The Alvey's

Newport Beach, California, Part 2

2011-11-01T11:27:00.000-07:00

While we were here we went to church. It was fast & Testimony meeting because the week before was General Conference. I've never been to another church that I was visiting family at so I was a little nervous. I know the Gospel is always the same so that helped. I was more nervous about how Hunter would do going to Primary with people he didn't know, but he did great!

Testimony meeting was quite entertaining. There was a kid passing the sacrament and right in the middle of passing he got a text so he pulled his phone out and checked his text...all while passing the sacrament.

The executive secretary (I think), jumped over the pew instead of walking around to get in and out of his seat. It was very odd.

The funniest thing though was this lady bearing her testimony. Her testimony wasn't funny but while she is in the middle of a sentence she spots someone in the audience and says, Dan is that you? and is pointing to someone in the audience. Then she proceeds to have a conversation with this man. They apparently had both recently lost their dads and she talked about how heaven gained to spiritual giants. Maybe this is a California kind of thing to do but in Idaho, we don't have conversations over the pulpit. The funnier thing was...she was visiting from I think Texas.

Newport Beach, California

2011-11-01T11:10:00.000-07:00

We were able to go on a vacation and it was FANTASTIC!!! I want to go back already. I loved being with my family 24/7 and not having to worry about life too much. These pics are not in order. We went to Newport Beach for the first few days of our vacation. We left Meridian the night of Oct. 7th and headed to Burley to pick up Mom & Dad Alvey. Dad got a suburban from his work and we all rode together. (Mom, Dad, Josh, Me, Hunter, McKenna, Krystal, and Reed) It was a tight fit but we did it. We drove all night thinking that the kids would sleep for most of it. My kids are good in the car and usually sleep, but not this time. They were still very very good but didn't sleep much. They didn't want to miss out on being in so many states! Idaho, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and California. (I think that's all) Thanks to Brad & Andrea (Josh's uncle & aunt) who we met in Newport, for hooking us up with a sweet room for all of us to stay in. We were here til Tuesday.

McKenna was exhausted from going to the beach. She loved the water and thought it was so much fun.

Hunter likes being close enough to see the water but not close enough that it touches him. The first day we got there we went to the beach and the wave came and he fell down and is a little nervous about those big waves now.

We had some extra time before we could check in to our hotel and we all really wanted to see the San Diego temple, so we made a pit stop. It's even more beautiful in person. We want to go back and do a session!

My cute, tired, dirty children at the temple. We had been in the car for about 15 hours or more at this point. They just wanted to run around and stretch their legs.

The hotel had a basketball court, golf course, playground, hot tubs, pools, and tons of other stuff. This place is actually a time share so it has lots to do. Hunter and Josh went and played basketball one morning. He loved it!

Hunter said a ton of funny things on our trip and of course I didn't write them down and I sure don't remember them all. But here are a few.

*On the drive to CA, Krystal let Hunter listen to her I pod and then he started singing his own songs. It went something like this: I know you and you and you and you're a dump truck...

*When we were packing the car to head to Disneyland, Hunter was in the car up front while we loaded. And a lady came out and Hunter asked her where she was going. She replied, home. Where are you going? We all thought for sure he would have said Disneyland, cuz he was so excited to go, but he said NUTS!

Hunter's 4th Birthday

2011-11-01T10:51:00.000-07:00

Josh and I decided that Hunter could have a friend party this year. In the past we have done family with a few friends. I was feeling guilty too because I was doing the St. Luke's Women's Race, on his birthday and didn't want him to feel left out on his birthday. We invited a few friends to go bowling with us. I made a cute bowling pin invitation (that I didn't take a pic of).

This is the whole group that came to spoil Hunter at his party. L-R-Landen, Hailey, Hunter, Cole, Ali, and Dylan. (I hope I got the twins right)

Hunter bowling

These are supposed to be bowling pin cupcakes. The book looks much better than the real thing. It was kind of hard because the cupcakes and donut holes I used are not all equally proportionate. And the fruit roll ups that we bought were not regular ones, they were design ones so they don't have straight lines like they are supposed to. They started melting on the way to the bowling alley, so they were kinda messy, but the kids loved them!

Hunter opening up his presents. He loved everything he got and he definitely got spoiled!

In the group picture, Hunter is holding a bowling pin. Yes, it's a real pin. The guy at the bowling alley, Ron, knew it was his birthday (and it was the same day as Ron's brothers). He said he wanted to give Hunter something for his birthday and wanted to know if I wanted the party date on it or his actual birthday. I had no idea what he was giving him so I didn't know what would be best, so I told him to decide. A few minutes later, Ron comes back and has his hands behind his back. He told Hunter he wanted to give him a present and to hold his hands out. Then he put the bowling pin in Hunter's hands. Hunter was right up against me so I didn't see his face but Heather and Lisa said it was priceless. Hunter loves his bowling pin and thinks he is the coolest kid on the block because he has it.

P.S. those pins are heavier than you think!

Hunter had family over on his birthday to help celebrate his special day. He had Grandpa & Grandma Alvey, Grandma King (we missed Grandpa King), Krystal, Reed, Great Grandpa & Grandma Mathews, and Becky. The girls all did the race that morning and then we came home and had sandwiches and chips for lunch and he got to open his presents from everyone.

He had a fantastic day and we are grateful for our friends and family who got to share in his special day.

McKenna's 1st Hair cut

2011-11-01T10:46:00.000-07:00

I know I am way behind on blogging but we've been busy.
McKenna had her 1st hair cut and did GREAT! She sat there and let Candice cut her hair without fussing once. We did bribe her a little with goldfish but I say whatever works.

I didn't really get any after shots for some reason...

Change sucks!!!

2011-08-21T15:59:00.000-07:00

I am all for change, when it benefits me. Right now, I'm not liking change. I got released from Young Women's today! This has truly been my FAVORITE calling in the world. I love young women's and we have AMAZING girls. I wasn't warned this was happening until after Sunday School right before Sacrament Meeting, so of course all through sacrament I was bawling and I'm pretty sure I'm gonna bawl for another 2 weeks. I've been in since Feb. and I truly can't get enough of my Young Women. I love them and they taught me so much in my short time that I was with them. I know this is all part of Heavenly Father's plan and I hope he has something good in store for me, cuz if not I might become inactive (not really but still). I fear it's Primary and I really don't want to go there, but I guess if that's where I'm needed I'll do what I have to (but I can't say I'll do it happily) I have a few bones to pick with Heavenly Father right now and I just hope I can get over it sooner rather than later.

Girls Camp

2011-08-09T16:07:00.000-07:00

Back in February I was called to be the 1st Counselor in the Young Women's. I was definitely not expecting it but was super excited about it. I love the Young Women's program and had a blast when I was a Young Women. I love having the MiaMaids! They are such a fun age and amazing girls. When I was called to be the counselor I knew that meant girls camp too. :) I LOVED girls camp growing up and I couldn't wait. Although, we do have some city girls so it was a little differnt. But I had the TIME OF MY LIFE!!!! I loved being a leader at camp instead of a girl. It was so amazing to watch our girls gain testimonies of their own about our Savior. It was stake camp and I always liked ward camp better growing up, so I was a little nervous. But the stake leaders did a FANTASTIC job with it. The them was Testimony-I know for myself. I was a little worried to because, of course, as a leader I had the itinerary and they had us scheduled for something every hour. NO KIDDING! We started with flag ceremony and breakfast at 8 and had something every hour until about 10 each night. We only had 1 hour every day for free time. We played different games, did service projects, had a testimony hike, and all sorts of stuff. Our girls we always in bed no later than 10:30 every night but the last night. We didn't have any fighting and bickering, which from a leader stand point was very nice. One day they had an activity of rock climbing. I have never done rock climbing before and have never really been interested in it either. I am TERRIFIED of heights! I have a MiaMaid who isn't as outgoing as some of the other girls but she said if you do it, I'll do it. As a leader, how do you back out of that? So she tried it and then I held true to my word. I did it! I was scared to death but I did it and hope I never have to do it again. :) The stake had several firesides and devotionals throughout the week, that were always amazing and I think really helped the girls. Through the week they focused a lot on trying to help the girls recognize the spirit speaking to them. And tried to explain that not everyone feels the spirit the same. Some people have a pounding heart, some have thoughts come to mind, and such and such ways. How just because one person feels the spirit one way, doesn't mean another person feels the spirit the same way. And that we may not feel the spirit at the same time as another person either. It was truly an amazing experience to be a leader and to strengthen my own testimony and feel of the spirit in MY own ways and to watch our girls grow in the gospel. I absolutely love my calling and really wouldn't mind spending the rest of my life in Young Women's.

walk walk walk

2011-07-31T16:30:00.000-07:00

McKenna took her first steps on July 2. Then since then she has not really been to interested in walking. She would do 3 or 4 steps here or there but only if it was her idea. :) Well this last friday (29th) she decided it was time to walk for reals. She has been walking all over the place and that's all she wants to do now. I'm hoping it will make her life a little happier now that she can do things easier. I hate that she's growing up so fast but love that she's my baby girl.

McKenna's 1st Birthday

2011-07-05T06:35:00.000-07:00

We went to Burley this year to have McKenna's party. Her birthday is May 27th, so it falls right at Memorial Weekend. Since we had an extra day off from work (okay Josh had an extra day) we thought it would be easier to have the party in Burley. (That's where most of our families live) We had it at my parents house in their shop. We kept it simple. We had a bbq and everyone brought their own meat and a salad to share. We opened presents and ate and had ice cream sandwiches for treats.

This was a Disney princess plate, cup, bowl set

Here's some of the cousins playing together

I wasn't going to do cake this year because I didn't want to make my dad's shop too messy and I didn't have time to make one and I refuse to buy a cake that is gross and cost $25 or more. Well my sister got wind of this and didn't think it was fair, so they bought a little mini cake that McKenna got to keep all to herself. My camera died or was full and I couldn't get an after shot but she had it everywhere! She even had pink boogers. I told my sister to remember this because she has twin boys and I'm doing the same thing for them. :)

She got a tea set from Krystal and she loves to play with it.

I took McKenna in for her year check and she is doing great. A little on the small side but otherwise healthy. She is 27 3/4 in. long and 16.75 lbs which is the 1% for weight. She just long and skinny. The doc said not to worry too much as long as she is eating.

We had a great weekend and are so grateful our families could be there to celebrate with us.

Dads

2011-05-02T09:59:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been thinking a lot about dads. The other day Josh and I were watching a tv show and since then I've been noticing it more and more, but tv and the world don't give dad's and men enough credit. I know they have their weaknesses, but don't women too? This particular show we were watching the dad and mom were celebrating their anniversary. The mom had been talking about wanting a trash compactor for months, so instead of buying some expensive necklace or bracelet that mom might wear 2 or 3 times a year he purchased the trash compactor. Of course the mom wasn't very happy that dad gave her a trash compactor for her anniversary and then the show proceeded to make this dad look like an idiot who can't seem to do anything right. I know a trash compactor may not always be an ideal gift but personally I would rather get something that I'm going to use all the time rather than something that costs way too much money for me to only wear 2-3 times a year. I like the practical gifts. Although, I couldn't care less if I get nothing for a present! I'm happy to just have my family with me and hugs and kisses.
This past week I have been extra grateful for my husband. He never gets enough credit for what he does for our family. He goes to work 5 days a week to help support us financially, he helps with chores around the house, he plays with our kids, he loves me and likes to spend time with me (even if we're doing nothing), he honors his priesthood, is kind, loving, and compassionate towards others...the list could go on for miles. I am extremely grateful for his priesthood. We have some friends (and Josh also home teaches them) who have twin boys who just had their tonsils removed a week ago. Josh and his companion were able to go over and give them blessings before their surgery to help comfort them. Then on Wednesday the boys weren't doing very well and he was able to go over and give them another blessing. They've been doing so much better since then too. There have been a couple other times since we've lived in our house (2 years now) that Josh has been called upon with a moments notice to help with a blessing and he is ALWAYS able to assist in our Heavenly Father's work because he honors his priesthood and lives worthily to do so. I'm so grateful that he has a testimony of the gospel and for his willingness to serve.
I'm so thankful for all that Josh does in every aspect for our family. I know I couldn't do it without him. I love you Josh!!!

McKenna Update

2011-03-03T12:32:00.001-08:00

Grandpa was nice enough to let McKenna golf a turn or two. She had a blast!

This girl LOVES food. She doesn't care what it is, if you have it she wants it. She can smell it a mile away, I'm sure of it. She will eat anything and everything. She can eat a whole strawberry in 2 seconds flat. Hunter was eating a banana and she was getting so mad that she couldn't get to it.

This girl loves bath time. As soon as we turn the water on she comes crawling as fast as her little legs can take her. :) She likes to watch brother play in the tub and she just has a grand time playing in the water.

Eating a pancake at my parents house. She ate a WHOLE pancake and enjoyed every second of it.

This little lady likes to be a stink bug. She sticks her but clear up in the air and tries to move. It's so funny! She loves to be in the standing position but she can't do it on her own yet. Although, dad is working with her seriously on this one. :)

McKenna is doing good overall as well. I just took her to the doc for her 9 month check. She has a head that is huge. She's 80th percentile for her head size. (it's an Alvey trait, they all have big heads) She is 27 3/4 in. which is about the 50th percentile for length and she is 15.1 lbs which is 2nd percentile, yes, I said 2nd. She is a petite little gal and I love her that way. They also checked her iron and it was borderline low. The doc isn't to concerned yet though. They will reevaluate her at 1 year old and see how things are and if her weight and iron haven't improved then they will address it then. She is pretty happy for the most part, unless you're eating and not sharing or brother is picking on her. :)

Hunter Update

2011-03-03T12:17:00.000-08:00

My parents came up for a weekend and we went Black light miniature golf. It was a lot of fun! Hunter tells me at least a few times a week that he wants to go golfing again. And pretty much every day for prayers he tells Heavenly Father thank you for golf. :)

He loves to take baths with McKenna. They have so much fun with each other and he can make her laugh like there's no tomorrow.

Here is Hunter holding my sister, Jashell's, twin boys on Christmas day. They were born Dec. 3. They were so little. Hunter loved to hold Jackson and Jayden.

Opening presents on Christmas morning.

Checking out what Santa brought him at 11:30 at night! He woke up at 11:30 on Christmas Eve. Josh says it's because Krystal and I were being too loud but we're chalking it up to him being excited to see what Santa brought. :) So he got to check it out and then he went back to bed and we opened presents in the morning.

Hunter is doing good. Growing right on track. He's about 50th percentile for his height and weight so that's always good. He loves to play with his sister (until she doesn't do what he wants) and he LOVES going to primary.

My First Sewing Project

2011-03-03T12:05:00.000-08:00

For Christmas this last year I decided to try and save a little money by making my own gifts. Well with the help of my friend Allie, she let me borrow everything I needed (which really was everything, cuz I didn't have my own machine or anything to go with it.) and to my friend Dorothy and her mother (who are avid sewers) and a phone call or two to my famous Aunt Ree (who inherited ALL of my grandma walker's sewing talents) I did it! I made centerpieces that go with the holidays. I did them so they are two sided to all you had to do it flip them over for the next holiday. It really wasn't as horrific as I thought it would be, once I figured out what I was doing. And most of all I was proud of my self for doing it on my own. Dorothy and her mother really didn't even help me physically do them. They talked me through everything and I did it on my own but they were sitting right there for any and all help I may need. I can't thank them enough for it either.

This is just the reverse sides to show them. They turned out pretty good if I ask myself. Just don't look to close or you might find they really aren't perfect. :)

Hunter

2010-12-19T14:04:00.000-08:00

So we're sitting in Sacrament meeting today and there is a young man talking who has recently returned from his mission and was speaking with the high councilman. He was just finishing up his talk and he was saying Chase:The high school student to Chase: The disciple of Jesus Christ. Then Hunter promptly followed with "Amen!" It was so dang funny. As Josh and I are laughing and The Nelson's behind us are laughing. But like Bro. Nelson said, "At least you know he's listening" (some what) :) Sure do love that kid!

Just a minute ago Josh told Hunter he would play a game with him. Hunter picked to play the Wii (yes, my 3 year old plays Wii). Josh told him as soon as it's a commercial we'll play. (He was watching football). So as soon as it was a commercial Hunter started saying, "Dad it's a commercial, let's play" (Josh is in the office with me at this moment) So he says okay i'm coming. He turned to go out of the office and Hunter was right at the door and he turns around to go to the living room and football comes back on. Hunter says, "What the heck!" He couldn't figure out why the commercial was so short and that darn football was back on.

Update (long overdue)

2010-11-26T21:22:00.000-08:00

This was the end of Sept. My brother was home on leave from the Marines and he wanted to go up to Lake Cleavland and Hunter thought it was so much fun because he got to through rocks in the water.

Hunter and Josh carving our pumpkin. Hunter really didn't care about carving it he just liked to play with the little roller thing that helps you trace the pattern onto your pumpkin. But he sure did like seeing it lit up outside.

Our little angel! She LOVES bath time. She can kick like there is no tomorrow. And as long as Hunter doesn't splash water in her face she is happy as a clam in the water.

Hunter loves to build with legos (got that from his daddy). He usually builds me a temple. He loves the temple and talks about it all the time. He even eats his food to make it look like a temple. (like pop tarts and such)

Here she is eating carrots. My cousin that lives in Canada gave us a TON of baby food this summer that she had left over from her little girl. It would expire before she would be able to use it with the next one that's on it's way now. :) It has been so nice not having to buy baby food all the time. McKenna LOVES real food. She drinks her bottles fine but give this girl some real food and she's in heaven.

We had Thanksgiving at my parents house this year. It was just my parents and us. My brother is in Afghanistan (Marines) and my sister spent Thanksgiving with her boyfriends family. It was a super yummy dinner as usual. Hunter kept saying I love Turkey Day! I love turkey. And of course the pumpkin pie. He wanted to have pie before he had dinner. McKenna was able to enjoy most everything we had as well. She has a tiny piece of turkey, mashed potatoes & gravy, green beans, stuffing (a little hard for her cuz she doesn't have teeth), deviled eggs (which she loved), and even some of the veggie tray. She had a carrot to gnaw on (felt great on her gums since she's teething) and she loved the cucumber slices. I gave her one and she started going to town on it. Then she would get mad cuz she would suck on it so much that it would get soft and start falling apart.

All in all it was a great trip home. We sure love seeing family! And we are so grateful for all our blessings we have.

McKenna

2010-11-22T07:22:00.001-08:00

McKenna will be 6th months on the 27th. I can't believe how fast time has gone. It's just nuts. She can roll over now. She rolled the first time on Oct. 9th. from her back to her belly. A couple weeks later she started rolling from her belly to her back. She rolls everywhere now. Especially if Hunter is on the floor. She loves to roll to him and attack him. She's getting revenge for all the times he's got her.

She has been teething lately. Her gums are swollen, she drools like crazy! (Hunter never really drooled so it's a whole new thing for me) She can soak a shirt in no time flat. She has been chewing on anything and everything she can get her hands on. She's had a fever. So, I know they are well on their way. She's been pretty happy through it though. She is just sleeping a lot more.

She LOVES real food. She drinks her formula okay but she prefers the good stuff. She ate a half a jar of carrots the other day. She had spaghettios with Hunter the other night. (the little o's that are in the can, cuz there are 2 sizes) She's had all sorts of baby food. She loves animal crackers. She likes her baby puffs (the gerber ones that melt in your mouth). We can't wait for Thanksgiving so we can try stuffing and mashed potatoes!

She is doing well with her head. She doesn't have to have a helmet, thank heavens. She has to go back one more time in Dec. to check her neck movement and make sure she is doing okay with that. She seems to be doing much better with it now that she can roll, she has it moving a lot more. So, we're keeping our fingers crossed that she doesn't have to do physical therapy.

She has discovered how to bounce in her bouncer. It took her a couple days to really figure that thing out. She liked to be in it because she could be up and see things and loved playing with the toys on it. We kept trying to teach her how to bounce in it, and finally she figured it out, and now she bounces like a crazy fool.

We love are little angel and are so happy she is a part of our family!

Hunter Funnies

2010-11-22T07:19:00.001-08:00

It's Friday morning and Hunter and I were cleaning my bathroom while McKenna was napping. As we're cleaning the toilet Hunter and I have the following conversation.

Hunter:Mom?
Me: Yes Hunter?
Hunter:Do you have Santa's phone number?
Me: No honey. Why do you need Santa's number?
Hunter: Cuz, I want to call him.
Me:Why do you want to call Santa?
Hunter: Cuz, I want to call him to tell him to bring me presents because I'm a good boy!
Me: Well, I don't have his number but maybe we can write him a letter.
Hunter: Okay!

I sure love this kid! He just makes me laugh every day. He says the funniest things.

New Blog

2010-10-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

I have started another blog. My sister kind of inspired this one. It's a cooking blog! I do a lot of cooking and she's starting to do a lot more and is always looking for recipes (as we all are). So I thought I'd share what I have and kind of how I run my kitchen world. I've been using a menu ever since we got married 4 1/2 years ago and it works for us. Check it out! www.alveycook.blogspot.com. Hope you enjoy it!

I SURVIVED!!!

2010-09-25T20:42:00.001-07:00

It's true, I survived the 5k. It wasn't too bad. It was a little rough on the uphill part but not too bad. My mother-in-law and I jogged about the first 2 blocks and a little right at the end and then we walked fast the rest of it. We aren't sure on our exact finish time yet (they post the times on wednesday) but we think it was about 45 min. My ankles are a little sore and my hip (I have bad hips) but other than that and being a little tired it wasn't too bad. Thanks to Krystal for encouraging me to do it. It really is quite a site to see 13,000 women running, jogging, walking, strolling for such a great cause. There was even a lady with 1 leg and crutches who RAN the race. She was in the red wave with us and she totally kicked mom and I's butt. Very impressive! We're definitely make this a new tradition. Although, I think next year I will get in a little better shape for it. :) And mom, Krystal, Lisa, and I all had the same shoes, cuz we're that cool.

Sorry, no pics. They will be on facebook once Krystal loads them. I didn't have my camera just her.

I miss my knife!!!

2010-09-17T20:01:00.000-07:00

I am a Pampered Chef consultant and so I have the opportunity to have LOTS of their stuff and I love their products. If I had to pick a favorite it would definitely be my beaded cheese knife, coming in 2nd would be my cutting board! These 2 items are used on a daily basis at our house. We love eating cheese and since we've been doing a little couponing we have gotten a lot of cheese for free and we eat cheese by the brick around here! :) I have cheese everyday (but not enough to plug me up) ;) Well to cut my cheese I use the fabulous cheese knife and my cutting board. Well about a week ago my knife broke! One of the beads cracked and they are glass and so it's been out of working order. Well lucky for me, it's under warranty! So, I called up The Pampered Chef and told them what happened. They said, not a problem just ship that item to us, once we get it, we will send a new one. So I packaged it up and sent it on it's way. I have been without my cheese knife since Wednesday, when I mailed it. I can't wait for this package to arrive so I can have my cheese knife back!!! And even better about this knife, I can cut a piece of cheese straight. I don't have skinny ends and fat ends. If you can't live without one of these fabulous cheese knifes, let me know and I'll order you one!

Pesto-Chicken Penne Casserole

2010-09-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

We had this for dinner tonight and we LOVED it!
It's from Simple & Delicious May 2010

1 pkg (16oz) penne pasta
6 cups cubed cooked chicken
4 cups (16oz) italian cheese blend
3 cups fresh baby spinach
1 can (15oz) crushed tomatoes (I used diced)
1 jar (15oz) Alfredo Sauce
1 jar (10oz) prepared pesto
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 c. seasoned bread crumbs
1/2 c. parmesan cheese
1 Tbsp. olive oil

Cook pasta according to pkg. directions. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the chicken, cheese blend, spinach, tomatoes, Alfredo sauce, pesto, and milk. Drain pasta and add to mixture, toss to coat.

Transfer to 2 greased 8 in square baking dish. In small bowl, mix bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and oil. Sprinkle over casseroles.

Cover and freeze one casserole for up to 3 months. Cover and bake for 40-45 min or till bubbly.

This was super easy to make and so yummy.

5k

2010-09-08T09:11:00.000-07:00

It's true...I'm doing my first ever 5k! My sister-in-law Krystal did this one last year and so this year my mother-in-law and I are doing it too. Krystal will run and me and mom will attempt to just finish it. :) I just barely started getting into shape and so it will be very interesting. I have till Sept. 25th to be ready. I don't know that I'll be ready like I should be but I'm sure gonna try. I'm excited and nervous all at the same time. It will be fun though. Wish me luck!

Hunter

2010-08-23T18:13:00.001-07:00

I know it's been a long time since I updated and I have a lot to update about but I have to upload pics first...so stay tuned.

Today, Hunter, McKenna, and I went to Winco to do some grocery shopping cuz we had NONE. After being gone for 9 days we had no food in our house. On the way there Hunter was rambling in the back seat like normal. But he said the cutest things. While we were on vacation, while we were in Utah we took him to Temple Square so he could see the Temple up close and personal. He always tells us that Jesus lives at the temple. (it's easier to explain it that way than the up in the clouds) So on our way to Winco Hunter says to me, Mom I want to go in the temple. I tried explaining to him that you have to be a certain age and you have to have a recommend to get inside. Then he said next time I go to the temple can Jesus come outside and talk to me. I said well you know Hunter, you don't have to go to the temple to talk to Jesus (he doesn't quite understand there is a Heavenly Father and Jesus and that they are 2 different people). If you want to talk to Jesus all you have to do is say a prayer and that's how you can talk to Jesus. So my innocent little 2 year old (almost 3) starts praying in the back seat. "Dear Heavenly Father" and then he mumbled a few more things and said in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. Totally made my day! He was so dang cute about it! I love how innocent they are and how much he loves to talk about Jesus and how he likes to pray and he tries to do the things that he knows are right. Just makes a momma happy!

Blessings

2010-06-26T19:35:00.000-07:00

I feel the need to express my gratitude today. It's been a rough few days at our house. One of Josh's co-workers at DIRECTV, who he was fairly close with decided to end her own life this past week. It was definately NOT expected. Nobody really saw it coming. We had just been at a BBQ with her about a week prior to this event. She seemed fine to everyone. Then she went on a trip with her husband to Pebble Beach, California for golfing (not sure what tournament it was). Then the day they got home was the end of life for our friend Robin. She was a very dear friend to Josh and she will be greatly missed!

I feel so blessed to have the knowledge I do of our Heavenly Father's plan. I am so greatful to know that I can be with my loved ones again someday. I am so thankful for my family and the happiness they bring to me each day. I am so greatful for Hunter and the joy he is. He is such and outgoing boy with a very vibrant spirit that brightens our house each day. He is so smart and he knows that Heavenly Father and Jesus love him. I am so thankful for McKenna and the happy spirit she brings to our home. She is a very easy going baby (except when she's hungry). I am so thankful for the opportunity I have to be her mom. I am extremely greatful for Josh. He is so wonderful to me and the kids and so loving and caring. I am so glad he has a job that allows me to be a stay-at-home mom and raise our kids. I am so thankful for his love for me and the happiness he brings to my life. I am so greatful for the gospel in my life and I know that I couldn't survive without the help of my Savior. Somedays that's the only thing that gets me through the day. I am so greatful for the family and friends I have in my life. Life is good!

I hope we can all take a moment and reflect on our lives and tell your loved ones that you love them! You never know when it will be your last chance. So, if you're reading this...I love you!

Hunter Funnies

2010-06-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

I have a few min while Hunter is still asleep and McKenna is relaxin in mom's bed to do a quick post. I am way behind on posting and I have a lot of pics to update but Hunter had some funnies so I wanted to post them before I forget.

#1-The other day we were waiting in the car while dad went into Winco to get something (I'm sure it was probly milk cuz we go through 4 gallons a week in this house) and I noticed an owee on Hunter's leg. It was on the outside of his leg by his ankle bone. So I pointed to it and asked him what happened. He picks his leg up and put it across his other like he was getting ready to sit indian style and he couldn't see it. So, he tried turning his leg. He couldn't get it to turn and was getting so mad about it and said mom I can't see it, I can't turn my leg. He kept trying to turn his leg and just couldn't figure out why it wouldn't turn and was so mad.

#2-We were on our way home the other night from dinner and it was right at the time that the sun was starting to set and was just low enough that it was right in his eyes. He covered his eyes and said bright light go away, bright light leave me lone. He didn't like the sun being in his eyes. Josh told him that we will have to find some sunglasses for him so the bright light doesn't hurt his eyes. So now he tells me he needs his sunglasses so that the bright light can't see him.

Oh how I love this kid!

McKenna Grace Alvey

2010-05-28T18:51:00.000-07:00

The pics are backwards so you'll have to start at the bottom of the post.
McKenna Grace Alvey, Born 5-27-10, 8 lbs 1.4 oz, 20 1/2 in. long, born at 10:30 am

Just finished getting ready to go home.

Our first family pic.

Hunter holding his sister

Just minutes after she was born.

My original due date was June 2. My doctor delivers 99% of his babies and he was pretty sure I wasn't going to make it to my due date. And he kept telling me that I had a very big baby in there! (which didn't comfort me). So since it's Memorial day weekend and he was going to be out of town he said he would induce me. (NO complaining here) So the plan was to induce me on Wednesday but they were extra busy at the hospital. They had 8 c-sections and then the vaginal deliveries on top of that. So I got bumped to Thursdays list. He had said at my appt on Tuesday that he was going to try to get me in on Wed. night to get me started but it would depend on how busy they were. So we just had to wait and see. Well Wed. around 5:30 I called cuz we wanted to eat dinner but I didn't know if I should if I was going to have to go in. So I called and they said yes eat and then be here around 7. We were about 2 miles from the hospital and they called and said we just got busy make it 8. So we showed up around 8 and they got me started. They gave me Sideatek (sp?) which is to soften the cervix. I was going to have to have a dose every 4 hours and then had to lay down for and hour after and be on the monitors for 2 hours after that. So they gave me my first dose at 9 and then my contractions picked up and as long as I didn't have more than 3 contractions within 10 min they would give me another dose of Sideatek otherwise they would start the Pitocin. Well I was too close with my contractions to give me Sideatek so they started the Pitocin. My doc came in around 8 am and broke my water. Then I had my epidural at 8:30ish. I wasn't having horrible contractions yet but I wanted to get it before they got too bad. They had to re-due it a few times because the first time it went in a vein. It never hurt but it was just annoying that we had to re-due it and reposition it. When they sat me up for the epidural I flooded the place. I lost a lot of water! We figured out where this big baby was coming from, it was all the water! My nurse checked me around 9:40 and I was at 8 1/2 cm. Then she checked me again at 9:50 and I was 10! When my doc broke my water I told him we were going to get things started at 10:00 and 10:00 it was. I started pushing about 5 after and at 10:20 I said we're finishing this at 10:30. I pushed about 6 times and at exactly 10:30 she was born! If I'd have know that things were going to go that fast I probly wouldn't have had the epidural. I didn't really have much labor. It really was a pretty easy delivery. I don't think I hardly even squeaked when I was pushing her out. Which was very diff than the people that had theirs in the middle of the night, they were SCREAMERS! It was almost comical. So this little gal came at 10:30 am. It seemed like forever before she would cry but she finally did. The cord was wrapped around her neck TWICE! but luckily it wasn't tight. She had one very long cord. The nurse picked it up at one end and tried holding it up for us to see how long it was but she needed longer arms for us to see the whole thing. The doc said it was at least 44 in. Holy cow it was long! Everything was fine with her though. She had great color and things were great. She has a little skin tag (extra skin) on her right ear, but the pediatrician things that an ENT specialist could just tie it off and it should be fine. She has to have an appt. with Idaho Elks to check her hearing because of it but she did pass her hearing tests at the hospital so that's good. I'm really not worried about her hearing. They may have to cut her frenulum if she doesn't do very well with nursing but as of now she seems to be doing fine. Hunter loves having her home! He's very protective of her and tells everyone that it's his baby sister. She has lots of hair and it's dark! She is just a tad bit bigger than Hunter was. Hunter was 8 lbs 19 1/2 in. and she is 8lbs 1 oz and 20 1/2 in. We are so happy to have this little girl here! We are so greatful to be her parents and have her in our family. We are so blessed and couldn't ask for more!

Good news, Bad news, and some in between news

2010-05-09T07:26:00.000-07:00

Well I'll start with the good news...Josh got a job!!!! We are so excited about this opportunity. He is working for a company called Woodgrain Millworks, Inc. (http://www.woodgrain.com). He is a staff accountant. He started Friday (May 7th). He will work their during the day from 8-5 basically and then he will continue to work at DIRECTV for a while. At least 30 hours a week. We need to keep the insurance there since I could go at any time. I'm due June 2 and we really don't want to pay for the delivery out of pocket cuz we'd be in debt for the rest of our lives. So, it's going to be very crazy for him but we'll manage some how. That's Josh's crazy life in a nutshell.

As for me....I am quitting my full time job and get to be a stay at home mom. This is a very bittersweet thing but I know it's what we need to do and I know that Heavenly Father has blessed us with the ability to stay home and we need to do what is best for our family. I love my job very much and I for the most part enjoy working with the people I do. But I know that I really want to just be a mom and be with my kids. Besides your kids are only young once. My last day will be May 28th unless this baby decides to grace us with her presence early. Which could happen. Every one votes she's coming early but we will see. When I went to the doc last Tuesday he was oh so kind to tell me that I am going to have a big baby. He asked how big Hunter was and I told him 8 even and he patted my stomach and said oh we definitely have an 8 pounder here. (I told him I didn't like him very much) My stomach is measuring 38cm, I'm dilated to a 1 and 20% effaced. I go back on Tuesday so we will see what the progress was this week.

As for Hunter. He is growing like a weed. He is so cute and we love him so much. We are so blessed to have him in our lives. Yesterday, (may 8th) he gave us quite a scare. My in-laws were here in town. They came in Friday night and we all went to Buffalo Wild Wings for dinner. It wasn't until we were there that he started feeling warm. When we got home we gave him some Tylenol and sent him to bed. He woke up around 5:30 and we gave him more because he still had a fever. My in-laws went to the temple that morning and then Josh and I went. We got home from the temple and everyone changed and we were getting ready to go out to get some lunch. My mil and sil and her friend got in their car and were headed to lunch. Josh, Me, Hunter, and my fil were in our car. Everyone was in their seat and Josh went to hand Hunter the garage door opener (cuz he loves to shut it and gets mad when you don't let him.) Hunter wasn't responding to him and his eyes looked like he was looking up at the ceiling of the car. We said his name a few times and he wasn't responding. We knew something wasn't right. (remember he still has his fever) Josh and his dad brought Hunter inside while I called 911. He never stopped breathing but his hands were turning purple and his lips and eyes were little bluish. Josh and his dad gave Hunter a blessing while I was on the phone with 911. The paramedics came and checked him out and said they think it was febrile seizure but that we should take him in and get him checked just to be sure it was nothing more. The paramedics suggested his pediatrician but we couldn't get through to their office. (which I'm still not happy about) so we ended up taking him to the ER. NOT my favorite place to be that's for sure. When the paramedics checked his temp it was 101.4. When we got to the ER it was up to 103. They checked him out and went over what happened with us and gave him some more Tylenol. The doc came in and checked him out and said it was a febrile seizure. Which in Laman's terms means that his body temp changed too fast and sent his body in to shock. He is doing much better now. He came home from the ER and slept for a long time. He woke up around 8 last night and didn't go to sleep till 2 this morning (yes, I'm exhausted). He ate spaghettio's at 11:30 at night. He is back to him normal self and we are so glad. We sure do love this little guy and don't like it when things are wrong with him. We are so thankful that he is okay!

We hope all is well with everyone! We love you!

Jesus & McKenna

2010-04-28T19:34:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love Hunter! The other day him and I were getting ready for the day. Above our bed is this same pic of Christ. Hunter has know for a long time that it's a pic of Jesus and he will tell me often about it. He points and says Jesus. The other day though he said look momma, Jesus and Kenna. Then he proceeded to tell me that Jesus and Kenna are coming to his house. Kenna is coming to his house in Jesus' car. So now when he looks at that pic he tells me it's Kenna and Jesus and they are coming to his house. Oh the innocence of it all! If only she really came in Jesus' car. I wouldn't mind it would sure be a whole lot easier getting her here versus the real way she comes from Jesus.

Random

2010-03-30T19:23:00.000-07:00

Hunter and mom. This kid loves taking pics of himself

Hunter and dad putting together a puzzle

Hunter in his doggy jammies.

This kid is getting so big! I can't believe how much he's grown lately. He surprises me every day. He can count to 20, say his ABC's, and tell you his animal sounds. (of course he just repeats what I tell him but it's still pretty good) He says the pray at dinner every night. He's very good at it too. He know the Dear Heavenly part and Christ, Amen part. He can tell you what he wants and loves to tell his dad that dinner is ready. He knows how to call his grandma & grandpa's on my phone. Usually without any help. The other day he kept calling Josh's mom and he'd talk for a few min and then say bye-bye love you and hang up. He usually always remember his bye-bye and love you's. He's quite particular in who does certain things for him. Lately mom isn't allowed to get him his cup only dada. Sometimes I'm allowed to change his diaper and sometimes I'm not and dad is. Just depends on his mood. He's getting ready for McKenna to come. I'm not sure how excited he will really be when she gets here but in the mean time he knows where her room is and her bed and certain things that are for her.

We sure love having this kid in our family and certainly wouldn't trade him for anything. He's such a joy to be around.

Christmas 2010

2010-03-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

Hunter & my dad

Never sure why we buy presents

Helping dad open presents

We were able to go home for Christmas this year. Which is always fun. We were able to be with my sister and her boyfriend and his son and my parents and then we got to spend time with Josh's family. I have many more pics from Christmas but due to some family asking not to post pics of them I will have to just tell you how much fun we had. Of course Hunter was spoiled. Santa brought him his train set and he loves it! He got a lot of stuff between us, my sister, my parents, Josh's parents, and aunts & uncles. Josh and I kept things simple for each other. We didn't do much for each other. I got him his NY Yankee hat and that's it. I honestly don't remember what he got me but he did get me something. (my bad) We love being able to be with family and celebrate the Saviors birth. (sorry for the bold underlined text, my comp is being weird)

Graduation

2010-03-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

Josh & his sister, Krystal

Josh & his parents

Josh, me, and Hunter

Just after getting his diploma holder. (cuz they don't actually give you a real diploma until all grades have been posted and are final)

Josh at graduation. We were pretty close to his seat. We were in the 2nd or 3rd row. Not too bad.

I know these pics are way way over due and backwards but oh well. I am so proud of Josh for graduating. He graduated Magna Cum Lade (not sure if that's how you spell it) which means his GPA was at a certain grade level. (which means your smart basically). He is officially a Boise State University Alumni. He has his bachelors in Accounting, and now we are just waiting to find a job in a related field. Way to go honey! We love you!

I have the best son ever!!!!

2010-03-07T19:22:00.000-08:00

Friday, Josh and I were on our way to the dreaded Walmart. We were just talking and Hunter was in his car seat just chillin, lookin out the window. Josh and I stopped talking and then Hunter looked at me and said, "Momma's pretty" It just made my whole day! Especially since we weren't talking about anything remotely close to it, so he came up with it all on his very own. He's so stinkin cute! (most of the time)

2010-02-16T15:06:00.000-08:00

We have officially come up with a name. Ever since we found out we were pregnant we could only think of girl names. We tried to think of boy names but we never found anything we liked well enough to say that's what we would name our child. We each had our girl names picked out but neither one of us liked the other ones name well enough to give in to naming our child that. Then one day at work, Lynette, said she had thought of a name for us in the middle of the night. When she told me I loved it from the begining and called Josh to see what he thought and he loved it too. So we have stuck with it and now we can't change it cuz Hunter has it down pat.
It's going to be:

McKenna Grace Alvey

Grace was my grandma's name who I have never met (only in heaven) (my mom's mom) and I love the name Grace but Josh wasn't fond of it ever for a first name so we settled on a middle name.

Things are still going well with this pregnancy. I have only gained 4 pounds (which is fine with me). I am due June 2 and we are so excited for this little gal to get here.

Hunter Funnies

2010-02-16T14:26:00.000-08:00

I know it's been ages since I updated but life is crazy. Here's a few Hunter funnies for you to laugh at.

*Sunday we were sitting in Sacrament meeting and it was time to bless the bread and water. So we told Hunter to sit down and fold his arms so we could bless the bread and water. He sat down on the bench, folded his arms and said, "Dear Heavenly" then Josh and I busted up laughing and he stopped and wanted to know what we were laughing at. It was so stinkin funny and cute! We are so glad that he is learning a few things in life that are important. Unlike the penny ordeal. Story to come...

*Yesterday (2/15), Hunter was on the couch watching his Bye-Bye (DirecTv has a program called Baby 1st tv and they have this band on it that is called Shushy-bye and so he calls it bye-bye) and Josh and I were in our room watching a movie. He had his monies with him (he loves coins and being able to have money in his hand). All of a sudden Josh and I hear him choking so we run out there and low and behold he swallowed his money. We aren't sure wheather it was a dime or a penny but we know it was one of them. Then he was so sad because his money was all gone. We will just keep checking the diaper and wait for the results. :)

*Hunter has been very into watching movies lately. Namely 3 of them. Elmo, Thomas the Train, and Cars. They get very old to mom and dad but he loves them so whatever. Anyways, he was in our room watching one of his movies and I was in the kitchen fixing dinner and from my room I hear, "Dinner ready?" He was asking me if dinner was ready like his dad does sometimes. Keep in mind he is almost 2 1/2. Then the other day he was in the living room and he was coloring on his art easel and he stops and asks "dinner ready?"

*Speaking of his art easel (he got it for Christmas) he was coloring on it the other day and yet again it was while Josh and I were fixing dinner. He wanted to help and all of a sudden I see something on his face. Took a closer look...yes, he colored his ears! Not only did he color them but the insides of them too. He was so proud of himself!

*Hunter has a bear that my brother gave to him when he was first born. He loves his bear and about a week ago he took it to bed with him and then when he woke up the bear went everywhere with him! The bear ate breakfast (Hunter shared his toast), got dressed with Hunter, went potty in the big boy toilet, went bye-bye with him. You name it the bear did it.

*Hunter also has a kitty/bear thing that Krystal got him when she went to Italy. We were sitting in church and he took his kitty and layed it on my lap and covered it with his blanket and then was rubbing it's belly. I asked him if he was practicing for when the baby gets here and he said yes. I told him he was going to be a good big brother.

*Hunter and I always get our coats out of the closet together in the mornings to leave. I always make him zip up his coat and since my belly has gotten bigger I haven't been able to zip my coat up. Hunter gets so mad because I make him do his coat up but I can't. He tells me, "zip it momma" and I say I can't Hunter. He asks why and I tell him because McKenna is in the way and it will squish her. Then he says, Kenna in the way! and is so mad because she is in the way of zipping up my coat.

Well that's a few Hunter funnies for your entertainment. Enjoy!

2010-01-07T17:32:00.000-08:00

IT'S A GIRL!!!!

How do you get mad...

2009-12-17T21:09:00.000-08:00

I sure do love our little guy (who really isn't that little)! He is so stinkin' cute. I have the hardest time getting mad at him when he is really needing to be punished but he is just being too cute for me to do it. Example: A moment ago Josh and I put Hunter to bed. We were in his room, we said our family prayer and then we each kissed Hunter goodnight, told him we love him and left him to sleep. Moments before this though he was in bed and I had taken in his cup of milk. (no thank you in return at this point) It's been almost 10 minutes since we said prayers and left him for the night. Here I am in the office and he comes in. He trys to get out of going to bed a lot by saying he wants this or he wants that. So I thought he was coming in trying to weasel his way out of going to bed...I was WRONG! He came in to tell me thank you for his cup of milk that I had given him 20 minutes ago. This kid doesn't forget his thank yous! I sure do love him and his sweet little innocence.

More posts to come. Graduation is tomorrow and we are so excited!

Birthday=part 2

2009-12-05T06:47:00.000-08:00

This same time everybody was here we went to Texas Roadhouse for dinner. Here's hunter with his Aunt Krystal getting tickled and teased by grandma and papa. He sure does love them.

The same grandparents above were so kind as to get him a wonderful noise toy for his birthday. A whole drum set with a tambourine and other noisey stuff. He does love playing with them and lucky us he doesn't play it to much and drive us crazy.

Hunter's Birthday 2009-part 1

2009-12-05T06:32:00.000-08:00

This year we were lucky to have some of our family up for Hunter's birthday party. Josh's parents and sister came and then my sister, her boyfriend, and his son, and my parents. We had Chicken Lime Tacos for lunch and then opened presents and had some fun.

Opening presents. His friend Ty was very helpful opening presents. He would give them to Hunter and then wait as patiently as he possibly could for Hunter to get them open.

This pair of goggles came in his tool set he got for his birthday and he loves them.

Here's the famous tool set. He loves helping dad fix things.

We were able to eat outside this year. Which was very nice. Hunter didn't really want to eat anything but sour cream. And thanks to his grandpa king, he got that wish. Grandpa just kept putting it on his plate. Do you see that big white blob on his plate? Not the tortilla but the sour cream. He ate so much sour cream, just by itself. He's such a crazy boy but he's totally his dads.

Fair Week

2009-12-05T06:17:00.000-08:00

I am so way behind on posting! These pictures are back from August at fair time. We always try and go home to Burley for the fair. It's one of my favorite events of the year.

G & G King got Hunter these cowboy boots but he doesn't really like wearing them. He doesn't like them being so tall on his feet. He will wear them randomly around the house for moments at a time. Here he is wearing them and talking on the phone. Don't remember who he was talking to on his non-working phone.

Hunter's wearing Dad's glasses at the rodeo. Those cowgirls were just to much for his eyes. ;)

Here he is eating Krystal's chicken strip that he stole. He just wanted to help here out and watch her calorie intake. :) and they are singing the national anthem.

He love the rodeo and thought it was so much fun. Plus it helps when you get to go with your grandma & grandpa. He got spoiled one night and got both sets there at the same time. We had a ton of fun and Hunter was pretty good. We love going home and getting to go to the fair.

2009-11-03T20:24:00.001-08:00

Hunter Funny

2009-10-26T14:01:00.000-07:00

This morning I was in the bathroom getting ready. Hunter had been in our closet playing with our shoes. He came in the bathroom and it stunk! I looked at him and said pee-you (I don't know how to spell it)pee-you, pee-you while plugging my nose. He looked at me, plugged his nose and said gross, gross, gross. It was hilarious! I couldn't help but laugh and plug my nose at the same time. Gotta love that little guy!

School=NO HUSBAND

2009-10-25T09:14:00.000-07:00

I can't wait for December! I am so sick of Josh's schooling. This semester is by far the hardest. It's not necessarily that the work is that much hard it's just that it's a lot more time consuming. I feel like I'm a single mom half the time. Hunter and I do everything together and then Josh joins in when he can. He works full time and goes to school full time and then when he gets home at nights he eats dinner (and super fast too) and does homework till all hours of the night. There are times I never know when he comes to bed. I do all the cooking, cleaning, bathing, and whatever else might fit in the category. Josh helps here and there whenever he can but school has to come first. Thank heavens he graduates in December. He's had a handful of interviews but nothing yet. I keep praying that something will come and I know that with our trust in the Lord, it will happen. We'll let you know when it does happen. As for now I'm off to take care of the crazy boy we like to call ours!

Family Pictures

2009-10-04T16:31:00.000-07:00

We had some family pictures done the day after Hunter's birthday. We ended up taking them down by the Eagle river. It is very gorgeous down there! Except for the snake we saw, Mandie and I could both have done without that part. :)

This kid loves to fly in the air.

This picture just melts my heart! I love my boys and Hunter truly does look up to his dad, He's a very big daddy's boy!

What can I say...he's cute

There aren't many pictures where all 3 of us are smiling.

He loves football! The other day he handed me the remote and said football. Then later I was watching Wheel of Fortune and he took the remote and said football! Dang kid has been around his dad too much.

I'll post his birthday party soon.

Sneek Peek

2009-09-28T18:05:00.000-07:00

We had some family pics done this weekend. Check out the sneek peek at www.capturedmomentsbymandie.blogspot.com. She did such an awesome job! I'll post more once I get the cd. Thanks again Mandie!

Albertson's

2009-09-21T17:36:00.000-07:00

Here's my ordeal, tell me if I'm wrong. So, Albertson's had this sale going Friday-Sunday for ground beef for 1.88 lb. Great deal for beef, right? Well Josh went in on Saturday night about 8:30 and of course the butcher had left at 8. Well they were all out of ground beef and so the kid working in the butcher shop told Josh he would leave a note for the butcher (josh explained that we don't shop on Sunday's) and Josh told him he want 10-1lb packages. The guy said sure we'll get that done for you, stop by on Monday and pick it up. So I went in tonight to pick it up. They had it all ready and everything. I told them thank you so very much you guys are awesome. Went paid for my order and left. I got home and realized I had not pulled out any meat for dinner. (light bulb comes on) I have just put fresh beef in the freezer. Hurry pull it out and looked at the pounds it was. .98 sounds great for dinner. Then look at the price-$2.99/lb!!! I couldn't believe it. I didn't notice when I checked out that the price was too much cuz Hunter was crying and I was trying to deal with him and check out all at the same time. Call Albertson's and the meat department had no sympathy for their mistake. The guy pretty much just said that's too bad nothing we can do about it. His manager will be in and I will be calling her to see what she can do for me. I am not a happy camper! 2.99 vs 1.88.

AM I WRONG HERE?

Double Josh & Jen

2009-09-13T18:32:00.000-07:00

On Labor Day our friends Josh & Jen were in town so we went to Tucanos for lunch. (this is the josh that my josh was named after) We haven't seen them since Hunter's blessing and Hunter will be 2 in about 2 weeks. It was a super awesome surprise! We love these guys and wish they lived closer. Thanks for hangin out with us! Love you guys!

Menu 9/14-9/20

2009-09-13T16:15:00.001-07:00

Monday- Hot Hoagie Sandwich's (like papa kelsey's)
Tuesday- Chicken fajitas
Wednesday-Poppyseed chicken
Thursday-Caesar wraps
Friday-Steak
Saturday-Awesome sauce feta chicken
Sunday-Raspberry chicken

May we always remember...

2009-09-11T17:15:00.001-07:00

What were you doing on Sept. 11, 2001? I think this is one of the most memorable moments for anyone in this generation. I have a feeling that before the 2nd coming (sorry for those who share diff religious beliefs, but remember it's my blog) things will get much worse and sadly this will be a sad but small incident we remember in our lives.

I remember this day very well. I was a sophomore in high school (which i'm pretty sure was just yesterday) and in the mornings we didn't ever watch tv and very rarely did we listen to the radio. I remember getting to school and everybody was in an uproar and my first class was history with Mr. Taylor (who I hated) and I remember walking in to class and all we did was watch the news. We watched tv all week it seemed. It was such a sad event and we lost so many.

I am so grateful to live in this free country and for the freedoms that we enjoy and I'm so grateful to those who serve our country so that we can continue to enjoy our freedom. My brother being one of those great men-he is supposed to be coming home from Iraq in November (but this is the government, so we'll see) and I can't wait to see him. I miss him like crazy!

God Bless America!

Menu 8/31-9/6

2009-08-30T13:25:00.000-07:00

Monday-Chicken Melts
Tuesday-Nachos
Wednesday-Beef Stir fry (using carne asada)
Thursday-Tuna Casserole
Friday-Fish Sticks
Saturday-Game Day Brats
Sunday-Chicken In a Crust

To our papa-

2009-08-30T08:18:00.000-07:00

Today is our papa's birthday (okay Hunter's papa). We wish we could be there with him to celebrate but since we can't we thought we'd give a shout out to him. We sure do love this guy. Here's a few reasons why:

*He is faithful in his callings

*He loves his family and enjoys spending time with them

*He would do anything for his family

*He's a hard worker

*He an AWESOME cook

*Best of all-he's our Dad, Dad-in-law, and our papa.

We love you dad!

Josh, Jen, & Hunter

Alvey Update

2009-08-23T16:25:00.001-07:00

We haven't been up to much exciting but we've been busy nonetheless. Last weekend we went home to Burley, for the good ol' Cassia County Fair and Rodeo. We love fair time and all the food. Hunter LOVED the rodeo. His favorite part was Randy Munns, the clown. When he was around Hunter was all eyes. We had a great time with our families.

This weekend we went to dinner Friday night with my best friend from college and her twin sister. We went Olive Garden and I think Hunter was a very good birth control for them. They've realized that they don't want kids for a while. :) They aren't married yet and aren't in too big of hurry to start popping them out yet. We had tons of fun with them and sure do miss them.

Saturday-we cleaned the house that morning and Hunter fixed his own breakfast. Yes, we're slave drivers around here. Actually, Josh was fixing an omlet for him and I to share and he had another pan going and was making a scrambled egg for Hunter. Well, I started stirring the egg and Hunter thought he should help. So, he stirred his egg the whole time adn then he even dished it onto his own plate. We sat down to eat and of course Hunter had to sit on dad's lap. Josh was feeding Hunter his egg and then Hunter decided that dad needed help eating his omlet. So, Josh fed Hunter and bit and then Hunter fed dad a bit. It was quite funny. Also that morning, Hunter woke his dad up. This is not an uncommon thing. I sleep closest to the door but Hunter alwasy goes over to his dad's side. He can climb up on the side of our bed now too. He woke up about 6:20 am and went over to his dad's side. I saw him climb up and Hunter stood there for a few seconds and his dad wasn't responding to him ( and I even nudged josh) and since it wasn't fast enough for Hunter he head butted his dad. But it got him to wake up, so I guess whatever it takes. We also had our friends Dave & Dorothy over for a bbq and watched the new fast & furious movie. It was pretty good.

Today-we went to church and now we are home and relaxing waiting for dinner to finish cooking.

What did you do this weekend?

Menu 8/24-8/30

2009-08-23T16:23:00.000-07:00

Monday-24-Chicken Enchiladas
Tuesday-25-Hamburger Helper
Wednesday-26-Lasagna Roll-Ups
Thursday-27-Tilapia Parmesan
Friday-28-Texas Roadhouse (we have gift certificates)
Saturday-29-Chili Dogs or BBQ
Sunday-30-Cheesy Chicken in the Crockpot

Menu 8/9-8/15

2009-08-09T07:37:00.000-07:00

Monday-Philly Steak Sandwiches
Tuesday-Cheesey Chicken in the Crockpot
Wednesday-Spaghetti
Thursday-Sunday-Going home for the good ol' Cassia County Fair & Rodeo

Missing Child Update

2009-08-04T18:40:00.000-07:00

I'm sad to report that the child, Robert, has been found but unfortunatly not alive. I think this is where a few of my emotions have come from this last week too. Especially after talking to Dave. A little back ground history. Dave and Josh work together at DIRECTV. Dave has spent countless hours at our home watching sports with us, playing games, and whatever else might occur. Dave is just a bit younger than our parents. (Krystal calls him Josh's "old friend") Dave has truely been a great friend to Josh, plus he's a Utah fan so that helps. :) Dave's nephew (Dorthey, Dave's wife, her brother Chuck's son) Ken has lived with them for quite some time. I never knew how long but the other day found out it's been since he was about 2. I'd rather not go into details about why, but let's just say, his parents weren't fit to be parents at the time. Anyways, about 2 weeks ago, Ken's brother (actually step or half) went missing. Robert's mother had a bad history and her boyfriend also has a criminal history and they weren't sure what happend to the boy. He's 8 years old and was last seen around the apartment complex where his mother lived. Anyways, Boise Police Department has set up several different searches and have been looking for the 2 weeks. They searched the mother's apartment and found evidence that the boy may have been a "victim of a tragic incident". This past Friday the did another big search and had approx 2800 people come out to help (gives me goose bumps typing that), they searched all day Friday, but to no avail. This poor family has been having to grieve over this child missing, the media blowing things out of porportion, the community speculating over what happend and whose to blame. Robert's grandma is having a very hard time especially because this is the 2nd grandson she has lost. Well yesterday, they found the body in a canal about 14 miles from the apartment complex. They have not 100% postivitly ID the body, they are waiting for dental records, but they are pretty much 99% sure that it's him. This family can have a little bit of piece now, knowing where he is and they don't have to keep wondering. It's an extremely tragic event and I can't imagine the pain and suffering they are going through at this time. I pray that they can find peace and be able to move on with their lives. And I hope that whoever might have done this to this perfectly innocent child may realize what they have done and pay the concequences. I'm sorry for the loss that you must face, but know that you're in our thoughts and prayers. We love you!

Nice People Do Exist

2009-08-04T18:27:00.001-07:00

Today, I was on my way to daycare to pick up Hunter. I was headed west and in the outside lane headed east was this car sitting on the side of the road. Well I could see somebody running across the road to the car. Then I see this pickup truck that was headed west turn around and stopped behind the car. Well as I got closer this guy that was driving the car was pushing it. He was probly mid 20's early 30's. Anyways, the truck was an Idaho Power Company truck. The Idaho Power guy jumped out of his car and helped this guy push his car to a safe place out of the middle of traffic. I started crying. (I've been on this emotional rollercoster lately where the stupidest things make me cry. Not sure why cuz I have no excuse, I'm not prego or anything crazy to help bring on these emotions) anywhoo, I thought it was just super sweet of that Idaho Power guy to stop and help out that man whose car was broken down. It's nice to know that there really are nice people out there who are still willing to stop and help a person out in time of need. Especially at the worst time of day, 5:00 rush hour traffic, at Eagle rd, he could have been home 10 minutes early if he didn't stop, but he did. Not only did he touch the soul of that guy but at least me and who knows how many other drivers that witnessed it. So, to the Idaho Power man-thanks for taking time out of your busy day and helping a person in need! We need more people like you!

Missing Child (not mine)

2009-07-27T18:25:00.001-07:00

(click on image to see it larger)

Josh's friend, Dave from work, nephew is missing. He is 8 years old and has been missing since Friday. If you have seen him or have any info that would help please call the police. This is extremely scary and the family is very worried. They even have the FBI involved. Today there was an article on KTVB.com about how this is such a sad event but the support and help is just absolutly amazing. I think it was a cop was saying he hasn't seen community support like this in a very long time. They are searching everywhere. They are looking in sheds, garages, under trees, in old cars, anywhere and everywhere imaginable. So, please if you know anything contact the police.

Hunter Funny

2009-07-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

Today we were sitting in sacrament meeting and they were doing some stake releasing and sustainings. When they were doing the sustainings and when everybody raised their hand, Hunter raised his too. He thought he was being such a big guy being able to sustain just like mom and dad. (he really was pretty darn cute).

Nursemaid's Elbow

2009-07-26T08:49:00.001-07:00

Well we've had our first big accident w/ Hunter. It really wasn't that big but Josh sure does feel bad. Saturday (25th) we had some friends over and we were playing Settlers of Catan. Well there are lots of parts to the game and Hunter swiped the table and knoced some off. (It wasn't his first time doing it) and Josh went to grab him and when he did he got his arm and then we heard 2 loud pops. Hunter hadn't had a nap all day and so he was really tired and we weren't positive that it was dislocated cuz there wasn't any swelling or anything he just didn't want to move it. We thought Josh just might have grabbed a little too hard. So he fell asleep and slept for 3 hours and when he woke up he still wouldn't move it. We took him to St. Luke's Urgent Care and his elbow was dislocated also called nursemaid's elbow. They popped it back into place and he's doing great. He was much happier about 10 min after it was done. Today he has just been running around and playing like a normal little boy. Josh feels horrible about it and we know we need to be a little more careful in how we grab him. We are so happy he is back to normal and his happy little self.

Menu 7/27-7/31

2009-07-26T08:48:00.000-07:00

Monday-27-Nachos
Tuesday-28-Chicken & Bows
Wednesday-29-Chef Salad
Thursday-30-Lasagna Roll-Ups
Friday-31-Tilapia w/ lemon butter and capers

Peek-A-Boo

2009-07-22T20:36:00.000-07:00

Watch closely...

Where's Hunter? If you look close you might can see a tiny bit of him in the entertainment center. He thought it was so fun to climb in, shut the door, and then hurry to open it so we could find him. He's so cute and we just love him so dang much. He just makes my heart smile 24/7!

Walker Family Reunion Part 2

2009-07-22T20:23:00.000-07:00

These pics are kind of backwards so start from the bottom of the post and go up. :)

Hunter woke up from his nap and was a tad bit hungry. Since the food box just happend to be next to him he helped himself. Yes, 100% all by himself.

We weren't even 5 minutes away from the camp site and little man was OUT! He played so hard and was just throughly exhausted. He slept for 3 of the 3 1/2 hour drive. It was bliss.

David was throwing Tyson up in the air. He loves going up way way high. Here's on mid air.

Hunter had so much fun on his 1st real camping trip. This was his first time camping in the woods. He loved the tent, loved playing in the dirt, not caring how black he really was, just down right enjoyed being a boy and having fun. He didn't get hurt nearly as much as I thought he would. He actually didn't have any injuries until the very last day. We went up on Thursday and came home Sunday. Sunday morning we were getting things packed up and Hunter was standing on the picnic table bench and he dropped the lid for his bottled water. Of course, he needed it so he could put it on his bottle. Well, he lost his balance and fell faceforward on the ground. He had fallen a bit previous to this but not such a big owee(sp?). Check out that forehead, he got quite the scrape. His face is extremly filthy but the scrape is pretty accurate. He also had a TON of mosquito bites. We always had bug spray on that kid, but he's just too sweet. They ate him alive. When we took him back to daycare on Monday, they thought he had the chicken pox!

This is my mom and her siblings, minus 1. From L-R: Uncle David, Aunt Ree, Mom, Uncle Rodney, and Uncle Denny. My Aunt Claudia is on a mission in Utah and so she of course, isn't able to be there.

We had such a fun time and we truly love family reunions! We have the best family ever! Can't wait for the next one.

Walker Family Reunion Part 1

2009-07-22T20:10:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was our family reunion on my mom's side. We went camping and had a BLAST! We went ot Camp Chemeketan, just over Galena Summit past Sun Valley. We love camping and certainly don't go enough for my liking. This year it was pretty relaxed. We did a Hollywood Theme.

Hunter wants to ride big boy bikes so bad it just about kills him. Grayson had his bike up there and it was left unattended. Of course Hunter spotted it and was pretty sure he needed to ride it. Luckily Grandpa King was right there and helped him out. (the bike still has training wheels) Hunter had a blast on this thing and was less than thrilled to give it back.

There is also a creek close by camp. Not too close that Hunter couldn't forget about it though. Anyways, Allison was a sweetheart and took him down so he could throw rocks in. He loves the water and thinks it's so much fun to watch it splash!

We usually have a craft for the kids at the reunion. This year we did one that the "big" kids could do too. We made these stepping stone type things. We poured concrete into box flats and then did our handprints. This is just after Hunter did his.

We just recently bought this 4-wheeler for Hunter. He LOVES it. It's a motorized spider-man one. Push the button and go, just like the real thing but just his size. Of course, Tyson, loves to play on it too. And spider-man is his fav! They did pretty good sharing it, only a few tiffs we had to break up. Tyson and Hunter love to play with each other. Such great friends. Tyson is David's son, my sister's friend.

Menu 7/6-7/12

2009-07-05T08:18:00.001-07:00

Monday-Poppyseed chicken
Tuesday-Spaghetti
Wednesday-Chicken in a sun-dried tomato sauce
Thursday-Fiesta Chicken Burritos
Friday-Tequila Lime Tilapia
Saturday-Brats
Sunday-Steak & Baked Potaotes

Menu 6/29-7/5

2009-06-28T18:24:00.000-07:00

Monday-29-Nachos
Tuesday-30-Balsamic Chicken Pasta
Wednesday-1-Chicken Scallopini
Thursday-2-Tacos
Friday-3-Marinated Grilled Chicken
Saturday-4-BBQ
Sunday-5-Enchilada Casserole

Hunter Funnies

2009-06-28T08:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have to post this for myself more than anything else. I don't want to forget it. It might not be so funny to the rest of you, but it was hilarious for Josh and I and I don't want to forget the funny things he does.

Josh, Hunter, and I were all sitting at the table eating our bagels for breakfast the other day and drinking oj. Josh burped and then exused himself. Well then Hunter tried to burp too. It ended up being more of a fake cough though and then he mumbled something like he was exusing him self too. It was so funny. He's such a copy cat these days. We really have to watch EVERYTHING we do.

It fits! It fits!

2009-06-25T20:38:00.000-07:00

I finally found a swimming suit. It took many long and stressful hours to find it but at last it's been found. This is what it looks like and NO that is not my body. I don't look at all like that, add lots more rolls and we'll start talkin. I spent $92 bucks for this dang thing. But you gotta pay good money for good support. And it was one of the cheapest ones I've found. I got it in the mail today and it fits great! and even better it's up high enough that the girls aren't showing off too much either. O joyous day!!!

House part 2

2009-06-17T19:57:00.001-07:00

These are obviously not in any particular order. Sorry.

This is our front room (scrapbooking room, eventually)

This is our spare room. This is right next to the front room.

Hunter's bathroom.

Hunter's room.

More of our kitchen. That door is our pantry.

So, that's our house. We love it more and more everyday. There are a few things we would have changed if it would have done it ourselves, but overall we love it.

Our House

2009-06-17T19:50:00.000-07:00

These are pics of our house. Just please excuse the mess. We haven't got much done on the inside because we've been working on the outside. We still have no pics hung up and not everything is in it's rightful place. But Robert (a guy I work with) has been asking me when he gets to see pics, so I'm gettin it done.

This is part of our kitchen

This is the dinning area.

The living room.

The living room again. The door on the left is the front door and then the one on the right is our front bedroom (my scrapbooking room)

Our laundry room. That door leads out to the garage.

Sod laying

2009-06-16T20:42:00.000-07:00

Hunter thought he was so much help and he had so much fun. Too bad he couldn't have layed it all for us. Altough, we'd still be doing it next week if we let him do all the work. But he was pretty tough and could unroll them on his own. He did tend to forget what side of the roll he needed to be on sometimes but once he started rolling over himself, he remembered he needed to go to the other side. :)

more back yard

2009-06-16T20:37:00.001-07:00

This is our looking right from out back door. The part without grass is where we are going to put a shed.

This is looking left from the back door. The part with dirt, by the wheel barrow is where our garden is going.

This is a view looking from the back of our yard to the back of the house. It gives a view of the sod and of our patio.

We had some awesome help laying the sod. Josh's friend Eric & Isaiah came and my cousin Wayne also came. We were able to lay it all in about 2 hours. We layed just under 3000 feet of sod. It was a lot of work, but well worth it. Hunter even helped us lay sod. I'll post a video of it. Now we just have to get our fence up the rest of the way.

Back yard work

2009-06-16T20:27:00.000-07:00

This is our original patio size from when we bought the house.

Josh & Isaiah were leveling the ground to lay sod & Hunter thought it was SO fun to ride in the wheel barrow.

This was the best pic I could find to show how much we extended the back patio.

This is looking from our back door to the right. You can see the ugly orange house (it's the same floor plan as ours) and our fence line.

This is looking from our back door to the left.

More updates to follow.

Menu 6/15-6/21

2009-06-14T18:33:00.000-07:00

Monday-Chicken Quesadillas
Tuesday-Caesar Pitas
Wednesday-Hamburger Helper
Friday-Sunday-Home

We are headed home to Burley on Thursday night for our cousins wedding in Logan on Friday.

Swimsuits

2009-06-08T21:29:00.001-07:00

I need help!!! Okay, not that kind of help. I need a swimming suit! I find lots of cute ones, just not ones that will fit me. I have an extra large chest and I have to have a swimming suit with an underwire bra for the support. I can't find one that is big enough. The biggest they go in the stores seem to be a 38 DD and well that just doesn't do much for me. I want something that is modest and doesn't show the girls much but that will fit comfortably. Any help would sure be appreicated. I'm afraid I will cry too many tears over this one!

Menu 6/7-6/14

2009-06-07T17:45:00.000-07:00

Monday-Tacos
Tuesday-Poppyseed Chicken
Wednesday-Pork w/ mustard lime vinaigrete
Thursday-Lemon Honey Chicken
Friday-Brats
Saturday-Foil Dinners
Sunday-Pot Roast

FREE...

2009-06-01T19:56:00.000-07:00

FREE...FREE...FREE... Wendesday from 8 pm-12 midnight Sonic is giving away free root beer floats. I think this is all locations but not positive, still worth checking into. It's free for heavens sake!

Menu 6/1-6/7

2009-06-01T19:54:00.000-07:00

Monday-1-Fish sticks & tater tots
Tuesday-2-Tater tot casserole
Wednesday-3-Tequila lime chicken (new)
Thursday-4-Stuffed quesadillas
Friday-5-Creamy mustard pork chops
Saturday-6-Steak & mashed potatoes & gravy
Sunday-7-Lasagna roll-ups

5 years!!!

2009-05-24T10:15:00.000-07:00

It's been 5 years since I graduated from high school. I can't believe it's been that long ago. Often times it seems it was just yesterday. It was definatly some fun times, but boy am I glad it's over! In the past 5 years, a lot has happened:

*I went to ISU and studied medical office
*I worked in an assisted living and learned more about life than I ever knew about
*Was on ISU Business Professionals of America (BPA) team
*Took 1st place at State BPA w/ my best friend Kamille (we did a team event)
*Went to BPA nationals in California in 2005 and took 1st place w/ Kamille
*Went to State BPA in 2006
*Went to Nationals BPA competition in Florida in 2006
*Had some very crazy dating experiences
*Had some good & bad roomate experiences
*Made lots of new friends
*I got married in July 2006 in the Logan temple
*Worked at another assisted living in Boise, and loved it
*Am currently working as a receptionist for an Opthalmologist
*Bought 2 cars, a dodge neon, and a jeep compass
*Had a son, Hunter, in September 2007
*Moved 5 times
*Just bought our 1st house
*Sent my brother off to Iraq (he's in the marines)
*Have welcomed 4 nephews and 1 niece (all on my husbands side)
*Have a sister that is graduating in July-she's a cop

I'm sure that there is much more but that's all I can think of right now. Life has definatly been very good for us. We have truly been blessed and I know I'm not worthy of all the things that Heavenly Father has blessed us with but I am grateful nontheless. I hope that everyone out there is doing well and life it treating them great!

Menu 4/25-4/31

2009-05-24T10:12:00.000-07:00

Monday-25-Nachos
Tuesday-26-Fettucini Alfredo
Wednesday-27-Poppyseed chicken
Thursday-28-Tuna Casserole
Friday-29-Homeade pizza
Saturday-30-Steak & mashed potatoes & gravy
Sunday-31-Lemon chicken with mushrooms

We will see how much we stick to the menu cuz tuesday & wednesday, Dan & Diane will be here. Then the weekend my mom might be coming and josh's family might come. So, it's definatly subject to change.

Why can't I say NO...

2009-05-20T19:18:00.000-07:00

This time Josh was a wonderful husband and told the ward clerk (or whoever he is) that he had to ask me personally if I would speak in sacrament. He called tonight. I really wanted to say no but deep down I just coudln't bring myself to do it. So, I have to talk on May 31st about using prayer in our daily lives. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated. :) I'm not excited to do this but I guess one good thing out of it, at least for Josh, I can't be mad at him, only myself.

Weed Fairy

2009-05-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Weed Fairy-

You are my new best friend. Our weeds have been growning very well. We give them lots of TLC. They are the greenest ones on the block, the rest are brown and dead. You've provided us with lots of color in our backyard. We appreciate the job you've done of keeping our dirt company. We are sad to see you magically disappear but we are so greatful to the wonderful weed fairy who stopped by to take you to a new home. We will miss you and we will understand if you don't ever come back to visit. And we won't even be offended! Thanks to our wonderful weed fairy...whoever you may be for removing our weeds!

-The Alvey Clan-

Menu 4/18-4/24

2009-05-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

I will be posting my weekly menu here for everyone to see. I also post it on Andrea's blog, but it's a private blog, so this way everyone can see it. If you want a recipe just ask me and I'll be more than happy to share.

Monday-18-Chicken Enchilladas
Tuesday-19-Enrichment (dinner is being served, so Josh is on his own)
Wednesday-20-Pasta Carbonara
Thursday-21-Tacos
Friday-Pulled Pork Sandwichs
Saturday-Brats (Danny's cooking-Josh's brother)
Sunday-Chili

I am also going to try and do my weekly recipe like I used to back in the day. :) So watch the side of my blog for it.

Cooking for 2/Planned Overs

2009-05-16T06:26:00.001-07:00

Along with moving we have also changed wards. We really like our new ward. It's really small compared to what we are used to and there a little bit more older people in it but I really like it. Anyways, this Tuesday is enrichment night. It's call KISS night-Keep It Simple Sisters. Anyways, some how or another I opened my big mouth and the lady in the relief society presidency that is over enrichment found out I like to cook. :) So, I am teaching a class Tuesday on Cooking for 2/planned overs. The cooking for 2 part isn't too difficult since that's what I do all the time. Although any ideas are more than welcome. I have to give a 15 min presentation. Planned overs is a little confusing. Let me explain-this is how Laura explained it-when she makes spaghetti she makes a little extra sauce because she has a recipe called like Mexicorn lasagna or something like that, that also calls for spaghetti sauce. So she makes extra so she doesn't have to do it 2 times. Another example-when I make my pulled pork we will sometimes use the leftovers for shredded pork burritos the next day. If anybody has any great ideas for either of these topics, I'm open for suggetions!

KFC

2009-05-09T14:30:00.000-07:00

We've had quite the run around with this company lately. I don't know if any of you have had problems with this world wide promotion they are doing but it doesn't seem likes it's working so well for them. We got our coupons from Oprah.com and printed them off for our 2 pcs. free grilled chicken meal. Josh tried using his the other day for his lunch and it didn't work! They informed him that it MUST be color because we can't see the watermark on it otherwise (which, for their info, yes you can). Well being my wonderful husband, he was a little perterbed about this. He didn't find it fair that we don't have a color printer and felt that it was very discriminatory. So he sent them a fine little letter telling them how he felt about it. So, I had gotten 2 colored ones from a lady I work with. We went to 2 different locations today and they had a sign posted saying we are sorry for the incovince but we will not be able to honor these coupons today but would be happy to give you a rain check. We went up to the counter cuz we were at one that was a KFC/A & W. Josh asked them if they ran out of chicken and the lady was like we'll for that promotion we did but we still have the grilled chicken available. Well if you still have it available then you should be able to honor the coupon for our free meal! Needless to say we don't plan on eating a KFC anymore. We have had the run around with them and this free meal and we don't feel that they deserve our business! (and we're not the only ones who have had problems with this either)

New Neighbors...

2009-05-07T20:15:00.000-07:00

We have neighbors! We are so excited. They just moved in today. They are from Utah, the Layton area. There names are Mike and Ashley and she graduated the same year as me. They have a son who is either 1 or almost 1 (I can't remember). Crazy part---his name is Hunter! Hunter Jackman (something) I don't know the last name. And my Hunter is Hunter James! We are super excited to have neighbors and espcially since they are close in age and have a playmate for Hunter.

40!!!

2009-05-03T09:31:00.000-07:00

My husband has 40 ties! Yes that's right 40. He has a slight fedish. That' s more than enough to wear a different one for each day of the month. He sees nothing wrong with this though. He was amazed that I took the time to count. I only did because I was un packing and I was hanging them and so what a perfect time to count them. I just had to share my husband's crazyness with someone!

It's Official

2009-04-28T18:20:00.000-07:00

WE OWN A HOUSE! As my mother-in-law said congrats you now have 360 months of payments. We signed all our papers today. We will have the keys tomorrow after the funding goes through. It's a new rule-stupid if you ask me but whatever. We will be moving in tomorrow night. We are so happy this day has finally come. I'll post pics as soon as I can.

Have 31 cents?

2009-04-28T17:48:00.000-07:00

Baskin Robins is doing 31 cent scoop tomorrow. I'm not sure if this is nationwide. I know they are doing it in the Treasure Valley though. They are doing it as a thanks to all the firefighters I guess. So go enjoy some yummy ice cream!

For Andrea...so her google reader can have an update :)

2009-04-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

We are just about packed up. We have a few of the odds and ends left to pack but most of it is done. We will be closing either on Tuesday or Wednesday this week. We'll find out for sure on Monday cuz our agent isn't sure if the bank has all our stuff ready. We're crossing our fingers hoping that they do. My cousin Wayne is being so kind and letting us use his trailer to move all our "junk". (We've got a lot of it) Josh's parents are coming down on Tuesday cuz mom has to work at one of the banks and they will help us move. We are super excited to see them and so greatful for their help.

We are sad to be leaving our wonderful duplex we've called "home" for the last 2 years. We have truly loved living her and will greatly miss it. We are so greatful for Donna (our landlord) and her wonderful spirit during the time we have lived here. We will miss her and Star (the dog) a lot but we still get to see her cuz Josh works with her.

We are so excited to start this new journey and can't wait to run the ink out of the pen on Tuesday (or Wednesday). :)

I'll try and post some pics of the house once we get a little settled in. (Which could be a while)

Blessings

2009-04-05T13:41:00.001-07:00

Today in the AM session of confrence President Monson spoke and asked us to forget about all the bad things that are happening in the world right now and think about all of our blessings we have. As I sat and thought about it I've remembered how blessed I am. I'm going to add things that I am thankful for too. Here's a list of a few things-

-Eternal families
-The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
-A wonderful husband
-A crazy but amazing son
-The opportunity to be a mom
-The opportunity to be a wife
-Being a daughter of God
-The scriptures
-Temples
-Our jobs
-Being able to buy a house and have something that's our very own
-General Conference weekends
-President Monson and his counselors and their wonderful guidance
-Heavenly Father
-Jesus Christ
-The Atonement
-Family
-Music
-Friends
-Good weather
-Testimonies

The list could go on forever! I am so thankful for all my many blessings that Heavenly Father has blessed me with. What are you blessed with?

E.R.

2009-04-05T13:32:00.000-07:00

This is a sad event for me. For as long as I can remember I've watched the Television show ER. My mom and I used to watch it every Thursday night. As I've grown up and been on my own I've continued to watch it and this past Thursday was the series finale. I've watched numerous doctors and nurses come and go and people come into the ER with different problems and now it's over. I have loved this show and have truly fallen in love the with characters and will miss watching it. I know it's just a tv show but I love it. I love the real life drama and problems that they have portrayed on this show and they help remind me that doctors are normal people who still have there own problems outside of work. All good things must come to an end!

For Rent

2009-04-01T18:38:00.000-07:00

Since we are buying a house that mean our place will be up for rent. It's a super great place to live. I have truly loved it and am very sad to be leaving but I've realized it's time to move on to bigger and better things. If you know of anyone who is interested in renting it let me know! It's a 2 bed 2 bath 2 car garage w/ a huge back yard, garden space, washer & dryer. The rent would be $675 a month w/ a $500 deposit. It's a duplex and our landlord lives in the other half. She's super super nice and very easy to work with. It's in a great location. It's a quite neighborhood and just an excellent place live! So if your interested in renting it or know anybody who is just let us know! We will be closing on our house on April 29th and so we can be out by May.

Were buying a ...

2009-04-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

HOUSE!!!!

Well after looking at several houses. Seeing some extremly CRAZY houses, things from dirty homes to alligator skin linolium in bathrooms, to other things I don't want to remember. We have finally settled on one. It will be a great starter home. It's in a smaller subdivision but a great location. It's a 4 bed 2 bath w/ a bonus room. It's an exciting adventure in our lives but definately time! We will miss the place we are in now but it's just getting too small for us. Our new house has a big back yard, we will be 3 houses down from the subdivisions park, which Hunter will love, has a swimming pool and best of all it's ours! We will close on April 29!!! We are so excited about our new adventure...a little nervous but very excited!

Spring Break cont'd

2009-03-28T19:30:00.001-07:00

Tuesday, the 24th we got to spend w/ G & G Watson. We played a fun marble game with them and of course Josh won, as usual. Then since it was my birthday, Josh, Hunter, and I went to Sandy to a really cool live aquarium. They had all sorts of different fish. They had 3 differnt areas. I can't remember what the 1st one was, one was the marine (ocean type), adn then South America. We saw lots of really cool things like, sea horses, sting rays, clown fish, jellyfish, octupus, and many more. I really liked the octupus. I had never seen a real one before. That thing was HUGE! (My pic of it didn't turn out very good) and extremly fascinating. The jelly fish were pretty cool too. We also saw some different types of frogs and lots of UGLY, BIG, FURRY spiders. (those weren't my fav, I was glad there was a window between it and me) After the aquarium, we went back to Watson's for some yummy pot roast and carrots, and potatoes. We came back to Burley on Wednesday and just hung out. Didn't do too much. Played a round of Mario Party and had dinner with Mom and Dad and Krystal. We came back to Boise on Thursday and got caught up on laundry, looked at a house, and did our normal everyday stuff. Then we just enjoyed ourselves on Friday. Oh and I got a hair cut (pics to come later). Then today (sat) we did our normal grocery shopping and enjoyed the wonderful weather! We had a great trip but are glad to be home again!

Here's a turtle at the aquarium

Josh is touching a sting ray! They had a whole bunch in this big pond and you could touch them if you wanted. Hunter really wanted to but as you can tell by Josh's arm, Hunter would have had to go under the water.

This is a lobster! It's HUGE! I didn't know they could get that big.

Hunter was trying to grab the fish. He loved it and had so much fun!

Spring Break

2009-03-28T16:30:00.000-07:00

We took all of spring break off this year and it was WONDERFUL. We're dreading going back to work on Monday but such as life. There's too many pics to choose from so there will be 2 posts. We went to Burley Friday, the 20th and got to hang out with our families, which is always nice. We went to Utah on Monday, the 23rd, to see Great Grandparents. Both of Josh's grandparents live in Utah. ( All mine are in heaven). We got to spend some time with Grandpa & Grandma Mathews on Monday. We went to dinner with them, Becky, Brenda, Brenda's boys (not Chad of course because he doesn't like me :), and Robert. It was so nice to visit with them and enjoy their company even if we did have just about the worst service ever at Red Robin.

This was on the way home from Utah. He made himself a little pillow and was getting ready to go to sleep and gave mom a cheese for the camera. He's so stinkin' cute!

Ryker & Hunter at Red Robin. Ryker kept spinning Hunter around the floor in his high chair. They both had a blast w/ it.

This is on the way to Burley on the 20th. He wanted his shoes off and then he thought he should put them back on.

Update

2009-03-18T09:49:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we were able to go to the Monster Trucks. It was a lot of fun! My sister and her boyfriend, David, and his son Tyson got to come too. Hunter loved it! He followed the trucks every where they went. Tyson didn't care for it as much at first but once he realized they weren't going to hurt him he was fine with it.

The end of February I was forced to take a day off, yes forced. And so Hunter and I made banana bread that day. He had so much fun, he loves helping in the kitchen and for the most part does pretty good. The above pic is the after affect. You always have to wear some of whatever you're cooking, right? At least that's Hunter's rule. :)

What have we been up to...

2009-03-13T22:12:00.000-07:00

*School
*Work
*Having fun
*Monster Jam
*Loving being a family
*House hunting
*Planning our spring break trip to Utah to see family
*Soon to start playing on the Wii Fit. My awesome sister just got me one for my upcoming birthday! (did I mention she's awesome)

Not too much new in our world just busy as usual and doing most of the same things.
Stay tuned for pics from Monster Jam!

Pay it Forward

2009-02-28T16:40:00.000-08:00

So, here's how this game works-the first 3 people to leave a comment on this post will receive, at some point during the year, a handmade gift from me. What it will be and when it will arrive is a total surprise! The catch is that you must participate as well. Before you leave your comment, write up a pay it forward post on your blog to keep the fun going (or be lazy and copy and paste like I did). Then come back, let me know you're going to play and sit back and anticipate the arrival of your gift!

Send me an email at jennifer_jo_04@hotmail.com w/ your address.

2009-02-28T14:11:00.001-08:00

Hunter has been such a joy lately. He makes me smile everyday. He's the reason to breathe everyday (and josh). Hunter is growing up so much but he is learning more and more. He is always surprising me with new things. Give it another week and he will probly be talking. He's happy (most of the time) and he reminds me so much that I take things for granted so often. That I need to step back and appreciate the life and blessings I have more often. I love being a mom and couldn't ask for a better job! I just need more kids! (I got get Josh talked into it still) :) Someday soon!

Couple's

2009-02-21T16:12:00.000-08:00

What are your middle names? Nicole & Thomas

♥ How long have you been together? All most 6 years (next month)

♥ How long did you know each other before you started dating? A few months?

♥ Who asked who out? Neither...our friend set us up...he was my resort since my date backed out at the last minute.

♥ How old are each of you? I'm 22 almost 23 and he just turned 24

♥ Whose siblings do you see the most?About equal. Except my bro because he is in Cali

♥ Do you have any children together?Yes, one amazing son!

♥ What about pets? Nope

♥ Which situation is the hardest on you as a couple? When we go home, where and what we do

♥ Did you go to the same school? Nope

♥ Are you from the same home town? Kind of. He actually grew up in Layton, UT and moved to Burley his freshman year.

♥ Who is the smartest? Depends on the subject but most likely him

♥ Who is the most sensitive? Me

Where do you eat out most as a couple? It depends on what we're in the mood for. But now that Tucanos Brazillian Grill is here it's doomed to become our most visited place.

♥ Who has the craziest ex?Me! He never dated people that were too crazy but if I had to pick the one I don't like, Charlene is at the top!

♥ Who has the worst temper? Him for sure

♥ Who does the cooking?Me, but he does help sometimes

♥ Who is more social? It depends on where we are and who we are with but more me

♥ Who is the neat-freak? Probly me, but he isn't too messy

♥ Who is the more stubborn? Neither, we are pretty good at comprimising

♥ Who hogs the bed? If you ask him he'd say I do, but he does and he hogs the covers too

♥ Who wakes up earlier? We get up together to get ready for work

♥ Where was your first date? We went to the movie Chicago

♥ Who has the bigger family? Him for sure.

♥ Do you get flowers often? Nope, but it's nice when I do (speaking of which it has been quite a while now)

♥ How do you spend the holidays? This year we spent it at our house with just the 3 of us.

♥ Who is more jealous? We don't really get jealous.

How long did it take to get serious? Not long but I don't remember an exact time.

♥ Who eats more? About the same

Who does/did the laundry? Usually me, but he helps with it

♥ Who’s better with the computer? About the same, unless it comes to the technical stuff

♥ Who drives when you are together?Usually him

I tag who ever wants to fill this out.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T12:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

My valentine's day started out wonderful! My crazy boys (yes, Hunter helped) made me breakfast. It was delicious too! They made me hashbrowns with onions and cheese, heart shaped sausage patties, and bullseye toast. I had never had bullseye toast before, but it was super yummy. Josh's dad used to make it all the time I guess. Anyways, you take your toast and cut out your shape, Josh of course, did a heart. Then you butter your bread and put it in your pan. Then you crack your egg and put it in the middle of your toast where you shape came out of and cook it. If you flip it right you can still have your yolk runny and then you just break of pieces of your toast and dip it in the yolk. It was a super fun idea. I loved my breakfast and it was so good. My boys sure a great!!

Hope everyone has a Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2009-01-29T18:28:00.000-08:00

Hunter is learning to eat on his own now days. He had mashed potatoes & gravy tonight. He did try feeding himself with a spoon, but after a while he got tired of that and gave up. This is the after effects of it. He really did enjoy his dinner and amazingly he ate quite a bit of it. But need less to say, we had a bath tonight.

He is growing up so much and so fast. He has learned to drink from a straw. He hasn't quite figured out that if he doesn't tip the sippy cup (with a straw) he will get more out of it. It's a work in progress.

Another one of Hunter's favorite things to do these days is to undress us. He doesn't like socks being on his feet and he's convinced that if his socks are off, everybody else's should be too. He will take off his socks and then make the rounds around the room to mom and dad and pull ours off too.