The Happenin' Harwards

Cruise 2010

2010-03-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

Nate and I had the chance to go with friends to the Caribbean this month. It was sooooo much fun and a well needed vacation. We went with our good friends Maleah and Perry and 3 other couples. We ate too much, stayed up way past our bedtime, got too much sun, laughed alot, and completly relaxed for 7 days in Cozumel, Grand Caymen and Montego Bay. If you get a chance to get away I highly reccomed a cruise in Feb./Mar. It is just what you need to get through the rest of the long winter and cold spring. Sorry for the picture overload. We just had so much fun I had to post everything:)

Us after a show

Me rock climbing on the ship

Me and Maleah

They like to decorate your stateroom each night with a funny towel animal:

Nate Chillin

Our whole party at dinner at night with our waiters in the back

Fun Friends

Nate playing a game of Volleyball in Jamaica (he is the one taking a dig in the sand)

"Pirate of the Caribbean"
Our Ship, Voyager of the Seas

Playing cards at night
Another towel friend
Can you say "too much sun"?

On our ship after Cozumel

Taking a break from our scooters in Cozumel with Maleah and Perry

The girls getting reay for our scooter ride around Cozumel

Nate and I at our Formal night for dinner

Addison's 8th Birthday Party

2010-03-17T18:59:00.000-07:00

For Addi's birthday this year she had a DIVA FASHION SHOW party with 16 of her closest friends! We made hats, scarves and necklaces. Played pin the tiara on the diva, and then ended with a fashion show on our very own runway. It was tons of fun and Addison really enjoyed it (which is good because girl parties take so much work she only gets one every other year).

The DIVA herself:

Addison's bedroom makeover

2009-11-30T17:29:00.001-08:00

So I decided to change Addi's room last month. I hate when I get super motivated and excited to do something and then loose the desire half way through which is what happend here, hence the month long project that should have been a weekend deal. Anyhow, it is now done, mostly, and I love how it turned out. I wish I would have remembered to take a before photo to show you but I forgot. It was a light green color with white trim and her bedding was pink and green on a white daybed that use to be mine when I was little.

Here is the wall I chose to try a little "Pottery Barn" look alike technique on. It was really easy and very affordable. I just went to Home Depot and bought these wood slats that were 1/4 in. thick so they fit right up to our existing baseboards. They were already 4 ft. x 3 in. so I didn't need to cut anything. I just used liquid nails and glued them to the wall and then used a paintable caulk on all the seems after. This was the hardest part and really it wasn't that hard. Then when done, paint walls and trim same color.

Here is the finished wall!

This is a cute vintage dresser that was found at a garage sale by my friend Carrie for $40. It was a light yellow color and I just sanded it down and sprayed it black. It is my favorite piece in the room.

I sprayed the daybed black and made the bedding and curtains from $2 fabric store fabric. I love how it turned out. So girly and shabby chic. Now I am trying to find a good deal on a vintage chandelier. So fun!!! So easy!!! I love a good weekend/month long decorating project:)

Yeah my photos are back!!!

2009-11-24T10:17:00.000-08:00

I finally got back the use of all my pictures. I can now blog properly again. Sorry for the boring post but I just need to catch up for Journal purposes so here is what we have been up to in the last month:

Halloween 2009

Noah was a Motocross rider (again) for Halloween. Oh well makes for an easy costume:)

And now my sweet, beautiful baby girl... make that my only girl wanted to be this for Halloween....................................

Yes that's right, that's Addison in there. A vampire, no more cute princesses or ballerina's or anything girly. She had to be the scariest, none feminine thing she could think of. I hope I am blessed with at least 1 more daughter so I can force her to be girly:) Cause this one AINT.

This is my cute Autumn quilt that I made with my sewing group. We each did a square and could do anything that was Fall related with one common brown fabric in each square. Then we all exchange squares and have 12 different squares to make a quilt. My square was the acorn, I just had to show you the cute turkey, my friend Amy is such and overachiever:)

Whit turns 1!!!! We had a small birthday party for Whitman. He loved the cake and unwrapping his gifts. He is soooo stinking cute and fun. I love this stage!!!!

Misc. Thoughts

2009-11-01T18:33:00.000-08:00

Do you ever spend time reading other peoples blogs and go away feeling down about yourself? I must just have AmAzInG people in my life (or linked from my blog) When I spend time reading all the great things happening in other peoples lives I think, "man I am un-creative, lazy, slow, boring, lame and I need a makeover!" I don't really feel THAT bad but still......everone please, please, please post something lame about yourself so I feel NORMAL!!

The FLU (YES I mean H1N1 and regular) SSSSUUUUCCCCKKKKSSSS!!! ps i hate the word "sucks" so that tells you how bad I hate the FLU.

Candy is of the DEVIL!!!

My little baby is turning 1 on Saturday and I feel like I need another BABY!!! Yes I said it! I am going to have more kids, I am a crazy mormom who wants a big family and I hate when I get crazy looks or weird comments like, "Your going to have MORE kids?" Like I'm Octo-MOM or something. The only problem is, I really really really don't want to be pregnant again!

Nate and I are planning on going on a cruise in Feb. with some friends and he told me the only way we could go is if I let him pick out one of the dressy dinner outfits and I HAVE to wear what he picks out. This could be a deal breaker.....can you say "TRASHY 80"s" I'm scared!!

Daylight savings is weird! Today has literally been the LONGEST day of my life!!

Anyone interested in a new MLM? I will be rich in like 4 months so ask me for a loan then ok!

Happy NOVEMBER!!! I will try to be more positve next post. (probably from all the money I will be making:)

Can you say SLACKER???

2009-10-26T15:20:00.000-07:00

I couldn't let a whole month go by without a post. My computer finally died. Yes we were expecting it sometime, he was sick for a while and would shut off at random times. Well he finnally shut off for good 2 weeks ago. I have been going crazy because Nate hooked me up with a laptop to use and I can't get used to it, not to mention all my photos and contacts and LIFE basically were on that computer. I am just waiting patiently for my sweet, loving, gentle, wonderful, not at all busy or slow husband to renew my tech life. So for now, no photos but here is what I/we have been up to:
Whit is turning 1 next week, I know I said 1 can you believe it. He is soooo stinking cute and I know I say this about each of my babies in turn but I really mean it this time he is my cutest:)
Parks is still my side kick. He loves preschool and playing with Addison and her friends.
Addison is loving school and her friends. Her broken arm healed quite nicely and she is back to being a crazy tom boy and riding every weekend with her dad and Noah.
Noah is getting sooooo big. Holy crap! He is a mini me of Nate. He is playing flag football right now and getting ready for basketball season to start. He loves school and recently told everyone his favorite subject at school was....wait for it.... MATH. WHAT THE... don't even ask where that came from becasue it wasn't Nate or me. I have always hated math.
I am a busy little bee lately, hence the non blogging.... I finished the season with a big , awesome race in Vegas. It was with 11 of my cute friends and neighbors and had a comeplete blast. The running was hard and I didn't feel like I prepared for it like I should have but the trip was totally worth it. We ran through the Valley of Fire State park in Nevada and then around Lake Mead and ended in Vegas with a huge party. Relay races are crazy hard..171 miles to be exact.. but such a cool, thrilling accomplishement. I am loving my little preschoolers this year. It is such a rewarding little job for me and helps keep life in perspective hearing things through a 3 year olds mouth. I now manage like 4 blogs and still keep very busy on the enrichment committee in the ward so needless to say, I am barely hanging on but I love every minute of it:)
Nate is always always always busy at something! He still works like 3 jobs and has 5 other ideas of jobs he is "putting together" in his head. It will pay off some day I just know it! Until then, he still rides every weekend and helps his friend run a new track in Mona. He can't wait for Wintercross to start again and add another thing to his plate, yeah Nate!
Happy October, now that it's almost over and on to ...... THE HOLIDAYS!!!!

Happy 10th Birthday Noah!!!

2009-09-27T20:01:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that this kid is 10 already? Man how time flies when your having fun:) Noah is now in the 4th grade and a very, very good student! His favorite part of school is PE and recess. His best friends right now are Landon, Caden and Jackson (JB). He loves all sports mostly motorcross, basketball, baseball and flag football. He still plays the viloin. He is an awesome big brother and has even started to babysit a little for me. We are so lucky to have him in our family and we love him too pieces!!! Happy Birthday Noah!!

New Family Photos

2009-09-25T15:19:00.000-07:00

So taking Family photos is such a TASK!!! I spend days figuring out wardrobe. Make plans for the best light and location. Make sure the baby isn't cranky so he gets a good nap that day. Practice smiles with all the kids. Listen to my husband complain again about doin this. And what do you get?? 5 good photos out of 120. Why do I even bother. The baby looks stoned, Parks ruined 90% of them by pulling a weird/annoying face. Addison was worried about not showing her newly lost front teeth. Noah looked the best out of all of us. What can I say, it's not easy to get 6 people to all look good at exactly the same moment. Next year!!! MAYBE more this year if I can convince my husband they are worth it:)

What a way to end the SUMMER!

2009-08-30T20:10:00.000-07:00

Nate and I celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary on Saturday. It was fun. We saw the "Scarlett Pimpernell" at the Hale Center Theater. It is always a favorite of ours and we love going to plays. We went out to eat after and just had a good night. I would have loved to say we did some amazing overnight, no kids, romantic, creative and crazy event but lets not be silly. We now, in our 11 years, have four children, work like crazy in and out of the home to support the four children, run 5 million places every week taking the four children here and there, get tired at 9 p.m. from being with the four children all day, and somehow still manage to stay in LOVE and keep our marriage strong. I love this man. I love that he gives me everything I have, especially my four children:)

Addison went riding with her dad and brothers on Friday and crashed and wrecked her motorcycle. She came home with weeds and dirt everywhere and a really sore arm. "It's not broken" Nates assures me over and over for the next 2 days. So why not let her jump on the neighbors trampoline, spend the day at Seven Peaks water park, play at cousins all with A BROKEN ARM. We finally decided to take her in this morning just to check, it was still swollen and now it really hurt. Sure enough. Broken, displaced by 4 mm. Guess we won't be getting any "Parents of the Year" award. What can I say, live and learn people-LIVE and LEARN!!! Click on the picture below to see it bigger.

Addison's arm broken right below the left shoulder.

First Day of School

2009-08-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

Like everyone else I'm sure, we had to post our first day photos. Noah is in 4th grade this year and Addison is in 2nd. We(by "we" I mostly mean me)are sooooo glad school has started again!

Our trip to Jackson Hole

2009-08-19T16:27:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun this last weekend going with my family to Jackson. We stayed at the funnest campsite with a pond and paddle boat, swings, firepit, trampoline, chuck wagon kitchen and on and on, I loved it what can I say (I am easily pleased these days:)) We ran the Snake river twice(we even took Whit down the freezing cold river) We went swimming and sight seeing at Granite Hot Springs. We ate BBQ at the best place ever-Bubba's, we shopped, we roasted marshmellow every night and just had a good old fashion fun time! My kids were in HEAVEN the whole weekend and I just loved one little vacation before school and schedules rule our lives again. Sorry for the picture overload:)

Boating, well mostly surfing

2009-08-03T16:31:00.001-07:00

Surfing UTAH style (behind a boat without a rope:))

I LOVEEEEEEEE The Lake!!!!!

Our Summer So Far!!

2009-07-18T08:20:00.001-07:00

So here's what we have been up to so far this summer:

Our little Whit has had it rough. He is cutting 3 teeth, been on a million antibiotics for ear infections and finally just had ear tubes put in. Even with hurt ears and gums he is still a totally relaxed and easy going baby.

Parks learned to ride a two wheeler this summer and is a CRAZY dare devil. No FEAR was born with this child. His second day he rode right down our back yard ROCK steps, across the yard and launched himseld into the field behind our house. Not even a scratch---CRAZY but lucky!

Addison is loving the sun. I swear I put sunscreen on her. She just has that same olive skin I do. She loves to get wet every day and yes she is still the neighborhood socialite planning events and parties and making up dances and inviting people over to come watch. She is really into fake nails (i get the little kid press on kind)and her hair. She has been attempting to do it herself everyday which for the most is good in my book.

Noah's baseball season finally ended. He played catcher this year. Let's just say this was a really good "learning" year for his team. They were a newly combinded team and coach and this league he started playing in this year was a competitive traveling team. They started out rough but by the end of the season they were all improved and played like a killer team that had been together for years, it just came to late to make a difference. He loved it and we really enjoyed the family time at double headers every Saturday for the past 3 months.

I am back to riding my bike! After training for the Wasatch Back I decided I needed to give my knees a break from running (not really but this what I tell myself a break is). I have been riding with my Dad and the Velo Club. They are all AWESOME riders so it really challenges me to ride with the group. My first week back I rode over 60 miles. Not bad for not being on my bike since I got pregnant in Feb. of 2008.
Plus it has been 8 months and 11 days since I delivered Whit and I FINALLY hit my pre-pregnancy weight. Somehow I still don't look the same. I guess I probably will never look how I remember myself being but all those cute kids in the previous pictures were well worth the body "transition"!

This is my Nate. Lounging with an ice pack. Yes he got injured (again) No it wasn't motocross related. Let's just say he was trying to get something for FREE at a store and challenged the owner to an arm wrestle. Who does this? Weird boys!!! He pulled a serious muscle in his bicept all the way up his shoulder. Don't worry. He has taken it "easy" and let it heal! (Just kidding Babe!) It hasn't stopped him from riding his motorcycle though.
Summer is the BEST and I am LOVING all of it. Even the HEAT!

So Annoyed!

2009-07-15T13:04:00.000-07:00

Things I HATE right now, but can't exactly change:
Runny, poopy diapers
My ACNE (for cryin out loud, I'm way to old for puberty people)
Cracked heels
Stretch Marks
Laundry
Weeds
The Door-Bell (no offense neighbor kids)
kids bike tires going flat
my 100+ emails a day from viagra and cialis
paying bills (debt in general)
bees
our freaking over crowded, messy garage

I can't tell if I'm hormonal or the summer heat is taking a toll on my temper:)

Only in UTAH

2009-07-05T19:19:00.001-07:00

I just have to tell you about our Church today. Yes it was fast Sunday. Our ward is on the verge of a split because we are so HUGE. So when I tell you there wasn't even standing room anywhere you will know why. We had THREE BABY BLESSINGS and a MISSIONARY FAREWELL all in the same sacrament meeting. It was CRAZY I tell you. The church is still true even if you can't see or hear anything.

Happy Birthday America!

2009-07-05T18:56:00.001-07:00

We had another FUN fourth og July this year. We started out the day with the annual neighborhood bike parade. It is kind of short and a little lame but the kids love it and they really get into decorating their bikes. Later that night we had a BBQ at Nate's parents house with all the family. The food was good, the kids played in the water and we lit fireworks. We finished the night with an out-door movie on the lawn. It was a full, fun day which we are now paying for today. We have all been sleeping and napping. We missed going to the Stadium of Fire this year. We have been every year for the last 15 years I think and it somehow just isn't the same old 4th with out going to Cougar Stadim. Anyway, that doesn't really change how I feel about America. I am so grateful to live where we live and enjoy all the freedoms that we have. We are truely blessed to be a free nation. I also have so much gratitude for our service men and women. God Bless them and their Families. Happy Birthday America!

Wait, are we in Europe? I thought this was Utah!

2009-06-25T09:06:00.000-07:00

We had a BBQ with Nate's family yesterday and the kids played on the waterslide and baby pool. Well needless to say, Parks dropped his swimsuit in the garage on the way to get in the car and we ended up with out it when we got to their house. I had this tiny little butt-hugger suit in my diaper bag from taking the baby swimming the day before so I thought why not try it. It's either this or his underwear. They fit (sort of) and he wore them and didn't have a care in the world after Nate threatend everyone if they teased him. It's ALL GOOD! Oh by the way, Parks is four and the suit is for 3-6 month old. The best part is, he couldn't figure out why everyone kept talking to him with a French accent.

Wasatch Back Relay 2009

2009-06-24T15:55:00.001-07:00

First off, I forgot my camera so I am waiting for someone to email some cool pics so check back again for a more complete update. The race this year was AWESOME!!!! I can't tell you people how amazing this race is. Even if I did, you can't comprehend it until you see it. It starts in the mountains in Logan, Utah and ends in Park City, Utah. You run on a team of 12 each taking 3 legs of the journey and run all day and all night over and over for 188 miles through the Wasatch Mountains. My three legs totaled over 16 miles. I was nervous about it because I only started training back in April but I made it and all the pain of running was worth it. We had so much fun in our van, laughing and teasing and making life long memories with good friends. My first leg was only 3.8 miles but I started off bad. I thought "what am I doing here? I am going to be miserable" I still finished it and figured it was probably the yucky energy drink I had before starting. My second leg was KILLER and I rocked it!!! I had to run at 1 a.m. and it was 7.2 miles long. I was on FIRE. I have never felt so good running in my life. I finished in 1hr. flat which isn't marthon pace or anything but for me was a personal best. My last leg was 6.4 miles and I have to say, I was questioning mine and others sanity for choosing to run this race at this point. The rain and wind right in my face was not pleasant and all I could do was just put my head down and run. I told Nate, "tell my children I love them if I don't make it" ha ha. Even with the last run being crappy I still loved every minute. Theres nothing like going without sleep, eating power bar and gatorade, being sweaty and stinky with 5 close friends(if we weren't close before, we definately are now)in a van, for 2 days. I can't wait to do it again and the best part is, Nate is totally going to start running with me and train to do it next year. For those of you who don't know Nate, he hates running and while he was just the van drivers this year, he was so inspired and in awe of the whole expirience, he wants to do it. I'm telling you it is the BEST!!!

Hey Kids...What did you do this SUMMER?

2009-06-09T15:51:00.000-07:00

Never ask me, "Mom, we are bored, what can we do?" I got something for you to do... PULL WEEDS!

The REWARD....Snow Cones

Last Day of School 2009

2009-06-09T15:38:00.001-07:00

Addison with her 1st grade friends.
Addison and Mrs. Marshall.

Noah and his his 3rd grade friends(he such a thug).
Noah and Miss Easley

Schools out YEAH!!! What to do now?

WHOA BILL!!!!!

2009-06-03T19:11:00.000-07:00

My crazy dad in Moab!!!! Thought I would share.

What do you get when you bear your testimony?

2009-05-20T19:01:00.000-07:00

In Brother Harwards class, you get a pizza and root beer float party. Nate teaches the 10 year olds in the primary and this year they have been learning about Joseph Smith. He has been encouraging them to bear their testimony and what better way than to offer (or bribe, whatever) a class party. The kids in his class are so bright and seem to know so much about the gospel it is amazing. I have substituted for him a few times when he has been out of town and I have to say, they are very immpressive. Nate just loves his calling. I think he relates to the kids better than adults:) I have taught in primary on and off many years and I still just love Relief Society to much. Not Nate, he prefers to be with the kids, singing and "entertaining" them. He is such a good teacher and most important the kids LOVE Bro. Harward!!!

Happy 4th Birthday Parks!!

2009-05-15T15:35:00.001-07:00

Parksy turns 4 today. Yeah!!! He tells everyone he is 5 and there is no convincing him otherwise but trust me, he's 4. He is such the little jokester in the family and is always making us laugh, especially Whit. That boy can speak 3 words and Whit is giggling up a storm. He is always doing funny things and wearing crazy stuff. He told me the other day I was HOT! Who doesn't love kids that say stuff like that? He also told me he wanted a "Blackberry I-Pod" for his birthday. Where do they get this stuff from? He loves to watch Scooby Doo and hang out with me ALL day. He rarely likes to leave my side so going to school will be interesting. He always has funny bathroom stories and generally is a fun, outgoing child. We love him and I am so glad he is part of our Family. Happy Birthday PARKS! We Love You!

Infomercials Blah Blah Blah...

2009-05-04T15:20:00.000-07:00

So my baby has had yet another ear infection and I seem to be up at weird hours watching t.v. I must have seen over 20 in the past few days and all I can think is "What the heck can I start selling on T.V.?" I swear you could sell crap on an infomercial (yes I mean crap literally, like poop) and I think because the way they market people will buy it. I was sucked in by all the infomercials this past weekend and if I wasn't too lazy and tired to go get my purse I probably would have bought them ALL! I really believe (while I'm watching them) that people loose 150 lbs. by rocking on an AB machine and that my closets will be transformed by new hangers and space saving vacumn suck bags or that I will instantly look 20lbs. lighter by wearing some tight body hugging shaper. What is wrong with me. Nate does hate door to door salesman because I can never say no. I have bought cleaner, magazines, meat- all sorts of things. I am posting this because I want a record for the day I become rich off my own infomercial and say to everyone who thinks I'm crazy, "How do you like me now?" (Of coarse I might not be able to keep my riches because I will probably have spent them on other, new and exciting junk on early morning tv.)

April Sewing

2009-04-29T12:20:00.000-07:00

So this month has been fun. I made another skirt for Addison which she just loves and wants to wear everyday to school. I'm not that good and I don't want her to look "home made" but she doesn't seem to mind. I think if I could afford to get a serger I wouldn't be as concerned about the way it looks and I might not be as afraid to wash it. I have a fear of things coming undone in the wash:)

We also made these darling schlep bags (I think that's how it is spelled). The instructions we kinda hard to follow at first but once you make one it is a piece of cake to make more. The bag ends up being huge and can hold a ton of stuff. I can't wait to go to the pool this summer. I might try to modify it into a cool diaper bag with more pockets inside. I liked it so much, don't be suprised if you get one from me as a gift in the future:)

The bag looks small in the pictures but it expands to almost double this.

This is the inside of the bag with a big pocket.

They came, we saw, we cheered, we got on T.V.

2009-04-27T13:39:00.000-07:00

So AMA Supercross finally came back to Utah after 5 years and of coarse my little family was soooooo excited. I really don't get all that into to competition and care who wins week after week until this series.(To me this is like one step up from being a NASCAR fan, I know WT right?) James Stewart and Chad Reed have been running a tight race and I won't lie, when we watch it on TV every week I have been really into it and excited for it to come to Salt Lake. We went to the event on Saturday. Nate and Noah went allllll day!!! They got pictures of everyone and got a few things signed. I came up later that night with the rest of the kids to watch the main event. It was so exciting. We had awesome seats (only bc Nate went opening day back in Oct. to get tickets and actually found out the track layout and went and sat in the seats to get a "feel" for the best view). They were jumping right in front of us. I felt like I could just lean forward and give the riders a High Five. It was well worth the money and the best part was that James Stewart won!!! He was behind for like the last 5 races and then pulled out ahead last week. At the end he stopped right in front of us and threw his goggles into the crowd ie: Nates Lap, but some giant fat dude next to him snatched them from Nates fingers. Crazy Fans!! All in all I hope they keep coming back to Utah. I was suprised how many people are into the sport here-Rice Eccles Stadium was full. The next day we had to watch it again on TV and good thing bc we were all on CBS-like 3 times. OK so you had to look close and play it in slow motion on the DVR but we were there for the whole world to see:)

Good Day SUNSHINE!!!!

2009-04-23T14:02:00.000-07:00

Hello my old friend, how I have MISSED you. Does anyone else feel the same way I do? These past few days have been soooo good for me. I can't believe what a difference sunlight can make in your life. I wake up with energy. I get so much done. I want to be outside. I want my windows open. I like my kids playing outside and not watching tv or playing playstation. I have been thinking a lot lately about Light and I now understand why Jesus was considered the "Light" of the world. Everything that is good comes from Light. Life can only exist with Light. The word itself is uplifting. I know it will still be a bit before summer is here but I will take these past few days and run with it!

Visiting Teaching!!!

2009-04-16T13:50:00.000-07:00

Nate just emailed this to me and I couldn't resist, Jessica this one's for YOU!!!Ha Ha, I know how you just LOVED the movie:)

Is that a member of a boy band or my 5 month old?

2009-04-14T16:37:00.000-07:00

Seriously!!! So I know this post is going to be lame but look at my little boy! He is wearing a Baby Rock vintage tee, boot cut jeans (because babies wear boots)and real VANS. Crazy that they make these grown up clothes for babies and even crazier that we buy them. I do have to say that actually this whole ensamble was given to us by way of hand-me-downs but still, how freakin rockin is WHIT?

PS I only posted this because he usually doesn't get out of pj's all day!

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T13:49:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Dad!!!

2009-03-31T14:45:00.001-07:00

We celebrated my dad's birthday yesterday. It was fun getting together with the FAM. We had dinner at Val and Jason's house and then did gifts and the cake and icecream. Val had the coolest cake made for my dad. I don't know if you can tell by the pics but it is the Snake River with a little raft and two men floating in the river. It was such a cute idea. The kids had fun eating the frosting rocks and trees. I just want to give a little love out to my Dad. He is so special to me and my family and I hope he knows how much we truely love and admire him. He is always there for us, helping shovel our snow, playing with grandkids, suprising them with treats, bribing them with money or milkshakes, reading to them, listening to them play their violins (even when I know it doesn't sound quite like music yet) helping me around my house and yard, the list could go on and on. He really cares about people around him and is always making you feel like part of the family. I have so many friends who are always telling me what a cool dad I have and how lucky I am to have such a great family. Well I know we aren't perfect but I like to think we are trying and that my dad is working on being perfect for us--A GREAT Father and an AWESOME Grandpa. We love you Dad and hope you have a Wonderful birthday!!!

Parks the BRAINIAC

2009-03-23T14:52:00.000-07:00

So I'm driving home from the store today with Parks, who I let get a pack of bubble gum for "being good" while I shopped. I said to him "Now don't swallow that gum this time! It will stick to your belly." Parks responds, "That's not true mom. I saw on T.V. that you can get gum off your belly with water." So I say, "Really, you learned that on T.V.? I doubt it!" He then says, "Well I guess I didn't learn it on T.V. My brain just told me it was true." How crazy is he? I learned a few things about my parenting skills today- #1 my son watches way to much T.V. and #2 he doesn't believe my threats anymore.

Skirt Madness

2009-03-19T14:11:00.000-07:00

Not to be confused with March Madness, I know and care very little about basketball. First off I have to THANK, THANK, THANK my cute friend Lacey and her friend Melissa (who I don't know) for the ispiration and help with this cute project. Lacey had a post about these skirts and her friend Melissa had the instructions on her blog. I have never sewn clothes before (high school sewing class doesn't count in my book). This project was actually not that bad. I used cheaper fabric that was on sale just in case things went terribly wrong and now that I know I can do it I am going to make Addison an Easter outfit. I haven't tried making the shirt part yet but the skirt was so fun and relatively easy. I made it yesterday and Addi wanted to wear it to school today so it must be ok for her. If you want to try making this too let me know. I will send you the link to the instructions and just know--try it, you might SUPRISE yourself:)

4 Months and Memories

2009-03-14T17:21:00.001-07:00

So our little man just had his 4 month check-up. Can you believe it has been 4 months already. Winter babies are so hard I don't think I will repeat it again. We have been cooped up in our house (besides the random trips to get groceries, and trust me, the cuboards aren't what they usually are with the new baby and all) since OCTOBER! It was a considerablly mild winter compared to last year but still, it has been so LONG. Whit is growing like a little weed and getting all chubby. His growth is right on and he now weighs 14.8 lbs. I am weaning him off the reflux medicine since he is now eating RICE CEREAL. I got lucky with babies that like to eat, nursing-formula-cereal, he's been golden so far. He still eats in the night because I'm not strong engouh to let him cry it out but I manage with less sleep than needed. The warmer weather will be a nice change and I can tell he is going to LOVE the outdoors. He likes watching the kids play in the yard while I hold him on my lap. He laughs and giggles at everything Parks says to him and he has definatly "found" his voice. Sometimes I think he has terrets(don't know how to spell:) He just spontaniously yells things out and babbles. I love it! I wish I had a baby pic of Noah to post but sadly we don't have a scanner and all his photos are pre-digital age. WHITMAN is NOAH'S twin. They look so much alike if I didn't know the pictures I wouldn't be able to tell them apart. He has the same exact(larger than normal) ears and that distinguishing widows peak (hair line). Same eyes, same smile same tempermant so far. It brings back so many memories of my life as a young mother. The things I do now compared to how I did it with Noah are funny to see. I used to give Noah a bath every single night so he "smelled like a baby", Whit is lucky if he gets a good wipe down with the baby wipes. Noah wore all new, name brand clothes (back in the day when I could spend a lot on clothes because he was my only one) Now, Whit is wearing a combo of hand-me-downs from Noah, Landon, Bridger, Parks, Zander,Boston, Beckam and Hoyt.(Thanks again to Maleah, Katharine, Val and Stacy for the boy clothes) The thing is that at his age they still look new and boys stuff NEVER goes out of style I swear. He only has one binki instead of Noah's 12. When we loose it, I guess that's a sign he's done with it. I let him go to the daycare at the gym, Yeah I know, judge all you want I'm a crazy mom for taking him around all those germs, WHATEVER! Noah barely got to be held by anyone for more than 2 minutes before I was worried he would catch something. Man how times change. I think as a parents you become less anal and worrisome for your own sanity. You realize that will be ok if they don't get picked up the milisecond they start crying (I actually got out mid-shower with soap in my hair to comfort Noah once). It's ok to leave them with grandma to get some alone time. They won't shrivel up and blow away from lack of nutrition if they don't nurse till they are 5. I am lucky, I know it. I have good, healthy kids that make my world all it is. I have an awesome extended family that helps me be a good parent. Oh the things I have learned from my first to my fourth. Let's just see what I learn with the next four!!! Ha Ha if you believed me when I wrote this you should be shot, I'm way to old for 4 more, maybe just 3!

Seriously So Blessed

2009-03-09T11:44:00.000-07:00

So I might be the last one to find out about this but just in case I'm not I will tell you all...This is the funniest thing you will ever read on a person's blog. seriouslysoblessed.blogspot.com It is a girl who is totally anonymous but writes this funnier that you know what stuff. The whole entire blog is fake and basically a spoof on mommy mormon blogs. Everything that is so crazy and weird about our culture and religion she turns into a hysterical story! Now you know she really is LDS and just having fun so it's not hurtful or in bad taste, just good entertainment. The funny thing is, almost everything she is mocking I have totally done on my blog, brag about my "cute kids" or my "awesome husband" posted how long till my due date, just talk up how good life really is etc... There is a link from my blog to hers under TAMN. When you get to her blog read her info on the side for details about her and her husband, It will clue you in to who she is first. Then start reading some of the stories, she abbreviates a lot so dont get confused and she often refers to her husband as "heartnugget" or "hubalub". You have to read her advice given to all those who are getting engaged and also her stories about teaching the Mia Maids. I almost peed my pants at some of the things she writes. Let me know what you think:)

So SEW What!

2009-03-04T16:36:00.000-08:00

I swore off sewing after Christmas because I was so burned out. I made a Book Of Morman Quilt for my parents that took 4 months to finish and I swore I was taking a break but I can't stay away too long:)I have been having so much fun sewing lately. I have been going over to my mother-in-laws house once a week to sew. She is teaching a few women in her ward to quilt and I just tag along and make all the same projects they do. Here is what I did in February. LOVE IT!!!

This is a cute Valentine table topper we made. It is just like the bulls eye quilt but with hearts. It's really scrappy and easy to make.

This is a quilt I made for my friend for her birthday. It's called a BULLS-EYE quilt. It was so fun to make and EASY. I made it mostly with all the leftover scraps my mother-in-law and I had from other quilts. It turns out so cute when you wash it because the circles ravel.

This is a quilt I made for Addison's Bedroom. It is so retro and 70's but I love the way it turned out. It has so many colors in it that I can decorate around it and always have a ton of choices.

Week 2 Down!

2009-03-02T16:42:00.000-08:00

This last week was so awesome. I feel so good!! I still don't have fast results but my energy level is coming back. I think it has helped that signs of SPRING are in the air. My kids are back to playing outside. It's staying lighter later and the temp. is up. I can't wait to get back to a normal life and be outside, mowing the lawn, pulling weeds and feeling the sun. Plus, I'm debating on whether or not to stop nursing, give me your opinions. I could go either way right now. I know I sound selfish for quitting for my own personal reasons but I just want to be able to get out and go places now and not have to be back to feed my munchkin. On the other hand, FORMULA is soooooo pricy. I haven't had to buy it in like 4 years and sheesh! We might go into the poor house if I have to budget for it each month. People, tell me what to do!

Weight Loss Week 1

2009-02-23T10:12:00.001-08:00

So I must admit, I think my goal may have been a bit loafty considering my circumstances. I still have a tiny baby who depends on me to eat so thay he in-turn can eat also. I am like a freakin jersey cow with all the milk I have right now I seem to have forgotten the fact that I have a very hard time loosing weight while I nurse. I was very, very good this past week watching everything I ate and I actually worked out hard, my old routine hard, 4 days. I was sad that I only lost 1 lb. this week but what did I expect? It's not like I'm the biggest looser dropping double digits every week right? I did however loose 1.5 inches off my waist and my pants definately fit better. Plus I have been drinking soooo much water lately that my skin is looking awesome, better than it has looked in years. It's crazy what water can do for the body. So I guess I will just have to be patient and remember that until I stop feeding my chunky baby (you would think I was actually producing cream, not just milk with how fat he is getting) I don't think my weight lose will be as rapid as I hoped for. Oh well, all I can do is try right!

Valentines Break-up

2009-02-14T13:50:00.000-08:00

I have a LOVE! I don't even know how long I've been in love. I realize now I have probably loved all my life but in the past year I have loved more intensly. This love of mine is always there. Comforting me, soothing me, calming me, treating me quite right. I have been realizing now that this love of mine has changed. I used to love just as much or as little as I needed but now, whoa- I'm lovin all the time!!! I don't just need love, I want love, I crave love---I'M ADDICTED TO THIS LOVE! Well the time has come for me to say goodbye to my love. I realize that this love is no longer good for me. I don't feel in control of my own life anymore with this love around, tempting me, taunting me, calling for me in the middle of the night. It has gone to far. SO after today (I say tommorrow because it's just mean to break up on Valentines, and my love and I have plans tonight)I am offically breaking up with my Love! My affair will soon be over. I am telling you all this because I know it can be awkward later, not seeing us together, me not coming to invites because we will no longer be togther etc. And also, I am going to need a lot of support. Check on me regularly, leave me a note asking how my life is going with out my love. Most of all, don't ever try to get me back together with my love. When I'm done, I'm done!!! I'll admit it, there have been great times with my love. That's what makes this break-up so hard. So for now--------Goodbye Food!!

I know this is silly but in all seriousness the eating has to STOP!!!! I kept saying after the holidays, after the new year, after the super bowl, after valentines, well there will always be something to start after so dang it the time has come. I have entered myself into a few hard challenges this year, The Wasatch back relay, The SpudMan Triathalon and Little Red Riding Hood 100 mile bike ride. I desperatly need to start training and the extra 30 lbs. (yeah I said it, don't judge) I have on me are making it hard. I am telling you all this because I want to be accountable to someone other than myself and what better way then to update people who I know will check to see my progress. At the bottom of my blog is an update. Check it often and if there is no progress let me have it. Make me feel bad, tell me I'm letting you down because I don't feel bad enough letting myself down. My goal is to loose the 30 lbs. in 3 months so I better be close by May 15th. Thanks for listening, and if you are my mother-in-law calm down, I wasn't going to give Nathan back:)

Happy Birthday Nate and Addison!!!

2009-02-09T16:02:00.000-08:00

So I know it might sound like I am bragging but hey, she's my only girl and I'm not sure I will get another so I can't hold back, I'SNT SHE SO CUTE!!! She was the prettiest baby I have ever seen. I was so excited when I found out she was a girl. I am so lucky to have been blessed with her in this family. She is now turning 7. Can you believe it? She is such a gift in my life and I hope to always have a special mother-daughter realtionship with her. She is all drama and attitude but we love her. She adds so much life to our family. She is so sweet and helpful with her brothers and such a good friend. WE LOVE YOU ADDISON!!!

Nate's Birthday is today and Addison's is tommorrow. She was 3 hour late from having the same Birthday as her daddy. Nate is so lucky. He got his own MAN ROOM for his birthday. While he was gone this weekend I moved all the toys out of the toy room and changed it to be a room just for him, and a little for Noah too. I hung a bunch of shelves and put all his motocross trophies in there. I had a big poster of him riding made and framed. I moved the flat screen and all the rock band stuff in there so they can party hard. I am so lucky to be married to such an awesome husband and dad. He really works hard to take care of us and I am so blessed to have him. Happy 29th (again) Birthday!! I LOVE YOU!!

Whitman's Blessing Day

2009-02-02T09:41:00.000-08:00

We blessed Whit on Sunday. It was an awesome day. All except the poor little guy woke up with a cold in his eye and it was glued shut with boogers. I had to keep wiping it all day long. I don't think it was pink eye but still he looked goofy. Luckily I took some practice pictures of him a few days before. He is the silliest litle baby when I take his picture. It's like he knows he is supposed to pose or something. Anyway, the day was GREAT! Nate gave one the most beautiful blessings I can remember. I am so lucky to have him and the priesthood in our home. After church we came to our house for food and fun. When isn't fun involved when there is food? We hung out all afternoon and played and laughed and just enjoyed each others company. I LOVE that we live close to all our FAMILY! We both (Nate and I) have the best families. I love family events and get togethers like this. I love the Gospel in my life. I love where we live and EVERYTHING I have in my life right now. I love being a mother and a wife and I am in LOVE with my new baby boy! Here are some of the pictures from the day. And yes I know, he looks Amish in the hat.

Snow Shoeing

2009-01-24T18:15:00.000-08:00

So I have a thought....If you ever want to really truly test how good (or in my case bad) of shape you are in you need to push yourself really, really hard to your maximum breaking point. See if you can handle the worst physical pain and endure it as long as you can. If you still want to do the activity next week, it must not be that bad. This was me this morning. Now mind you, I have a two month old who still wakes up 2 to 3 times a night to eat so to say I'm not getting a full 8 hrs. of sleep a night is fair. I HAVE NOT WORKED THIS HARD, OR FELT LIKE I WAS GOING TO PASS OUT FROM PHYSICAL EXHAUSTION IN A LONG, LONG TIME. Snow shoeing is so much work and such a GREAT work out I have to say that everyone who does it is borderline crazy. I went with my dad and the cycling club up American Fork Canyon for a three hour hike this morning. It was a very steep climb. The rain was coming down the entire 3 hours making the snow heavy. Every muscle in my body was burning. My calves from climbing, my arms from digging my poles in the snow, my shins and quads from the descend, my lungs from breathing so hard and my neck from looking down for so long. I'M A MESS! (As evident from the picture) I kept hearing Jillian Michaels (from the biggest looser)yelling at me (with her flared nostrils and all), "Are you crying, Are you crying? " No "Then don't stop!" In all reality it must not have as terrible as I'm making it out to be because I'm planning to go next week again. I better have a hot, smokin bod by summer is all I have to say!!!!!

My crazy Brother BRAD

2009-01-15T16:08:00.000-08:00

Now I know Valentines is coming and Love is in the air. Could we all please rally together and pull out all the stops and create some magic for my brother Brad. I desperatly want him to find someone and settle down. The reason I say this is because he has posted yet another one of his crazy life stories on his blog and YES it is hilarious and completely wrong all at the same time. Link to his blog from mine and read his latest story. He's the only BRAD on my list of bloggers. I hope the story doesn't offend and might need a "viewer discrestion advised" warning but he is always good for a great laugh. He really is a sweet guy and I love him a lot. I wish with all sincerity that he finds someone soon because I know he will be an awesome husband and a really great Dad! Let me know if you laugh as much as I do when I read his thoughts on life:)

He's ALL GOOD!

2009-01-13T12:41:00.000-08:00

One frightful scare, a trip to the ER, blood tests, urine tests, 2 doctor visits, an EEG at primary childrens, an apnea sleep monitor and 2 prescriptions later and we have a Winner.....Acid Reflux! Last week our little Whit gave us and all our family quite a scare. I have known he spits up a bit more than is normal but I kept just thinking it was not a big deal and he would grow out of it but this was not the case. He was in his swing and I was on the bed and I heard him making a gagging sound so I went over to him to get him and he immeditatly stiffend straight and arched back. He wasn't breathing at all and started to turn purple. I yelled to Nate and between both of us we tried to suction out his mouth with that little bulb. He got his breathe back after what seemed like an eternity (probably less than a minute). His color was still off, kind of a white ish blue color. We didn't know what had just happend but we weren't going to chance anything. We thought it might have been a seizure so we took him to the ER. By the time we got there he was acting fine but they still had to run him through all the tests, which all came back normal. I took him to the pediatrician the next day and explained everything to her and she didn't think it was a seizure but needed tests just to make sure. So off to primary childrens to have an EEG, which we found out today was totally normal. What probably happend was he choked on his spit up and couldn't catch his breathe. Silent Acid Reflux is when he spits up but then tries to swallow it back down so he gags. I'm just glad I was in the room when it happend. I don't even like to think what could have happend which is why he now has to sleep with a monitor to make sure this doesn't happen again.The meds he is now taking are working like a charm. He can now sleep flat on his back without fussing and I don't need to feed him every other hour. I just wish I would have taken my first instincts to heart and had him checked for reflux weeks ago instead of waiting. Thanks to all those family members who said prayers in our behalf and for all the love and concern. I hope we are now on our way to sleeping better and growing up happy and healthy!

Harward Look-alike Meter

2009-01-04T15:14:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Geneology - Vintage photographs

We are looking forward to 2009! Party Like a Rock Star!

2008-12-31T13:46:00.000-08:00

Random pictures to start the new year out! None are of me because I can't be seen yet. It's a good thing "The diet starts TOMMORROW!" I also have some funny video of Parks playing his guitar that is coming soon so he is definatly Rockin the new year!
Our liitle man, Whit. I scubbed his head in the bath to get off all the dry skin and all his baby hair fell out so now he is totally a bald old man. We are hoping in the upcoming year he learns to control his GAS! Holy cow! You wouldn't believe the loud noises that such a small body could make. He is growing so fast I can't believe it. He rules the Harward home right now!
I know, I know, she is way too young to have highlights. I told Noah I would do his over the Christmas break, he needs a haircut anyway so I thought even if it looks bad it wont last long. Anyway, Addi insisted that I try hers too so I did a little on both sides of her part. I think she looks cute but it definatly makes her look older which I'm not a fan of. Now I just wonder how long it will last.
Noah vs. The sledding hill! Noah had a nice wreck on our sledding hill which is now pure ice! He is worried about going to school with a black eye and scabs, I keep telling him it will heal just fine but what a way to start a new year.
Who wouldn't have a great year when they are married to a HOTTIE like my man. He just got his "annual" hair cut and I love it!!! The year is starting off lookin' good!

Our Christmas 2008

2008-12-30T11:38:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year. We are so lucky to live close to both our parents so we get to do things with both families very easily. On Christmas Eve for the 2nd year in a row we had both our families over for food and fun. We have the kids re-inact the manger scene and we read the Manger story from the Bible.

Christmas morning was nice. We didn't have to wake up to early. We made the kids wait until 8:30 a.m. They were so excited. Parks saw his stocking first and Santa left him some treats and BUG Juice (this is a simple drink like kool-aid). Parks must have thought Santa was pretty cool because he jumped for joy over the drink. The kids all had a great time opening up gifts and they all kept saying" This is the best Christmas ever!"

After we opended up gifts at our house we headed over to Grandma and Grandpa Harward's house. Grandpa had rigged up a sled behind the Razor and took us for rides around the block. We had so much snow that day is was perfect. We opened gifts and had soup for lunch. It was a great morning and afternoon. Then we headed back home to celebrate with Grandma and Grandpa Biggerstaff. All the family came over to our house and we exchanged gifts and had dinner with all our extended family. It was a big crowd but we love being surrounded by family.

We hope your holiday was as good as ours. We were so blessed this year. We love all our family and friends and wish all or you the BEST in 2009!

Utah Wintercross 2008 - 2009

2008-12-23T16:45:00.000-08:00

Pause my crazy Christmas music first so you can hear the interview!
Wintercross has started again!! Park City TV did another spot light on the event and it was posted on youtube. The first round was last week and it was again, a HUGE success! Even with the worst winter storm riders (over 800 actually) still show up to ride indoors in Utah. This sport is totally crazy to me. I know it is a hobby and a passion for a lot of men and women but I never thought it was going to be as big as it is. People come from, Idaho, Wyoming, and Nevada to race. Talk about dedication to a sport. It is a lot of work for Nate and his partners to pull off the weekend but I guess there's something to be said for people who do what they love! I am so proud of all that he has accomplished and done with the promotions company. Event planning is such long, hard work and Nate makes it look fun! He keeps every one happy and makes sure the event goes off with little to no hiccups. Yeah NATE!There are still three more rounds to go from now until March so check back for the latest UTAH WINTERCROSS news!

Breakfast with Santa

2008-12-13T10:53:00.001-08:00

This morning we went to my parents ward to have Breakfast With SANTA!. It was fun and the food was pretty good. My kids all sat on Santa's lap. If you look close you may regonize him. (It's my brother-in-law Jason) I had to tell Noah ahead of time because I thought he would recognize him and spoil it for everyone. I don't think Addison knew and I know Parks didn't figure it out. He barely sat on his lap and wasn't so sure yet he wanted to talk to him at all. Noah is now 9 and asking the "Is Santa real?" question. I still don't know what to say. Addison asked me the other day if Santa was Jesus's brother. When I said no she asked why we celebrate Jesus's birth with Santa then? I told my friend this and she gave me the advice to go get the book "I believe in Santa Claus" Is compares Jesus and giving and His love for children with Santa. I hope I can find some answers in it. If anyone has any other advice on the matter feel free to send it my way:)

Best quote EVER!!!

2008-12-10T10:26:00.000-08:00

I am obbsessed with the Biggest Looser show. It is so motivating and the tips and things I learn are always helpful. Last night on the show one of the final contestants said "NOTHING TASTES AS GOOD AS THIN FEELS". I am trying so hard to eat good right now and this just put a little perspective into my efforts. With the holidays and all the parties and food here, I need a little incentive to be good and what is better than thinking about how good you feel and look after you loose weight. I hope this works!

Decorating for Christmas!!

2008-12-05T20:16:00.000-08:00

We put up our tree even before Thanksgiving because the kids were begging so I guess I should blog about it now that Christmas is getting closer. We had the Christmas music playing, the kids decorating and Nate singing. Yes this is his favorite Christmas song, Mariah Carey. I keep saying each year I am going to get new, matching ornements and make it the tree I dream of but every year we get out our decorations and the kids love reminding me of the homemade ornements they made at school and church over the years and the ones we have collected from our travels or been given and somehow I just can't bring myself to not use them. It is a bit of a Charlie Brown tree but we love it. Parks had the honor of putting on the STAR this year. He couldn't even contain his excitement and alomost peed his pants before we noticed. I just love the holidays and the Spirit of Christmas that comes with such a small task like decorating a tree!

Whit's first bath

2008-11-30T19:57:00.000-08:00

As with all my kids, he screamed his first bath. He was good right up until I scrubbed his head and body with that little foam square the hospital gives you. It was a family affair. I had all hands on deck waiting for a turn to help. All the kids were so interested in when his belly button would fall off and we could bathe him so when the time came they all wanted to help. Whit is still somewhat of novelty and the coolest thing since sliced bread at our house. Now if he could just start sleeping at night instead of the day my life would be awesome!

TWILIGHT Mania!

2008-11-21T16:32:00.000-08:00

So I saw the show today and I have heard a few reviews from people who thought is was silly but I have to disagree. Call me simple, or lame but remember I haven't been out of the house for over a month. I totally loved it and am going to go again with Nate. I thought it followed the book almost exactly. I hate when they change things from book to movie. I wasn't crazy about who they cast at first but by the end of the show I was totally convinced, well all but Carlisle. I had him pictured as an older father like figure but that was my own fault because he really is only in his thirties so it took me off guard when I saw him. My only other thing is that I wish they could have spent a little more time developing the love story. I feel like it was rushed. Other than that I loved it and can't wait for them to make the others. I even think I might go back and re-read the series. I know, I'm a dork. Tell me what you think when you see it. I can't wait to see if I'm the only person easily entertained these days.

RISE AND SHOUT THE COUGARS ARE OUT!!!!

2008-11-21T08:26:00.000-08:00

So you know it must be bad living in Utah County when first thing this morning, I'm still laying in bed and I hear my 6 yr. old daughter in first grade tell her brother "You better where blue and white today for BYU". I don't think she even knows what football is and Nate and I haven't been talking about the BIG game in front of her so I know she got the hype from school. Anyway, at least she got the the right colors and the right team! GO BYU!! I don't care what the teams records are right now or who has a higher ranking in poles or whatever it's called. All I know is that this game is always so exciting and we will always be Cougar Fans!!!
RAH, RAH, RAH, RAH, RAH GOOOOOOOO COUGARS!!!!!

Weekend Fun!

2008-11-17T08:29:00.000-08:00

Lucky me and the kids!!! Nate took all the kids (except the baby of course) to play and ride all day Saturday. They all had so much fun. I see the pictures when Nate gets home and I almost can't believe them. Noah's skills have increased so much since I last saw him ride I had to ask if the pictures were real. I can't believe he is only nine and his dad has him jumping things most grown men would pee their pants over. And then there's Nate. I have a mild heart attack every time I see him. I have to remind myself that this is his favorite pass time in the entire world and not to ruin it with my doom and gloom outlook. I am a bit of a worry wort. That being said, they did have fun. Grandpa Jim came with the Razor and took Parks and Addison for rides and as you can see, kind of, Parks is in Heaven. He has been waiting patiently for the time when he could go ride with the big kids and not stay home with mom. This weekend was great for them, I don't know how many more "snow free" Saturday's we will have here in Utah but I'm sure Nate will take advantage of all of them:)

FINALLY!!!!

2008-11-10T13:52:00.000-08:00

WHITMAN JAMES HARWARD finally made his BIG entrance into the world on Nov. 7th, 1:02 p.m. weighing 6 lbs. 9 oz. and 19.5 in. long. His 10 min. delivery (yes that's right 10 mins.) was the worst, most excruciating pain I have ever been in. I can honestly say that I would never want to expierience natural labor agian. It was not by choice but be accident really. We got there, I was still not in labor and at a 6 like I had been for 2 and half weeks. After being admitted the doctor came by to break my water and asked if I wanted an epidural. I said yes but would wait to see how bad the contractions were. I said I would let the nurse know in 15 mins. or so. He and the nurse left the room and the door had barely shut when the first contraction hit. It was so hard and hurt so bad I screamed for the Nate to get the nurse back to order the epidural. He looked at me like I was Jekyl and Hyde. He laughed like "Are you serious?" He couldn't believe it, I couldn't believe it. Then they kept coming every 20 second or so. I started thrashing around in the bed in pain. The nurse came back in and I yelled "I feel alot of pressure!", she hurried and checked me and said, DON"T PUSH, just then the anethesialogist got there and started to give me the epidural, the doctor was back and rushing to put gloves and stuff on, the nurses were getting the bed ready all the while I was screaming like a crazy person. My legs just started to get numb and I was pushing, next push and he was out.
Like I said, worst pain of my life. Words to live by- if someone asks if you want an epidural, just say Yes, now please. What was I thinking? Nate has now been there for 4 live, vaginal births and this one went so fast he didn't have time to help me count or get the camera out or even breathe either. He said, "That was just like the discovery channel!" I don't know if I would ever do it again but it is ALL WORTH IT!!! We are all healthy and home and I can breathe and sleep (kind of) again! The human body is amazing! It is still so strange for me to look at my perfect little boy and think just days before he was growing inside me, now he's a part our lives forever! Birth is truely an amazing miracle and after all this I will still say I am glad I'm a woman and more important a MOTHER! I feel so blessed and just thank my Heavenly Father everyday for what I have.

Halloween Night!!

2008-11-02T07:53:00.001-08:00

So we weren't soooo creative this year. In fact, this was all Nate as you could probably tell. We were a motorcross Family for Halloween. I was just glad that my jersey still fit, somewhat so I could be included. We had a neighborhood party at the park with soup and rolls first. Next we went to the church parking lot for the annual Trunk-or-Treat and then Nate took the kids trick-or-treating around the block while I passed out candy. I was extremely tired by the end of the night. I can't tell you how glad I was that Halloween was on a Friday so we didn't have to get up for anything the next day. Plus, if I have to hear the words "You haven't had that Baby yet?" from another person I am going to kill someone. People will tell you anything when you are pregnant. Someone actually said to me the other day "You don't look bad, you just look ready." HELLO!!! You might as well have told me I look miserable and fat and swollen and you feel so sorry for me for even existing right now. That's how sensitive I am. I'm sure it's just hormones getting the best of me but come on. I don't need to hear, "This is the biggest pregnancy you have had isn't it". I couldn't make up these quotes people. As always, I'm hoping it will be this week. Stay posted:)

A shout out to Fathers!

2008-10-27T14:09:00.000-07:00

My good husband has been doing his part lately with my inability to keep up with the kids and the house. I just wanted to thank him and the rest of the family for stepping in and helping out. You guys all ROCK. I just thought this video was so cute and I had to share. GO to the bottom of my blog to pause the music first so you can hear it, it is so funny!!!

The Labor that wasn't!

2008-10-23T10:11:00.001-07:00

So late Monday night I was feeling weird but no big deal right? I went to bed as usual. I kept having this shooting pain in my front that went down my right leg. So I waited to see if it would go away and being anxious I worked myself up and couldn't sleep. So I told Nate just stay asleep, don't wake anyone up yet, let me just go get checked at the hospital, I will call you when I know something. Long story short I got to the hospital and was dialated to a 4. They watched me for an hour and I went to a 5. So at 2 a.m. they admitted me. I wasn't quite 36 weeks which is considered pre-term. So I was having contractions, however not painful or regular. I waited and waited and the Dr. came and checked me at 7 a.m. and I hadn't really changed so he said let's wait 1 more hour and see if you change. So at 8 a.m. I was at a 6. You would think I was in LABOR right? Still no pain, no active contractions. I stayed that way all day long. The nurses kept saying, we can't send you home at a 6, because I was dying of hunger and boredom and my tail bone hurt from the bed, I just wanted to go home. Finally at 10:30 p.m. the Dr. came back and checked me, still at a 6. He gave me a few choices, stay and have the baby which they would break my water and start me on pitocin, however because I am pre-term they didn't want the liablity if something was wrong with the baby so basically I had to sign something saying I wanted to deliver and take all responsibity. Next choice please... I chose to come home, risking the fact that I could go into hard labor any minute. I'm so glad I came home because look, it's now Thurs. I have to be on slight bed rest trying not to have a baby for at least one more week. Let's see if I can do it, Ha Ha. I can't sit still and watch my mom and mother-in-law do all my chores, it's weird. So stay posted, see how long Katie Harward can stay in LABOR with-out delivering.

Halloween Fun

2008-10-20T15:34:00.000-07:00

We took the kids to CornBelly's at Thanksgiving Point on Saturday. I forgot my camera so the only photo I got was this one my mom took. There is so much to do there. It was a totally fun place for little kids. They had a tractor train ride through the corn fields, jumped on the big blow up pillows, walked through the monster, (well half way, Parks was too scared and we ended up coming out near the creatures rib cage) They did the face painting which was a highlight and by the picture you can see that it was a lot of paint. I had to bribe Parks on Sunday just to get him to wash it off before church. If you are trying to find something fun for the Fam go here. There is soooo much to do and you don't have to wait until dark.

Husband Tag

2008-10-19T13:58:00.000-07:00

Rules:Each person has to answer the questions about their sweetheart. At the end of your post tag 4 people, post their names and then go to their blog and leave them a comment about the tag.

*What is your husbands name? Nathan
*How long have you been married? 10 years
*How long did you date? A month shy of a year
*How old is he? 32 and 3/4 (He would be so annoyed I said it that way)
*Who eats sweets? both
*Who said I love you first? I did
*Who is taller? He is
*Who can sing best? For sure him, who hasn't heard his Broadway voice?
*Who is smarter? Depends on the subject
*Who does laundry? Me!!! Unless you count his motorcross clothes, because he leaves them in his bag until the last possible moment and I wouldn't touch them with a 10 foot pole.
*Who pays bills? Mostly me. Even if he pays a bill it's because I call to remind him that they are now due. (Which takes on average, 3 different REMINDERS)
*Who sleeps on the right side? If you are looking at us in bed me, If I'm laying down he is on my right side.
*Who mows the lawn? Me!! I love yard work. I don't approve of his cutting skills.
*Who cooks dinner? Me. For about another 2 weeks and then, He better step up and feed the munchkins while I recoupe from having a baby.
*Who drives? he does
*Who is first to admit they are wrong? Neither, we both stay silent about it until it has passed and we are over it.( I know it's not healthy but it works for us)
*Who kissed who first? We both kissed each other I think, I knew it was coming all night long:)
*Who asked who out first? We were set up.
*Who wears the pants? It depends on the circumstance. Certain things he does and others I do. We do make all of our major decisions together though.
(I tag Valerie, Nicole, Natalie, Alyson)

The Last Lecture

2008-10-13T11:39:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading this book and I have to tell all, You have to READ THIS BOOK! It is by Randy Pausch, a college professor who was diagnosed with terminal cancer. It is a really quick read and it will change your life. It has life lessons that everyone needs to review. It will help you in every relationship, work, family, community, everything. I loved how his attitude and advice in every aspect of life was positive and optimistic even with his short time left. It will make you think, forget old grudges, respect your family and friends, and want to LIVE a better life to the fullest because, "Time is all you have... and you may find one day that you have less than you think".

The Wicked StepMother

2008-09-20T18:37:00.000-07:00

So my toes were screaming for some attention and I decided to go get a pedi at the local salon today. While I was gone Nate had the kids. Lets just say he's not quite as attentive to them as I am or maybe I'm just too strict with how we keep the house (especially after I spent the better part of the day today cleaning it). While I was gone Addison and 3 of her friends were painting crafts right on the front porch, right in front of the front door. When I got home there was a rainbow of spilled and splattered paint all over the concrete porch. Never mind that we have a playroom with a whole "art" area just for crafts like this but whatever. Dad didn't mind. So when I saw the mess I made her clean it up. I walked past her a few times and she noticed my newly painted toes and yells out, "I am just like Cinderella! You get to have your toes painted and go shopping while I have to do all the cleaning up!" Can you believe her? I said, "The difference is that Cinderella didn't make the messes she had to clean, her sisters did." She yelled back, "That's why I need a sister!" I replied, "Yeah, like I'm going to let a litter sister be bossed around by you!" The saddest thing about this whole conversation is that when it was over she said, in a real snotty voice, "You aren't going to blog about this are you?" People HELP me later in life with this child please!!

Happy Birthday Mom!!

2008-09-16T08:16:00.000-07:00

So we celebrated my mom's birthday last night at their house. I should have offered to do it here since in was her day and all but my dad cooked a great dinner and I ate way too much cake and icecream. I just have to say a few things that I have been thinking about my mom and I really never get a chance to tell her face to face. I have been blessed with the sweetest, most caring and commpassionate person on the face of the earth, for a mother. She has always supported me in everything I ever wanted to do. She has never judged me or made me feel less than important in my whole life. She has and would still to this day do anything I need her to do or ask her to do. She would do it for virtually anyone in need actually, that's why she is loved by so many people. Everything I know and do today as a Mom I learned from her. I quite frequently find myself saying "Wow, that sounded just like Mom". Especially in the worry department!!! I know we tease you about being gloom and doom but really I know it just shows how much you still care and worry about all your kids and grandkids. A mother never really has to let her kids go, she is always going on with you, and for that I am grateful. I know I couldn't be the Mom I am today without my own Mom still helping me and listening to me and just being there for me. I LOVE YOU MOM!! Happy Birthday!! Love Katie

8 Months and Counting Down

2008-09-15T16:47:00.000-07:00

I know I shouldn't be counting down already because the time will go by slower but I am 32 weeks and already anxious. I hate the last little bit. I can't say I'm nesting because I feel like I am always nesting even when I'm not pregnant. The babies room is all put together but I think now I might paint it just to give me something to do. I have a bit of sewing I can do for a few warm winter blankets but other than that I am so BORED! As you can see, going to the gym with this pregnancy didn't make a bit of difference. I think once your body has gone through pregnancy it just remembers what to do and the same results happen, same weight gain, same water retension, same uncomfortable sleeping habits, same FAT face. Oh well, if I can have another cute, healthy baby it will all be worth it. People keep asking me if this is the last and I'm torn. I can't say no because I don't know but if you ask me now if I would want to go through pregnancy again I would say YEAH RIGHT!

My six year old the SOCIAL DIRECTOR

2008-09-05T14:43:00.000-07:00

So I have to just tell you about my night last night. A few weeks ago Addison asked if she could have a movie party with some of her friends. I said yes and maybe we could order pizza and have some treats or something, no big deal. Well I never thought twice about it and really just thought Addison had forgotten also. Yesterday, she comes to me and tells me she is making invitations for her friends for her "movie party" which I don't really think is anything abnormal because she is always crafting and making things in her toy room. Well, around 6:30 last night I am in the yard, pulling weeds and looking gross when all of a sudden kids are coming over asking where to go for the "movie party". I'm a little confused when Addison pulls up on her bike and says' "We are ready for the party mom!" A, excuse me, what party? I wasn't even paying attention to her I guess because the invitations she had wrote and delivered were for that night! Parents were dropping their kids off and asking how long the show was and when to send them home. I was dying. I started scrambling to make popcorn and find a movie to show and get snacks passed out. It gets worse. The kids were not even just her little playmates. I think she invited the whole neighborhood because older kids (11 and 12 year olds) were showing up. Overall it all went ok but I could have died thinking she put together a party and actually had people show up (14 kids in all) all in one day! I totally have my hands full with her. High school is going to be the end of me! Thats not even the worst part. This morning one of my friends texted me and told me that Addison was spreading the word about another party here tonight on the way to school. What am I going to do with her???

Happy 10 Year Anniversary Nate!

2008-08-29T13:39:00.000-07:00

So today is our 10 year wedding anniversary. Can you believe it has been that long already? Nate sent me flowers just now so I had to brag and post them. Here is a wedding photo and a recent photo to show how we "haven't hardly" changed (except for the hair!!). I really have been blessed with a great husband and father for my children so I thouht I would do a little shout out to him on this day.
I love your passion for life and need for excitement and spontinaity. I love that you provide our family with all the temporal and spiritual needs that we have. I love that you work so hard so I can be a stay at home Mom like I always wanted. I love that you like to travel and take me to new places. I love that you make me laugh at all the wrong times. I love that you love me even while I'm huge and pregnant and never even complain about the lack of attention you have been getting. I love that you support me and all my crazy ideas like painting the house every other week just cause I feel like it:) I love that you are crazy about me and our kids and that everything you do is somehow for our benefit. I love how smart you are and how I know I can always count on you to help anwser my questions about life and the gospel without making me feel like I am any less intelligent. I like that we can debate without fighting. I love that we have made a beautiful Family and Life together and I hope that the next ten years are every bit as great and wonderful as the first!! Love Katie

Nate in Lake Powell

2008-08-28T11:06:00.000-07:00

Look at my hot husband work his stuff in Lake Powell Last week!

We need your help!!!

2008-08-26T11:20:00.000-07:00

We cannot decide on a baby name. For some reason this time we are stumped. It seems like all three other kids were named by the time we had an ultrasound and found out what they were. Nothing is clicking this time. We have a long list and I want all of you to comment and tell us your vote. Here are the choices: Aiden, Whit, Grant, Jax, Madden, Cohen, Davin. Keep in mind the middle name will be James after Nate's Dad. Thanks for your help.

Addison starts soccer!

2008-08-26T11:06:00.000-07:00

Addison started playing soccer for the first year last week. She really seems to love it. It's always hit and miss with her. She wanted to do the violin, then dance, then motorcross (which I actually put the kabosh on)now we are on to soccer. I think she could be good at it. Ever since she started playing and I've been going to her practices with her I have been having dreams about my days and my anxiety with high school soccer. It has brought back a lot of memories. I'm just glad she hasn't said she wants to do something else. I think she might get her mild case of ADD from her dad!

First Day of School!!

2008-08-18T11:26:00.001-07:00

Finally!! These last few days of summer were killing me. All of my kids friends were out of town and I have been going crazy. School started today and I don't know who was more excited, me or the kids. They didn't even want me to walk them to school (probably because I'm huge and slow). Noah is now in the 3rd grade and Addison is in 1st. They are both gone now all day (I hated the kidergarten schedule, I would vote for all day kindergarten if it comes to our schools) I was remembering in the past how I cried when the first day came thinking my little ones were leaving home, I even followed the bus to school Noah's first year. Now I feel relief and and secretly, joy. I know this won't last with the baby coming and all but for now, especially while Parks is at preschool- Life is GOOD!

Where do you belong?

2008-08-16T16:31:00.000-07:00

You Belong in New York City

You're the energetic, ambitious type.

And only NYC is fast enough for you.

Maybe you'll set yourself up with a killer career

Or simply take in all the city has to offer.

What City Do You Belong In?

I took this little quiz. It was fun. I dont know if it fits me but it's fun to think about. Take the quiz and tell me your results!

One last play day before school starts!

2008-08-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

So since school starts on Monday I decided to take the kids to Raging Waters today for one last fun summer day. I use the word "fun" loosely because being almost 7 months pregnant, thirty pounds overwieght, in the sun and a too tight swimsuit, aren't exactly my idea of "fun" right now. Luckily Hillary came with us to help and we or should I say the kids did have a ton of fun. You would think that going to Lake Powell, Bear Lake, boating and motorcrossing all summer was enough for these kids but somehow I still feel the need to entertain them. I was annoyed at first when I found out school was starting on the 18th but now I am counting down the days so I can get back to a schedule and a normal (well normal for us) life:)

Nate and kids motorcrossing this summer.

2008-08-15T16:41:00.000-07:00

All summer long we have been going to races. Nate put together this little video to see how much fun they have. You might need to pause my music to hear the video.

Which princess are you?

2008-07-29T14:38:00.000-07:00

You Are Aurora! (A.K.A. Sleeping Beauty.)

Thoughtful and loving. Authority figures probably have been sheltering you all of your life. Thankfully you're a very tranquil person who is content with what life has given you, but secretly you want to know how the outside world works.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

Happy Birthday America!!!

2008-07-05T07:51:00.000-07:00

We started out the day with the annual neighborhood parade. It was so fun to help the kids decorate their bikes and get ready for the parade. We only go around our block and end at the park for a BBQ, so it's not too long but the kids love it. We have the best neighbors. We probably had 150+ people in our own little parade. I love the 4th of July. It's almost as good as Christmas!

After the parade we took the Fam boating at Utah Lake. It was refreshing on this 100+
degrees day. My dad and Noah boarded and we swam. It was fun to get out in the sun and laugh a bit!!

Stadium of Fire! So we had the best night. The concert was awsome, the fireworks rocked as usual, the kids all screamed for Miley, I cried during the National Anthem and during every tribute to our soldiers, and we had a great spot for parking that got us home in record time. If you missed the show this year I feel for you because in all the years we have been coming this was one of the BEST ones!! I LOVE being an AMERICAN! I love our FREEDOM! I love all that the USA stands for. I hope we never take it for granted and be grateful for those who have and are still sacrificing for us!! GO RED, WHITE, and BLUE!!!

American Girl Party!!!

2008-07-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the opening of the American Girl Movie: Kit Kittredge. American Girl Dolls are HUGE where we live and as of last Christmas, Addison is addicted. My friends had a party before the movie. We had great food and the girls all played dolls and some games like American Girl Bingo. When it was time to go to the show My friend Addie had candy for all the girls to take and of course a tiny box of candy for your doll. I really didn't know much of what the movie was about and I was pleasantly surprised. I really liked it. It is about a family trying to survive during the 1930's and the hard times of the depression. Kit's family takes in borders to help pay their mortgage. She is an aspiring journalist and writes about all the things happening in her world at this time. I would say take the whole family. It's not just for girls. It's a really great show and very thought provoking for young kids. Addison had questions the entire show about Hobo's and people loosing their houses. The funniest part of the whole night was when we first walked into the theater, the rows were just filled with girls holding their dolls and getting so excited to see who had what doll. A strange new world for me but very, very fun!!!

A Sign a Hope for America

2008-06-13T10:29:00.001-07:00

I took this picture at Noah's baseball game last week not even thinking anything other than it was perfect timing to have the rainbow happen just over the American flag, but today as i scrolled through my pictures to find something to blog about I came across this photo again and had such a touching feeling come over me. There has been so much tradgedy in our country and our world for that matter, in the past few weeks. I feel so sorry for all those that are suffering in the mid west because of tornadoes and flooding and all the ruined crops. People are loosing everything they have ever owned in a split second. It just makes me realize how lucky I am to be safe (for now), to have my family safe and to know that we still live in the best country in the world. I don't think this rainbow was just a chance picture anymore. I think it was a sign for us to not loose hope in our country, and even though we are going through rough times now, things will change, we will recover, lives will be put back together and America will always be the greatest country to live in!!!

Day at Lagoon!!

2008-06-10T15:19:00.001-07:00

We went to Lagoon over the weekend and I have to say I actually had fun. It isn't always a very high priority on our list to take our kids there- you know the crowds, the scary looking people you try hard not to judge but can't, the expensive food and kids whining. We really did have a fun day. We probably will only make it an anual thing so no need for a season pass or anything like that but all in all-go. It's way cooler than when I was a kid and now I think I have more fun watching my kids enjoy themselves more than my self.

We almost have a basketball team!!

2008-06-02T14:44:00.000-07:00

So it's a BOY!!! To tell the truth I was really hoping for a girl. Addison was so sure it was a girl she told me every day that she was going to have a sister. When we found out she dropped to her knees and started sobbing, "I wanted a sister, It has to be a girl. No Mom, No". Well, with that kind of drama you can see that I easily remembered how nice boys are and I was brought back to reality and could see that the Lord was probably blessing me with another boy for my own sanity. Now I just need help with a boy name. I had no less than 15 girl names and not a single boy name so any suggegstions would help, we like unique but very masquline, off beat but not weird. Nate is excited as usual. More riders for the now 4 motorcycles that we own and as he says, "I almost have my own team!!" Well, I started to get excited a few days later (after feeling guilty for not being over joyed when we found out) by shopping for little baby things again. Parks is now over three and I gave a lot of our stuff to D.I. after him because my kids have been hard on all our stuff so looking at cribs and blakets and bedding cured me and got me back on the new baby boy wagon! GO TEAM HARWARD!!

Are You Prepared?

2008-05-05T10:59:00.000-07:00

Nate and I finally got all of our food storage (or most of it). We have been researching it and trying to figure out how much and what to get. I realized a couple of things in the process- I don't know how to make things from scatch like bread with wheat, I don't want to rotate my food storage, and I don't want to have to build a new room in my house to store it all. That is when we discovered Daily Bread. My parents bought it and then refered us and we loved the whole idea. They have freeze dried food with a 30+ year shelf life that is actually food we would eat like lasagna, spagetti, teriyaki chicken, and of course mac and cheese. We have now sampled almost all the food and I have to tell you it tastes just like anything you would get from the sotre. My kids liked it. Best of all, you don't have to open 3 or 4 different cans of your storage to prepare one meal. After we got ours we believed in the cause and the company so much that Nate and I are now distibutors of Daily Bread. I know this seems like a shameless plug for our little business idea but I know with how crazy our economy is right now and could be later, (costco and walmart are rationing rice and flour) I really feel like now is the time to prepare. What could be worse than to have your little kids crying at night because they are hungry? If you want to learn more you can call me and I can get you some free samples or you can go online and read more at www.dailybreadus.com

So nothing new is happening to blog about.

2008-05-02T15:47:00.000-07:00

We are so boring around here. I have been feeling so gross and sick lately that we haven't been anywhere or done anything in weeks. This pregnancy is definatly taking its toll on my social life. I think there is a reason you have your kids at a younger age. It's easier when you're young. I feel so old, even though I know I'm not, but I swear, I just can't help but think that it wasn't this bad in my early twenties. Plus the weight is just piling on. Im going to be huge!!! I can't wait (just like the rest of Utah) for the warm weather to come and STAY!!! I might actually feel better if I could get out and feel the sun on my face. This winter was long and hard. So we are trying to plan a trip to Disneyland in a few weeks. That will be nice, except for the drive. We are also looking for a new car. Any suggestions? We need a third row seat, obviously but Nate won't even consider a van. He wants an SUV but I don't want to pay for the gas. If you love your car and can convince me to go that route, blog me back and give me adivce. Also, if you want to read a funny blog check out my brothers blog from time to time. He just started one and I know he will put up hilarious stuff (maybe gross and inappropriate at times). It's biggerb75.blogspot.com or just link to it by mine under Brad. Happy reading!!!

Bye Bye Body, Hello BABY!!!

2008-04-09T11:50:00.000-07:00

So Yes!!! The rumors are true. We are having baby number 4. This one took a bit longer than I would have liked. (We all know how impatient and obbsessed with order I am). We are due on Nov. 21 2008. Maybe if I'm lucky it will come early and be born on Uncle Brads birthday Nov. 4th. I guess it has been too long because I sort of forgot how crappy you feel in the beginning. Like today for instance it is 1:00 p.m. and I haven't even got up off the couch for longer than it took to blog this. My kids have been eating fruit snacks and popcilces all day and I feel totally fine about that. I only feel good when I'm full so I have been eating like a horse. We all know I get HUGE when I'm pregnant so who cares right. I just keep telling myself it's only a year and I can do anything, even be fat, for a year. My kids are so excited especially Addie, she wrote her teacher a note and told her I was having a baby and then concluded by saying " We hope it is a boy or a girl". This new little one will be quite a change for little Parks. He is what you call "the spoiled baby of the family". I hope he will be ok. He hasn't been exactly nice to our other little cousins that have come since him. So anyway get a good look of the photo of me above because I'm changing rapidly. Next time you see me in person, try not to give me the "fat" look. Just pretend you don't notice and we will get along just fine. These are my instructions to my husband!!!

Happy Easter!!!

2008-03-24T10:57:00.001-07:00

We went to a Easter Egg Hunt in my parents neighborhood on Saturday. It was fun. It lasted all of 30 seconds but what do you expect with 50+ kids chasing after eggs that were basically just thrown out on a lawn. The kids love it though. I realized on the way home as I talked with Addison about the reason we celebrate Easter, that I as a parent haven't done my part to help my kids truely understand what Easter is all about. I got the typical "It's about a bunny that brings eggs filled with treats to kids who are good" answer from her. Noah seemed to understand a little bit more than her but still all he said was that "It's about Jesus dying". I took the next few moments to try my best to explain the Resurrection and the Atonement to them in hopes that they would understand that the Easter Bunny is just something the world does and has nothing to do with our religion or beliefs. So then I got the question "Is the Easter Bunny not real?" I told them he wasn't and they seemed to be ok with it. Long story short, I had some angry parents on my hands Sunday after church. My kids took it upon themselves to tell their class that the Easter Bunny wasn't real and that "your mom and dad bring you the eggs". I felt bad for a half a second. I hope that my children continue to learn about how Jesus did die for us and that He was resurrected and lives today. He died so that we can repent of our sins and faults and be forgiven of them. We can use the Atonement in our lives to eventually return to live with Him and our Heavenly Father. I will probably still take my kids to the traditional Egg Hunt every year but I will feel good in knowing that they know why we "really celebrate Easter".

Clips of Addison and Noah at race

2008-03-24T10:46:00.000-07:00

You may have to pause my music to hear the video clips!

The Last Utah WinterCross Round for the Season

2008-03-17T10:19:00.001-07:00

So as you know, Nate has been promoting and putting on a series of races for motorcross all winter long. This weekend was the last round for this year. It was awesome!! The event was so big that even Gov. Huntsman came on Friday. It was so exciting. Nate worked so hard for months to put all this together with 2 of his friends and it truly was an amazing event. Noah raced as usual and this time, for the first time ever, Addison raced. She got first place(she was the only entry in her class but she doesn't know that). Her trophy is almost as big as her. Everyone in the entire stadium was cheering for her. I thought I would cry it was so cute. Can you believe that I let my little, fragile, feminine, girly girl ride a motorcycle? I must be crazy. She loved every moment of it and thinks she is the neatest thing since sliced bread. We all had so much fun and need to thank all our family and friends that voluteered to help. Without them, none of this would have been possible. The best part is that UtahWinterCross was such a huge success that Nate and his partners have been asked to run other motorcross events all over the state. I really am so proud of him for taking a hobby of his and making it into something so big that it benefited the community, our family and friends and the world of motorcross in Utah!!!! (P.S. The photos are a little hard to see. The first one is Addi and the last one is Noah. Can you believe the amount of air he is getting? The guy in the photo next to him is over 6 feet tall and Noah is clearing him if that gives you any idea of the amount of stress and anxiety that watching this sport gives me!!)

I'm doing a little decorating!

2008-03-06T15:37:00.000-08:00

I know we just moved in a bit ago but I can't help myself. I go crazy with ideas and need a place to let some energy out (when I'm not at the gym) So I have been having fun doing a bit of decorating and remodeling of our new place. I painted the living room and dining room with a really cool faux finish. It was sooooo easy and I love how it turned out. Then I moved on to the kitchen. I had a travertine backsplash put in to tie in the granite and cabinets. I also did white beadboard and painted the whole kitchen a dark putty color. I love how it turned out. Because the kitchen was white (which I didn't think I would like but now love) I wanted to warm it up with a bit of color. This project was fun. I can't wait for it to get warm enough to start working on the outside of the house and the yard. I know what your thinking, I'm crazy and need to just take a break from the projects but I can't. Luckily I have an awsome husband who lets me do and try whatever I want ("as long as it doesn't cost too much, go to town Julie Brown").

Family Bowling

2008-03-06T15:18:00.000-08:00

As many of you know Nates family is obsessed with bowling, We all have our own ball and matching shirts. Between February and March there are 6 birthdays in his family so we all went bowling. The BEST part of the night was watching Hillary and Jill (my mother-in-law) try to compete on Dance, Dance Revolution. Talk about un-cooridnated .(You both know I love you) We went back to their house for the usual Pizza and Partying! ( P.S. My sexy Husband Nate is the last picture. Holy Crap look at that form, He's a natural!!)

Having Fun in the Hot Tub!

2008-03-06T15:06:00.000-08:00

We had some friends over the other night and got all the kids in the hot tub with the dads. Our snow out here is still as high as the sides of the hot tub so the kids had fun getting out, running in the snow and the jumping back in to get warm.

Happy Birthday Addison!!

2008-03-06T14:32:00.000-08:00

We had so much fun on Addi's 6th Birthday!! She had a tea party with 12 other little girls. It was so fun watching them come all dressed in their best Sunday clothes. We made purses, painted our nails, played musical chairs and had lots of cake and tea(lemonade). It was so much fun but so much work putting it together that I'm pretty sure we will only celebrate big party style every other year.

Utah WinterCross

2007-12-28T19:58:00.001-08:00

This is a clip that Park City TV did on our event in Heber, Utah

Happy 30th Birthday Katie!!!

2007-12-20T17:07:00.000-08:00

So I know, I know I'm getting old!! Can you believe I'm 30 already? I had the best birthday. I went to the spa with my mother-in-law and sister-in-laws. I have never had a facial before and it was like a little bit of heaven! Later that night I joined my family and friends for dinner and had the best gift ever surprised on me..... Nate CUT his HAIR!!!! Can you even believe it? I have been waiting for over a year now and he finally did it. The best gift ever! Well, not the best but it was right up there with like a new car or a snazzy vacation or something. I really feel blessed in my life right now and couldn't ask for more. Thank You to everyone who wished me well and helped celebrate, I will never forget this one!!

2007-11-25T16:49:00.000-08:00

I feel the need to tell you that the next post was done by Nathan, not me. Plus I wouldn't post 2 pictures that are almost exactly the same. Notice how he didn't even put up a picture of Noah!!!

Nathan On His Second Wife!

2007-11-24T17:08:00.001-08:00

Here is Nathan practicing at a private track in Heber. This is his first real ride since he broke his shoulder a few weeks ago. He wants me to post the X-ray but that might be a little difficult. Noah was there practicing too but didn't get any good photos of him on his bike. I will try next time to get better photos of him.

Hurray for PARKS!!!

2007-11-23T11:48:00.000-08:00

Parks is by far the funniest child we know. He is always making us laugh and doing funny things he has seen other people do. This week while doing our evening reading, I was reading with Addi and Nate was reading with Noah. Parks was next to me on the couch reading a "Scooby Doo" book by himself. I look over at him and he is using his index finger, gliding it along the words in the book (like he has seen me do while teaching Addison to read) and says, "Scooby Doo, where are you? Got some work to do now!" just like the song, I nearly passed out laughing. He has been potty training for 2 weeks now and I think we finally have it. Yeah!!! No more Diapers!!!!

Our New House

2007-11-23T11:36:00.000-08:00

This is our newest home purchase. I know, I know we are the crazy people who move into 3 house in one year but this really is the one for the time being, I'm not even looking anymore I swear. We moved back to Highland to the exact same neighborhood we moved from last year if you can believe it. We wanted to come back to this area and this house became available just when we were looking. I was able to convince Nate that this was the one when he realized that the basement was done, the yard was in, the painting was done, no blinds needed and it came with a third car garage, pool table and hot tub. SOLD!!!! We love it here and plan to stay for a long time! Come visit us anytime!!!

2007-11-23T11:15:00.000-08:00

Noah is now in the Cub Scouts. We just had the annual "Raingutter Ragatta". Noah and Nate made his boat , The Black Pearl. Even though he didn't come in first place he sure had fun and we had fun cheering him on. (For those of you who don't know, this is the same thing they used to have called the Pine Wood Derby.)

Noah's Basketball Games

2007-11-13T12:47:00.000-08:00

Noah started basketball this year. He is really pretty good when he isn't freaking out and trying to get the ball so much he runs out of breath and then hyperventilates. We sure had fun this season watching his little 2nd grade team learn to play together and compete.

Noah's Baptism

2007-11-13T12:37:00.000-08:00

Noah had his baptims on Nov. 10, 2007. We are so proud of him for choosing to be baptized. He was a little nervous but did a great job and Nate gave him a wonderful blessing during the confirmation. I was just glad it all went well after our rocky start. (Parks was sitting on my lap just moments before we were to start and spit up his juice every where, all over him and all over me. We had to take his clothes off and he watched the baptism in nothing but a diaper. I don't know if he was getting sick or just nervous for Noah but it was surely an exciting start to our day.)

Noah's 8th Birthday

2007-11-13T12:24:00.000-08:00

For Noah's 8th Birthday we went to the Circus. The kids all got the crazy hats. They all had fun. Lets just say that we considered calling Ringling Brother and telling them to change their slogan because for the adults it wasn't exactly the "Greatest show on Earth". I can't believe we have an 8 yr. old!!!