for the past 7 or 8 months. Her little cousin Bailey handed them down to her and she's been wearing them ever since...come rain, snow, shine, church, horse riding, or just to sleep in!! Love this girl and her darling personality! I have no complaints because she can put them on herself with ease, and honestly I think she looks so stinkin' cute in them. I hope you never grow out of them Vivy; or we are in TROUBLE :)

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T23:57:00.001-07:00

Fancy Nancy Breakfast

2009-03-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

Vivy, Emry, & Clara out for a stupendous Fancy Nancy Breakfast at the Good Egg! These Posh girls are ready to Fancy Nancy it up at our mommy daughter date!

Vivy LOVED dressing up like the Children's Story book Fancy Nancy!

The whole gang eating out all Fancy! Not only did we get lots of looks, oohs & awes, some people from The Good Egg wanted to take our picture to put in their add!

Vivy, Emry, Clara, & Talia feeling sparkly & spirited!

What a fun idea my girlfriend CeCe put together for us all to enjoy! A Fancy Nancy Stupendous Breakfast...Everyone must dress fancy, even the moms!

Dallin's 1 yr. pictures

2009-03-21T16:22:00.000-07:00

Dallin Clapping :)

we were visiting family this week & Katy took some fun pictures for Dallin at a park where we fed ducks and played with cousins!

Dallin will stand up and take one or two steps but that is it!

I think Clara was trying to either cool off or flash the ducks :)

Vivy, Dallin, and Clara walking by the pond.
Clara, Lily, Dallin, and Vivy, taking a rest after our walk.
Say Cheese Vivian!!

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-16T14:23:00.000-07:00

Watch out, we might try to pinch you if you aren't wearing green!!

Bunny #3!

2009-03-03T19:29:00.000-08:00

Dallin is curious about our new pet. Clara named her Crystal, like everything else! She loves that name & says my new baby will be called that and she occassionaly asks me to call her Crystal :) I think it is so cute!

Clara loves her new bunny, lets hope we can keep her alive longer than the last 2!

Alex, Clara, & Vivy enjoying Crytal the bunny.

Can I throw in the towel?

2009-03-01T21:01:00.000-08:00

Is it possible to quit your job? I guess not when you're the mom, right! Seriously though, I am feeling very tired and frustrated with my kids who are sick, throwing tantrums, screaming, ordering me around, calling me mean, not eating their dinner, making big messes & not helping to clean up, pooping everywhere, and driving me CRAZY!
We just had an enrichment which was a Mad hatter birthday party for the relief society & one of the talks was on how to take the mad out of being a mom...what perfect advice and inspiration that I'm presently unable to master!

I love my kids, don't get me wrong, but I wish those little sleeping ones would stay that way for a couple of days so I can REST!
I'm sure it's just all the prego hormones I've got. I sometimes think "Here comes another one and I don't even have control over the 3 I've got!" Oh well, tomorrow is another day & I'm sure I"ll be ready to tackle it all over again, cuz that's what we mammas do!
I guess I won't quit, especially in these bad economic times :). I'll just say a prayer, have a mint choc. chip shake, & go to bed!

"A magical place" - Clara jensen

2009-02-26T13:34:00.000-08:00

We went to our favorite place with Brice & Kathy's family! Hanging out with them is always fun! Us at Disneyland, oh how we miss living close!

This is cold & wet sand!!! Pick me up PLEASE!

The whole family collected some seashells b/c Vivy kept asking to go to the beach. She doesn't quite understand that it isn't down the street anymore!

Need a lifeguard? I have three that will work for food!...Did that say keep off OOPS :)

drum roll....

2009-02-20T15:11:00.001-08:00

Sugar and spice and everything nice....or should I say another drama queen! Yep, it's a girl!

Happy Birthday Dallin!

2009-02-17T14:33:00.000-08:00

I think I'll kick back because it's my birthday!

I can't believe our little Dallin is already one! I love this little guy to death. He is such a happy baby who smiles, kisses, loves to climb, babble, and give snuggles. Dallin lights up the room with his loving personality. He has a fast crawl, and a contagious laugh. I love it when he self entertains or decides he wants to climb up my leg for me to hold him. Happy Birthday to the sweetest baby ever!

BaBy #4

2009-02-05T17:17:00.000-08:00

What a cute little baby I have growing! This is the first ultra sound, so I thought I'd share it. Clearer ones to come. Soon I'll find out if it is a boy or a girl so stay tuned!

Cabin fun!

2009-02-02T09:10:00.000-08:00

Grandma pulled Dallin around on a little red sled and he loved the ride! Grandpa is Clara's #1 ski instructor & boy did she do good. She didn't fall at all and she called herself the golden skier with that new shiny gold coat!

Grandpa & Clara on the ski lift on their way to the top of the mt.

Clara & Mom on riding the ski lift together, this was Clara's favorite part!

Clara with her little skis, golden coat, goggles & enjoying the ride. Why can't everyday be this good? (Oh, and I got that coat at the Children's Place outlet for $10, what a steal!)

Grandpa pulling the kids on the sled, about 50 times around. They could do this all day & never get bored.

Vivy, Clara, and Dallin lovin' the sled ride!! It put Dallin to sleep.

Clara & Vivy ready for the bumps & turns of the sleigh ride.

Grandma, Vivy, Clara, Dallin, and Jaren hanging out at the cabin! Giddy up, Dad!

Clara and Dad overlooking the mountains on their snowmobile excursion!! They drove the fastest!

Mom & Vivy, checking out the view on their snowmobile ride!Dallin fell fast asleep when snuggled up to Grandma! Thanks to her for watching all the kids so we could ski all weekend! It was a blast.

Britney & Jaren ready to snowboard and catch some big air!!

Britney's ity bity brity air. (Jaren didn't quite photograph the high point & the grab!)

Jaren's BIG air!!

Vivy's make over!

2009-01-21T18:04:00.000-08:00

Vivy decided to do her own make-up this morning and when I found her you can imagine I was a little MAD! Vivy tries to explain, "Mom I am really sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" When I said, "It's okay Vivy, you look really pretty like a princess just don't do it again!" She reluctantly gave a smile for the camera.

Now she's thinking, "Yeah, I guess I am pretty cute, here's a real smile!"

No it's not Halloween, but look at the job Vivian did with the mascara, & concealer! You would never know that she too had applied blush, lip gloss, lip liner, & eye shadow! I just had to laugh :)

Cute cousins!

2009-01-21T17:46:00.001-08:00

Ethan, Paisley, & Clara

Vivian, Ethan, Clara

Paisley, & Clara

Gone shopping! Clara, Dallin & Ethan

We were so excited to have Jaren's brother Mark & Anna, & their cute kids, Ethan & Paisley visit us on their time off! It was so good to see them and spend the week hanging out together. I think Vivy enjoyed her new buddy "Efan!" (Ethan); and Clara doted over baby Paisley the entire week! We are glad they came all the way out because we don't see them often and where they live, anyone would freeze to death. Thanks for the fun visit, and come back to visit the sun anytime!

Clara lost her 1st tooth!

2009-01-14T18:43:00.000-08:00

Yesterday night Clara said to Jaren, "Look Dad my tooth is wiggling and it's going to fall out!" Jaren of course was thrilled and got all excited about pulling it out. He said, "Let me look at it, do you want me to pull it out right now?" I got kind of sad thinking my little girl is growing up and said, "Don't you dare!" Clara agreed with me because she said she was scared it was going to hurt. So he told her keep wiggling it and soon you will be able to pull it out yourself. Well, Jaren was still impatient so he said let me help you just a little. Sure enough he gave it just the right tug to make it really loose, but still letting Clara do the final pull. Out it came and boy was she excited, until she looked in the mirror and started crying because she saw all the blood & said it hurt. After Jaren put some gauze on it and we cleaned it off to put in her tooth fairy box, she was all excited again. The Tooth Fairy left her a five dollar bill with a note saying you can keep this tooth because it is your first so that you can show all your friends at school. The next morning she rushed into my room all excited and exclaimed, "The tooth fairy came and brought me a dollar and he left my tooth!!" She spent the whole day smiling in the mirror proud of her accomplishment & keeping that tooth in her pocket. What a cutie!

Christmas with SNOW!

2009-01-09T19:05:00.000-08:00

Clara, Dallin & Vivy sledding in the snow day, or night, snow, or shine! Clara is ready for more!

The snow sledding ramp Jaren & Kevin built behind Grandma & Grandpa's house!

Ready, set, SLED!!! And they did this over, and over again & didn't care how cold and wet they were all getting.

Vivy poses for a snow picture...Cheese!

We were very excited to go and visit Jaren's family for Christmas and greet his brother Keith return from his mission in Jacksonville, Florida. The kids loved the snow, sledding, making snowman, Christmas, & playing with all their cousins. I only have a few pics b/c Uncle Kevin took most of the pics on his camera since he is the photography expert!

The Cruise!

2009-01-05T10:53:00.000-08:00

Don't forget your sunscreen!

Cabo and our ride over to lovers beach!

Kareoke was quite the hit & next time I'm charging for entertaining the whole cruise ship for the whole week!

My partner in crime when it came to Kareoking! I'm still singing Jill's hit me with your best shot!

Natalie is quite impressed by the male dancer's high kicks at the fine dining entertainment experience...

Fine Dining!

Is that an Iguana on my back?

Rod parasailing high in the sky!

The gang, minus Paul :) Shopping for bargains ! Judd, Tony, Jill, Jaren, Brit, Bekah, Nat, Tony, Rod, & Liz

We went to the Mexican Riviera! It was a great trip and lots of fun with family and friends!

JIll's count down!!

2008-12-14T19:33:00.000-08:00

How cute is this picture....I wish I could say it was Jaren and I but we weren't that clever in our dating days to take such a romantic picture! This is my sister Jill & her almost hubby Eric!! 2 more weeks until = time & eternity for these two love birds. I can't believe these two high school sweethearts are tying the knot, I had so much fun at Jill's wedding shower & I can't wait for the Anderson dance party at the reception! It will be a blast!

Dallin is 9 months

2008-12-02T13:07:00.000-08:00

Dallin had his 9 month check up today and here are his stats:

Height: 28 1/4 - 41%

Weight: 16 1/2 - 1 %

Head Circumference: 46 3/4 - 84%

Teeth: 4 teeth (and he knows how to use them)

Even though our little Dallin barely made the charts for his weight, we can tell he his going to be very smart like his MOM because his brain is very large! I only say he'll be smart like me because it took me 4 1/2 yrs. to finish school verses Jaren's 10yrs! Haha We love our little Dallin that loves to climb up the stairs and then roll down. He has a quick crawl & loves to pull himself up to standing and walk along the couches. He is such a good baby & I just can't get enough of him!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-19T13:03:00.000-08:00

These are all the things I am thankful for! My little pumpkins :)Dallin & Vivy sitting on pumpkins! This is 2 days before Vivy's surgery, now her belly is no more & she's ready to fill it up at our Thanksgiving Feast!
My littlest pumpkin!

Strike a pose Clara!

worth mentioning!

2008-11-14T20:23:00.000-08:00

"So You Think You Can Dance" The whole group, closing dance.
Bleeding love brief case dance...One of my favorites!

Clara fell asleep after 3 dances...Jaren, Mom, and Me! We left the concert dancing to the parking lot!

"No Air," another of my favorites with my two favorite dancers Joshua & Katie!

So a while back Jaren, my mom, and I all went to the "So you think you can dance concert." I never got a chance to tell you all how amazing it was. Seriously, this was my favorite dance concert ever...besides the ones I used to dance in haha! Here are some of the pictures.

Happy Birthday Jaren!

2008-11-13T13:03:00.000-08:00

Well, it's that time of year again & Jaren is one year older and wiser too...I hope! We celebrated by having Jaren's two sister's Emily & Bekah & their families over for Sunday dinner. We always have a lot of fun with them, and it is nice to live close so we can share these holidays with family! Jaren is such a handsome and wonderful husband! He is my best friend & the greatest Dad. The kids mall him when he comes home, and he loves to spend time with all of us as a family. He works hard to fix all the children's teeth & never complains! When he comes home and I say, "Honey, I've had a hard day & I'll I've been listening to are my kids crying and screaming!" He'll reply, "I've been listening to crying kids all day too!" And, regardless of what happened at work he takes the kids and plays with them to give me a break. Jaren makes us laugh and he loves to buy new cords? I don't know why, maybe because he's handy and can rig just about anything. He has a strong testimony in t he gospel and he is an example because of how faithful he is. I appreciate him and love him so much. Oh, and he's also #1 in my eyes because he slept more nights at the hospital with Vivy then I did! He doesn't always get his birthday wish...maybe next year he'll get those tickets to the Phoenix Suns that he wanted, sorry! For now he'll have to be satisfied with a blue ray movie! Happy Birthday Jaren - We love you!

Family

2008-11-12T08:57:00.000-08:00

We were busy with Vivian's surgery & getting her well, but we wanted to put in a little post saying we are grateful that the proposition protecting families turned out in our favor! We had a wonderful stake conference just before voting time, and we were urged to protect the moral issues in our society, and we were reminded of how important and sacred marriage is! We believe marriage should be between a man and a woman.

*I also want to say thanks to Kevin & Emily for taking our family photo! We love them & it was NO easy task! :)

Happy Birthday Clara!

2008-11-09T20:29:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my little girl is 5! That went by fast! I love my little Clara who is such a good helper to me. She loves to make sure Dallin isn't going up the stairs, and she shares and helps Vivy play her way. They are best buds! Clara loves to ride her bike, dance, and draw. She said to Jaren today, "Aren't I a good artist?" Then during family home evening she told us, "I can be righteous by cleaning up my room, toys, make the bed, do the dishes and everything else so that moms don't have to do all the things...that would make my mom very happy!" You got that right Clara! She is a beautiful girl with her big blue eyes and her long brown hair, and sweet smile. She teaches me so much & she takes care of her younger siblings. I love you! Of course her favorite thing is chocolate - that's my girl!

We celebrated with her cousins by having a picnic in the park, breaking a homemade present pinata that Jaren made fun of but Emily, and Bekah gave their approval, saying it was cute. Then we fed the ducks in the pond, ate cupcakes, and went rock climbing with everyone. She said it was a cool party!

Trick-or-treat!

2008-11-01T00:58:00.000-07:00

My mom came out to help with the kids and Vivy who is out of the hospital and doing great! We love having my Mom and hate it when she leaves! She made our chili for our neighborhood chili cookoff, and passed out candy so Jaren and I could take the kids around. Vivy was pushed around in a stroller to trick-or-treat & didn't stay awake very long! Clara got scared at the spooky houses and kept saying "I'm not scared, I"m not scared, I'm not scared!" Great positive thinking.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T09:18:00.000-07:00

We are excited to go trick-or-treating, and participate in our neighborhood chili cook off! Jaren was Buzz light year at work & I will be Jesse from Toy story & we hope to land some big candy bars tonight when we go door to door. More pics to come! Best WITCHES & have a SCARY Halloween Boils & Ghouls!

Bye Bye!

2008-10-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

Our little skinny Vivy is back in business! Clara & Vivy happy to be able to play outside again! Vivy advanced yesterday to solids and kept all of her food down & her oral pain medication down with out the zofran to keep her from being nauseated so they sent us home! Vivy is still in a little pain with her tummy but from the looks of it you would never know. She a few bites of pancakes, eggs, and milk this morning and was obviously in heaven! We're sure our little Vivy will have no trouble putting on the weight that she lost from her tumor. I just can't get over how thin she is!

WAVE BYE-BYE to your Hospital Bed :)

GET ME OUTA THIS PLACE! ~vivian

WE are OUTA here...zoom, zoom, says Dallin!

Vivy makes us laugh

2008-10-26T11:25:00.000-07:00

Vivian makes Aunt Sue laugh too! Clara and Vivian being silly! Clara is a good sister to play with Vivy & make sure she is happy!

Dallin was Vivy's best bud through it all since he nurses he spent most of the time in the hospital too!

Vivian is such a cute girl, and keeps us laughing even though her tummy hurts & she's stuck here in the hospital. While playing with her in the play room Jaren was following her around to push her IV pack to where ever she went. She turned around annoyed and said, "Dad, stop following me!" We just looked at each other and started laughing. Then today after being in the hospital for a week, Clara said she wanted to go to the play room and started to leave. Vivy got all upset that she was leaving her behind and cried as she tried to get up, "Yeah, GET ME OUT OF THIS PLACE!" maybe you had to be there but it was hilarious and Jaren, his mom, and I all couldn't stop laughing.

POOPIN' PARTY!

2008-10-24T20:52:00.000-07:00

Thankfully we had Grandma Jensen here to help entertain Vivy, take shifts sleeping with her and holding Dallin in between nursings. We love you! Green Jell-O is the first thing Vivy got to eat after 5 days of eating nothing! Boy was she excited!

Vivian pooped, and Jaren and I never thought we would be so excited to be cleaning up a big diarrhea mess in the night! Sorry for the gross details but honestly, this is quite a milestone for little Vivy. This means that her system is starting to work again. She got put back on clear liquids but each time after she tastes jello, or sips chicken broth she sits up and heaves like she will vomit. So far so good and nothing has come up. If she can keep these clear liquids down, and keep pooping, then maybe in a day she can progress to non-clear liquids like yogurt and cream of chicken soup! Yeah doesn't that sound yummy. Our little Vivy remains happy and although she looks like a little skeleton she still wants to go trick-or-treating this Halloween as a witch! Thanks for your prayers.

A hard day for Vivy

2008-10-23T22:12:00.000-07:00

Hailey, Vivy's cousin comes to visit, and she brings her special things to help pass the time Clara visits her sister. Vivian is now asking for Clara to come and play with her. They are little playmates all day long, and Clara is a little to rambunctious to keep there at the hospital.

Today Vivian woke up vomiting green again, which means she is throwing up bile from her intestines. They ordered an x-ray, and it showed complete obstruction of the intestine again! Now she can't have any water and she may have to have the tube through her nose again, which is very painful for her when they put it in. The surgeon finally got back to us and told us that the obstruction was probably from inflammation from the surgery. Vivy threw up green again in the afternoon, and her whole day was spent sleeping or just lying in the bed. She couldn't even mustard up enough energy to hold the play dough today although she said she wanted to play with it. It is hard to see her do so well one day, and be active, and then be so out of it the next. I guess it's all part of this healing process. We just keep praying that she will recover well from all of this.