Tobias Family

good read, and yummy eat

2012-01-05T13:25:00.000-08:00

I just finished a really good book called The True Story of Hansel and Gretel. I am such a bookworm, and love to share when I find good reads!

I have been trying out some new recipes lately, and found one that I loved from Pintrest. Don't you all LOVE that website? It's so addicting! Anyway, you should give this one a try, I bet you will like it too. The only thing I would add are raisins, just because I love them :)

Cinnamon Roll Cake
Cake:
3 c flour
1/4 tsp salt
1 c sugar
4 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 c milk
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 c butter (melted)

Topping:
1 c butter, softened
1 c brown sugar
2 Tbsp flour
1 Tbsp cinnamon

Mix everything together except for the butter. Slowly stir in the melted butter and pour into 9 x 13 pan. For the topping, mix all ingredients together until well combined. Drop evenly over the batter, and swirl with a knife. Bake at 350 degrees for 28-32 mins.

Glaze (best part):
2 c powdered sugar
5 Tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla

While warm, drizzle the glaze over the cake. It's kind of bread pudding ish! Enjoy!

new sales venture

2012-01-02T12:53:00.001-08:00

Ok, so my newest sales venture for 2012 is paparazzi! My neighbor and me are kind of doing it together, so I'm very excited that it will be a success. I loved doing the Usborne books, but they were just expensive, harder to sell, and to keep inventory of. With Paparazzi, everything is only $5! So that's freakin' awesome :)
Anyway, if have quite a bit of stuff already, so if anyone wants to come over and browse, just let me know!

slacker alert

2011-12-31T08:02:00.000-08:00

Well, it's official, I have been a major slacker when it comes to updating the blog. The holidays are so fun, but it's hard to find a free moment sometimes. My New Year's resolution is to become a more dedicated blogger. I love reading everyone's blogs, and I want to be as good as all of you at updating.
Here are a few picts from our Denver trip. We had such a fun time, and it's such an experience to go to an NFL game. We got real close to Tom Brady, even though he ignored us when we were shouting his name :) Tebow was awesome, as usual, even though he couldn't pull out a win. Cross your fingers we get into the playoffs!

Demarius Thomas

Denver skyline

Tebow warming up

Tom Brady

fall happenings

2011-11-10T16:44:00.000-08:00

Here are a few picts of our fall. We have gone up to Snowbasing several times, enjoying the awesome fall colors, and going on walks. Matt wanted to put his photographer skills to work, so one weekend we went around the Ogden valley with his cousin's family. They are the cutest, and Maddie loves Mercedes and Gabe. I will post Halloween soon...stay tuned!

happy b-day

2011-09-25T17:50:00.000-07:00

This past week we celebrated my dad, and mom's birthdays. For my dad, we had a mexican dinner at casa de Tobias (which I forgot to snap a picture of). He turned the big "60" this year! Then for my mom, Shan, me, and my friend Shanna took her to the Tavernacle for a GNO. We had a real fun time :)
I am so lucky to have these two as my parents. They are such a wonderful support system, and awesome grandparents. I love you both!

Diaper FREE!

2011-09-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

I just have to take a moment and share this news with everyone...Maddie is officially potty-trained! I swear this was one, if not the most challenging stage we have been through with her! But now I can say bye-bye to diapers, hello big girl undies! It only took like 3 months, but the concept has FINALLY stuck. Thank goodness :)

~park city party~

2011-09-15T17:32:00.001-07:00

This weekend, I was lucky enough to be invited to an awesome bachelorette party in PC.
Matt's cousin Mike is getting married to a real sweet gal, Alicia, and she knows how to throw a party!
First we went to Baja Cantina for lunch, and cocktails. We were going to swim, but a big hail storm hit, so those plans didn't happen. After hanging out for a while, it was time to get all dolled-up for the night out.
We went to a club called The Downstairs, and got a private table on the stage, with our own bouncers and everything! Dancing with a bunch of crazy gals brought back memories of going clubbing....oh the good old days :)
We stayed up pretty much all night, finally crashing about 4:30.
In the morning, Alicia's aunt paid for us to all go to La Caille for brunch! Are you kidding? I haven't been there since high school, when we went on a field trip. The gardens were so beautiful, and the crab benedict I got was amazing!
I'm so excited for these too to tie the knot :)

4th recap

2011-08-18T13:01:00.001-07:00

Every year for the 4th of July, we have a big bbq at my parent's house. All the cousins come with their little ones, and there are lots of kids now.
This year we had a watermelon rolling contest, watermelon eating contest, and an awesome patriotic cake made by my talented sisters.
And last but not least...FIREWORKS!

summer days

2011-08-18T12:42:00.000-07:00

I have been such a slacker with blogging this summer! I have to admit I just haven't been in the mood, and would rather be outside. Anyway, we have been having a very busy summer, and here is a recap for your viewing pleasure....

Official summer kick-off with South Ogden Days!

Playing some b-ball at Kangaroo Zoo

Matt, me, Maddie and my Dad all took a fishing trip up to the Grey's river. We had such a fun time, and Maddie was loving the fish!

We have been in the water A LOT this summer!

We were sweating bullets at the dino park, but it was still fun!

Mads had her first trip to Lagoon. Too bad this was the only ride she liked :(

Watermelon....yummy

my new love

2011-06-20T21:13:00.001-07:00

Have any of you taken a Zumba class? My mom wanted to try it out, and I agreed to go along once, just so she would have someone to go with. Well, it turns out I love it! We go to this little dance studio in Roy, and it's only $3 a class. I have never sweat so much in my life! The instructors are nuts, and they push you to your limit! After an hour of this, I feel like I can conquer the world!

anniversary getaway

2011-06-20T20:53:00.001-07:00

On June 9, Matt and I celebrated our 5th anniversary. We decided to head to Wendover with our friends, Shanna and Zeke. This was my first time to Wendover, and I was real excited :)
Our first stop was to see John Michael Montgomery in concert!! He was playing at the Peppermill, and it was such a good show. Most of his songs are older, so I knew them all. Some of my faves were, "Life's a dance", "Sold" and "I Swear". I really like that venue, because it's smaller, and makes a really intimate concert.
Next, we hit the tables. It turns out that I LOVE roulette! I actually learned how to play, which isn't hard, and that's where I spent all my money. I didn't walk away with any, but Matt was a different story. He ended up winning $327 on Piagow poker! Can you believe it? It was really exciting!

We even had close seats, which was amazing!

"5" years

Shanna and me getting ready to gamble

day 1- go to a movie

2011-05-30T21:08:00.000-07:00

To kick off our summer list, we took Maddie to Kung Fu Panda 2. She was so excited to go, but after about 40 minutes, she was done with it.
I wanted to finish the movie, so we just gave her a box of Red Vines, and that kept her happy until it was over.
Needless to say, I think we will wait a while before we attempt another movie :)

60 days of summer

2011-05-28T15:45:00.001-07:00

I saw the greatest idea for summer on Blue Cricket Design, a blog, I LOVE!
This mom had made up a list of 60 activites her kids could do to curb the boredom of summer. She printed them all up, and posted them in a picture frame on her wall. Since the frame has glass in the front, she would just check off the activites as her kids did them with a dry erase marker! How cool is that?

Now, even though Maddie doesn't acutally tell me she's "bored", I thought this idea would help me keep my sanity during the summer. I tweaked the list , since her list was made for teenagers, and came up with 60 ideas that would be age-appropriate for Mads. My goal is to blog about each activity, and eventually turn it in to a mini scrapbook. I though this would be a great way to remember some of the things we do this summer.
Here is a peek of a few of the items on my list......go to the dinosaur park, camp in a tent, design a shirt, make a pizza, make popsicles, go to a firework show, have a sidewalk chalk day, blow bubbles, try a new park, go to the zoo, you get the idea. Even though some of the ideas are simple, it really helps to have ideas written down, and then just pick one of them when the "boring times" hit.

spring wear

2011-05-10T15:19:00.000-07:00

Here are some adorable "pretties" I found while looking for spring wear for miss Maddie. I wish I could buy, buy, buy, without feeling guilt, guilt, guilt :)

Very retro, and I love the little pom pom detail at the bottom

I would wear these shoes if they were in my size! Unfortunately, Maddie won't have anything to do with the "in-between-the-toe" feel

No words needed....

hoppy easter!

2011-04-25T19:32:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a good Easter, we sure did. Maddie got to go on numerous egg hunts, and would be so shocked every time she opened an egg saying, "Mom-mom, there's a prize in here!" Kids are the best :)
I was glad Mr. sun came out for part of the day, so we could BBQ, and play a little badminton. Now all we need is the warm weather to stick around.
I'm SO READY for summer!!

Trying out the 3D eye dying kit, which Maddie was not allowed to use, of course!

Showing off some of the easter goods

Off to church

Grandma Claudia took Maddie on an egghunt last week, and she got good practice finding those eggs

birthday girl

2011-04-25T19:18:00.001-07:00

We have so many birthdays in April, between our two families, and one of them happens to be Stef's. This year instead of getting her a gift, Shannon and I decided to take her on an overnight girls' night out in SLC.
We had dinner, went to the movie "Rio" (which was really good), and shopped around the Gateway. I must say, our hotel was pretty ghetto, but we had a blast anyway. Sisters are so much fun, I don't know what I would do without mine!
The next day, it was off to Chuck E Cheese for her annual birthday celebration.
For about the last 10 years, we have been going to Chuckie for Stef's birthday. She just can't get enough of that guy! It's really quite a sight to see her up there with the employees, doing the "birthday dance" for the kids!
Stef is such a special person, and I'm so lucky to have her as my sister, and friend.

Shan and Stef doing to some DDR action

birthday and such...

2011-04-17T17:13:00.001-07:00

Well, to say that I'm a little behind on blogging would be an understatement. So here's what's been happening around our house that last month...

Me and some of my pals from Herefordshire went to Bon Jovi!! They were such great performers, and Jon is sure nice to watch for a couple of hours :)
Even though we were like six rows from the roof, we were all up dancing, and had a really fun time. People watching at a concert like that is half the fun :)

Jenn and me enjoying our Crown Burger before the big show

Maddie is into doing hair lately, no matter who's it is :)

My little one turned 3! Can you believe it? Time really does fly, like they say. Maddie wanted a "pink" party, so I did my best to stick with this theme. We had all kinds of yummies, and a rockin' Mickey Mouse cake. Yes, this year I decided to go for the store bought cake, and I'm not one bit sad that I did. We walked right in, Maddie looked through the book o' cakes, and said " I want that one, mom-mom!".
I tried to explain that it wasn't pink, she wouldn't budge once she saw it.
Needless to say, she got terribly spoiled from our great families. Our gift to Mads was her "big girl" bed, and bedding. The first week, she kept escaping, and coming into our bedroom, but now she has the hang of it, and LOVES sleeping in it.

disney on ice

2011-03-23T19:33:00.000-07:00

Every month, my sisters and I plan a "girls night". This month Stef was in charge of the activity, and chose to go to Disney on Ice. It was such a cute show, and it made me sad that Maddie didn't come. Because Stef planned it, Maddie was NOT invited. Got to love that girl!
There were so many little kids dressed up like characters,that were oh so adorable! The skaters did a great job, and it made me feel like a kid again. Everyone likes Disney, right?

Don't you love the Minnie ears?

Belle and the Beast. This is still my favorite Disney movie of all time.

hosting anyone?

2011-03-20T11:52:00.000-07:00

Would anyone be interested in hosting a book party? I don't have any more parties booked, and really want to do another one!
My sis, Shannon hosted one last week, and earned $80 in FREE BOOKS! Just for hosting one, you can pick out a book on me :)
I would really appreciate the support, if you feel like this is something you might be interested in doing. Thanks guys!!

love of chocolate

2011-03-16T13:19:00.000-07:00

This year for lent, I decided to give up CHOCOLATE!!! This means none of those delicious little Cadbury's or my other favorite "easter time" treat...Girl Scout Cookies! I wanted to do something that would be a sacrifice, because after all, that's what it's all about. Wish me luck, I've been clean for a whole week already :)
And an added perk, hopefully, will be me losing some poundage for swim suit season!

hello chicago!

2011-03-08T19:10:00.000-08:00

Last week, I was lucky enough to go to a conference for work in Chicago! I have never been to such a big city, and I'm so glad I have the best sis in the world, who agreed to tag along.
I was overwhelmed with how tall the buildings were, and how diverse Chicago is. I was in meetings most of the days, but as soon as I was let out, Shan and I hit the ground running to see as much of the sights as possible.
Chicago is referred to as the "windy city", and that is the truth! It was so cold! Don't worry, we didn't let that stop us. Some of my favorite things we saw were, the nine-story mall at Waterfront Plaza (which had a 3-level Forever 21, to die for!), Navy Pier, and "the bean" in Millenium Park. We looked for Oprah's studio, but it was on the other side of the city, so that was one thing we missed.
Can I just say how scary cab drivers are? Holy cow! We only took a taxi twice, and they were so naughty both times! One guy even started pulling out before I was out of the car!
We had a really fun time, but I missed Maddie and Matt so much, and I'm sure glad I live where I do.

A structure in Millenium park. There was so many statues throughout the city

These faces are called "the people of Chicago" , and they really are just faces of people in Chicago. During the warmer months, they squirt water out of the mouth!

the "Miracle Mile"

We went to a stained glass museum at Navy Pier, that had lots of beautiful work

A view from our hotel room. You can see Lake Michigan in the background

Shan loved the American Girl doll store

I absolutely love the funky style of Betsy Johnson! It's a shame the "sale" items started at $250

We discovered a Notre Dame store! If my dad was with us, we never would have left :)

Navy Pier was like a boardwalk along Lake Michigan. We ate at Bubba Gump which never disappoints

I have never had "chicago style" pizza before, so we tried this yummy local pizzeria. It was really good, but so rich and greasy!

four letter word

2011-02-19T20:19:00.000-08:00

S-I-C-K

Thursday afternoon, Matt and I were working, and Maddie was at my dad's. She had been congested, and running a low fever that morning, but I just pumped her full of Tylenol, and didn't think much of it.
When I called on my lunch, to check in, my dad said she was acting really fatigued, and losing her voice. So, of course, I left work right away, and went to my sick babe.
When I got there, she had started getting the "seal" cough, which is when I knew it was croup.
I decided to take her to the Instacare, and it was a darn good thing I did. By the time we got back to a room, her fever had spiked to 103.8, and she was wheezing, coughing, and snot-covered. I felt so helpless, and that's the absolute WORST feeling a mom can have!
They gave her an albuterol inhaler, and when that didn't help,and with her fever climbing, we were sent to the ER. The doctor said she at least had croup, but with the fever, and swollen tonsils, that he was concerned about letting us go home.
To make a long story short, Maddie ended up being admitted overnight, was given two more breathing treatments, and steroids.
Can I just say sleeping at the hospital is really not fun! But the good news is, we are now home, and Maddie is breathing much better. I'm so relieved that experience is over! Yikes!

{usborne}

2011-01-26T11:36:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I'm really excited about this everyone..... You are looking at the newest independent consultant for Usborne books! I have decided I'd like to start a little biz on the side, and start selling these books.
Have any of you heard of Usborne before? Let me just tell you, they are SO cute! I have several of them for Maddie, and I have given them as gifts many times. They range from educational books, to "touchy-feely", to craft projects, and sticker books. Right now I have an "eShow" going on, where you can order books through my link. I would really love all of you to check it out, I think you will find some cool things! The website is: www.ubah.com/HOS192463.
There is a link on the right side column of my blog. Thanks everyone! Wish me luck

date night

2011-01-13T11:55:00.000-08:00

Matt, being the sweetie he is, got us Jazz tickets for our date night this month. I haven't been to a Jazz game since my "junior jazz" days. (yes, I was a tomboy in my younger days, and I can picture Linds laughing at this...)
Anyway, we ate at In-and-Out, for dinner,(so scrumtious!) then went and watched the Jazz beat the Knicks. It was a fun time!

tis the season..

2010-12-28T18:43:00.000-08:00

Once again, we had an awesome Christmas this year. Maddie was so much fun, and really understood the meaning of "Ho-Ho", who brought her "pezents". We started our fun festivities out with the Tobias family party, which was the day before Christmas eve. Let me tell you, the Tobias clan knows how to partay!

On Christmas eve, we went to Christmas mass with my fam, then went back to my parent's house for dinner, and presents. Maddie was SO spoiled! Most of her gifts were Dora related, and her favorite one was a sleeping bag, go figure!
Christmas morning, "Ho-HO" left Maddie her very own kitchen, complete with dishes and food. It's so adorable to watch her cook for Matt and me! After that, we were off to Matt's side of the family.

We went to Grandpa Dennis's house for a yummy brunch, and of course, more presents. Dennis got her a bike, and even though she is a little small for it, she insisted on trying it out. Next, we went to grandma and grandpa Lopez's house for dinner, and even more gifts. We had such an exhausting, fun couple of days.

It's so weird how Christmas takes weeks of planning for, and it's over in a blink.
Even Charlie got a gift. Shannon bought her a dog Snuggie! It's the cutest thing ever! She hates when I put it on her, but I will try and get a pic to post.
Happy Holidays!

Doing some Christmas baking with mom and Shan

Matt's cute cousins, Gabe, Mercedes, and Kameron

All tired out after a big day of opening gifts..kids have it so rough!

Maddie really enjoyed "helping" decorate the tree this year!

Matt with cousin Katie

Jill and me getting our drink on :)

Dad and Maddie on the train at the mall. Can you see why she needs glasses?!

Trying out some sledding, which lasted all of 10 minutes

looking back..

2010-12-17T11:40:00.000-08:00

I was just looking back at some old picts of Maddie, and wanted to post this little collage I had made. I am so excited for Christmas this year, because Mads is at the best age! Don't kids just make the holidays so much merrier?
Hope all of you have an awesome holiday

trans siberian orchestra

2010-11-20T13:35:00.000-08:00

All I can say is WOW! Does this group ever know how to put on a show! For my mom's birthday, back in September, Shannon and I bought tickets for the three of us to go see the Trans Siberian Orchestra. I'm sure all of you have heard their music, but they are especially famous for their Chirstmas tunes. All their songs are done with pianos, electric guitars,violins and drums. It was like being at a rock concert!
The coolest part was the light show. There were lasers, fireworks, and tv screens on stage that all danced long with the music. These men and women are really a talented bunch of people.
The pictures I took didn't turn out, so I just found these on the web :)

winner, winner, chicken dinner!

2010-11-18T11:54:00.000-08:00

Back in August, I won an overnight stay at Snowbird ski resort, through
FM 100. The give-a-way included the hotel, and a $50 gift card for dinner. We have been so busy lately, but finally found a weekend to sneak away.
Let me just say the hotel was AWESOME! We stayed at The Cliff Lodge, which is the highest resort at Snowbird, right on top of Little Cottonwood Canyon. We were on the 8th floor, and our room had a window in the bathroom that looked out into the room (really odd, I thought!)
There were 3 outdoor hot tubs, and a swimming pool. As you can see, there was already a lot of snow up there, but that didn't stop us from taking a dip. We both had icicles in our hair when we got out!
We went to dinner at this yummy little Mexican restaurant, that was in the hotel, that had a blazing fire, and windows overlooking the resort. It was so cozy, and made me excited for the holidays!

Don't mind all the snowflakes on the lens

The view from our room

Had to take a pictue of this weird window...

turkeylicious decor

2010-11-03T15:28:00.000-07:00

I thought these wall hangings were so dang cute for Thanksgiving! I don't have much Thanksgiving decor, so I printed out some of these, put them in frames,and viola!
If any of you wanted to get them, just click on the Whipperberry link on the right side of my blog, and you can download them.
Simple, yet wonderful!

halloween

2010-10-31T19:32:00.000-07:00

This Halloween, we went to grandma Claudia's house for a party. We had pizza, and lots of yummy treats. Maddie's cousins were there, Ava, Mercedes, and Gabe. They all had a blast playing with one another. They played the donut-eating game, where they tried to eat a donut off the ribbon without using their hands. Most of them just got frustrated, and ended up ripping off anyway!

Maddie was Minnie Mouse, and I really loved her costume! Our neighbor brought back those adorable "ear" barrettes, from Disneyland this summer. They worked out great, because there was no way Maddie would keep on the ear headband that came with the costume.

She kept saying, "dis nose is funny mom mom!" Because she couldn't understand why I wanted to put my black make-up on her. Even the grown-ups got dressed up, and it was really fun. I should have taken more picts of some of their costumes.

I was glad Maddie didn't want to go real trick-or-treating this year, talk about awful weather! Hope everyone had a fun holiday.

changes

2010-10-28T12:26:00.000-07:00

So what changes more than the weather in Utah?........Matt's job!

Yes, Matt is yet again starting a new career. About 2 weeks ago, he got hired with Comcast. He had been trying to get on there for a little over a year, and finally got the position he wanted.
I know what you're thinking, Comcast is a big change from being a scrub tech, or working in the ER. I know, I know! I don't get it either, but I really think he is just burnt out of the healthcare scene. He's still staying on-call at the hospital, so he will still be able to keep his certifications.
I'm excited for him, and there are some great perks that come with the job. We get free internet, free home phone, and all of the tv channels you could imagine (including HBO and Starz movie channels).
Plus, our health insurance primeums get cut in half, which is totally awesome.
My life is ALWAYS changing that's for sure! It always keeps us on our toes :)

pumpkins!

2010-10-02T13:29:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things to do this time of year is carve pumpkins!
So, me, Maddie, my mom, Stef, and Shannon all went to Pack's Farm this weekend. This little place is in Farmington, and they have 8 acres of pumpkins to choose from.

They also had a hay maze, which Maddie loved! I tried for a good 20 minutes to bribe her to come out. We all picked out several pumpkins, and some cool looking gourds. Now it's time for the carving!

Grey's River

2010-09-23T07:04:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, me, my dad, and Matt took our annual vaca to the Grey's River.
We had never gone this late in the year, and boy was it BEAUTIFUL! The leaves were incredible, which made up for the slow fishing. It was still really warm up there, which made the fishing not so great.
We still had a wonderful time, and it was so nice to get away for a while!

it must be fall...

2010-09-08T17:18:00.000-07:00

This last weekend I learned to can! My neighbor Shanna and I were instructed by our other neighbor Stuart on how it's done.
We did about 30 jars of peaches, and 10 jars of peach jam. It's quite a process, but it was fun. I'm trying to get in touch with my "domestic" side, and this is one of the projects I wanted to try. The jam is SO yummy, but I have yet to try the peaches.
Also, this weekend was the first game of the season for Notre Dame! Whoo Hoo! As I'm sure you know, my dad is obsessed with ND, and buys us all new shirts for the season. This year we got these cute hot pink numbers.
Notre Dame won, and they look a lot better than last year, so we are keeping our fingers crossed!
Maddie also got glasses, because of her wandering right eye. She has been pretty good with keeping them on, but after about an hour, she will pull them off and say, " I'm done with glasses." It's a very big challenge!

Our first batch of peaches

Some game day treats made with football Oreos!

Tobias fam pictures

2010-08-28T20:58:00.001-07:00

We are so lucky to have a talented friend like Sharstin! Aren't these adorable? I know I'm partial, but I have to say I have a dang cute family.

the face of summer

2010-08-26T07:17:00.000-07:00

what could be better than ice cream on your face, and swimming?

love me some Norah

2010-08-22T15:56:00.001-07:00

This weekend I had so much fun! Me and Claudia were lucky enough to get FREE TICKETS to Norah Jones! She was playing at Red Butte Gardens, and we jumped all over that.
It's a really pretty venue, and everyone just brings picnics, and sits on the lawn. Norah is such a talented gal. Her voice is amazing of course, but she also played the keyboard, guitar, piano, and xylophone. We loved it!
Next, Shannon took me out for a late birthday celebration to the Tavernacle. I can't tell you what a fun time we had. They have dueling piano players, and you can request any song for them to play.
They did everything from the Beastie Boys to Disney songs! I can't believe how talented they were. I really want to go back again.
It was a very musical weekend for me!

my babe

2010-08-14T21:40:00.000-07:00

I just really love this pic of Mads. I got Adobe Photoshop for my b-day, and this is one of my first experiments. It's a very tricky program, I have to say, but I'm catching on. What a cutie!

adorable

2010-08-05T19:18:00.000-07:00

I am so bummed that neither of these dresses are toddler size! Are they not the cutest things ever? You better believe Madelyn would have one if they were smaller. I found them on zulily.com, and am really bugged they aren't avaliable in her size. I love this website because they have so many unique styles for the little ones!

I love this little shirt for a boy

aquarium

2010-08-03T19:26:00.000-07:00

Have any of you been to this place? It's so cool!.
Last weekend, Maddie and I went down to the Living Planet Aquarium with the fam. Maddie absolutely loved it! Her favorite part was splashing in the sting ray tank. These slimy guys would swim right up to the surface, so you could get a good feel.
We also got to watch the penguins get fed, touch starfish, and watch a bird show. There are lots of "hands-on" things, which really kept Maddie's attention.
I would so recommend going here, especially with the kiddies.
It's the perfect thing to do on a smokin' hot summer day.

raptor drama

2010-07-24T19:15:00.000-07:00

This weekend we went to a Raptor's game with Claudia, Kevin, and Matt's grandparents. I haven't been to a game since high school, so I thought it would be something different to do.
So, everything was going fine, we were eating ice cream, cheering for the team, and then it happened......Maddie got hit by a foul ball! It came flying towards us, and thumped her right in the side. She started screaming, and the everything seemed to go into slow motion. Everyone was looking at us, and the workers asked if we wanted the paramedic to look at her.
As a mom, you can understand, I felt horrible! It was such a freak accident, and you never think that would happen to you, much less your babe! Maddie is such a trooper though, after about 10 minutes of crying, and me cuddling her she was back up cheering with grandma.
We got to keep the ball as a souvenir, not like we want to remember this injury. Maddie is doing fine, but has a fat bruise on her side. What a night!

summer update

2010-07-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of what our summer has entailed so far....

We had fun swimming with Linds, Mylee, Alicia, and Jackson. The bubbles are always a favorite with the girls. Don't they look so happy in that pool picture?

I'm sure all of you love Creamies like me, but now they have new summer flavors!
I couldn't find a pic, but there are now yogurt Creamies, which we found at Costco, that have Raspberry, Peach, and Chocolate. Me and Maddie eat these like they're going out of style!

And lastly, we went to a Great White concert this weekend at Teazer's.
This band is from the early 80's, and I knew only one of their songs. Our neighbors Zeke, and Shanna convinced us to come with them. It was one of the lamest concerts I've ever been too! There were so many old people, and I really don't know how to dance to hard rock. We had a good time, but I think I would have and just as much fun playing Apples to Apples at home, which was our original plan!

Charlie update

2010-07-11T19:50:00.001-07:00

I have to express how happy I am that one of my babies is now potty trained! It's the best feeling in the world.
Charlie has been "accident-free" for five days now!
I never thought it would happen, but thankfully we have done it.
Charlie is now 16 weeks old, and is turning into such a good little dog. She still chews a lot, but mostly it's on her own toys, instead of Maddie's.
Maddie is liking her more everyday, and now even trys to pick her up, which as you can imagine, doesn't make Charlie real happy. Her hair is getting real long, so I think I might be taking her to the groomers next week.
Can you believe Matt says he doesn't like her? Whatever!

cherry hills

2010-07-11T19:40:00.000-07:00

This friday, Maddie and I went to Cherry Hills with grandma Claudia. I haven't been there in about 10 years, and it was so much fun to take Maddie.
Maddie's favorite part was the lazy river. We just floated around and around in the tube, and Mads just layed on my lap relaxing. About every hour, the fountains would turn on, so you would be sprayed as you floated by. Maddie thought this was great!
Summer is the best.

island park

2010-06-18T20:38:00.001-07:00

This past week, Maddie and I went with my fam on a vacation to Island Park. Matt was stuck working (as usual), but we couldn't pass up this opportunity to go!
My uncle and aunt have a cabin right on the Henry's Fork river, and this is prime fishing country! We caught a lot of fish, but most of them were just little guys.
Maddie loved hiking all over the place, and "swimming" in the river, which really meant putting her feet in. I love this place, and we are so thankful that we could escape for the week.
I'm still sick that I missed Em's wedding, but I was thinking of you girl!
On the morning we left, it was snowing! Yeah, I was glad to be coming home to the Utah heat. I really slacked on the pictures this trip because my dad has a video camera. Here are a few....

relay for life

2010-06-09T19:24:00.000-07:00

Last Friday night,our department at work did a booth at the Relay for Life.
This is an all night walk-a-thon, up at Weber State, that helps raise money for cancer.
We set up a fishing pond, where kids paid a $1, and got to "fish" for a suprise.
Shannon is always my partner in crime, and agreed to come and help out.
In addition to the booth, you had to sign up to walk the track for an hour. We walked from 8-9, so at least we weren't one of the suckers who were out there at 3:00 AM!
It was really crowded, even though it rained most of the time. It just goes to show that people are good sports, when it's for a good cause.

McKay's fish pond

"Stan-bird" was even doing some laps! For those of you who don't know, he's the mascot for the Standard Examiner newspaper

SWEET!

2010-06-02T10:19:00.000-07:00

I get so excited when I find a bargain, and boy did I ever find one!
So, I take my old clothes to Forget-me-not Consignments, which is right by my house, and get a little extra cash for them. I usually don't find too many things to buy, but yesterday I happened onto some Seven jeans!

Yes, they still had the original tags on them, and were $39.99! I thought this was a good deal, and they fit like a glove! But to make things twice as sweet, they were marked down 50%, so I got them for $20!
This deal totally made my week. Matt thinks I'm an idiot for blogging about this, but he just doesn't understand the goodness of the deal.

memorial weekend

2010-05-31T20:39:00.001-07:00

This weekend we had an ultimate BBQ-fest! We made a pact with our neighbors, Zeke and Shanna, that since we were all staying home for the holiday, we would grill together every night. At first I was thinking, that didn't sound all that fun, but it actually turned out to be great!
Matt bought a new grill, and was all to excited to try it out. We got creative with our menus, and grilled lots of yummy things. Our other neighbor Stuart, and his daughters came and joined us one night, the more the merrier!
Each night after the meals, we would play "Apples to Apples". I LOVE this game, and can't believe what a good time we had. We have the coolest neighbors around!

Grilling some kabobs
Maddie and Shanna soaking up the sun

Maddie loved her new pool, even though it was freezing water!

After a little too much to drink.......

Emily and Rilee doing some sparklers (Zeke has a stash of fireworks on-hand at all times)

charlie

2010-05-20T19:49:00.001-07:00

So last week we did the unthinkable, and got a puppy!!

We had been discussing it for a while, and decided that if we could find a small house dog, it might be good for Maddie to play with.

This is Charlie. She is a yorkie, chiuaua mix that we found on KSL. I have to say I've never been a fan of small dogs, but she has won me over. Potty training has been our biggest challenge, but we have been trying to be consistent in taking her outside. I'm happy to report that we have been "accident free" for the last two days.

Charlie LOVES to cuddle, and sleeps the majority of the day. Maddie really isn't too impressed with her, and likes to tell her "NO! NO!" whenever she gets near her toys. I hope once she gets older she'll like her more. Meliss, I think I found a girlfriend for Andy. How cute is this face?

I know I'm ridiculous, but I saw this doggie raincoat and had to buy it for her!

Chewing was a problem.......

so we got her some chew toys, and now she's all over those instead of my shoes.

zoo time

2010-05-16T13:02:00.000-07:00

As a late Mother's Day present, Maddie and I took my mom to the zoo. It was perfect weather, but it seemed like everyone else had the same idea! It was SO crowded!
After we finally got in, we had a really fun time. I haven't been there for probably 5 years, and they have really added some cute things. Maddie loved the rhinos, the carousel the best.
We also got to see Zuri, the baby elephant, and she was so cute! I'm mad I forgot to take some pics of her. The zoo is such a fun place, and brings back childhood memories for me!

Ready to roll! Don't you love the hat? Trust me, she wore it all of 5 minutes!

This was Maddie's favorite part of the day, no questions! She wanted to keep riding even after the next round of kids were getting on. It makes me think she would love Lagoon.

Playing in the egg at the park. She waited like 10 minutes for this to be free of kids, so I thought I better get her picture in it.

mothers

2010-05-09T20:14:00.000-07:00

The top 10 things that motherhood has taught me:

10) You never think you could love something as much as you do when you have a baby.
9) Sleep is something you NEVER again take for granted.
8) Mom can't be replaced by anyone.
7) "Washable" crayons for the bathtub, are not!
6) Your needs, and wants are put on the back burner.
5) Sometimes all a sick girl wants is to be cuddled, and rocked by her mom ( I love this!)
4) Cherry 7-up stains do not come out of the carpet.
3) I could change a diaper in my sleep.
2) Getting a baby/toddler, in and out of their carseat, can become a serious workout.
1) And, the last but not least, is that I'm so blessed to be a mom! Even though it's the hardest thing I've ever done, I wouldn't change a thing.

I hope all you fellow moms, and moms to-be had a great day :)

Deal of the Day!!!

2010-05-04T14:02:00.000-07:00

I found an awesome on-line deal I wanted to share with you all....

Go to onefrugalchick.com, the link is on the side of my blog, and scroll down to the deals on May 4th.

There is this clothing store called Tulle, and they have some seriously cute things for $3.99! I'm not kidding!

I bought 2 shirts, and a necklace for $10! I don't know how long this is going to last, but you should check it out. The clothes are kind of Anthropology style.

Bibbity-bobbity-boo

2010-05-02T21:28:00.000-07:00

Making her princess crown with Grandma. Glue sticks are not a good idea for two-year olds!

Posing with a cute treehouse fairy. Maddie is impossible to get to look at the camera! GRRR!!

I told Maddie to go and dance, so she just walked up and started talking to "Snow White"! This little girl was trying to show Maddie how to twirl, but it wasn't getting through. Love the hand actions!

Have any of you been to the "Fairytale Ball" at the Treehouse? Oh my gosh, if you haven't, you really need to go.

Maddie and I invited grandma Claudia to come with us, and had a blast! I think I had more fun than Mads, but she got into it as the night went on.

First of all, they ask everyone to dress up like someone from a fairy tale. There were princesses, fairies, and Harry Potters running all over. I'm proud to say that I made Maddie's shirt, with an iron-on decal, and found an adorable crown bling for her to wear.

They had food, crafts, puppet shows, and a live band to entertain. At the end of the night, they sent us on our way with "royal treat bags".

I think Maddie did enjoy it, because when it came time pry her hands off the doll house, she threw a HUGE fit. Motherhood always keeps you on your toes!

What a true princess!
Grandma showing her dances moves!

This was not one of her favorites of the night, but I had to get a pic of her on the bronco!

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E

2010-04-25T09:58:00.000-07:00

Our neighbor went to Disneyland, and brought back these fantastic "Minnie ears" for Maddie.
As many of you know, she is obsessed with all things Mickey Mouse. I thought she looks so diva in them!

palm springs

2010-04-24T20:07:00.001-07:00

For part of my new job as a Cancer registrar, McKay Dee paid for me to go the NCRA annual convention, in Palm Springs. I was so excited to get away, and Shannon decided to tag along with me.

We had a really fun time, and Palm Springs is surprisingly a very pretty little town. We went shopping on their "strip", ate at amazing restaurants (which were all outside), went to a gay bar (yeah...it was an experience!), and soaked up some rays poolside.

Every Thursday night, they have a huge street fair, which has food, music, and local crafts for sale. This was really fun to be a part of! Also, we found this shop called Lush Coture, where everything was $16! Yes, EVERYTHING! Needless to say, this is where we spent most of our time. I found tons of cute clothes!

I met so many nice people from all over the country, and learned a lot. Next year they are hosting it in Orlando, so I'm hoping I will be lucky enough to go again!

This was the last night we were here. We treated ourselves to some yummy drinks in the hotel bar. I'm so glad Shan is 21 now!

Me and Charity (my fellow Utah pal, who works at the Logan IHC) outside the conference center.

We went to this awesome art museum, unfortunately, they are really weird with camera rules, so this is the only pic we got.

eek!

2010-04-12T20:02:00.000-07:00

Can you guess who dressed me today??

wine a little.... you'll feel better

2010-04-11T20:27:00.000-07:00

I have recently started drinking wine, and I love it!
My favorite kind right now, is made by St. Chapelle, and is called "soft red".
I really like the taste of it, because it's sweet, but still has a kick. For all you wine drinkers out there, I would suggest giving this one a try.
And, it's only $7 a bottle, so I think that makes it taste even better!

easter

2010-04-07T19:54:00.001-07:00

Easter was really fun this year. First, we went to my parent's house, where we had a yummy breakfast, and did an egg hunt.

Next, we went over to grandma Kay's house, where Maddie went on another egg hunt with her cousins, Mercedes and Gabe.

Some of the fun things she got from the Easter bunny were: a Dora dvd, coloring book, a big girl brush, and bubbles.

We decided to not try the egg dying until next year. I can just imagine how it might have turned out! Hope you all had a fun holiday.

good deals

2010-04-03T09:34:00.000-07:00

I found a few great deals this week I thought I would share.....

First, I found these little girl hair ties which have crochet flowers on them. They were in the dollar section an JoAnn's! I thought they were very stylish,and you get 4 in a pack.

Next, the Fresh Market stores (aka Albertsons) had all of their Easter candy on sale for $1.90! I got the coconut Hershey's kisses, (which are SO good if you're a coconut lover) M&M's, and Starburst jellybeans. What a steal!

i heart pc

2010-03-28T19:24:00.000-07:00

This weekend, Matt and I stayed over in Park City. We had a great time, shopping at the outlets, eating at Baja, and of course stopping at the Chocolate Factory. The only bad thing was that it was SO freaking cold, and snowed the whole time! It's still winter up there. Good thing there were fires lit on Main Street, so we could stop and warm up. I would move up here in a heartbeat, and maybe one day when we strike it rich, we will!

the treehouse

2010-03-25T19:31:00.000-07:00

This week Maddie and I went to the Treehouse, with Linds and Mylee. It was quite an experience! They really liked the fire truck, and drawing on the chalkboards. Maddie got a membership here for her birthday, and it's a life-saver when the weather is bad out.

Oh, to be young again......

MoVie NiGhT

2010-03-19T21:00:00.000-07:00

Me and Matt went and saw this movie tonight, and I must say it was hilarious! I laughed the entire show, but it is that "guy humor" so be forwarned. If you liked The Hangover, and Superbad, I think you would really like this one!

HAPPY B-DAY

2010-03-18T20:14:00.000-07:00

Maddie is 2 years old! I can't believe time has past so fast. We had a really fun party, with all of the family. I attempted to make her a big Mickey Mouse cupcake, because he is her favorite, but the top collapsed!

So, I just chopped off that part, and made her a smaller version. Thank goodness my mother-in-law made a big cake for all the guests to eat. We are so lucky to have this little bug! We love her so much, even now, when I'm seeing why they call it the "terrible twos".

Good news

2009-11-04T15:55:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, my mom was diagnosed with chronic lymphocitic leukemia (CLL) this past June. She has been undergoing chemo for the last 4 months, but I am happy to announce that she is now in remission! This is SUCH good news to hear. I am so proud of her, and what a positive attitude she has had throughout the entire process.
Having to go through this hard time, has really made me greatful for the wonderful friends, and family we have. Thanks to all of you who have been concerned, and kept us in your prayers.

Loved to death....

2009-10-21T15:13:00.000-07:00

This is Maddie's favorite toy, "squid". She got her first one at Christmas last year, and must have it every time she goes to sleep. When the stuffing started coming out, I realized that it was time to go buy another one. We are now on our third one. Isn't it funny the things kids like?

Haunted Treehouse

2009-10-17T17:13:00.001-07:00

We took Madelyn to the Treehouse, for the Haunted woods fairytale night. She dressed up as a pirate, and loved all the other kids. Although she is still a little young to appreciate all the story-telling, I think she had a fun time.

Maddie

2009-10-17T16:42:00.000-07:00

These are some pics me and Shannon took of Mads. We are just getting the hang of it, but I think they turned out pretty cute! She is growing up so fast. The huge sucker was her reward for putting up with us all day, and she LOVED it!