Sharp Stuff

Updates on Josh and Jacy

2011-03-04T16:41:00.003-07:00

I hope I can't remember everything and I don't have much time, but I can respond to questions.

As of today the sum of it is:

Josh-- not doing as well as we thought. He is up and around, but still having serious nerve pain down his leg. After a checkup with the doctor last Friday, Josh was put on some more medication and given two weeks. If he doesn't get better by then, he will have to have another MRI. There is possibly more 'stuff' leaking out and pushing on the nerves. If this is the case he will need to go back in for surgery and have the disc fused.

As we were getting ready to walk out the door and go up to Provo for Josh's followup, we got a call from our family doctor. He wanted us to take Jacy in to the hospital for a few blood tests and told me to pack an overnight bag because there was a possibility she would be admitted. Having been through a similar situation we were pretty sure we would be staying in the hospital. Luckily Josh was able to find a friend to drive him to his appointment to find out his not so great but still need to know News.

Jacynda-- at Jacy's 2-week appt. She weighed 6.01 lbs. We came in for a check 2 days later and she weighed 6.02 lbs. Her bili was also climbing which was making her sleep less. We went into the hospital expecting IV's and things to help her gain weight, but after 2 days and double time feeding and supplementing, we were able to get her weight up to 6.08. Another 2 days later we went in for a weight check 6.04 OOOOHHHH!! What a blow. While waiting for the doctor I fed her. We hadn't done anything different than in the hospital. After I fed her she weighed 6.11 after checking it 3 times in 3 places and still getting 6.11 we decided the first one was wrong and to follow up with another weight check. One day later she was 6.10. She looks good and is no longer yellow. We have an appointment with someone (gastro people I think?) To see if there is something else going on. I keep thinking if we can just get on an up hill, but it has been quite a battle to get there. All of my time is spent with her right now. I may have 10-20 minutes to help someone get dressed, do a hair-do, eat, blog (ha ha), but it goes by very quickly.

Mommy Story #5

2011-02-22T09:59:00.002-07:00

This post is for those of you who like reading the "birthing story". If you don't, then don't read. I didn't think it would be to graphic, but maybe it is? Actually, I can't remember much but I do remember this was probably the most fun & silly birth most of us in the room have ever experienced.

First of all I had a walking epidural. Yes "walking"! It was awesome!!! and for those of you that deliver at the same local hospital I do, there's a new guy in town (anesthesiologist). He was great. I was able to walk to the bathroom with little or no help whenever I needed.

I remember feeling like it was taking FOREVER!!, but really...I started the 'pit' just before 2. Dr. F phoned to say he would be up in 20 min. to break my water around 3. We had Josh on the way, and were placing bets to see who would make it there first. Elaine, Josh, and Dr. all walked in the room together. Dr. F broke my water around 4:15ish. There was LOADS of it. Seriously! Anyway, I was expecting everything to happen within 20 minutes like it has before, but it didn't. I don't think I had enough contractions at that point to have things progress that rapidly.

We had been making jokes all day, cuz that is what we do you know. ;) and when Dr. F came in and asked me if another Dr. could 'catch the baby', it took me a few minutes to realize he was serious. Well when it finally came time that Dr. F said we could start pushing, I was so relieved. We had watched them set up and they had this big plastic garbage bag that catches everything else, but the way Dr. N was holding the bag, it looked like he was planning to catch the baby in the plastic garbage bag. We joked about it for a little bit. They really have all this new stuff since I had my last baby 20 months ago. Then on the second pushing try Dr. N was standing about two feet away and I was pushing and I said, "well aren't you gonna catch." It was pretty funny. I am not sure what was said during the next push, I only remember laughing so hard I was crying (really). Everyone in the room was laughing (except maybe Josh and Dr. F). We called that a no go for pushing. I remember Dr. N saying that the baby was moving down a teeny bit. SERIOUSLY!!! I was not about to push for two hours! The nurse asked if I would be willing to try something new (of course I was). She laid me back a little and had my grab my knees. One push later the head was out. Then instead of having me to one more big push, Dr. N had me push very slowly to help from tearing and stuff. I really liked it better. A couple of things to remember in the future: Laying in that position totally moves the pubic bone out of the way and makes things way easier for the baby and mommy, and it's totally ok to push slowly.

Dr. N said there were big shoulders and Josh said, "that means it's a boy". With the exception of me, everyone else in the room had already made up their minds it was a girl. That is the only time I can recall Josh there. I know he was standing by me the whole time, but he must have been in a lot of pain. Well Josh did get to cut the cord too.

I wish I could remember all the jokes and wise cracks. They have always made delivery way more fun, but this time was exceptionally fun. Of course all the jokes stopped immediately when "the baby girl" was out. She was every one's focus and priority.

It's my Birthday!!!

2011-02-19T10:26:00.006-07:00

Happy Birthday Jinaya!!!

Jinaya celebrated her 4th birthday in January. Because of all the events happening, Nana & Papa and Grama were all at our family party.

Nana helps Jinaya put the candles on the cake.

It was a super yummy white cake with creme filling.

Grama took Jinaya to pick out her cake. Jazel from Enchanted. Doesn't it look great!?!?!?

Jinaya is in Heaven with her new pillow pet!

Back Surgery

2011-02-19T09:38:00.002-07:00

Woosh! What a ride! Besides ER visits, croup, weekly OB appointments, and twice a week hospital visits for NSTs (non stress tests) and ultrasounds, we also had a back surgery! We knew Josh needed surgery (we've been through this kind of pain before). Josh actually had this same surgery 4 years ago. I was 6 months pregnant with Jinaya. Josh had an MRI at the beginning of January. I immediately went into panic about when we could even plan for a surgery. Finally I turned the timing over to Heavenly Father and honestly Never thought about it again. We spent the rest of the month trying to get into a back specialist. Being on Self-pay makes it hard to see anyone. A lot of rigamarol later, we ended up seeing the back doctor in the ER. The first thing they asked if we were on the wrong floor, Labor and Delivery is on the fifth floor. ha ha. We soon realized how serious Josh's condition was. Josh was admitted into the hospital that night and had the back surgery the following night. It was late like 6:30pm.
I had the suspicion of surgery when they guy in the next bed was getting ready to go in. Then when the PA asked Josh when he last ate, I was sure. Josh was a little skeptical about the timing, and I just thought we already have everything set up for me to have the baby, it is very convenient for our parents who are already taking off work to help us out. We also learned that we had one of the best doctors in the nation. We were extremely blessed from Heavenly Father to be able to have this procedure. Josh did extremely well, up and walking around, we were ready to go home by 11am the next morning. (We did have a birthday party to get to.)I am so thankful for neighbors I can call at the very last minute to take care of my kids way into the night. I came home and took care of things while Josh 'hung-out' in the hospital. Plus I had to go in for a NST & BIO. My mom came up really late that night and stayed that weekend with the kids. Josh's parents also came down and took our two little ones, Jaythan and Jinaya, home with them for the week. What a lovely week. Our two older children learned a lot of valuable responsibility. Josh was so pleasant and nice. The week was very slow for me, but I kept busy with hospital and doctor visits.
Well Josh started to get into a little more pain after about 9-11 days. (our baby was born on day 10.) On day 11 I met him in the Ultrasound room at the hospital to check Josh for blood clots. He looked clear, but had the same pain symptoms as blood clotting. Josh finally was able to talk with the neurosurgeons office and found out that he had a couple more "-ectomy's" than we thought. They worked more on his bones and moved his nerves around more than a regular discectomy. Also, he had some pain meds right inside his back after the surgery that wore off at about a week and a half. Josh is still recovering. It is a long process. His progress is measured in millimeters rather than milestones. He can't lift 25 lbs. or more from the floor or above is waist for about 6 months. (not a typo) Jaythan is right around 25 lbs. and it has been quite a chore not to pick him up or get Jaythan off things he's been climbing on.
The pictures are of me taking the stitch out of Josh's back. The Doc just did one long stitch with no knots. It was pretty cool to take out. The scar left behind is healing very nicely.

Cutting The Tree

2011-01-21T12:39:00.004-07:00

Jinaya, Jaxon, and Josh trek up the mountain in search of a wonderful Christmas tree to bring home.

Nana brought Papa Rob down special for the occasion. He took all the pictures.

Jaxon does the cutting with his saw.

This is the perfect tree. It looks small but we still had to cut a foot or two.

The Picnic in the back of the truck was the Best Part! Yummy Hot Chocolate!!!!

This was Josh's first time cutting down his own tree. He enjoyed it so much I think it's the start of a new tradition.

Christmas Letter 2010

2010-12-22T16:44:00.001-07:00

December 2010

Hello All!

We have had a busy year once again. Hasn’t everybody? We have spend the past few months trying to slow things down and enjoy each day we have together as a family. However, the hustle and bustle of the holidays sure has the Sharps going quickly from day to day again.

The beginning of the year seems like decades away. I can hardly recall what happened. We had our home under contract April 30^th (yay! Finally!), packed up the house, and finished up school in May. June brought swimming lessons, cheer camp, basketball camp, packing and unpacking. After weeks of waiting, we finally had a place to move into. The home we live in now was being rented, so we moved into the basement first and by August we had filled up the home. What a blessing this has been for each member of the Sharp family. We are thankful for the many blessings of a home each day. I can really talk forever about the house, but you are welcome to visit, we have room!!!

Josh has been a very busy man with more household chores. Of course he is in heaven with all the work, chopping wood, building fires, (I think even mowing the lawn and trimming the trees). He even had to do most of the unpacking since two days (not kidding) after we moved in I started getting very sick. We were surprised to find out baby #5 will be here in early February. This has been my sickest pregnancy and I spent most of the summer in bed. With Christmas just around the corner, I have been put on a strict diet due to gestational diabetes. SERIOUSLY!!!! So far baby is doing fine. Josh is also “dieting” with me and that makes things a lot easier.

Jaxon is in 2^nd grade and loves learning. He has grown quite a lot since the first of the year. He is no longer pinging off the walls all day long. Jaxon is excited to turn 8. He is excited to be baptized and more excited for scouts. The fact that both Mom and Dad are scout leaders seems to increase his excitement. He is becoming a great worker and helps whenever needed.

Jazmyne started Kindergarten this year. She loves school and learning all the new things about life. She is becoming a great reader and lately has been reading with her daddy. She has lots of friends in school and in our new neighborhood. Jazmyne is a great help with her younger siblings, although sometimes two mommies is too much. J

Jinaya is almost 4. As if the Sharp kids weren’t smart enough, Jina seems to be miles ahead of my plans. She surprises me daily with factual comments, letter names, and other over-her-head information. One would thing her mommy has taught her well, except in this case it is reverse. She is starting to adjust being the oldest at home, but she is still the “LITTLE SISTER”. Boo is the big sister. To argue with Jinaya is senseless. She always has very valid points.

18 month old Jaythan is FEARLESS!!! He climbs and jumps on everything! His favorite thing to do is climb onto the back of the couch or end table and jump to the couch. He has been doing this for the past 8 months. Nothing seems to stop him, not even a bloody nose. He loves basketball and football. Jeeps second favorite thing to do is sweep the floor. He is quite the daredevil, but has the most loving, caring spirit I’ve known. He is a “people person”, always concerned with others feelings.

Everyone has adjusted quite quickly to the new house and new friends. It is amazing the blessings that pour down when you put things into the Lords hands. We love this Christmas season when we constantly think of our Savior Jesus Christ, his birth, his life, his sacrifice. What a heart-warming privilege it is for each of us to have Him as our most precious gift.

We love you all!

Wishing you the happiest of holidays and the best of heaven in 2011.

For The Sharps, it already seems like the year is just beginning.

***BIG HUGS! ***

Josh, JoDee, Jaxon, Jazmyne,

Jinaya, Jaythan, and surprise baby #5

Pictures 2010

2010-11-04T16:16:00.005-06:00

Happy Halloween 2010

2010-11-03T17:32:00.004-06:00

Mommy's Moment of Thought

2010-10-27T16:33:00.004-06:00

I am blogging this just for me, so I don't forget. :)

Jeeps, Jina, and I were on our way to the doctor this morning. Jina decided she wanted to watch a movie and we were only a few miles away. "Can you see the temple?", I asked her trying to avoid the movie stuff. She looked desperately for a few moments. From a distance it is small, she was quite excited as the temple got bigger and bigger.

"You and Daddy got married there," said Jina. (it is quite common to have this discussion as we pass the temple. "....and I was there too," she added.
I replied, "when Daddy and I were sealed in the temple, you were in Heaven."
"I was there. I've been in there before, and you were there too. Me and You have been there before. I have been there with you."

I had no response, but instead thought about the times when I have been in the temple and felt the presence of a spirit who would be coming to our family. Although I can not decipher which child's spirit I have felt when, I do know they were preparing to come to our family. What a wonderful moment for me to reflect on today.

My Biggest Decision Ever!

2010-10-13T15:20:00.000-06:00

The answer to the biggest decision I ever made was the inner most desire of my heart. The struggle came from the outward, worldly desires and pressures. Why would anyone struggle against their own desires? I am thankful for a Father in Heaven who loves and knows me.

Lately a couple of people have said to me, "What a good Mommy you are." (well it could have just been my mom a few times) This is such a wonderful compliment and still I immediately think of all the things I ever do; bad and good, but mostly bad. I think I heard the phrase before conference to inspire the thinking and again yesterday to inspire the post. During General Conference the things that really stood out to me were about families, moreover the protection and teaching aspects. Even when President Uchtdorf talked about time, trials and the things that matter most. I felt really strongly about these precious children and the time we have with them.

It sure makes you feel the hustle and bustle of today's society when you think about that. I just felt the Holy Ghost reassure me "it's okay that my kids aren't involved in every good available activity." The most important time is what we have at home. During those times are when we become linked, knit, woven together. If you don't know, Josh and I had decided that our kids could do one extra activity starting at age 5 (provided the money is available) So far, it turns out Jax and Boo each have one thing one night a week for one hour. This is so wonderful!! I can say I know that football may cause a kink in the chain. My kids have never said to me "why can't I play Soccer or baseball when the city leagues come around, maybe because they've never been involved? But I, Me, the MOM, do sometimes get jealous of other families being so involved. What a stupid thing to be jealous over! It is at those moments I have that peaceful feeling "all is well". I wasn't even thinking about all that stuff when I started writing this, I guess sometimes things just come out anyway. ;)

Subject change for two seconds.... People always ask, "how do you like your house?" I usually say things like, "we love the space" or "my kids are in heaven", occasionally I will say, "we love the space it's bigger than what we had, but it isn't a huge house." Seriously like people can't hear the hint of negativity in there. I am sure at this point they are thinking, "Is she really complaining after where she was living before?" The thing is, I wanted a NEW Bigger 3000+ sq.ft. home. Really, I waited for that long can't I just have something newer. Keep in mind as you read that this was a purely internal struggle. I know that this home has been a HUGE HUGE blessing for my family. I seriously did not understand how it would feel. It feels like those times in your life when blessings are being poured down on you. (if you haven't had this before, you should take another look and count your blessings.) So I recognized the problem and addressed it in my prayers a day or two ago. My answer went something like this:

I was reflecting on my mom's comments from last night, "You are such a good mommy!" I thought there are things we give up to have something better. One of the biggest things I ever had to give up was a job. Working outside the home to help pay for things. There are so many things I loved about working. To name a few

Way more organized
Everything I did was for myself
sometimes it was to improve my mind and potential
sometimes it was simple tasks like keeping my own area clean (not 6 peoples areas)
I was able to have adult conversation
If I ran out of money, there was more coming in soon

I could list a lot of things that I really liked. When the decision to "quit" was discussed it was not light conversation. At the time I was having baby #2, we had been married 6 years, and had grown accustomed to a two person income. I had always wanted to be a stay at home mom and thought that would happen right away. When I had baby #1, I had to go back to work to make ends meet in our home. We had done it for so long that cutting off an entire income just wouldn't work. I went back part time 20 hours, then gradually that 20 became 25, and 25 hours became 30, and I kept picking up more. Why not? I was a good employee and I had the time. It was still a hard decision, even though it had been discussed and my husband was supportive, I had a rough time making the choice. The Prophets have counseled us on this subject and I knew what I felt was right. I really felt like Heavenly Father wanted to give me this blessing of staying home with my young children. He knows me! He knew then, and now, what the deepest desires of my heart were, are. With this choice to give up my job and additional income, I also gave up luxuries that cost money.

I chose to be with my kids over extra curricular activities, extra frivolous items, and extra sq. ft. on my house. (that makes my house sound small, it is the perfect size for our family.) I didn't realize at that point 5 1/2 years ago how much my kids would need me at home and how much the world is changing. 6 years ago, not everyone had cell phones, cell phones were just taking pictures and I don't think texting was very popular. That is just the phones, what does that say about the other advances in our lives, TV, music, internet, Satan's new temptations. This is WITHIN MY KIDS TIME! AHHH! Because I am home I can help my children with their homework, I do have the time for them to read to me, and to sit and listen, I do have the time to spend with each one individually on things they are struggling with, I do have the time to research on how to be a better mother, I do have the time for them. (even when I am sick in bed). I do have the time to throw together a last minute family home evening lesson, even when that means not doing the dishes for the night. I do have the time! Procrastination is a harsh temptation, but I try to remember I have the time. I also know that my kids are still young and little. As they get older and can make choices on their own opportunities, my time will be less and less. It is important to make the most of it.

So, that was that. I don't know if I even circled around to a point or not?

I want to say I know that some women have to work. I do realize your feelings and don't mean to hurt them. My own mother is the bread-winner in our home and my Dad works too. It is how their family works. My intentions for talking about this are always for the person who is struggling with the decision to quit work to be home with your family. I can't say I don't look back or there aren't times that I think about going back to a job, but I can say at those times I feel the Holy Ghost so very strongly reminding me how strong and powerful the spirit testified to me it was the right thing to do. I remember those feelings, I remember the spirit, I can not deny that. I really think Josh has the same types of internal feelings because if I mention to him, maybe I should find a job, he ALWAYS has a very firm "NO".

I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Pampered Chef

2010-10-13T15:17:00.001-06:00

I should also mention I am a consultant for The Pampered Chef and I can make a little extra money. I have made a commitment to never work this so much that it feels like a "job". When things start to get too busy, I usually back off pretty good. Lately I have enough stuff to do I haven't felt any pressure. ;)

Three Little Pigs - FHE

2010-09-29T15:57:00.003-06:00

This was super fun and now I have ideas to use more Fairy Tales and such in my Family Home Evening lessons.

We had been wanting to dedicate our home for quite sometime. I could never seem to "get it together" enough to follow through. During the Women's Conference, I had this bright idea to base it around the 3 little pigs story. I am not sure why some inspiration strikes at certain times, but I am sure that it came out of the blue. (None of the speakers talked about this.) I read the story first. Book Version Here (The funnest part of this is "not by the hair on my chinny chin chin" and dramatic voice inflections) My idea was to talk about different types of homes around the world. You can find images everywhere on the Internet. We talked about houses around us. We talked about our "old" house and how we were happy there and we could have stayed there. On their own, the kids brought up the "blessings" in the new house (2 bathrooms, etc.) We talked about ways to take care of our home (pick up toys, not color on the walls, fix parts when they get broken, etc.) Josh also brought up the point about the "big bad wolf" and what types of things are bad like the wolf that could try and get in. (satan and temptation).

I really liked this and if I were to do this lesson again, I would definitely compare the parts of a strong brick home with things to protect our house from the outside world. The straw and stick homes could be things that are good, well adjust it to your liking. It would also be super cute to make houses with marshmallows and toothpicks or whatever for a treat. (but we were short on time.)

Back to us, Josh talked about the "Home Rules" and how we treat our family, then did the dedication. All of the was a bit much. For our activity, we Acted out the story of the three little pigs. We drew out the parts and lucky Daddy got the big bad wolf. This was the funnest part of the night.

So if you have done Fairy Tale Style FHE or When you do, let me know how it goes and things you did that worked better. :D

Is 6 too many? Why not?

2010-09-21T12:20:00.003-06:00

Well, first, just to clarify, I am NOT having twins. I was just thinking about stuff. Second, this isn't church doctrine as far as I know, it's just my thoughts and opinions, so please keep that in mind while you read.

I was pondering on having children and how many, etc. It isn't a secret that I've always wanted SIX. I was alone a lot as a small child and I always wanted my kids to have siblings. I know there are some who can't have children and who can't have very many even if they would like to, I do not mean to offend you as I talk about this. I understand your thoughts and feelings, I have had them myself and dealt with that too. Anyway, I was pondering on my future children and the pre-existence. My thoughts wandered to "Saturday's Warrior". I thought about the last little girl waiting in heaven and hoping that her family wouldn't forget about her. The movie portrayed world's view on "mormons" as having an enormous amount of children.

I reflected on those spirits waiting in heaven and even the ones who have come to Earth. How spiritually strong they are, how privileged they are, and more. These spirits have received many blessings in the premortal life and one is to come into a goodly home. There are so many worthy, righteous souls ready to come into this life and, by however means they have arrived in your home (birth, adoption, etc.), they have earned the blessings and rights to be in a goodly home. I quickly did a spiritual check.

Is my home what I would consider "Privileged"? What makes a home "privileged or goodly"? Are the things that I am doing right? What can I work on? How do I treat my family?

Aside from feeling guilty because I have spent the majority of the time being sick, now I am feeling guilty because some of the so important small things are slipping through the cracks. I asked myself some more questions.

When I feel good, am I taking extra time with my children? When I feel sick, am I at least hugging and loving them? What are some things I am doing? Remember the sick times are what my body needs to care for one baby. Just because I am sick or laying down at times does not mean neglect. I think too much.

For a while now, I have been feeling that our children choose us. It is easy to think about myself choosing to come to my parents. They are incredible! It is harder for me to realize my children CHOSE to come to me. They chose to be a part of my family. What were they thinking? What did they see in me? What kind of potential do I have? I can always do better and I can show them why they chose me! What is it specifically I do to love you and meet your needs? One thing is never enough. I have been honored to be a mother. Loving your children is easy. Showing, Acting, Doing are things that can be difficult, especially during trials or changing times. Remember: My children deserve to come to a privileged home, they chose me (us). I (we) can provide a righteous home for them.

In my home, I also had some thoughts about marriage and going through life changes: keeping open communication, having the same family goals spiritually, growing together, etc. I know in the beginning, we generally have the same goals in mind, but sometimes the end results are lonely. In that case, I would have asked the same questions about a privileged home. We can only do what we can, the Lord is there to make up the rest if we have faith in him.

Does this mean I think everyone should stay married and have a gazillion kids? Of course! Wouldn't that be wonderful? I know the trials and blessings in this life do not allow that for everyone. I just was so excited to share with you what I felt about having a lot of kids. I didn't really mean to go off onto a tangent about the other things. So here's one more personal belief and we will leave it at that. How many children to have in your family is between husband, wife, and Heavenly Father. He will advocate for the children yet to come. You can decide together what you can handle.

Most Favorite Precious Moments

2010-09-10T21:52:00.004-06:00

Here's One:

Last Friday, Josh had told the kids they needed to sleep in so we could actually sleep in on Saturday morning. They were tried really hard to hang out down stairs, but when one came up, they all trickled in.

Most precious to me was the time Josh and I were still in bed with the children gathered around or on the bed. We just talked and smiled softly. There was no nagging, no whining, no lecturing. I don't even know what we talked about. We shared the most precious thing, family love and bonding. It was genuine and so very special. The kids were drawn to be there. In those moments, I felt as if I took the time to actually feel gratitude for my most precious things. I am thankful for my family.

I know when I can take those special moments and really feel gratitude, love, genuine, etc., I can feel the Gifts of God being poured upon me.

It's Friday! WHAT?!

2010-09-10T19:29:00.003-06:00

Warning: This is long. It is not required reading. I am not a writer, professional or other type. There was just a lot in one Friday. It was one of "those" days.

I woke up at 7am, determined to post this as my facebook status. "yay! Mommy gets to spend most of the day with my super fun mischievous monkeys." ha ha ha. Did not make the post. Instead, after the kids got back on the bus I laid down for a little while. The cute little monkeys were still sleeping. Needless to say whatever events transpired between 8-9 am, I had BLACK fingernail polish on my Carpet, and multiple colors on my two little monkeys. The little one (15 months) was the major cause. The bigger one (3.5) at least had her nail polish mostly on her fingers and toes. I think she may have even spilled a little and cleaned it up. I went running all over the house trying to find the carpet cleaner. (I am still not even sure where the cleaners are kept, but I know there was a full bottle last time I cleaned the carpet.) Whatever! I called Josh he said to try alcohol (not peroxide). I tried that it worked a little (not really). GRRRRR!! So my facebook post was this around 9:30. "help! how do I get fingernail polish out of the carpet?" I got a comment right away, but I didn't have whatever the stuff was. Anyway, the second comment was for Shaving Cream. Well Whatever! I had that, even if it was the gel kind I was definitely going to try it. Will a little scrub and repeat, IT WORKED! So keep that one in your bag of magic tricks! I didn't try fingernail polish remover because I had a bad experience with it taking the varnish off my table. I don't like that stuff to much. And Really RHE a RUG! You sound like my mom.

so Yay! House smells STRONGLY of fingernail polish and rubbing alcohol, when someone comes to my door. Mommy in her jammies (with her belly hanging out because everything is either too small or too big) hurries to find a little more to cover up with. By the time they get to the door the baby has a stinky diaper too. UGH! Mommy takes care of business, takes cares care of baby.

Mommy gets sick! REALLY! Just as things are settling back down, but still in the bathroom, someone calls and wants to come over for a quick visit. SURE! All is well. My kids still had and have fingernail polish on them and the bigger one is still in her jammies (this has to be a personal choice daily). Oh and don't forget to put the dog in the garage every time someone is coming over and let her out after they leave.

Mommy is ready for a nap, or at least a break to play on the computer for a while. I swear there was another big mess, but I've blocked it out by now. The Monkeys are their regular mischievous selves; fighting over crayons and markers, playing in the cupboards, jumping off the couches, etc. By 1:30, the little one goes down for a nap! YAY! and Daddy comes home for lunch. I hear the bus. The kids should be together Jaxon comes home. "Mom I didn't see Boo on the bus. I saw her at swimming. I saw her at lunch, but I didn't really see her when we were playing at the park." hum? It's okay Jaxon, I am sure she is at the school or got on the wrong bus. Mom calls the school looking for her daughter. At this point I am sure the Librarian is in a panic looking for her. After about 20 minutes, we get a call back. She got on the wrong bus and the super nice bus driver took her back to the school. The librarian tries to figure it out. Simply put, she was supposed to get on the same bus as she rides in the morning, but she gets home around 11am, on a different bus (the kindergarten bus with a supervisor). This is which one she got on. Not to mention her teacher doesn't teach in the afternoon so she wasn't there anymore. Seriously, at this point a mom with any type of brain would have simply planned to pick up her kids! Her Daddy picked her up, mommy still in rags. She didn't talk at all. Poor traumatized thing. She didn't say much to mommy, but simply got her lunch and finished it at the table. We talked with her while we ate and she seems to be her happy self again. I guess it happens. Kids have a snack, Daddy goes back to work, the little one is still asleep, the big ones are all good, Mommy lays down again and this time she crashes (well almost), the little one wakes up. He plays with the kids, Mommy lays down and sleeps.

Mommy can hear the kids outside, all is well. Mommy hears Jaxon tell the girls to stay out of the water. Way to go big brother. Mommy wakes up. I can't believe I fell asleep like that, I must be sick. Kids are still outside playing good. Mommy goes out to check. The little one is now a little muddy (remembering the water). I take out a sweater for the babe, but it turns out he was smelly again and ready to come inside. MMMWWAAAHHH! Kids are good. Girls are singing loudly outside, little one is eating a poptart which he got out of the cupboard himself. Did I mention I am ready for child locks! EVERYWHERE! I have never even used them before. UGH!

Kids are good, Mommy lays back down and plays her stupid stupid games. Daddy comes home FINALLY. he is late. Mommy can hear daddy, "What did you guys get into? What is all this, what are you eating? Is that chocolate in there? yuck. What is all this Red stuff? Jinaya stay out of stuff!" Mommy says, "I am sure it is the Nestle Quick and it was probably the little one." "Jeeps stay out of stuff." Daddy comes in to talk to mommy. Jina is eating something Chocolaty with a spoon, but I am not sure what is in it. "Probably water", Mommy says, "we are out of milk." "Oh we are almost out of milk." "No we are all the way out, we need to go to the store." Plans are made Daddy is ready to leave. "Will you take the little monster with you? Please Please Please, I've been with him all day." "That is what you signed up for Mommy" Guilty! Indeed and I do love them all. Ok. Dad calls from the other room. I can't take him he looks like a ....sentence didn't get finished, but with all the fingernail polish still grrrrr. Daddy leaves.

Mommy starts to blog. The monster sits right next to mommy and tears all of the things out of the garbage. *sigh* I will pick it up later. Monkeys get on mommy's bed. The little one jumps, falls off, and bonks his head. No kidding! Mommy holds him. Daddy calls. Mommy can't talk. Big sister, Boo, holds poor baby. He's all better.

Daddy calls again. "put the dog in the house, I am opening the gate, and tell the kids not to open the door." ok. Daddy comes home. Jinaya runs out to greet them. Nikki runs too, right out the gate. Daddy Growls A LOT! Dogs are barking, Nikki is running. Jaxon is whistling. (like that is going to work! Oh wait, she's coming back.) It must be for the kids. Nikki is coming back! It is like a miracle. She runs past the gate and past Jaxon. Dad goes after her up towards the neighborhood. Take Jaxon with you. Mommy hears them with in minutes all back safe and sound. It is 8:30pm. Is this day over yet?

I am sure as you read you thought to yourself, Mommy stay off the computer and those stupid games and you would prevent a lot! I agree so true! Being sick is so frustrating!

Happy Friday! ;-)

First Day of School 2010

2010-08-30T09:26:00.002-06:00

Yippie!!! I was a little nervous! My kids were riding the bus this year and well.... I had debated over driving them to school on the first day or having them ride the bus. I decided to rip off the band-aid and send them. Even my KINDERGARTEN girl! She wasn't scared or nervous at all!
Her hair was also super cute...did not get a picture.

Jazmyne - Kindergarten

Jaxon - 2nd Grad

Awe! This is my Favorite (SERIOUSLY it's blurry!)

Not sure if you can even see my kids in these pictures.
They are the first ones on the bus.

Goodbye bus! And of course we were all up to see the kids off. :D What a day! We went to the store. Where was I supposed to go with a crying 3 year old who wants to go to school? Anyway as we drove past the college, she decided the Noyes Building was her school. We were in a hurry to get back from the store, mostly because I had no idea what time Kindergarten was over. We got here in okay time and the bus stopped, opened the door no kids got off. Then the bus left as the parents were running out the door. Um? Hello? Where's my kid? A couple of parents received a phone call that some kids didn't get on the bus. I found out that the bus driver only took one class of kids and left two still at the school (OOPS!) I debated on going to get her, but decided if a bunch of the class was still there she would be okay since the bus was going back to get the rest. I also found out later that the kindergarten bus driver had quite the day. First Day, New School, New Buses, NEW NEW NEW. (I am so glad the Office People and Staff made it past that day!) Anyway, we got our kids (there are four kindergarteners at our bus stop) and waited for Jaxon. Needless to say he had a great first day and got home without a hitch (at least what I know.) I should also say day 2, as far as buses was good for us. They have it all worked out now and things are running smoothly. A week later, the kids were happy to go back to school after the weekend.

First Haircuts

2010-08-25T17:16:00.005-06:00

The kids all received haircuts just before school and for a couple of them this was a first. I didn't take any pictures of Boo. I was almost prepared to cut it off and donate it. It would have been about 15-20 inches to cut it to her shoulders. Then I decided I just found some nice blogs for LONG hair and I would try them. She was pretty heartbroken, but we made a deal to cut it off on her birthday when she is 6. I guess if Mom can't keep her end of the bargain, Dad will take her. In the end she still had 5ish inches cut off! (it still goes to her bum)

Jaythan seriously needed a haircut! New people were cautious to whether he was a boy or girl. He did make a cute "skater" boy. Why is it just so hard to cut your baby's hair? And the curls?
Well there they go! He was such a good boy! He sat still the whole time.And I didn't even take an after photo, or a frontal photo. I know kick me! I am really trying to just get unblurry pictures. But I did snap this one while he was waiting for cake.

Sorry no smiles, all thumbs :D

Jinaya also had her hair trimmed for the first time (I think ever?)

Again, no after picture. Its still pretty long after the 3ish inches.

Birthdays 2010

2010-08-24T16:55:00.012-06:00

So, I haven't blogged any Birthdays this year and now the Sharps have all had one in 2010. So here's a peek:

Mommy and Jina both turned the big 3 and 3-oh in January.
We shared a birthday cake in our favorite color PURPLE!

Jinaya gets lots of dolls for her birthday.
Pollys and Magnet Dolls (she calls them "fake dolls")

JoDee gets a Pilates Mat! YAY!

OK, Since Jina's Birthday is at the end of the month, we got another cake.
This time she picked out Batman!

Jaxon turned 7 this year.
He picked out lunchables for his birthday dinner
(at least they were a sandwich style.)

Mom made Jax a super yummy Chocolate Mint Ice Cream Cake!!!

Boo is 5!! She picked out her cake, and they had the perfect one!

Melissa and Emily enjoyed some cake and ice cream with us.Boo also got Pollys Yippie! The hiding Barbie Bike was her big surprise for the day.

Jeeps turns the BIG 1!

His very favorite treat are these yummy cookies, so that is what we had instead of cake.

and Daddy has one too! :D

Dad always gets the same gift every year,
the newest version of "Madden" for our best style of gaming technology.The smiley photo was blurry. ???

Happy Birthday JSHARP's!!!

what?

2010-08-17T10:50:00.003-06:00

I know really....I decided to post just to make rumors facts I guess. We are all (mostly) moved in to our house. We are living upstairs and downstairs. We need the room and are so very happy here inside and out! We moved into the basement the last week of June and by July 1st, I started feeling sick. Having this feeling four times before and it lasts FOREVER! I knew exactly what it was! So now we are mostly over the surprise and starting to have days without vomit! YUCK!
We are having a baby! #5 :-O is due to arrive on Valentines Day 2011.
Ok, I don't know if we are over the surprise yet. I had a feeling this baby was in a hurry to get here, and I can honestly say "we are so glad he/she waited until we moved!!!"
Jaxon knows and is keeping the secret well. It is really making him feel a little grown up. The girls do not know yet. It just makes for a really long wait.

June Life

2010-07-01T11:26:00.002-06:00

Seriously?!?! There has been way way way to much life happening in June. If I wrote it all down, you'd all be out of breath by the time you were done, so here's a quick recap of all the "FuN" stuff!

Swimming Lessons!! Yay for swimming lessons! The 3 older kids had lessons and completely enjoyed them. Everyday we asked Jinaya if she had fun at swimming lessons, she said, "No". But she went everyday without complaining and even had a smile all the time. One day she told me she was going to jump off the diving board (her class was a very beginning class and they didn't do that), I told her to ask her teacher. That day she wouldn't get out of the water until I told her teacher she wanted to jump off the diving board. YAY! She did it! Even two or three days in a row! Boo's class jumped every other day and she had a great time. She really enjoyed swimming. Jax was a little nervous in the water and his teacher was incredible with helping him. He started out swimming in place (not even dog paddle, but swimming) and was able to get his big boy body to move forward by the end.

Father's Day! Yay! We tried to go swimming with dad, but all the days were full. We drove to Nana's and Papa's and wanted to go to the pool there, but were stuck in traffic (not fun) and arrived too late to go. We had a great fathers day with Papa and Daddy! We BBQed and played outside!!

Hanksville Girls Camp!! YIPPIE!!! Kids stayed at Nana's and Mommy drove to Hanksville to go with Nellie to girls camp. On the way to Loa to meet up with the stake, I got pulled over. NO JOKE! I was really trying to obey all the traffic laws, but I just stopped paying attention. DO NOT DO THAT! Anyway, no ticket and it provided quite the laugh for the girls, but embarrassed me, not a very good example I set. OOPS! Anyway, We had an AWESOME time! Nellie even made me shoot the mussel loaded riffle, throw spears, and the hatchet. I have to say the girls are way better than me!!! I missed almost everything. I think I need a little more practice. We left on Thursday night at midnight, and well I took a wrong turn and tried to find my way. I finally found a sign that I understood the roads and ended up in Salina after driving 8-10 miles on a 4-wheeler trail after already driving all over the mountain. I was supposed to have gone the other way over the mountain. OOPS! again! We got home at around 4 am, lucky for me our closing time on our house had been rescheduled.

MOVING! I don't know if I consider this fun, because it isn't! It is definitely nice to have a home where all the kids can sleep in a bed. We are living out of boxes and we may be for a while. We have moved into the basement of the Magelson home. We will be moving upstairs and filling the house in about a month. The basement is still bigger than our other home. We finally got all the cleaning and the backyard done! and the dogs are here! I hope they have enough yard to play in! The kids have enjoyed every inch of it already.

ECLIPSE! It was so nice to take a short break and go the the movie with great friends!

So that's June life in a fun shell. When you throw in doctors appointments, packing, closing, cleaning and more of that you get no computer time EVER! and very little relax time!! I am so glad it's July.....do you think it will slow down a bit so I can catch up?

Did it all "work out"?

2010-06-03T10:56:00.002-06:00

I finished my 30 days around the first or second week of May. Did I loose 20 lbs on the 30 day Shred? No. But I do feel like the "shred" was a success. I will give you a list. I have more energy, and desire to do "stuff". I lost inches, quite a few (a couple of pant sizes at least.) I gained a lot of muscle and tone. The weight started to shred off around week six. I think if I would have let all my new muscle turn back to fat, I definately would have lost a lot more lbs. I also noticed that drinking all the required water didn't make me feel sloshy. I ate better, my cravings for sugar and junk were a lot less. Of course I still had chocolate (this is me remember) but the cut back was easy.

I felt so good about a new healthly lifestyle (thanks Aunt Wendy for helping me see better), I started a new program called P90X . I love it! Josh and I are doing it together. We have always enjoyed Kyuki-do together and seem to keep each other motivated well. With all the weekend festivites we missed a couple of times, but are trying to make it up. Also it is a bit longer exercise than just 20 minutes, but I have just gotten up earlier. YAY!! because we all know how much I love to sleep in! I wasn't really looking to get "ripped", but I really like the new muscles. I am still loosing weight and a good pace now, and my BMI is still going down as well. (Just don't eat a doughnut and then go weigh yourself.)

Here's To Good Days

2010-05-04T16:26:00.002-06:00

All last week I was DREADING getting out of bed. I was getting soooo tired of exercising with no results. Every morning, I lay in bed talking myself into keep going. I told myself all of the great things, like yay! for 3% and feeling better, more energy, eating better, able to drink more water, and more energy. The list always comes back to feeling better with more energy. YES, I did tell myself this every SINGLE morning. I also tried to say well who needs energy. I decided I felt better on the inside when I exercised and I thought of my grandma saying, "Make yourself a Good Day!" So I guess if that is what is going to help me "make myself a good day, then I better stick with it." The nasty weight will come off sometime, but until then, I will "Make myself a Good Day" by starting it out right!

Well I am happy to say it works for me!

Scales

2010-04-23T09:35:00.003-06:00

While we were scale shopping, (I know who goes Scale shopping---Definitely NOT ME!) Anyway, we looked at all of them and Josh picked this one out. He was pretty excited about the BMI scale and the Water thing (but I haven't figured that one out yet.) I was completely fine with the old battered, broken scale. But I said Whatever you want dear (while doing a sarcastic woohoo! in my head.)

We got it home and it's an electronic scale so of course you have to read the booklets. In the booklet, while explaining BMI, there was an example of two women (of course) who had booth lost 15 lbs over two weeks. When comparing the hows, the the first had simply dieted, while the second had dieted and exercised. The first woman lost 15 lbs with her BMI staying the same. The Second woman had lost 15 lbs. and her BMI had dropped significantly. First I am thinking they lost 15 lbs. in two weeks! I am still amazed at that. My second thought was, "Who really cares about BMI, I just want to loose 15 lbs.! I know I would look all tone and whatever, but seriously 15 lbs.!" That has been my thinking for the past 2 months. BUT here is a big WOOT! WOOT! for another -1%!!! Now I am so happy my husband really wanted that scale, By the way he's only used it two times! Once when we first got it and once the other day while I was talking about it.

I guess I just wanted you to know how naive I was thinking. Well, at least I didn't go as far as using the milk jugs for hand weights. Seriously that was my first plan, but I used 2 big cans of Cherry Pie Filling, for one day, then I got hand weights. Why do I have Cherry Pie Filling? To make Chocolate Cherry Cordial Torte of course! :-P All of you have a happy POSITIVE thinking day!

A Family Home Evening to Remember

2010-04-19T22:52:00.003-06:00

When you pray and ask to "please have the spirit be with us and help us to learn", remember it is ALWAYS on the Lords terms. I also believe he has quite the sense of humor. As you read this and think to yourself "I know where this is going", be assured Yes it is actually going there.

Our lesson was on Rebekah at the Well. We had a great lesson and discussion. When I was trying to explain the well, I told them the bucket was about as heavy as a gallon of milk. A few moments later I got a wonderful idea and got a full unopened gallon of milk out of the fridge. I told the kids we could each take turns lifting the milk from the floor to high above our heads. We would all count while one person lifted the milk 11 times (one for the servant and one for each of the camels). I took my turn, then Jaxon took his. In the middle of Jaxon's turn Dad kind of jokingly said, "I think we may end up with a gallon of milk all over our carpet." "ha ha, no it won't. We won't drop it." Next it was Boo's turn. She struggled to lift it, but finally got it high above her head with both arms straight and she almost gently set it down, but the gallon of milk dropped in the last two inches. There had been way too much pressure and the decorative circle in the middle of the gallon popped out. Needless to say we had half a gallon of milk all over our carpet. Josh has had some experience with Stinky milk and he immediately cleaned it up with towels, the shop vac, and shampoo. (what a great guy!) All four kids watched us clean and were eager to help, but Josh had it under control. After a while we decided to get back to the lesson. After all I still had a visual activity about wells. Really! We finished this lesson using hand weights. It was still fun to count with each other.

We had a big bowl with water in it. Then a mug with a string tied to it. Using the string we dipped the mug into the water, then carefully pulled it up. Then (grabbing the handle of the mug) we pored the water into a cup to drink. This was a way funner object lesson.

Although the story is quite funny and I am sure you can imagine the gallon of milk braking all over, I have more thoughts. I think this lesson will be well remembered (ha ha ha no pun intended). I think the kids will remember the milk all over and lifting it up and down. I hope as they grow older they will remember how kind Rebekah must have been to fetch water for the servant and all his animals even though it was extra work for her. We should follow that wonderful example.

Bring It!

2010-04-13T14:17:00.003-06:00

I've been working out to Jillian Michaels 30 day shred for 7 days. Woot woot! and well I am so ready for results!! So here it is. Everyone knows muscle weighs more than fat so it's 100% normal to gain a little in the beginning. Did that. And well my body still looks the same. So here's the good news, my scale also gives you a BMI percentage (your fat!) and well I won't tell you what mine is because it's absurd. I will tell you that it has dropped 2% so Yippie!!! Also when I was exercising it feel like I am able to jump just a little higher, as if I were to pick up a baby that is smaller than mine. I still hurt and I can't believe I even make it through, but I just wanted to woot woot my 2%.

New Groove?

2010-03-11T11:24:00.003-07:00

Well I can't say that I have found my "groove" but I can say I am feeling cheerful amidst whatever. I had talked with my mom about her reading in the scriptures a month or so ago. She was talking how Satan will "Seep" into our homes without our knowing. She likened it to computers and Internet. Things that can come into our homes so easily through these channels. In my life I have noticed a small seep and I want to share it with you as a warning, so you can be protected. I am completely embarrassed to say this, but I am happy so Whatever!

I was having some trouble with alcohol. Ha! Not doing it, but wanting to. It was bad enough that I didn't go on a business venture because I didn't want to be in that path of temptation. I didn't feel I could trust my "natural man" tendencies to avoid the substance. And among other things I was just plain sad, almost like a depression. I was still plugging though my daily duties and trials just fine. Because of certain circumstances, we haven't had a temple recommend for quite a while. They came due around the same time as the baby, and we were here and there and holidays and excuse excuse excuse. Anyway we finally got our recommends that that very night I was elated! I feel incredibly happy. I still have the same daily struggles. Not much seems to get accomplished. I am having headaches. I have sick kids (one or the other), and I don't feel like I can go out much. But I feel happy, it's kind of cheezy! And we did attend the temple to boot! :D

Anyway, I think Satan was seeping into me and I wasn't fully protected. Even if I was not able to attend the temple, the blessings of a recommend holder are bountiful. I wasn't even going to post this, but when that little nagging doesn't go away, I've learned that those promptings are meant for someone. :D I hope you all can find those little "seeps" and protect yourselves, home, and families. I love you all!!!

Showing Compassion

2010-03-11T11:04:00.002-07:00

Well, this isn't my story, but it has changed how I "try" to view other people and situations. So I changed the name, but if you recognize it and want the post deleted just let me know. and I may not have all the minor details right.

This all happened in a few brief moments while sitting at "the" (one and only) stop light in Ephraim. Ann was sitting in her car as the second vehicle in line waiting at the stop light. When the light turned green the car in front of Ann did not move. She was waiting patiently for the person in the vehicle to move. Thinking they just weren't paying attention. The car behind Ann started honking. Can you believe it HONKING! in EPHRAIM! nobody honks in Ephraim, that is just plain RUDE! So Ann turned around and gave the driver behind her a dirty look. How could this driver be so inconsiderate, after all the person in the front car probably just forgot.
* * *
A couple days later at the local market, a man came up to Ann. She recognized that she knew him. He proceeded to apologize for honking that day on the street, and then told her that his wife was in labor and they were on their way to the hospital. The car in the front was just sitting there, and he didn't know what to do. A honk would get the attention of the driver so they could all be on their way.

So Ann was showing complete compassion for the driver in front of her, but she was not even thinking of the driver behind her. I think this is so easy. It is so easy to be understanding of the person who is struggling with addictions or the wife whose husband is cheating on her. It is not as easy to be understanding of the woman who seems to have it all together. We expect that woman to be able to do everything. For the addict, the person who is struggling, or even the one who is constantly letting us down, we can be understanding or "we just expect that from them", but when it comes to the loyal one who seems to have a happy life and always be there to help. We sometimes forget that he/she is having challenges too. We are quick to judge in the way we think they should act.

Anyway, I hope I haven't offended anyone. I feel like I have always tried to look at all views of things, but I have really taken this story to heart and have tried to look behind me as well. Sometimes when people are so understanding and I am not, I have taken offense to what they say. Probably because I have felt guilty for my own feelings. I did not want to make anyone feel angry at me. I just wanted to share my new views. :)

=P Hum?

2010-02-26T20:51:00.002-07:00

Well....for all you bloggers...I am so sorry...I just knew I would flake. I am so trying to find my sync with life these days. I can't quite get a handle on the routine of things. It feels like the weekends are so jam packed (even when there isn't anything going on), that I spend all day Monday finishing up. So by Tuesday I am so lazy nothing gets done. Which means Wednesday is like Monday, and Friday is like Wednesday, and before you know it, it's the weekend again. Don't get me wrong, I love the weekends and spending more time with Josh, but seriously SOMETHING HAS THROWN OFF THE EMPEROR'S GROOVE!!!!!

So, any tips on finding it again? "Forget yourself and go to work!" I even went to a friend's little class, which was awesome check out her blog. http://www.clutterfreeutah.blogspot.com/ And watched that show Grey Gardens (or something). Anyway, I thought I had it, but here I sit whining. I can also blame my laziness on a sick baby, because it's that season. That doesn't help. Well :-P we all have to start back somewhere. Give me your tips.

I do Exist!

2010-01-22T10:46:00.001-07:00

Sorry... Um.... I am here... I am just realizing...I haven't posted since before halloween. I knew it was before Christmas, but HALLOWEEN!!!! AAAAAHHHHHHhhh!!!! Anyway you can all thank Derek for talking with me...and well I feel guilt sending him here to this blog and not having it updated. ha ha ha...How's that for being on the spot.

Anyway...life is grand, shouldn't complain. Kids are great!

What's UP??????........... Dad's Feet

2009-10-15T17:42:00.003-06:00

Are you kidding? Not when it comes to Josh!! He is such a goof......ha ha ha.....he fell back words in the recliner at Nana's house. ha ha ha
ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha

"Very funny guys...now could you help me up?"

ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha

Josh couldn't move from this position because his back was so sore and stiff after helping Mandy and Nick with their basement. OUCH!

ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha
Finally Uncle Jeff picks up Josh and the chair. Papa, can you stop taking pictures and help?

Reading Rocks!

2009-10-08T08:58:00.002-06:00

Last week we were eating some BIG, YUMMY peaches, and I mentioned to Jaxon I had read a book about a giant peach. I went into the school library and borrowed James and the Giant Peach. As we were walking out of the school, I showed Jaxon the book. He checked it out and started to get excited! All the way home he looked through the book and at all the great pictures trying to figure out what they are. (he must not have seen the movie?) We have been reading it every night since Monday. He is totally excited to listen to the story and go to bed. It is so awesome to see him have such a thrill over a story. We are just getting to the "good" part, James just walked into the peach. I can't wait to read The BFG to him (and Josh). They will love it. :D

Short Visit with Lyle and Some Pics

2009-09-25T08:57:00.004-06:00

In the past few months we have made a couple of trips up north (West Point/Layton) to visit family members in the hospital. These pictures are from a weekend we spent visiting with Uncle Lyle. Josh was able to visit Lyle with Mom and Grandma Veibell. Then he helped Mandy and Nick with their basement for the night. His back was "oh so sore" after holding the sheetrock for the ceiling above his head, that he didn't do much over the next couple of days. We stayed until Tues. Josh and I took Jaythan and Jinaya over to visit with Uncle Lyle some more. Josh really enjoyed talking with him about stereos, HD, football, Nascar, Boating, and so much more. They really have a lot in common and Josh misses being able to spend more time with Uncle Lyle. It's too bad I didn't think to take pictures. :(

Jina and Jaythan

The family eats outside enjoying Nana's awesome table and chairs

Michael and Jinaya were so cute driving around in this truck!

Dinner

2009-09-19T18:59:00.002-06:00

As a Pampered Chef Consultant I get asked if "I cook like this for my family everynight?" The answer was a couple of times a week. Well I am happy to admit I am cooking like this almost everynight. I love things that can get done in 30 minutes. I also like this that I can make with what I've got! After a while my cupboards have the same things...and so does our dinner table.

Anyway, I want to start a blog with all my friends (if you are reading this...that means YOU!!) Where we post our favorite recipes together. I love when people post the "what's for dinner" on Facebook..and well...I was going to blog it alone...but I like friends. Let's share. I have another blog. If you want me to add you to this so you can post to this blog leave me a comment.

happy Cooking!

July 24th Weekend Fun

2009-09-09T11:59:00.005-06:00

On the 24th of July we had planned to stay home and clean, but Dad got tired of that. We packed our bags and headed for Nana's. Before we left we recieved a surprise visit from Bret & Holly & girls. It was so great to see them!!!

We had a BBQ at Grandma Veibells on Saturday. We were glad to have Jeff, Katie, and Valo join us. (Mandy & Nick were on their way home from Hawaii!)

Jaythan and Grandma Veibell

Nana brought her Plasma cars and the kids (ha ha ha) raced on them. I don't know if those tall peeps could get them to go very fast?

Jaxon, Nana, and Valo

Jaxon, Nana, Jina, Boo, Katie, Valo

Jeff & Josh

Jinaya

Boo

Dress Up at Nana's

2009-09-08T15:26:00.002-06:00

diapers.com dun dun dun!!!!

2009-09-02T11:18:00.004-06:00

I was referred to diapers.com by a friend, Thanks Jeannie!! So I checked it out! I love it. I have had the run around with products at the local large mart, find a brand I like and then can't find it again! GRRR! They have the ones I like and if you spend $49 you get free shipping to your door in 2-3 business days. The prices seemed pretty comparable when you don't pay for shipping. You can also send in coupons!! (I have tons from $1.50 to $3.00). They have about anything you can think of from diapers to dressers, car seats, sippy cups, you name it and they have it. (I even saw some fertility vitamins or something for MEN and Women!) I got a case of diapers that will last twice as long for about $5 less than 2 large boxes available here. And for me less trips to the store are a savings. (I won't get extra junk.)

So for the good part once you register you will get a referral code and when you friends use it they will get $10 off their first order of $49 or more and you get $1 off every time it is used and it just keeps track of it. So my referral code is JSHARP10. Use it and you will get the $10 dollars off. I had in my cart $65 and only spent $55, I got a case of diapers (good for a month), sippy cups replacement thingys, 2 boxes of nursing pads, and some super cute Carter's Onesies (on Sale!). I just ordered so everything will be here by Friday!!

Anyway, I thought I would try it out. And you can pay with PayPal...wahoo all those sold ebay items can pay for diapers ha ha ha. Just kidding. Thanks again for the referral Jeannie, and I totally copied a lot of your post because I could soooo relate!!!

Oh Look, Here is the sample email they can send out for you.

Thought you might be interested in this website I discovered, www.diapers.com. They deliver diapers, wipes, formula and other baby necessities at really low prices with fast free shipping. They carry all the big brands and hard-to-find products too.

If you enter my email address or Referral Code on the shopping cart screen, you'll get an extra $10 off your first order of diapers. And I'll get a $1 credit each time you order. It's a great way we can both save!

My Email Address: jsharp@mail.manti.com
Referral Code: JSHARP10

Check it out at www.diapers.com.

Bean Bag Fun

2009-08-26T11:28:00.002-06:00

While visiting Nana, Daddy Gave the girls a fun idea to go down the stairs on the bean bags.

Boo is under the bean bag, Bella is on top with blue shirt, and Jina is sitting at the top of the steps.

The bean bags didn't quite slide down the steps. They got stuck in the ruts.

But the girls had a blast anyway!

First Day of First Grade! WOOT!

2009-08-25T20:30:00.003-06:00

Tah-Duh! Jaxon's First Day of First Grade!! He was excited to go in the Durango (notice the wheels). On Friday Jaxon came home from Gramma's and we went to the school to find his classroom and meet his teacher, Mrs. Oliver. He snooped around a little, then was ready for Monday!

He looks a little nervous, but I don't think he was.....Jaxon had to hold the smile forever before the camera clicked! Also all the kids were awake to see Jaxon off to school. They were excited too.

I think one of the most exciting parts for Jaxon was his new shoes!!! They are "Skatchers." "They are so comfortable. Good thing you got these for me for school mom."

"Enough with the pictures" is what Jaxon was thinking I am sure. But he was a good sport. He didn't get lost or nervous or anything. He is getting so big. Mommy had to remind herself to "Buck up" as she left the school. (I wanted to cry, although I am not sure why. I wasn't like this for Kindergarten.)

Some of Jaxon's most memorable first day moments are:

"On Monday's we get two recesses AND all the rest of the days we get THREE Recesses!!!!"

"We have real "tater toters" they are metal" (and a whole bunch more story I didn't get because we were laughing everytime he said "tater toter" for "Teeter totter")

Jaxon also thought it was cool to eat lunch at school.

What a great Kid! I am so glad he had a great first day.

FHN on Thursday :)

2009-08-14T11:11:00.003-06:00

FHN-Familyhoneneevneeing

For the past 2 days Boo has been preparing a FHN for us during her playtime and coloring time. On Wed. was Josh's bday, so we forgot. Yesterday, however; Boo remembered at dinnertime. After dinner, dishes, and a quick clean up it was getting late. While Daddy was talking on the phone (FOREVER!!), Boo picked up the toys in the living room and her bedroom without crying! WOOT! WOOT! So I decided after all that hard work, we could at least listen to her family home evening. Josh needed a little convincing...but finally at 9:30 pm we sat down for an unforgettable FHN.

The first thing you need to know is Boo talks very FAST!! To the untrained ear she may be hard to understand. I had to ask her 3 times how she said FHE, because it is all smushed together and it changes everytime. So I settled on Family Hone Neeve Ning. She was in charge of all the elements this time. Boo has a shy side (sometimes?) and even in front of the family it is hard for her to get up and give the lesson when she is on the spot. I thought this was a big step for her.

We started opening with a family song, then the "conductor" gives the opening prayer. So Boo did this. I was totally impressed with her prayer as she included many things from Family to Toys to FHE to lessons to tags (she made us tags) to Family. It was a true childs prayer and I loved listening. Then she gave her lesson. Boo had us repeat after her as she "read" from her scriptures. "We - Are - A - Fam - Uh - Lee" and variations. (We have the children do this to make sure they are listening). Next Boo sang to us about Families and God and various church words. As many children do, she sang for quite a while. I reminded her she needed to do her lesson now and that she had talked to me earlier that day about John The..."Oh yeah, John the Bahtistimony." What a can of worms we opened. Daddy was laughing (quietly) and making cute jokes. Every time she said it he laughed harder. Remember Boo talks quickly. Boo did a great job!! I told her she needed to wrap it up and it was time for bed, so we had a closing song "Jesus came to John the Baptist" and then Daddy gave closing/family prayer.

Anyway, I thought Boo was too cute and wanted to blog about it so we could always remember.

By The Way..Where's Jaxon?

2009-08-14T10:45:00.002-06:00

BTW...Jaxon has been at Nana's then Grama's for 2 weeks...we sure miss him. When Grama was talking about when he would come home, she told him there was 20 days until school started. Jaxon said he would stay 20 days. Then he thought for a moment, "I've decided I should stay for 19 days." Over the next few days Jaxon and Gramma came up with another plan that brings him home tomorrow. Gramma called this morning to tell me Jaxon is excited to come home! (Although I think he is more exited for school and not a bit homesick! I can't believe he is growing up!)

Baby Bruder at 2 months

2009-08-07T17:21:00.004-06:00

"MOM!, Baby Brother is drinkin' his thumb!," exclaimed Boo.

At his 2 month check-up Jaythan was in perfect shape! :)
11 lbs.
23 1/4 inches

What a Sweetheart!! Oh how we love our Baby Brother. He loves people and listening to them talk. Jaythan is starting to smile and coo. The kids are constantly working on getting smiles out of him. Mommy has a watchful eye over Big Sister Spook (Jina)....but to embarrassed to tell the scary things little ones come up with. (I am sure most of you know.)

I took these photos today, he has been working so hard to suck his tiny thumb. Jay doesn't like binkis. His eyes are a beautiful shade of blue. He has a permanent Mohawk (thanks to two perfect callics) and it goes perfect with his adorable face. He is mostly happy (especially when people are around). Jaythan loves to be held and he loves to go to the movies. Crazy Mom and Dad have taken Jaythan to a few movies this summer (Harry Potter, Transformers, and others on opening weekend). Jaythan was only 3 weeks old for Transformers and 6 weeks for Harry Potter. He was so funny and preferred to "watch" the movies. Jaythan is sleeping well and is such a good baby. When asked if my others were "this good", my response was "Of Course!" I love all my wonderful kids!

Awe!

2009-08-07T17:14:00.002-06:00

It's a bummer all the photos came out a little blurry. No it isn't your screen. Anyway I just thought Boo looked beautiful, the only thing missing is her smile! Love you Boo!

Jaythan's Baby Blessing

2009-08-03T15:13:00.006-06:00

Jaythan was blessed on August 2nd, 2009 by his Daddy in Ephraim. :) Friends and family came and we took lots of pictures. At 2 months old, Jaythan weighs about 11 lbs. He is starting to smile and notice things more. He really enjoys being around lots of people and listening to them talk. We all had a great day.

Grandpa Jack, Daddy, Uncle Nick

Braydon, Jennifer, Grandpa, Justin, Daddy
Nellie, Grandma, Jaythan, Mommy, Jinaya
Jaxon, Boo

After a late church and long afternoon, the kids weren't too happy about getting pictures. So we all decided to cry too! (or some of us.)

Great Grandma Veibell, Jaythan, Daddy, Nana

Auntie Mandy, Clair, Uncle Nick, Michael, Nana, Jaythan, Papa Rob

Nana & Papa

Grammy & Grampy

The girls were cryin' but when it was time to holding baby brother,
they were happy again! Oh Boy! Do we love him!!

Jaythan, Jinaya, Mommy

Jaxon & Jaythan

Jaythan & Jazmyne (Boo)

24th of July!

2009-07-29T09:52:00.002-06:00

Wahoo! Pioneer Day! Josh decided to clean the house on his extra day off. After a few minutes he decided he would rather get out of the house. We decided to pack up and go to Nana's. Both of Josh's sisters got into houses we haven't seen. And some of his family hadn't even seen Jaythan yet.

We started packing up and I called to make sure someone would be home to visit. Then we got a surprise visit from Bret and Holly (cousins) and their girls. They were camping up Skyline. Anyway it had been a few years (time goes by so fast) since we had seen them and we had a great time visiting with them. Sure do miss you guys!

Then we made it on our way! We managed to visit Grandma Veibell, Katie & Jeff, Mandy & Nick, and even play a little Cranium!! And of course Nana & Papa! Josh had the most fun playing on the "Plasma Cars". (google it!) He had races and bumper cars.

We had a great time!! Thanks so much!! We love you!! Sorry we didn't do pictures. Next time!

Keeping Updates

2009-07-28T13:55:00.002-06:00

Why I never blog!!! Well...mostly I only get on the computer long enough to check out everything. It only lasts a few minutes before I have to help someone with this or that. Will I ever get a routine? Just when I think I am getting it, another bump comes along. Mostly going out of town that kinks everyone schedule. :) I am just posting to say I haven't forgotten you my awesome blog and I hope to put some picts up soon!

Photos of Jaythan

2009-07-14T17:29:00.005-06:00

Finally we get Jaythan's first photos. He is almost 6 weeks old. At 4 weeks old Jaythan weighed 9 lbs. and was 20+ inches tall. I still can't believe how fast time goes by and how fast little ones grow. Most people ask me if he is a "good baby". Of corse he is! He is perfect! The kids are in Hanksville this week and Jaythan sure does miss them. He loves to listen to them play. :0) The photo above I have one almost identical with baby Jaxon. Not all of the below photos are my favorites, but I love looking at all the silly faces caught on camera. He looks like a different relative in every photo. :)

Loves to you!

GLAD he's our DAD!!

2009-06-21T13:10:00.012-06:00

As a child I spent my "Father's Day" days with Grandpa, we were so close. Now I've grown up I realize all the many men who have been there. Today "Father's Day" is a tribute to those wonderful men who can be there for anyone. Always accepting the fatherly role! I have had many "dads" or father figures in my life. With an absent father so many have stepped up to be there for me. For one day, one hour, one moment or many, I am so glad to have had each of them in my life. I am so thankful for the man my mom is now married to, and the wonderful father he is for me. I would be sad to not include such a wonderful Father in Heaven. He has given me so much and is always understanding, even when I am not. He has brought such wonderful spirits into my life.

The most important Father in my life now is the Father of my children. He is so good to our family. Josh is always taking on extra duties. Especially now. He said the best fathers day gift would be for me to cook, clean, and take care of everything for the day. As much as I would have loved to do everything, the needs of the many (children) are stronger than the needs of the few (parents). Josh gladly and cheerfully woke up this morning to get the kids breakfast and help out. I can say after being up all night, I was not so cheerful. After making breakfast, Josh fixed the leaking shower, got ready for church, and threw in a load of laundry. I can say a lot about the household chores that he has done, but this is not what makes Josh a great Dad.

Daddy gets up in the night with a sick kid, even when he has to go to work in the morning. He helps clean up the nasty puke or poop or whatever all over the kid, the bed, the floor.
When we go the ER for one child, the other kids have a babysitter. Daddy is at the ER too.
Daddy is there when each child is born and stays close by until each precious gem is safely home.
Daddy is there to give the first bath, any many baths thereafter.
Daddy is a responsible Priesthood holder and able to give a Priesthood blessing anytime he is called upon.
Daddy teaches us how to work hard. Our Daddy goes to work too. So he can get money to buy stuff.
Daddy teaches us to respect others.
Daddy talks to us when we have done something wrong, and helps us to understand the right things to do.
Daddy FIXES Stuff.
Daddy climbs into the McDonald's playplace to get a child out when stuck.
Daddy wrestles with us on the floor.
Daddy plays ball with us outside.
Daddy loves to make us BBQ dinners.
Daddy tells us silly jokes. (Most of the time we don't understand yet, but we laugh together anyway.)
Daddy tickles us. Daddy hugs us.
Daddy carries us. Daddy holds us.
Daddy will let us play "Guitar Hero" with the band, and it's okay when we don't "rock" so well.
Daddy will fix the girls hair when Mommy is too sick.
Daddy tucks us snuggly in our beds at night, and kisses us gently on the head.
We are so happy when our daddy comes home for lunch and at the end of the day. We are especially happy on those mornings when Daddy doesn't go to work and is able to be with us all day!

Our Daddy does so many wonderful things to show his love for our family.
We are so GLAD he's our DAD!!!!!

Daddy and Jaythan (Baby Brother)

Daddy and Weena (Jina Bear)

Daddy and Boo

Daddy and Jaxon

DURANGO? What?

2009-06-18T12:02:00.006-06:00

I wasn't going to post about this, but well.... To end the rumors...(at least around town and on our street). Yes, we did get a new Car! WOOT!! WOOT!! It is a Dodge Durango. Um??? We are new to the "Dodge" world, but are enjoying it so far. Josh bought it from a friend in town.

The kids are in heaven. Some comments have been:

"Now we can even take baby brother with us." -- Boo

"We can have one more person than our family." -- Jaxon

Boo was so excited about the DVD player....I really wish I could portray it. "Oh and now we can even watch a MMOOOOOOOOOOOVVVVVVVVVVIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEE!! I always wanted to watch a movie in the car, and now we have one! Oh!!!!!!!!!!" We have taken several short rides and even as far as Manti each time watching a show. Of course there is nothing like watching a movie in your car. Even if the screen is small! :)

Jinaya loves sitting in the car. She spent quite a bit of time just hanging out and soaking it in.

Jaxon's first visit of the new car, he checked out all the gadgets. He opened everything he could touch! Total BOY!

Although Josh bought the car for Mommy and the kids, he has been taking it to work and taking care of all the engine parts, (that were already in great shape). And of course Wheels and Tires that are needed within the next year.....I am sure we will have within a week. :D Josh is having way too much fun.

2009-06-07T14:44:00.004-06:00

Jaythan Peter Sharp
Possible nicknames include: Jay, Jayjay, JP, Pete, Jeeps (JPS), hum?

Born: June 3, 2009

Time: 3:01pm
Weight: 7 lbs. 9 oz.
Height: 19 in.
Hair Color: um? Blonde
Eye Color: bluish greyish

Below is where Jaythan meets the family.
Below that is the "Mommy Story" or story of Labor and Delivery (some are interested, some are not.) :)

Mommy Story

I went in to be induced at 6:30 am. They day before I had learned that they wanted antibiotics in my system at least four hours before delivery because of the positive GBS. (reason #1 to be induced.) My body was "ready", meaning I was dilated to a 3+ and "very soft". The "plan" was to get the "pit" and Epidural, then the Doc would come up and brake my water at noon (knowing things progress quickly after the "water breaking"). While we were waiting for the Doc, my mom asked if I wanted a blessing. Josh gave me a blessing right away and we had the wonderful experience of fullness in the room. It was incredible. The Doc came in at 2:20pm and broke my water. Then they quickly got everything ready. The baby's heart rate DROPPED to I think the 70's? (I really don't know). The doc had me lay on each side, then flip to all fours, (ha ha) not so easy. Then they called in the C-section team. He had me turn over to my back and I was dilated to a 9. He said,"let's push. You are ready." The baby's heart rate dropped because I had dilated so quickly and he wasn't quite ready. So We all PUSHED and Pushed. We did not stop pushing until he came out. Later my mom says "the nurse was all by jumping on me." She was pushing pretty hard too. By the time the Pushing started I was Sure he would be a boy with big Shoulders (Love you Daddy). So then Jaythan was born at 3:01. The cord was wrapped around his body.....I am picturing like a "beauty pageant sash"? But I really don't know. He also isn't really a crier and almost got slapped by the nurse because he wasn't crying. Mommy coaxed him a and he squeeked enough. It sure seems like a short story, but it was very scary for a few minutes. I just don't think I can portray the situation with words. I am so thankful for the Doctor being on alert and his knowledge of the situation that we could do this safely. Also for the nurse and her knowledge, she knew exactly what to do. I am glad that I didn't have a c-section but that the team and Doc were ready in case the situation came up. And Mostly thankful for all those who were there supportively, both physically and spiritually.

Family Home Evening -- Lesson by Two Year Old

2009-05-14T14:24:00.003-06:00

Well after assisting in the preparation for two Primary talks (both by Jaxon) recently, I decided we could make it work for Jinaya to give the FHE lesson. Last week she was to give the lesson and with no preparation Daddy helped her read us a story. Jinaya was very lucky and her name got drawn to do the lesson again the following week. She loves to take her turn standing in front of the family.

Jina's lesson was on Families. I printed off the little family coloring page from the manual "Behold Your Little Ones." (a brief insert: I am totally impressed with everything you can find on the LDS webpage. ...and it just keeps getting better!!!) Anyway, I asked her to color the family. She called it her "Family Homework." Then I cut out the people. I also printed off the words "I love my Family" our family name "Sharp" and each of our individual given names (to take the lesson a little farther.) During her lesson, Jinaya put each member of the little family up on the magnet board (or whatever you have.) She told us who they were (Mommy, Daddy, Brother, Sister, Baby) and talked about loving her family. She stayed and rearranged the people while I talked with the kids about different kinds of families and sizes. By this time Jinaya was "in and out" (meaning, I think she went to play in the bedroom, then came back a few times.) We also talked about our family name SHARP, then had each child come up and talked about where they got their name. I also taped their name to their shirt. For our activity we played "Who stole the cookie from the cookie jar." It was a first for my kids and we all had a great time. Boo was a little nervous to play at first, because she knew that is was wrong to steal and didn't want to be the one picked.

So if you don't already know, I have a very strong testimony of Family Home Evening. I know it is important and helps us form those strong spiritual bonds. There are times when we don't have it every week...it's like church if you miss one week, it just keeps getting easier to stay home. When Mommy was really sick for a few months we missed out and after a while our kids started begging us during the week to have "that time where we learn about the scriptures and stories and stuff." So a few times we had it on a different night.

My children are young, but growing older and that does make it easier. In the beginning our entire FHE was 10-15 minutes. We had prayer, song, Scripture, teeny story, and coloring. Eventually our kids learned to sit longer and pay more attention. We used to have them copy what we said as we read the scripture (as if learning to pray). The more frequently we have FHE, the more reverent they learn to be. They also learn to do their best to ignore the two year old and try to focus on the teacher. If you are wondering where to start with your family...JUST DO IT!! Start small. Another thing to keep in mind....it is YOUR responsibility to keep it going. In our house Mommy prepares (or assists) for FIVE lessons and Daddy does one (usually something already laid out to teach).

Allright....summer is coming....keep it together!!! Ready, Set, GO for Family Night!!

I can do more, cuz I am FOUR!!!

2009-05-12T21:52:00.007-06:00

Boo is also known in our family as the "I Love You Girl". She tells everyone "I love you" so often. Out of the blue, when you are mad, sad, happy, when she's in trouble, and when she just can't think of anything else to say. Boo tells me at least 3 times per day...and I know everyone in our family hears it just as much. We sure do love our Boo.

Jazmyne "Boo" turned 4 on April 26. She had a very special day with her birthday on Sunday. After the countdown for Jaxon, Boo was very anxious for her big day. She didn't know quite what to expect, but she had a great day. For her birthday dinner, we ate Mac & Cheese. Then she opened presents from Mom and Dad. She got a Barbie house and it has been awesome! All the kids have shared and played with this together. They are also getting very good at picking up the Barbie stuff when they are done. Boo can do it better now because she is four. Her most common quote is, "I can do that now, cuz I'm bigger, I'm four."

Favorites:
Color: PINK
Food: Mac & Cheese
Toy: Hannah Montana and Barbies
Treat: "I like treats"
Movie: Barbie Thumbelina

Boo is always asking when she is going to be as big as Jaxon. We just tell her how great she is. :)

We also had birthday cake on Boo's birthday, since we did the party on Jaxon's birthday. We had a yummy Pampered Chef Oreo cake! Since it was "fluted", we put the candles for the kids on their own piece. Jinaya is a little confused as to where her cake is, but we all ate cake and enjoyed it.

We had a wonderful time together, thanks for all the gifts, cards, and birthday greetings.
Loves to all!

Ultrasound

2009-05-11T13:08:00.004-06:00

Well...the time is getting closer....4 weeks left. So I thought I would blog about the ultrasound.

Although I wish I'd have done it sooner and been able to remember a lot more things said, some is better than none.

We had our ultrasound in January 2009. We knew that the kids would be excited, so we took the big adventure together. The kids were very curious, although they weren't quite sure what they were looking at, even when the tech pointed things out. But my most favorite quote of that day was when Boo said, "Mommy you have a baby in your tummy and I have a Teddy Bear in mine." After that day I asked her so many times what was in her tummy just to hear Boo talk about her teddy bear.

Then the tech turned on the heartbeat. It was very loud....Jaxon covered his ears. After that Jaxon and Boo were talking about where the baby's heart is and where their own hearts are. Boo pointed to her tummy and said, "My heart is down here." After we regained ourselves from laughing long enough to explain things to her, she understood. Boo talked non-stop the whole time, and everything she said was hilarious, but I just can't remember it all. After the tech turned off the heartbeat, the kids begged her to turn it back on (even Jaxon). They danced to the beat and talked about they baby and all the parts we could see. We had a great time together and are we all are getting anxious for the time to come.

I am not posting the pictures, because I have a few as the header. Take notice of the baby making the "Hang Loose" sign. Can you find it? This little angel is going to fit in our family perfectly! :)

Teething...Still

2009-05-11T12:22:00.003-06:00

Well...apparently Jinaya is still getting some teeth. She has two i-teeth on top still coming in, one is barely poking through...and well maybe this is the cause of all the extra "tantrums". If we keep her happy (Orajel or Tylenol) before the "tantrums" start, then we seem to have a happy home. The older kids are also trying to remember not to "take things away" and a new level of sharing. :)

Bedtime Struggles

2009-05-06T10:09:00.004-06:00

Well...I really am going to post about Boo's Birthday, but I want to find the camera first and I have to remember to ask Josh where it is. Remembering is the tricky part. :)

Please be aware the following contains a "not so happy" personality for one of my children, and I do love her so dearly. She is a very happy, beautiful girl and makes us laugh constantly. She does deal with life a little more strongly than others. I could change the names...but really we would all know anyway.

Things are pretty much the same around here. Although Jinaya is going through a "new" developmental stage I have not dealt with before. She does NOT like to go to bed (yah what kid does). Well she will scream and hit things and just be so crazy. It is not easy to deal with. I have learned that she just needs to be loved no matter how loud she screams.

We have been dealing with this for a few nights, each time doing something different (sleeping in the living room, sleeping in the bean bag, sleeping on our bedroom floor, etc.) But yesterday we tried many approaches. Keep in mind she was screaming at us the ENTIRE time. The first was spanking. There were no results. Next, I told her to get in bed or I would put her there (with counting). She got out of bed faster then I could put her there and well I just didn't have the energy to keep up with her. Next, I told her she needed to get in her bed or I would shut the door (again with counting). She did scream louder (a result). She also told me, "You're not leaving me." "Don't shut the door." (I will admit, sometimes these things can be funny, but with the frustration, Mommy stuck to her guns.) We did this for quite a few times as I thought I was getting somewhere. After a while I decided she was getting confused and maybe only hearing "get in bed and Shut the door" not the whole of the sentences. So next, I went with her into the bedroom and shut the door, I sat by the door. I told her that when she got into her bed, I would open the door. I told her this a couple of times. By this time she was mostly just crying, not screaming. Then I turned on the broken record and very calmly told her to "Get in your bed" I did this over and over for every response. After a couple of minutes she had stopped crying and went to bed. I tucked her in and as I left the room I opened the door as promised. She immediately yelled at me, "You're not Leaving, SHUT the door." Um??? So I went back in and she was still in bed....gave her kisses and Shut the door and left. She was asleep in seconds. Although we did not dare check on her for a while.

As parents we have come to the conclusion that Jinaya is afraid to go to bed alone (even though she sleeps with Boo?) It is a little like "stranger anxiety". Also, she gets so angry she doesn't know what she wants to do and of course needs to calm down before any of her own choices can be made. She wants to be held and snuggled, but she can't get comfortable and doesn't go to sleep. She also has been going to bed "big girl style" for quite sometime now. Many kids make their own solution to this problem, with a blanket, bear, binki, etc. Jinaya does not really form attachments like that. Our next step is to try and encourage an attachment for her. We have a few ideas, but do welcome suggestions. We will not let her sleep in our bed, nor in our room. She did sleep on our floor once this week, but with a baby bassinet there just isn't room.

So...why post this? I think there are many times when mommy's deal with new things and situations and kid styles. The same things don't work for every kid. Sometimes the kids just don't understand. Plus I like to learn from what has worked for others...so there :-P

Girly GIVEAWAY!

2009-05-05T12:00:00.001-06:00

Click here and you can enter to win something from Flowers and Bows!

Remember that JoDee Sent you there.

What a Kick to be Six!

2009-04-25T13:31:00.005-06:00

Last Friday was Jaxon's 6th birthday. The countdown was on 14 days before! Jaxon never missed a beat and was right on with the number of days left EVERYDay! On the morning of the big day, Jaxon came into my room and said quietly, "Mom is it my birthday?" He tried all morning to contain his excitement, and as we were leaving for school he said, "I'm kind of excited to go to school today." He was so cute.

Our family went to his class the last 20 minutes. We had made a poster with pictures of when Jaxon was 5.

Favorites:
Color- Blue
Food- Mac & Cheese, and Pizza Toy- Star Wars Ships
TV/Movie- Sponge Bob and Transformers
Treat- Chocolate Chip Cookies

He got to tell the kids all about it, then he took some show and tell stuff. He had a huge StarWars Millennial Falcon (from Grandpa Sharp) and a live Frog. After school, we got home and set up for the bday party. (post below) After that the kids played with all their "loot" until Jaxon's Birthday dinner. He chose, pancakes with ham and eggs. It was delicious! Finally he was able to open his presents from Mom and Dad. It was a LONG wait....and not so great pictures.

This picture (below) is funny because the kids were so excited about the gift....we didn't get to see it.

He had a Great Birthday and is Totally Cool now that he's six. Yesterday he asked me when his next birthday was going to be, like when he turns 7, and we got into the discussion about how your birthday is the day you come out of mommy's tummy. It was insightful. After school he told me he was pretty close to turning 8.

"Six year olds a great helpers and can do a lot of things. Even more than five year olds. And I can even help my Dad with more stuff too."

We love you Jaxon! We are glad you are in our family.

Birthday Party!

2009-04-25T13:01:00.002-06:00

For Jaxon and Boo we had a "double" b-day party. We tried a Hawaiian theme, although we had no sun. We made it a quick party (only 1 hour) which turned out great since there were quite a few other birthday parties the same day. A friend of Jaxon had a bday the next day. His mom called and decided to do his party on Saturday. Thanks to her, both boys were able to attend both parties. It was very thoughtful.

I have a few pictures...some that Josh snapped between phone calls. We played Duck, Duck, Goose while we waited for everyone. Then we had a relay race (boys against girls) and the kids had to put on a grass skirt (the one shown in the pictures), a lei, a pair of sunglasses, and a hat. Then they ran down the grass and sat in the chair, clap three times, and run back..put the clothes in the suitcase and then then next person. Although this game is for a little older kids, they had fun...and it was so funny to watch them. The skirt was dragging on the ground. This was the best game and we didn't get any pictures.

Next we played "Hot Coconut". The kids really enjoyed this. A quick tip I picked up was to keep the music short so the game moved faster. Below, I am moving the kids into a circle.
Boo is the one with the princess crown and wavy hair. Jina is the one with the white hat.

If you look closely you can see the pinata. LOL...
The last game we played was freeze dance. I am always amazed how long this can last while you set up something else.
Next we ate Raspberry Sherbet in a waffle bowl, with whip Cream, cherries, and Pineapple. And a drink umbrella. It was a little cold, but we still ate it. Jaxon and Boo opened their presents while the kids ate. We had a few more friends show up during the ice cream and didn't get their pictures.

The last thing we did was the pinata. This was a stick beating pinata not the pull string kind. The kids took turns hitting it...and after a couple of kids we decided to take off the blind fold. After everyone had a turn, they went again, and Daddy helped Boo break it. She was thrilled!

I wrote this all down because sometimes parties can be overwhelming to plan, but this was easy! It was a great party, and we did cut the games short to make things move quicker. If you wanted to have a longer party it would still work great.

Give Away at Girly Do's

2009-04-23T14:00:00.002-06:00

Hi....I am posting this so you can enter too...and so I can get an extra entry. LOL

So...click here. And enter to win a super cute hair thingy magnet board. With Super cute writings.

Plus don't forget to check out her cute hairstyles!!!

Grandma's Toe

2009-04-18T20:51:00.002-06:00

I am so thankful for Gramma's toe. I am telling this story without her knowledge, and it maybe removed if Gramma so chooses. :-)

I am thankful that during Gramma's baptism her big toe was poking out of the water, not only once, but twice. Although she went through a little bit of embarrassment, her three dunk experience has helped me and now Jaxon understand the meaning of immersion. I am also thankful that I subbed in a primary class a couple of weeks ago where the lesson was on Baptism and I recalled this information before I confused Jaxon trying to explain immersion with my pregnant brain.

Jaxon is giving a talk in Primary this week and one line he says is, "You need to go all the way under the water, even your big toe. That is called emershun." As of yet, he doesn't go into detail about Gramma. Jaxon chose his topic on his own. (He did not choose any of my ideas! I don't think this is going to change. :) He has prepared a great talk in his own words. We are so very proud of Jaxon. With a birthday to boot, he is growing up in every way.

We love you!

Happy Easter 2009!!

2009-04-14T16:11:00.004-06:00

We had a wonderful Easter weekend!!!!!!

Friday night we painted Eggs. (this is always a long waiting process.) It is my habit to buy things after Easter for next year. Last Spring I purchase the paas coloring q-tips. I strongly recommend these over the egg die. We did both. The kids had much more fun coloring directly onto the egg rather than waiting while the egg sits in die. The only issue is your kids may have dirty hands (or clothes) and you may need more than one pack. The eggs turned out GREAT! The kids were very proud.

The Easter Bunny visits us on Saturdays, and he was a smart one this year. Because of RAIN, he just set the eggs on the back patio, and told Daddy to hide them later. We also didn't make it to the city egg hunt. We spent the day visiting and playing with Gramma, Grampa, Nellie and Braydon (and their little dogs too.) We had a yummy BBQ, and finally ended the evening with an inside egg hunt.

Of Course Easter Sunday was a beautiful Sunny day! With our church meetings being later in the day we had plenty of time to get everyone ready in our humble dwellings. As I talked with Jaxon about why we celebrate Easter, I was impressed how well he recalled the resurrection. We talked in a little more detail about the atonement and resurrection. It was a spiritual moment between us. Later we attended some beautiful meetings and fully enriched our testimonies of the Savior and the Resurrection. He Lives and Loves us!!

We had a wonderful visit with family and were glad they were able to stay until Monday. Although we had a little asthma stress, it is under control now, and Mommy is not in labor yet.

We love you all!!! We hope you all have had as wonderful time as we have. I have enjoyed reading about your Easters!

Lost in Springtime?!!?

2009-04-07T07:46:00.004-06:00

Oh it is the season....at least yesterday was sunny and nice. The kids can play outside and have fun. They even tried to do a little swimming, but it is not quite that warm yet. Although the warm weather for me means lost little girls. AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! I know I posted about this not to long ago. And really what kind of mother just keeps loosing their kids! I know it's never happened to anyone else. So if you want to know the story here it is:

Josh had come home from work sick and was sleeping in bed, when I asked him if he was conscious enough to listen for the girls while I took Jaxon to school, he said "yes". When I got home the girls, Jinaya and Boo, were sitting on the curb at the end of the sidewalk waiting to ask me if they could go and play with a friend who was also waiting outside. Apparently Boo had asked Dad if she could play and Dad said she needed to wait and ask Mom. So the girls were just waiting for me to get home. Jaxon and Boo went to play and Jinaya came inside. I put on a movie and thought she may fall asleep for a nap soon. I went in and talked to Josh again, this time I was running to the store for milk.
On my way home, about 1 block from our house, right next to the college, I could see a police car with its lights on kind of parked in the middle of the road. I wondered what was going on, but didn't see anything else. When I walked in the door I was a little noisy and expected Jinaya to come running, but she didn't. My first thoughts were that she had fallen asleep somewhere and I went looking through the beds, pillows, and blankets, not seeing her anywhere. I next went to the bathroom with images of what horrors would lie for me there. She was not there. My house is small, and at this point I began to panic. Josh was also waking up and getting dressed. I asked him if anyone had come inside and talked to him, because the front door was shut and Jina can't open the front door yet. He was a little groggy and said that Boo had come in and asked him something.
I walked over and asked the kids if they had talked with Dad and if they had seen Jinaya. They said no to both questions. Confused I went home and searched through the house again. By this time Josh was awake and had gone through the house 2 times. I walked back over and talked to the kids they said they hadn't seen her and hadn't been back to the house, but maybe Boo did? I told them we couldn't find Jinaya, she was lost. The kids came into the front yards and proceeded to look for her with us. Josh went to the park and I proceeded to walk down to the end of the block where I had seen the cop. I called a few friends and neighbors to see if they had seen her. I turned back to see the three little children kneeling in the front yard praying to Heavenly Father to help us find their sister.
By this time I was sure Boo had gone inside to talk to Dad, Jinaya had slipped out and wandered somewhere, and then Boo went back to play. Jinaya may have followed the cats somewhere. She is a happy little girl. Usually she would be playing with kids, but sometimes you get little wandereres. By the time I had gotten to the end of the block, I was having contractions. There was a guy doing some yard work. I asked him if he had seen a little girl wandering alone and asked about the police car. He had not been working out there long enough to have seen the car and he had not seen any little girls except the ones who lived close by. On my way home I met up with Jenny, whom I had called thinking maybe Jinaya would have wandered to her house. I stopped and asked some more of my neighbors, knocking and calling on the phone. Jenny walked down to the park, Josh had gone through the house and backyard again, and was now walking somewhere else? I didn't know where, but he walked around another block. I had no idea where to look next or what to do? I went in the house quickly double checking everywhere, and pleading with my Father in Heaven, then I called the police. I walked outside while I was giving a description. 2 seconds after I got off the phone Jenny called from the park asking if I found her. I was sure she had. I was totally panicked at this time and while I was telling Jenny I had just called the police, I walked back into the house and saw Jinaya asleep on the floor. She was hunched over and curled up. She had fallen asleep reading books. She was in a corner, by the bookshelf, but also surrounded by a box with books and a tall foot stool. Even in her bright pink dress, she was well hidden. Not only well hidden in plain sight, but also right next to our main walkway. Every time I walked through the house, I walked past her. (at least 8-10 times). I even had Jenny walk in to see if she could she Jinaya and she didn't. I called the police back, luckily they hadn't gotten there yet. Another friend pulled up to my house at this same time and had mentioned they had already had the cops in their neighborhood twice this spring looking for lost little ones. One child was hiding outside under a bush.
My other children were relieved, although Jaxon had no doubts that we would find her because he had prayed. Jaxon had told Josh that we would find her because Jaxon prayed to Heavenly Father and asked for his help. Josh told Jaxon that Jaxon was right because he prayed we would find her. Josh also claimed not to be really that worried, but I did not.
Anyway, Jaxon went and played, Jinaya woke up about 5-10 min after we found her, and Boo stayed to play with her. We didn't much let Jinaya out of sight for the rest of the day....even in the house. That evening, while Josh was taking out the garbage, Jinaya followed him to the door and was walking out. He told her to stay inside, after all she'd already been lost once that day. :)

Happy Birthday Uncle Braydon!

2009-03-31T18:25:00.003-06:00

I found this picture of Braydon and Jaxon playing Legos, while Nellie was in the hospital. OF Course they are watching Monster Trucks in the backtground. It is a great picture of an awesome Uncle!!! We love you Uncle Braydon! Happy Birthday a little late.

I did call!

Mommy goes to Work

2009-03-31T18:22:00.002-06:00

Well, Mommy is going to work this week. It is going be a little rough, but I think we can manage. The kids will be playing with friends all week. JoDee is going to work as a Temp. Secretary JUST FOR ONE WEEK, while the regular Secretary is on Vacation. So far, so good.

I just can't understand how people pay for daycare. It is so expensive!

Hill Aerospace Museum

2009-03-24T17:02:00.005-06:00

Papa Rob and the kids went to Hill Aerospace Museum (while we were on vacation). They had a great time together. The kids told us all about everything they could remember (which is a LOT!!) Papa said there were also some VETs talking but he missed it. He also got the kids each a small, HIGHLY cherished toy.

Jaxon decided to pose with "Guns". Papa thought Jaxon was very funny.

So Cute!!! We just missed them so much!!!! We are glad they had a great time!! Thanks so Much Papa Rob for taking us!!! We Love You!!!!

PC Specials

2009-03-19T09:41:00.002-06:00

Hey, just a quick note:

I sent out a Pampered Chef email yesterday. It included a couple of personal Specials. I just wanted to let you know if you would like to receive an email to let me know. Just email me at jcrazzzy@yahoo.com and I will transfer it to my other email.

Love ya!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!!

2009-03-17T10:44:00.004-06:00

ARE YOU WEARING GREEN????

We are!!!! Ha ha ha....no tricks from the Leprechans today...... They must be all tuckered out. Just kidding....my blog background is all messed up.....But we do have a lucky charm on our side.....

Here's Boos Hair today

Please excuse the "flyers" in the braid crown (it was left over from yesterday.)

What's under a pony tail?

UM.....Well I wasn't sure if you would be able to tell it's a 4-leaf clover. But you can! It looks cute! I got this from cute girls hairsytles and the crown was from Girl Hairdos & Ideas.

TOO Much Traffic

2009-03-16T18:32:00.001-06:00

Hi...it seems when you post popular places, then loads of people start coming to your blog, so i am going to post this and maybe it will slow down some traffic. :)

A Day in DC

2009-03-16T17:02:00.004-06:00

Well, here are some of the pictures we took in DC. There are too many to post. :0) This view seems like it's everywhere in "The Mall". It was a beautiful day and we felt very safe and comfortable here. Loads of people were playing, picnicking, and resting on the grassy areas. It was very nice.

Josh and JoDee in front of US Capital Building.

View from the US Capital...

(below) This is the "Thomas Jefferson Building" where the "Library of Congress" is included. The Library of Congress was Josh's main request! We went here first since it is behind the US Capital. We were not able to take many pictures inside, but we learned all about some of the most important documents for our country, Bill of Rights, Constitution, Declaration of Independence. There were also copies of documents about Women's Rights and Segregation. It was truly amazing.

The Library also had a very special section on Abe Lincoln in celebration of 200 years. This display was AMAZING. There were many great artifacts from his life beginning to end. Mostly journal entries and letters, but also included papers from his campaign, presidency, and funeral. Some of the most awesome artifacts were the ones in his pocket at the time of death. The things I can remember are: a couple of pairs of spectacles, wallet, handkerchief, other things. He even had a $5 bill. It was incredible to see a bill for the US with out his face. VERY eye opening.
We also went to a great gift shop here. I wanted to get Josh a copy of the Declaration of Independence (like in National Treasure), but he didn't want to carry it. I wanted lots of things, but we got out of there with a few pencils. :)

Next we prepared for the long journey down the hill. We went to the Smithsonian Information Center, and decided to walk through the American History Building. There are sooooo many buildings, we didn't even have time to see all of this one. By the time we got down there, the people were out and about and the lines for the exhibits were LONG!!!

The very first thing we saw was the "Star Spangled Banner"....The American flag that was flown through the night when the British invaded here. The flag is no longer hanging, it is very fragile and over 200 years old!! It is displayed in a brilliant glass casing and around the casing are some things that talk about the white house burning, and the bombing in MD for 25 hours strait. Also as you walk around the flag you learn about the National Anthem and how it came to be. You walk around the casing, but can only view it from one side. Next there is a huge touch screen computer that talks about different parts of the flag itself. It was pretty emotional for me to see this flag and remember things that happened. Pictures were not allowed here either, but it was awesome.

So here are a few pictures that I did snap here.

The RUBY Slippers

Kermit the Frog

Oscar the Grouch
(also this is Jerry Seinfield's shirt and
well I do remember watching this Ventriloquist doll as a kid.)

So here is what we saw of the White House. It isn't much, but we did snap a few photos. At least they had water!!

Cheese?

Next we made the incredible journey to the Lincoln Memorial. One of Jaxon's heroes is Lincoln, and he really wants to visit here. JoDee even made the journey up all the steps. We took the elevator down. (I was afraid I was top heavy in the front, and those stairs are steep.)

A View from the Lincoln Memorial. No there is not any water in the reflective pool or the WWII Memorial. The WWII Memorial was pretty incredible! There are many things to read about on the walls and of course the memorials to our great fore fathers are blessed with and inspiring presence.
We went to the Washington Monument last and got there just in time for it to close. It is very big, and we did get to touch it. :) Everything starts shutting down around the same time, and by then we were tuckered out!!! I was determined to push on, but Josh was tired too, and we had an early flight in the morning, AND the time change was the day of our early flight. So thus the end of our trip this time. :)

I love this picture with the MOON....we actually saw it!

FINALLY FLOORS

2009-03-16T16:47:00.004-06:00

So Finally today we got our new floors. (Only 1 week after the 2nd back order date). Needless to say we are very happy with our new carpet. The kids (especially Jina) have been running, jumping, and laying on it constantly.

Here is a picture under the bar...with a tiny bit of the counter top....just enough to show color. It's so messy here, we are so happy to put things back in place. Also the finish work is not done yet.

I mostly took pictures by where the permastone is....everywhere else is just carpet. Again...Finish work not done....and the door isn't painted yet either. The end is near.

The kids HAD to get pictured!!! So cute!

wAhOoO!!!! iT'S hErE!!!!!

...the Royal Family

2009-03-13T09:17:00.006-06:00

Dun....da-da..da

For our Anniversary Date we went to Medieval Times dinner and a show. We ate delicious foods (with our hands) and cheered our knight to victory. Watched them joust, fight, and other knightly things. They also had trained horses doing some tricks and a bird too. Josh had never been and it has been quite a while for me. We had a great time! Our pictures did not turn out so great, but here are a few.

This is our knight, the black and white knight. We cheered and cheered for him, and he was the greatest one.

Although we look a little like we've "had one too many", I assure you we did NOT! We were just being dorks. And this is all we have.

We thought we would get the most souvenirs for the kids here since it was a special date for us. They LOVE the gifts and it worked out nicely with the robes I found on a super sale at the mall.

Hip Hip HOORAY!!! Hip Hip HOORAY!!!

Hair Again

2009-03-13T09:02:00.000-06:00

This is one of my favorite cute girls hairstyles. (as I have mentioned in a previous post.) It is a bundled bunch of braids. It is so easy and looks nice for church and casual for home or school. I also love what to do with the extra ends. I don't have to hide them to make it cute. I love this site because it has styles for long hair. Although many are "tween" I am able to adapt them well and they are super cute.

Here is today's version. This is the first day of Hair do's since our vacation. Boo loves the lightning down the middle. And she was trying to figure out two into one?? So Anyway it looks very cute!!!

Baltimore's Inner Harbor

2009-03-11T12:52:00.005-06:00

Here are some photos from our night at the Inner Harbor. I went during the day intending to go to the aquarium, but instead I wandered around all the malls and got my nails done. Oh and bought fudge. The fudge makers/sellers are singers. They are pretty funny and try to get you to taste the fudge.

The next two photos are of the Rusty Scumper Restaurant. The night before ATI had taken us to dinner here. We sat in the top floor and were literally wined and dined. It was nice. Josh had the best beef tenderloin EVER!!! Our table was seated directly over the water, it was an amazing view of the harbor.

The aquarium. Next time.

Josh took a bunch of pictures of the boats and subs in the harbor. We did not get there soon enough to tour them, but would have liked to. Next time for sure.

Of course...here is ESPN zone and the Hard Rock cafe guitar. We ate at Cheesecake Factory. Still a first for Josh, lover of cheesecake.

We took a picture of the guitar, especially for the kids. They love music.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

2009-03-06T09:22:00.009-07:00

Happy Anniversary Josh and JoDee!!!!!

J & J Celebrate 10 years in Baltimore and DC. (Courtesy of ACCC) Yesterday's photo of J&J at the Inner Harbor of Baltimore.

So I could have written all the things I love about Josh, but I didn't. Instead I wrote about marriage and advice. Please skip to the photos if you aren't interested. Before vacation I wrote each of my children a letter (in case we didn't come home.) So today I was partly writing to them.

I absolutely love being married to Josh. Everyday is wonderful. We have grown together so much over the past decade. It's amazing how much more you can love each other every year. It seems like our biggest obstacle of year one (and maybe two) was selfishness or only child syndrome. When you are dating you put each other first, then slowing when someone is invading your spaces your guard it put down and you become set in your habits. We learned new habits. We learned to see there are two sets of clothes on the floor to pick up (not just one), and maybe since I'm up could I get you something too?.

It seems in today's society Divorce is all together too common!! Being from homes of divorce (which in some cases is necessary) Josh and I came into our marriage with a commitment to each other, but mostly to ourselves, that we would never get a divorce. I remember discussing this many times with Josh and the very clear moment for me was in the car at the stop light in Ephraim. Josh said to me, "I don't ever want to get a divorce." We weren't married yet and he could have been talking about anyone, but Josh is strong willed and when his mind is made up, things are easy for him. "Faith without works is dead." As is any form of thoughts to do. Which is why we work on our marriage. We read together about strengthening and becoming closer. I love to read about things that can help our relationship, sometimes it seem like anything I can get my hands on. Josh listens intently when I read to him things I like. He enjoyed the movie "Fireproof" (which I thought he wouldn't). You know when it's someone you love and want to be with, it doesn't actually feel like work, it feels like love.

Our marriage is a 3 part marriage and we take that seriously. We are stronger together because of our faith in Jesus Christ. Because of our shared values and love for our Savior. When we are spiritually strengthened and are in tune to share those spiritual moments we become closer together. Our spirits are bound more tightly.

Here is some Advice we have taken to heart and used.

Always Kiss Goodnight. (we heard it at our wedding, and haven't stopped hearing it since. We even have a sign above our bed with this phrase. I will admit early on, there were nights when the smallest action of a kiss can have such a large meaning, and the lack of a kiss had large consequences. Thankfully I received advise for these situations too.)
"Heavenly Father, I loved her once please help me to love her again." I don't remember where I heard this, but someone gave a talk and I have never forgotten this phrase. I have used it in my plea to Heavenly Father and it works. My heart was softened and I was able to love again. It doesn't seem like I could ever not love my husband, nor can I remember any more than the phrase, but Satan is real! He destroys families starting with marriages. He is the father of contention and to overcome his power, we must include Heavenly Father.

There is so much advice and every marriage needs different things to help them work. This is what has helped me.

Our Heavenly Father is a big part of our family. He has given us so very much. 10 year anniversary is a diamond celebration and although we have no actually diamonds in our home (not even a ring), our family is made up of the most precious jewels. Thank you so my dear Father in Heaven.

J&J Celebrate 5 years in Hawaii. (Courtesy of ZB)

One Cool Dad!

One Happy Family

We support each others teams. Even when they aren't having a good season(s) (Raiders)

Just an old Ma & Pa now. Trekin' around Martin's Cove. '08

These are photos I have on my computer. Many of the 5 yearish ones are on CD's at home. Before 5 years predates the digital photos and I have a lot less of those.

LOVE YOU!!! Happy Days to come for you.

We are Here!

2009-03-02T10:19:00.002-07:00

We made it to Baltimore. Here we are on vacation and it has been snowing like crazy through the night. We had taken an early flight so we were able to land and such before the storm hit. (so early we just stayed up all night.) Anyway, it is kind of crazy and Josh and I can't quite figure life here? So bunches of schools have been cancelled. The news had HUGE coverage of the snow. It showed a picture of the roads last night (not a car in site.) Now the storm has passed and what remains on the roof outside is about 1 1/2 inches. I guess it should clear up and be sunny the rest of the week. We have outside plans for the weekend and are hoping for good weather. HUM?

So I just thought they got a little bit of snow here regularly. Turns out Sept. is the wettest month according to weather.com. I know who cares about the weather. What you really want to know is who posts to their blog while they are on vacation. Josh is actually here for work. He has meetings all week and I came along for the trip. Today I am sitting in the room. Partially because of the snow?, and mostly because I am trying to keep the swelling down. (a natural occurrence during pregnancy for me.) I have big plans for myself the rest of the days, but I welcome any ideas you may have for me, and your thoughts could change my life or at least my big plans

BACK ORDER??!?!?!?!?

2009-02-27T10:04:00.002-07:00

Are you kidding? We've ripped up our carpets, put in all the baseboards, painted and painted. Our living room is scattered everywhere (as if we had room to put it somewhere.) We (Josh) have moved the furniture a gazzillion times and yet on Wednesday of last week they came to lay the carpet. All ready to go and I mentioned where the permastone should be lain.
Carpet layers "What? You have permastone?"
Me, "Yes and it was on back order it should be in tomorrow." More conversing on what to do.
CL "Well you just don't do things back words. ... So we will call on the permastone.... and get it put in tomorrow." Everything was a good to go situation the CL put down the backerboard and got the remaining items ready to go. Needless to say another call came and the permastone was on backorder until MARCH 10!!! GRRRRRRRR!!!
So I go down to look out another permastone that could be put in tomorrow. I bring the store home and pick out the same type of permastone just 2 shades darker. (I like this one better anyway.) It turns out this same type is also on backorder probably until the 10th too. Lucky for us we are on vacation for the next week and we don't have to try to live in the house for another 2 weeks!!!!

PS>> for those who don't know, permastone is an awesome new type of tile that "just feels different." Check it out!

Out with the OLD!!!

2009-02-23T11:00:00.002-07:00

On Saturday, we took out our old carpet!! WAHOO!! We had carpet up the wall as a base board too. This is Josh and Jina taking the carpet off the wall.

GROSS!!! Here comes the carpet.

Josh show Jaxon how to roll up the carpet.

Jaxon tells Dad to fix his own side.

Are you going to help Jina??

No! I am going to JUMP!!!!

Oh So cute!!!! Thanks for the help Jaxon and Jina!!!
Thankfully for Boo and her asthma, she was playing outside with Em.
After the carpet was up, we kicked the other kids outside too.
Then Daddy got to work on baseboards.

Now the questions of everyday is, "When are we gonna get a new RUG?"

The Belly

2009-02-23T10:46:00.003-07:00

Hello!!! Nice to meet you all!!

Ok, very funny!!! Somebody (I think Gramma) took a picture of the belly!!! AS IF it wasn't big enough. I look like I should have this baby next month!!! BUT really he/she won't be joining us for a FEW more months. It's always like this. (big I mean) You would think I would be used to it, but "When's your baby due?" does get old. Well Aunt Jill says "It's a girl, look at the way it sticks out there all up front. Boys are in the back." Could be true, but my boy did make all this room and it seems like there are lots of places for this baby to hide in the back too.??? I just don't know.

So on a good note, the baby is moving tons!!! I am getting kicked and punched all day long. And one of my favorite parts is when I am sitting down, and my belly moves. It is so funny!! Josh just laughs at me laughing at my belly. He just doesn't get the same experiences. When he touches the belly, the baby calms to Daddy's touch and doesn't move.

So there you are. LOVE YOU!!!!

Hair Practice

2009-02-18T11:32:00.008-07:00

I have discovered the secret to sitting still while you get your hair done is Pictures and Ribbons/Bows!! So watch out!
Here come the picts!! Plus I figured Gma's love them!!

Boo had this hair for her V-day Party, and the trip to the city. Mom needs practice with twisting! She really wanted Spider hair, so we decided it could look like that.

Today, Jaxon did his hair so he could get his picture too.

This is Boo. She can't quite see the style in the mirror, so alas the picture day!
Plus...I LOVE the braid bun from Adopt a 'Do!!! It was fast and easy, so today is leftover braid day. Yesterday we did not have picture day Sorry.

Mom's twists are much better...I think I was doing it wrong.
The site here has tutorials on twisting and braiding! Scroll all the way down on her site.

It's all about the ribbons for Jina!!! She is still in her jammies, but I will take what I can get! Plus hair out of the eyes!!! Wahoo!!

The buns look larger from this angle, but again I will take what I can get. She loves her picture taken SOMETIMES!

A Sharp Valentines!

2009-02-16T13:59:00.002-07:00

Well, it's been a long weekend for the Sharps! Mom and the kids got home today. While they were away, Josh painted the living room. We are trying out the two-toned look? It looks great, but it isn't the color I had in my mind. I did pick it out, but it does not look the same as the card? Really how does this work! Anyway, Josh spent every extra minute painting all through the night. So it was all done and cleaned up by the time we got home! We love our Daddy!!! He is so awesome!!

The girls spent the weekend being sick. The sickness seems to be everywhere! Good luck to all of you and your families.

Boo has an ear infection. When I took her in, the Doc confirmed her asthma and set us up with an inhailer. (We already have "the machine.") All seems to be healing on Boo. In fact, when we got home she got out of the car and went to Emily's house.

Jinaya, it seems, also has asthma (thanks Dad!), but not quite so bad yet. She; however, threw-up all over Papa, and spent the night fevering. I don't think we are in the clear yet with Jinaya. She does still have a cast. The countdown is TWO more weeks.

Jaxon is fine and well. He played and played all weekend. Jaxon spent a lot of cherished time with Uncle Braydon. Jaxon even went to the LDS Services held at the hospital. His comment to Gramma was, "Well it's kinda better when they don't have you do so much." The services were only 30 min. long. :)

JoDee spent the weekend Shopping!! and DRIVING! and being with Nellie! Tomorrow I have a Pampered Chef show and then it's off to bed, to keep the swelling down.

Nellie's Home!

2009-02-16T13:50:00.002-07:00

Wahoo!!!! Nellie is home. She was released from the hospital yesterday and the family made the long journey!! She came home to a great surprise!!! Nelllie's friend Alexis had painted Nellie's room lavender with little cutesies everywhere! Thanks so much for your loving support Alexis!! You're awesome!!

The Dr.'s and Nurses were so great!!!! I do have pictures of Nellie's back, but I told her I wouldn't post them. Her cut goes all the way from her neck to the end. They seemed to think it looked nice. I think it looks long! She is back to her old self for the most part. Nellie gets tired fast and it is going to take some time for her brain to figure out the different connections in her body so she can operate her chair and stuff. It is also taking a little learning to be able to move her without twisting anywhere!

Drop her a visit or a line! Love you all!

Nellie Update

2009-02-13T17:33:00.002-07:00

Hi...well sorry I was planning to post more often, but well you know. Anyway, we are up here visiting Nellie. Thanks to my awesome bro & sis for meeting me with my other bro. And well we were all up here with Nellie yesterday and that was nice. She is still kind of out of it most of the time. She is having more and more things removed, so well that's a sign of improvement right? She looks better today than she did yesterday. Nellie is sitting in her chair two times a day and it still seems like a lot of work. Really she mostly sleeps in the chair. When Nellie gets home she is going to read all of this and try and remember how weird she felt.

Anyway, her recovery seems to be regular. She is smiling regularly now, and even mostly normal. Mom and Dad seem to be doing well. There are some great services here and no one seems to have gotten any more crazy. (any more crazy than when they got here).

She has had a few visitors and even some great nurses (including a former Hanksvillite). She has also gotten lots of cards, emails, and flowers. Thanks so much for the kind words and thoughts. I have passed on any messages I've recieved. :) Love you all!!!

Nellie's Surgery

2009-02-11T10:04:00.006-07:00

Here is a quick update. Most of you already know. Nellie had back surgery. Basically they placed a rod, moved her spine over to the rod and fused the spine to the rod. The surgery went perfectly. As far as I know they had planned for a lot of extra time, but they seemed to get it done quickly to me. She did not have any epidurals, the Dr. doing the surgery does not like them in the back. But she is on medication to keep her muscles very loose. Anyway, she did have quite a few IV lines going from lots of places (like her neck). She spent 24 hours in ICU, to monitor her. She is now in a room. You can call cell phones or the room directly. Many of the tubes have been removed now. She has slept a lot, and she has been asking to roll over from side to side. She does need to keep pretty straight while her back heals. I talked to my mom a few hours ago and the therapist was coming in to get Nellie to sit up. I think Nellie was quite nervous and not really excited. My mom is counting her smiles today. Although they aren't very big she has had 3!! Mom is going to count until she can't anymore. I don't know what else you want to know, so just ask questions. :)

After having the surgery re-scheduled a few times, and a small battle with fluid on the lungs (where Drs. could not remove the fluid because of Nellie's back), we are thankful to finally have the surgery complete and are praying for a healthy recovery. It seems like the extra time has gotten everyone, (Nellie, Mom, Dad) a little more prepared and ready. Nellie's relationship with her Father in Heaven is one that I am sure there are many more angels helping her at this time. I think she has an "in". :)

LOVE YOU NELLIE!!! **hugs & kisses** **SMILES and GIGGLES**

My Try on Heart Hair

2009-02-10T18:45:00.005-07:00

So, Here's a try on Heart Hair. I did try another style for church, but didn't take any picts. I also saw two super cute sisters who had this heart hair and I had to try it!

Boo's Hair is really long, so the heart is really big. And without bangs, from the front it looks like a crown. The pictures do make it look bigger than it really is.

Boo's Heart stayed in all day, it was the pony bob, that got a little messy, but not too bad. Anyway, It was so quick and easy I was brave enough to try it on Jina.

I did have a pony in Jina's hair too, but the heart was a little too short. I thought it looked cute without the ponytail.

Jina's Heart, however, did not stay in all day. She kept pulling it out and I was clipping it back in. It was still easy and quick, and Jina's hair was out of her face! :) Thanks for all the great hair blogs!!!

Girls Hair Blogs

2009-02-07T14:59:00.003-07:00

Oh Look what I found!!!! A Bunch of super cute hair blogs!!! I promise to make a sidebar gadget soon....but if you just can't wait....here they are.....

She Does Hair
Emma's BEAUTIFUL Patience
Girly Do's
Hairstyles for Girls

Anymore out there??? I'd love to add you to my list.

Readasaurus Birthday

2009-02-06T12:11:00.003-07:00

Last Friday Jan. 30, 2009 was Readasaurus' Birthday. Readasaurus is the mascot of Jaxon's School. They were to dress like pirates or wear their PJ's. We tried to get Jax to wear his Iron Man PJ's but that was Not a pirate! So we made due with what we had available (halloween stuff is tucked away). We drew on his face and mommy even let him wear a tatoo (this does not happen to often). On the way to school Jaxon told me how pirates sometimes do bad things and aren't always nice. We talked about this for a while, I was impressed with Jaxon's thoughts on the subject.

A friend's husband, from the ward, went to the school in the morning as Captain Jack. He did this at halloween and he did a great job. Here is a link to their blog. Jaxon missed this assembly.

When he got home from school, Jaxon talked about how the Principal had to walk the plank and landed in some stuff that felt fishy. Jaxon talked a bit more about what happened at school, but sometimes half a story doesn't quite make sence. He also came home with an eye patch that was a great addition to his costume. Jaxon had a great time!

Sledding in the New Year

2009-02-01T21:21:00.001-07:00

Sledding in the New Year

2009-02-01T21:12:00.003-07:00

So Well, Here's my Slide Show..it's like a 3/4 show, so I had to adjust some of the photos that were cut off. Sorry.

Anyway, We went sledding for New Years Day. Mommy and Jina stayed home, while Daddy, Jaxon, and Boo went sledding. I was sure they would be back in less than an hour!!! Two hours later Josh comes in the door and says, "You gotta come out with us, these kids are so fun!" They had just come home for a potty break. Jina stayed home with Gramma, and I took the camera and went sledding.

We went out to a spot called the Dry Ponds. There was a BIG hill (photos not shown) and a smaller hill. They climbed about half way up the big hill to slide down, but no one stayed on the sled. Jaxon went all the way down the big hill with no sled. :) The kids had a great time.

They screamed and squeeled a lot!! Boo even went all by herself. When Daddy got on with her they just crashed, but she still let him ride with her. Daddy spent more time with his face in the snow than anyone. Jaxon spent more time going down backwards. You don't have much control over the magic carpets and they spin around often.

All said and done, Daddy had a sore bottom for 3 days. (An old body is just not the same as a young body.) The kids are so brave and now sled down the "snow pile" at the neighbors house. They have enjoyed the snow more this year thanks to Snow Pants.

Hope you all rang in the new year with as much fun as we did!! Love you!!

Philly Cupcakes

2009-01-30T16:59:00.003-07:00

Philly Cupcakes
from Grandma Audrey Veibell

Prepare cupcake mixture (Chocolate or Yellow).

FILLING:
1 Softened Cream Cheese (8 oz.)
1 Egg
1/3 Cup Sugar
6 oz. Chocolate chips

Mix together

Fill cupcake batters 1/2 full. Put 3/4 spoonful (large spoon) of FILLING on top of batter in cupcake tins.

Bake the same as regular cupcakes. Mine didn't seem to fluff up like regular? Of course we love sweetness, so we frost them too. :)

Ok, so I tried to explain this but I understand it could still be confusing. I would be happy to help if you have any questions.

LOVE YOU!!!

Happy 2nd Birthday Jina!

2009-01-29T15:59:00.001-07:00

On January 29th, Jinaya turned 2 years old!!! Wahooo!!! We had a great day!!! Although we took lots of pictures, some didn't have the flash (oops!) and some are blurry (again), I only have a few posted.

Jinaya (Gin-A-Ya) loves to sing. She remembers all the words to many songs. Some of her most popular songs are: Monkeys Jumping on the Bed, Twinkle Little Star, and Eensy Weensy Spider. My favorite is when she sings songs that say "I Love You". Jina speaks very well for a two-year-old, and you can understand the majority of what she says. She reefers to herself as "Weena". Along with the great speaking ability, she has an amazing talent of making faces. She makes all kinds of crazy faces from mad, sad, silly, happy, and crazy. This talent works hand in hand with her fun personality. (Just don't make her cross). Jina has a mind all her own, and isn't easily persuaded. This is a great aspect as long as she makes the "right" choices. She is pretty funny and makes us laugh constantly. Even when she throws herself onto her stomach and has a fit it is hard not to laugh.

Jinaya loves to dance. We played the "traditional" freeze dance for her birthday. Some of her favorite movies to watch include: Elmo, Shrek (and Donkey), the Grinch, and Mickey Mouse. She loves to color and is working on coloring with her left hand. It is a little tricky, but she is adapting very well to her cast. Jinaya FINALLY has the last of her teeth. Her "i" teeth just came in this past week. She loves to read. She has moved on from board books to bigger books, one of her favorites is The Book of Mormon.

When the kids figured out it was Jina's birthday they were so cute. Jaxon made her a crown and Boo made her a card. All ideas of their own. Boo even helped make the yummy cup cakes. (I promise to post the recipe!) We did get a blurry picture of the crown, but we couldn't get her to wear it. She was too fast and wiggly.

This is Josh lighting the candles with his torch. Can you say "Redneck"?
Of course there was no flash. (OOPS!)

Oops!! I missed the blowing out??? She was good.

But she did pull the cutest face!!!

Okay Let's Try AGAIN!!! Happy Birthday To you!

Happy Birthday To YOU!!!

Happy Birthday to Jinaya!!! Happy Birthday To YOU!!!

Oh we all got cupcakes too!! Jaxon inhaled the first one, and is trying to explain the second one.

We had a great party thanks for all the cards, gifts, and phone calls.

Broken Arm Update

2009-01-28T14:46:00.001-07:00

Jinaya's had her hard purple cast on for one week. Daddy took her in to get an X-Ray today. Everything looked much the same. No change on the angle, but calcium deposits are starting to form. She will have another X-Ray again in 2 weeks.

She is adjusting to the cast very well. She can use it for assistance to lift and hold things in her hand the right way. She is adjusting to coloring left handed, but doesn't like to eat with utensils yet. She only gets a little cranky when it is time for Motrin. She can't quite figure out what she wants. Other than that the cast hasn't slowed her down. She still sits on the edge!! However she can not climb the latter to get to the top bunk. We haven't put her up there either, in secret I am still afraid she is going to brake her other arm. She just isn't afraid of things.

A Sharp Christmas in 2008

2009-01-26T12:54:00.003-07:00

For Christmas eve, we played some fun games with the kids. We did play hot potato, to the bible story in Luke Chapter 2, but the kids were so confused with what to do, we all just laughed. We had a lot of fun, and of course talked about the true meaning of Christmas and shared in the spiritual moments.

We had a fun Christmas at home. The kids got to stay in their new jammies all day long and play with their new toys. Although we did have a yummy ham dinner, Mom & Dad didn't do much either besides play guitar hero. We had lots of "pretend" Christmases this year that was also fun. The family got a new pencil drawing of the first presidency with the phrase, "Come Listen to a Prophets Voice"; a Family Home Evening board; and of course Guitar Hero.

We are limited on our photos, but Boo wanted a Barbie Mariposa from Santa. I think this was partly Jaxon's idea, but Boo caught on quickly and that was all she wanted. She was also very observant of the cookies and milk we left for Santa. Boo's phrase of the day was "and Santa ate all the cookies but one."
Jina was such a cutie. I am not sure who opened her presents? She got a dolly. She was more interested in eating the candy out of all the stockings. Santa was smart not to get much chocolate, but Jina still seemed to out eat us all! Jina's phrase of the day: her mouth was too full to talk. :)
Jaxon had a great time at Christmas. He had 2 months to be excited. He wrote his list for Santa and changed it every time he saw something on TV. Santa brought two things on Jaxon's list (one was Snow pants), and Santa even brought some Lego's he just knew Jaxon would want. It was a new experience to be surprised, but Jaxon plays with his Lego's everyday. Jaxon's phrase of the day was "Sometimes Santa even brings you a surprise of something you didn't know you wanted."

We have truly enjoyed the humbleness of a small Christmas, and were greatly blessed beyond measure this holiday season. A Very big *HUG with tears* to all those Anonymous Angels who helped enrich our lives both temporally and spiritually in 2008.

We love you all!!! Hope you had as great of time as we did!!!

Sanka, Are ya dead Mun?

2009-01-23T11:07:00.004-07:00

Hello, Here we are. Alive and doing well. We have had HUGE adrenaline rush getting through all the many Christmases, and climbing out of the sick hole getting back into life. The daily routine of dropping off and picking up, etc. I am having a hard time remembering who, when, what, where, and everything else I need to know. According to Josh it's "placenta brain". Anywho, I do have a lot to post about...and here's a list to help me remember.

Christmas
New Years Day
I had a birthday and that was about it. Usually we have a fun party, but we didn't.
Ultrasound (wahoo)....remember it's a surprize.
And well to top it off a broken arm

Last week, we (me and the girls) went to the doc for our monthly checkup on Tues. On Thurs., we ALL drove to the "Lamb Shed" (Mt. Pleasant Hospital) for the Ultrasound. On Saturday, Josh and I drove back to the ER with Jinaya and the broken arm. She fell of the bed. We aren't exactly sure what happened, but she does tend to sit on the Edge of everything. And she's fallen off before. Jinaya was tired before playing on the bed, and after she fell off, she took a 2-hour nap.

Josh was outside working on a friends car (he had the door off fixing the window) when I told him I thought her arm was broken and we needed to take her in. He had to quickly (ya-right) put the car back together in the dark. Luckily he was done.

Jax and Boo went over to play at a friends house, while we went in. The kids were confused and curious and Jinaya's well being. Of course a broken arm is not so big a deal to many, but NONE of us has ever broken a bone before, except a toe and that doesn't count.

Anyway, Jinaya is such a brave little girl! She would NOT take any medicine! She cried long enough for me to figure out it was hurting and we needed to take her in. Once she went outside, she was better; and by the time we got into the car, she was singing twinkle, twinkle. I had called the ER, to let them know we were on the way, (this way they could contact their tech people and we would have to wait for them). When we walked in, the ER doc looked at Jinaya. She was standing on the ground and he got down to her level and talked to her. He felt her good arm and her broken one. She gave him the dirtiest scowl I have ever seen her give!!! And she didn't move a muscle, not even a flinch on her scowl. He touched her wrist and her elbow, and then her arm. When he touched the brake, there was such small fraction of a shudder, that I looked at the doc to make sure he saw it. She did not want to move! Anyway, They gave us a bed, and the doc gave her some ice cream so she could take some meds, after that she started to warm up a little. She became a little loopy and by the time she was all splinted up, she RAN for the door.

The x-ray showed a brake and the bone was bent about 10 degrees. 10 degrees is on the border for re-setting, so in the follow-ups this week. We decided to try and cast it to see if it would shift back naturally. The worst case would be a resetting later, but for now, she has a hard purple cast that goes over her elbow. She is getting used to using her left hand for most things, but she prefers not to eat with a spoon. She does still color a little, but not as much as she'd like to. Anyway, I have a photo from today, and it's a little blurry, but I will get some more. :)

OOOOHHH!!! It's a lot blurry!!! Sorry. But it is sad to see a tiny one in a cast. Jinaya will be 2 years old next week.

Happy December

2008-12-11T18:29:00.002-07:00

Well I hope I get the chance to do a couple of posts, but well....things are still the same around here.

The house all a mess...
and mom in her hole....
daddy is wondering.....
if we are going to turn into moles??!!

Well we shall soon see. We had a Happy Thanksgiving with Nana and Papa! We ate yummy food, watched football (even though the games were boring....not close at all), and we played the new cranium WOW!!! Thumbs up from us. More exciting questions and not so dated. :)
JoDee did NOT go out on Black Friday. Those people are INSANE!!! If you did, count yourself Crazy!! Josh did go after the hustle was all over and picked up the new Monopoly "electronic banking". Thumbs up again!!! Such a fun game without the hastle of all the money!!!!

We had our Christmas party all planned for Saturday, when the Flu bug went around in the family. On Saturday the Daddy's were sick, and well we partied hard until 8:30pm. :) Isn't this when the party starts?? We had a great party anyway. Thanks so much to Nana and Papa for all the love they give. We were so excited to give Nana and Papa their handmade "John Deer" Stockings and matching tree skirt and even John Deer Fruit Snacks! We hope they enjoy them for many more Christmases. Auntie Mandy's family had our family name for Christmas and she made us each a little rag blanket with our names on them. Where did she find the time between a new baby and school?? We all love them, and have to have them every night!!!

Raspberry Pretzel Salad

2008-11-26T12:33:00.004-07:00

Ok...well I was looking for my "Pumpkin Roll" recipie and I found this one. I thought I would share just before the holidays. It is totally yummy and well cravings don't help me any. I think the credits actually go to Jello and CoolWhip.

Raspberry Pretzel Salad

First Layer:
2 1/2 c. crushed pretzels
3/4 c melted butter
3 Tbsp. sugar

Press in a 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 Degs. for 10 min; Cool.

Second Layer:
1 c. powdered sugar
1 (8oz.) softened cream cheese
1 (8 oz.) Cool Whip
1 sm can crushed pineapple; drained

Mix cream cheese& sugar. Fold in cool whip & pineapple. Put on top of first layer.

Third Layer:
2 sm pkg. Raspberry jello
3 c. hot water
1 (12oz) pkg. frozen raspberries

Dissolve jello in hot water; then add frozen raspberries. Let partially set. Put on top of 2nd Layer and CHILL.

So you may have had this it was popular a few years ago, but it's still yummy. Also, the third layer is TRICKY!!! If you put it on too soon it will mix a little with the 2nd layer and look funny, but it will still taste good.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!!! Love to you all!!

AS IF......we needed another June Birthday!

2008-11-19T12:36:00.002-07:00

Oh JOY!!! As if you haven't guessed. We are expecting another little angel to join our family on June 10, 2009. As if we needed another June birthday I know, but he/she will be the first June baby in the Sharp family. June 3 is Grandpa's birthday and exactly one week early. This is my plan. We all know how well mommy's plan goes. Our other children know we are expecting a baby, and it is going to be a long, long wait! And of course I already have the names, it feels like I've known these children for quite a while now. "Jacey" Jacynda Elaine (girl) or "Jay" Jathan Peter (boy). Mock all you want but please don't let it get to me. :)

On the way to school about a month ago, Jaxon told me that some mom's just have babies in their tummy's and that is just weird. I tried to ask him who he was talking about, but he just said I don't know a lot of them. I think his teacher is having a baby too, but when I asked him, he said she wasn't.

Boo went with me to the doctor this week for my first visit. She got to hear the heartbeat! Boo learned a lot!! She didn't quite figure out why the doctor didn't get the baby out and so we could take he/she home right now.

Jinaya loves babies and I know will be totally beside herself with a new little one in the house.

It has been fun having older children understand a little bit more. Jaxon remembers quite a lot about when Jina was born and he reminds us frequently. He is also really wanting a brother since he doesn't have one of those yet. Then we could have an AB pattern. ABBA. (Kindergarten thing, It's okay you don't have to get it. :) )

Josh is always nervous about having a new baby, mostly for the space. I think he is a little excited this time because we have an "iron clad" excuse to get a new car. Anything New is always great!!! Right now I think he is just praying for me to get better. He has had to be Mommy too! I think he does a great job, but he does not get much time to himself.

I have just been sick. VERY SICK!!! I have not been on my computer for more than 15 min. since my last post. I wanted to update the other day, but didn't last that long. I am 11 weeks and am hoping it will only be a few more weeks. I am taking medication, which gives me small blocks of "okay" time although I still get sick.

Anyway...There is is....THE BIG NEWS!!! :)

Only an Aunt

2008-10-22T15:10:00.001-06:00

Hey Nellie, I thought you might like to see this one. :) Love you!!!

A Very Merry UnBirthday To Jaxon!!!

2008-10-17T11:09:00.003-06:00

Today is Jaxon's very UN-Birthday. His birthday is April 17th. I made these pages for the ES Challenges. In case you can't read this it says: For Jaxon's birthday we decorated and made a fun poster. Jaxon won the birthday cake from KMTI and Kent's Market.

The letter was a journaling challenge, I was glad to do! I have been wanting to write letters to my children for a long time. You can read the letter here . Please keep in mind it is a personal letter from me. Happy Un-Birthday Jaxon!!!

Tripple "X" Hair

2008-10-14T14:20:00.007-06:00

My cousin had a post on her blog about hair styles and I thought it was a great idea. I am always forgetting some of the great ideas I've seen and done, so I am taking pictures of them and posting them so I can go back and remember them.

Jaxon though it was X hair, so that is what we call it now.

This one was easy! It was tons of fun. In the future, I would use hair wax on the pony tails as I put them in to keep stragglers down. It lasted for about 2 days and it took about 25 min. I think it would get quicker if you did it more often or you had a plan before you start. :) I think the rows go, 6, 5, 3, 2.

Boo Lee Lou Lee

2008-10-09T23:01:00.002-06:00

I did this page today for a Scrapjack Challenge. Where you have to include certain elements. Anyway. It was hard, but I think the page looks ok. Of course the Girls look beautiful and the pictures are fabulous thanks to Nana. The photos are from Auntie Katie's Wedding January 27, 2008.