The Hoelleins

2012-02-14T09:19:00.000-08:00

I am SOOO happy today is Valentines Day and I get to get dressed up and go out to dinner. Life has looked a little like this lately . . . . . . . . .

Olivia being 2

Cody crying because I am not holding him

Joel MIA due to school/work. and me, well in my robe.

life is crazy, but we go to bed every night happy, healthy, and to a clean house. Everything else is just fluff I guess. :)

Happy Valentines Everybody!

2012-01-19T16:07:00.000-08:00

Did Olivia, Cody, and I get to take a 3 hour nap? Yes we did! The overcast weather may have helped! Lets hope it helps get rid of the three sore throats, and stuffy noses.

Last week Cody went shopping without his car seat. He is slouching here but he did really well. He lasted way longer this way too. Are they not the cutest!

Isn't he sweet.

Orange Cream Cupcake

2012-01-11T20:39:00.000-08:00

This is the best recipe! I made these tonight right after I put the kids to bed. Olivia could hear me cookin away in the kitchen, but she just laid there quietly, left her pajamas on, didn't get into the blinds, or Cody's crib, she just behaved.

I wipped up the frosting, and then just stared at the orange coated beater ........ I wasn't going to lick it clean, I shouldn't even be making cupcakes! I new there was only one person for the job! She did a mighty fine job. When she was done she went straight back to her bed ( I made it very clear that was the rule!) Totally made my night.

Cupcakes:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

2 T citrus olive oil

1 cup sugar

2 T vanilla

2 eggs

Zest of 1 orange

2 cups all purpose flour

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

3/4 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line muffin pans with paper liners. (This made 16 cupcakes for me.)

Combine butter, olive oil and sugar and mix on medium high speed about three minutes until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and eggs and mix about one more minute until well incorporated. Stir in orange zest. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Separately combine heavy cream and orange juice. Add 1/3 of the flour mixture, followed by 1/2 of the cream mixture and repeat, finishing with the flour. Mix until just incorporated after each addition.

Scoop batter into prepared liners, filling about 2/3 of the way full. Bake about twenty minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pans about five minutes and then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Orange Buttercream:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

1/8 - 1/4 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed

Zest of 1 orange

1/4 tsp vanilla extract

4 cups powdered sugar

Beat butter on medium speed until light and fluffy, about three minutes. Add orange juice, zest, and vanilla and mix until well combined. Add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until incorporated to reach desired consistency. Whip on medium high speed about two minutes until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with desired tip and pipe onto cupcakes.

I don't know how to take a picture of my food and make it look good, but you get kinda get it.

Happy Birthday Baby Julie!!

2012-01-11T09:07:00.000-08:00

When I told Olivia today was Julie's birthday she gasped and said, "yeah, we have a party at grandma's house?!" Ha ha not this time, sorry hunny.

Christmas

2012-01-04T09:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve was so wonderful. We got up with the kids and went to breakfast. It was busy and crazy but we loved it. We came home took our naps and spent the rest of the day lounging and watching Christmas movies. We had mixed feelings about staying home and not spending the night with our parents or siblings. We both have wonderful traditions we did with our families and such good memories, but it is exciting now to make new ones with our children. The night was so nice, I am glad we stayed home and enjoyed our kids.

Santa Finally came! Olivia was one happy kid :) After we opened all the presents we packed up the kids and went to Joel's home.

This is as good as it gets with family photos sorry, ha.

We spent some time there, opened presents and then went to Morgan to see his Grandma , Aunt June, and all the cousins.

Olivia ran into the bathroom and goes "mom, yook at this little room" It was so funny to see how much she loved the little toilet, short counter, and little tub.

Preparing for Christmas

2011-12-28T12:58:00.000-08:00

We spent a lot of time anticipating Christmas this year. Olivia has been excited to say the least. This year we spent Christmas Day with Joel's family. I think they wanted Olivia good and excited for christmas and for when we came down so they spoiled the kids like crazy. They took all the grandkids to "build a bear"

Bought Olivia Christmas stickys for the window

Bought Olivia and Cody a Nativity set. This thing kept Olivia busy for hours!! She knows baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, all the animals, and the angel.

and made sure she had Stickers of the Nativity Scene. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa Hoellein.

Cody and Olivia have played together so well latley. Everyday this month Olivia reminds me "Santa bring PRESENTS, put in stockings, and for Cody, and Mommy, and Daddy"

I thought this was such a fun night. I stayed up and made sugar cookies, I didn't want to be alone in the kitchen so Joel brought the computer up stairs, moved the couch and watched Home Alone with the kids. Olivia didn't take her eyes off the movie once! It has been such a great holiday season. (don't look at the dusty computer, oops)

Isn't the stand so cute! I got it from my sister, Ruby.

My kids live in their pajamas! The tree lights go on first thing in the morning when Olivia gets up and get turned off when I go to bed around 10.

My Birthday

2011-12-28T12:43:00.000-08:00

It was my birthday in November. Joel surprised me and took me to Heber Valley to go horseback riding. We stopped and got bagels on the way, and enjoyed the drive up. I had the best time. Our instructor was so great. We rode for about 2 1/2 hours then went to this lodge and had homemade chili and cookies. Then stopped and visited my Aunt Buff and Uncle Calvin. It was a very thoughtful birthday present.

I was a little nervous at the beggining, but became more comfortable. Then I realized this was Joel's first time riding! I felt kinda bad I hadn't focused much on him, but he did great.

That night going to bed Joel told me the cutest story from when he was a kid, about 7. He used to walk through a little horse pasture coming home from school because it was right across from his house. He knew the horses and they knew him, one day he climbed up on the fence. The horse came over so Joel climbed on its back. Joel just sat on his back while he walked around, ate a little. He just waited till the horse went back over to the fense, then climbed off and went home. I thought it was so funny, he was so daring. When I told my mom, she was like, ya I use to do the same thing! I couldn't believe it, I am kind of a wimp with horses, they are just so big!

Sigh ......

2011-12-09T12:38:00.000-08:00

I don't ever want to forget thursday night.

I was so ready to get out of the house and so were the kids!!!

Joel pulled up to the house from work and we all jumped in the car.

We went to Walmart, which is our favorite place to go :) picked up some wrapping paper, Tape, and some odds and ends.

Cafe Sabor has an early bird special. Two HUGE burritos, two drinks, and dessert, $15. Cody was a good little boy and slept in his car seat and Olivia was so well behaved at dinner. She ate off our plates, and wanted nothing to do with her puny ( that is how you spell it I looked it up, kinda weird ) water cup. She wanted our drinks. I can't believe how much she could fit in that little belly. We had fried Ice cream. Olivia was so happy! Her cute little body was leaned over the table, whip cream all over her mouth. I loved seeing her so happy.

On our way home we were playing christmas music and I could hear Olivia singing along in the back. Then she yelled now you sing mommy. So we both sang to the music together. LOVE

Everytime we passed a house with X mas lights she yelled " yook, at the yights! Santa bring PRESENTS!"

When we got home it was dark, but the house was lit up with both trees and other little lights. We turned the music on, I danced with Cody and Joel danced with Olivia in our little kitchen.

It honestly was sweet!

Chic Fil A Disaster

2011-12-03T21:51:00.000-08:00

Joel had Fri off .... YAY.

We went into town and ran some errands, then went to Chic Fil A so Olivia could run around in their play house. She looked so cute running around with all the other kids. In order to get to the top of the slide you climb up a tunnel. You can't see the kids when they are in there. I noticed when she came down from the slide her checks were really red and she looked upset. As I was noticing this, a kid her same age but much bigger in size grabbed her face and shoved her head into the side of the giant slide, I tripped over my chair trying to stand up, I was ready to kill that little tank top lovin boy! Joel went in calmly got Olivia and brought her to our table. She was crying pretty hard but calmed down. Both her cheeks were red, kinda purple like she had been hit in the face, and on the back of her neck she had scratch marks like someone was grabbing her with their nails. I was so mad I sat there debating on what I should do. The long haired boy came out of the play area and went over to his mom. She looked like she was 18, grown out bleached hair. I decided if the boy was acting this way, he was allowed to act this way, and his mom probably wouldn't have cared even if I did talk to her. After Olivia collected herself and ate a few fries she went back in to play. I could see Olivia hesitant to go back up to the slide. One of the boys in there was an old co-workers son. I worked with a lot of people. You could always see such a difference in the ones that were taught to work and definitely the ones that were not. This one was one of the good ones :) his little 4 year old waved to Olivia and smiled as he prompted her up. They both climbed up together. He came down first, looked up the slide and waved her down with a smile. She came down happy. Not going to lie I got teary eyed. Maybe it was because I thought of Joel and I the summer of 6th grade and how nice he was to me, and I was thinking of how important it is for these boys to take care of all the cute girls. After she played a little longer I went in to get her. When I got in there I found her standing in the middle of three boys with their pants down and peanuts out! Now I am ticked. I didn't care what mom saw me at this point. I pointed my finger at each one of them and told them they better get those pants up and they better do it fast! I grabbed Olivia and we left. I was a little shocked at my day, and wondered how I was ever going to let her go to school?.!

So there was a reason my mom didn't like me dating punk boys? She wasn't just trying to make me miserable? .... who knew. This whole parenting thing sure gives me new in site on a lot of childhood memories. Funny how that works.

As Joel and I talked about it, we just know that our job is very important to teach our children. My only focus in life is MY children's. I don't care what other mom's think, I have to make sure my kids are successful in this life and ready for the next. no pressure.

That night I was doing Olivia's hair for the ward christmas party, and she started mumbling about a boy pinching her and being naughty, I had my camera right there and was able to catch this.

I straightened her hair so I could cut it. Kinda different than her curls, right!

Can you blame me for being a little protective? She is only the cutest thing this world has ever seen!!! I am trying to teach her to be nice. (even though I wanted to tell her to punch back twice as hard as he hit her! ) I was kinda mean especially in elementary, I think at the time I thought I was being funny. maybe it was just part of being a kid, I will tell myself that :)

I love my babies!

Thanksgiving . . .

2011-11-21T08:46:00.001-08:00

This year we will be at my parents for Thanksgiving. Incase we go around and say what we are grateful for I am going to say mine early so I don't have to stutter and cry at the table.

It is not a bad thing that everyone says they are grateful for family, it is necessary I think. On more than one occasion this year I have laid in bed thinking of all the reasons I love each member of my family, and of course sat there and cried. It's a good thing I am typing this and not writing it on paper or my pages would be all wavy.

The older I get and the more I go through in life I have all sorts of new respect for my oldest sister Ruby. Growing up I really could have been nicer. I am grateful that she is willing to forgive. Growing up my dad always said that she had a difficult role being the oldest. She had to pave the way and set the example high for the rest of us, and thats what she did. After high school I new I wanted to move to Logan but I really didn't know what I wanted to do. She just kinda did the research for me, not because I asked her but just because she cared. She told me all about Bridgerland and what kind of classes they had. I chose the one she thought was cool and I got my phlebotomy, which isn't anything huge but it got me a really neat job that I loved and it set me up financially to stay home with my kids (couldn't do that now without Joel of course :)) There is no Ruby without Kevin. I really could have been nicer to Kevin as well. I am grateful he is willing to forgive too! :) Kevin has always treated me with such kindness and open arms. I admire Kevin for how hard he works to provide for his family and not only financially but provides the kids with a happy, wonderful dad.

I have one brother. I wouldn't choose anyone else to take his spot. Beau has always been a good brother. I know that he has always cared about my well being. He has such a kind heart. I know that he is going to be a good father because he is a good example, in all aspects of his life. Girls always think that the men in their life can do anything! Beau really can. HE REALLY CAN! Physically, mentally, spiritually. He really is a great man. There is no Beau without Emily. I love that we share common interests. She is so cute. What ever Emily does, she genuinely does her best. Cooking, school, work, crafts, or just helping out.

I am very grateful for Julie. I may have been born before her but I am pretty sure her spirit is older than mine. I am always looking up to Julie. She is just naturally responsible. I don't laugh harder with anyone else except her. Seriously I just think about her and start laughing, or think about the texts she sends me saying "I am laughing so hard right now I am screaming, and hitting the counter!" Plus she is a RN, can't get any cooler than that. There is no Julie without Landon. I mean this when I say that I don't know anyone that makes you feel as comfortable, or loved as Landon. One of the best guys I know. Plus he is going to be a Dr. Can't get any cooler in my books.

It kinda goes without saying that I am grateful for my baby sister Ellie. I don't think I go 4 days without talking to her. She is such a hard worker and like the rest of my siblings she is such a good example. I get laughing pretty good with her! She honestly is just a good person. From the time we were real little, Ellie has always been concerned with my happiness. It is pretty sweat to think about actually. If I had a bloody nose she was in the back ground crying.... ha ha kinda funny though. There is no Ellie without Jared. I know that he makes her so happy. Being patient is not easy but Jared always is. I love being around Jared, we always have a good time.

I don't even know where to start with my Dad. He really is the best. I can count on my dad reacting to bad situations in a good way. I know that no matter what it is, he gets through it with a level head. You wouldn't think so because yes, he does have a temper, but, only a temper with the little things that don't matter. The big things in life are always handled well. I love seeing him through my children. His curly hair, square chin, eye shape, and sense of humor. These are all things I got from my dad, and that I see in Olivia and Cody. There are a lot of people that look up to my dad and think he is pretty neat, myself included! There is no dad without Mom, and no mom without dad. ..............(this means tears) ................... I could only hope to be like my Mom. Growing up I always wondered why she spent sooo much time on the phone? I kinda get it now. I love to call my mom, for anything. Sometimes we laugh a lot and other time I sit and cry in silence for an hour............ no matter the conversation I am glad she is on the other end. I have always thought I was just like my dad, and proud to be, but as a I teach my children, keep up the home, finances, and other things in life I see a lot of her, and I am proud of that.

This is my way of telling everybody how much I think of you and love you with all my heart! Happy Thanksgiving.

2011-11-13T09:48:00.000-08:00

I love my little neighborhood. Halloween was such a sweet memory. The air was cool and crisp, Olivia was so dang happy, there was no whining, just a little cute 2 year old ghost running as fast as those little legs would take her without tripping. I pushed Cody all bundled up in the stroller. It was just light enough to see all the kids from the ward that we love running up and down the streets. I think trunk or treats are really good, but you can't beat going door to door. It was really nice.

Last night Joel and I set up our Christmas tree. Olivia loves the Christmas Bears, Lights, Stalkings and SANTA CLAUS! This morning we woke up to fresh fallen snow, pancakes, and a cinnamon scent. I had to go to the store to get Cody Tylenol, poor little guy has been pretty miserable with his two new teeth, shots, and a fever. Driving down our road all the neighbors were out shoveling their sidewalks, and helping the elderly with theirs. Everyone had red noses but big smiles. I think it is going to be a good Holiday season.

Pumpkin Walk

2011-10-30T16:45:00.000-07:00

I forgot about the pumpkin walk until Joel reminded me on the last day! We went over there right before our church's Halloween Carnival. It was so cold we were literally speed walking past everyone. I think we were there a total of 10 min. Ha oh well it was fun.

(yes I buckle my knees when I stand, ha so do my sisters :)..)

Look at my little boy... LOVE.HIM!!

My Angry Ghost! What a charmer, ehy?! and yes I made her costume, Joel insisted. I am glad he did. The mouth is covered in both pictures but she is a ghost.

Cody Boy

2011-10-25T22:08:00.000-07:00

Cody is rolling, babbling, drooling, and being a good little baby, he is almost 6 months old now.

I just started feeding him cereal a couple weeks ago, I think he is around 17 lbs. now!

He sleeps so well, I put him down at 7 with Olivia and they both wake up around 7:00-7:30. Cody will usually fuss around 6:00 but I just give him a binky and he goes back to bed. If we are at grandmas it is a different story, yikes. To much excitement to sleep.

Cody LOVES Olivia. They play so good together, Cody is patient and Olivia is dominating, Ha. First thing in the morning she runs over to him and yells "goo mowning Cody boy" Yes he still sleeps in the family room in the play pen. This situation is for many reasons: Olivia will not stay out of his crib and it makes me nervous, they wake each other up super early in the morning and won't go back to sleep, Olivia is still learning to stay in her bed and she does not need any more distractions!

We love our little man, I literally do not stop kissing this boy, EVER! He says mama, only in a crying voice when he is sad and desperate, I will take it any way i can get it! LOVE.IT.

The kids LOVE when dad gets home. Olivia will tell you " Daddy at work" or "Daddy at school, huh momma" sometimes she gets so sad when he leaves she runs to the window and watches him drive away screeming " Daddy wait, I go to school, I go to school" and she always watches at the window for him to get home!

Im not sure why my feet look like a size 9 in this picture but I swear they are only a 7 .... :)

Text abbreviations for the seniors.

2011-10-19T13:39:00.000-07:00

I am not sure if these are really funny to anyone else but me, but I was laughing pretty hard.

· ATD - At the Doctor's

· BFF - Best Friends Funeral

· BTW - Bring the Wheelchair

· BYOT - Bring Your Own Teeth

· CBM - Covered by Medicare

· CUATSC - See You at the Senior Center

· DWI - Driving While Incontinent

· FWBB - Friend with Beta Blockers

· FWIW - Forgot Where I Was

· FYI - Found Your Insulin

· GGPBL - Gotta Go, Pacemaker Battery Low

· GHA - Got Heartburn Again

· HGBM - Had Good Bowel Movement

· IMHO - Is My Hearing-Aid On?

· LMDO - Laughing My Dentures Out

· LOL - Living on Lipitor

· LWO - Lawrence Welk's On

· OMMR - On My Massage Recliner

· OMSG - Oh My! Sorry, Gas

· ROFL..CGU - Rolling on the Floor Laughing...Can't get Up!

· TOT - Texting on Toilet

· TTYL - Talk to You Louder

· WAITT - Who Am I Talking To?

· WTFA - Wet the Furniture Again

· WTP - Where're the Prunes

· WWNO - Walker Wheels Need Oil

. GGLKI - Gotta Go, Laxative Kicking in

PS I hate seeing old people driving using phones! I don't like anyone to use their phones while driving, but especially old people! It's not like they can see the screen anyway......

Olivia

2011-09-26T12:52:00.000-07:00

Olivia has been good, bad, crazy, calm, takes a perfect 3 hour nap, screams in her room for 3 hours, goes potty in the toilet, smears poop all over her room, ?!?! she has been a typical 2 year old, and I have been a typical newish mom. :) we are both doin our best I guess.

Olivia's old nursery leader was going on to Joel about how cute she thought Olivia was and how good she is, she told Joel Olivia is the reason she wants kids.

I was talking with a couple in our ward and she says "remember last year when you would put toys on Olivias head and she would just shake, we thought she was so funny, it was her that made us ready to have kids"

I have been told that twice?!

I was at walmart and Olivia kept grabbing everything off the conveyer belt so I told her to fold her arms. She folded her arms and said out loud, Heavenly Father? Heavenly Father?! The Lady behind us thought that was to die for, so did I

This summer Olivia got Hand Foot and Mouth disease. All I have to say....NOT PLEASANT!!!

Then she got pin worms, again, not pleasant. Why won't she stop eating dirt.

I have had to rescue her twice now from Aunt hills. Scared me more than it did her.

This is NOT my child?!

2011-07-21T19:04:00.000-07:00

My Grandpa Nielson would be so proud of her though, she ate every last bite on that chicken

leg!

Olivia turns 2

2011-07-17T20:53:00.000-07:00

Friday we took Olivia to feed the ducks at first damn. She looks so pretty to me! I am thrilled that her hair is starting to really fill out.

I am pretty sure she thought she was exploring in the movie UP the way she was acting. She had such a good time.

Cody and I did a good job watching from the shade :)

Saturday was Olivia's birthday. We took her to a little park with water fountains coming from the ground. She didn't care for them. I will tell you what Joel and I didn't care for, was Olivia pooping in her swimsuit, and peeing on the slide on two different occasions. Ha. actually I thought it was kinda funny. Grandma and Grandpa Hoellein came to visit and took us to dinner, then we had cupcakes and ice cream.

We got her a Radio Flyer bike so she can ride around while dad does the lawn. She usually pulls out her stroller and plays with the buckle, fills the back with rocks, dirt, flowers, anything else she finds interesting. The first thing she did with her bike was fill the back compartment with apples, emptied it, then filled it with rocks, lol she is Joels daughter for sure.

When I asked Olivia to smile big this is what I got. I laughed pretty good.

Wow I love this girl!!!

I love love love Codys pictures

2011-07-13T07:20:00.000-07:00

I love the personal props.

My Aunt Marta made this hat and bootie set for Cody. Isn't it the cutest ever!

This is Joels baseball, mitt, and old mini bat.

This is Joels old truck

Uncle Beau and Aunt Emily gave this little wood train to Cody.

Life right now

2011-06-23T12:25:00.000-07:00

This picture captures my life quite nicely. A little blurry, kinda messy, and all in one room. This is where I live, Nurse, change diapers, have blanket time, and some naps in the pack and play. Is Cody in a pink blanket, yes, he is!

This is Cody's first day of church. I love his little sweater.

He is such a good little man. He eats well, is very content, and sleeps well. Thats how we roll around here. Eat, Wake, Sleep, Repeat. He sleeps for about 7 hours at night, I feel pretty good about that.

This is Olivia's first pony tail. I can't help but laugh at her. She is so dang funny. She spends most of her time with dad outside because thats where she prefers to be and that is where I prefer her to be, even though she is cute I can't help but lose my patients!

These are her favorite toys to play with outside, besides DIRT. Gosh dang I never knew how much a kid could love dirt! Notice how organized they are.

This is kind of a random picture but when we were at my moms house she kept running into my moms bathroom and getting stuck in the shower. It was so funny to see. She loves her dirty tennis shoes.

Something else random, I wake up everyday around 5:30 or 6 to feed Cody, which is the same time Joel gets up and goes running, and then gets ready for work. Olivia has been waking up so early along with us, argh.. I hate it, because she is so cranky. I did think this was a funny picture. She wanted to read along with dad, and have her morning juice.

Cody Clark

2011-05-02T21:15:00.000-07:00

Cody was born April 27, 2011 at 7:51 pm

7 lbs 10 oz

19 inches

My delivery ran very smooth. I loved every nurse and my Doctor was nothing short of fabulous! Both my Mom and Dad were there along with both Joel's parents. It was nice to have them there and have their support.

Cody was put in the NICU for 3 days. He wasn't breathing well on his own, his blood sugar was really low, and he had an infection in his blood stream. After antibiotics, oxygen, and some good nursing he is good to go and doing perfect!

I got up and did my make up every day so I would look good for pictures and this last day I was

just way to tired, oh well :)

Look at that beautiful face. Have I stopped kissing those lips since I first held him in my arms? No, the answer is No.

Olivia's 18 month pictures

2011-04-25T13:48:00.001-07:00

We had these taken in I think February. I like them a lot, but I wish I would have put a sweater on Olivia in the ones she is in her black Romper. She looks cold, oops.

I was very reluctant to getting my picture taken but I am sure I will be happy I had them done.

What I have been working on

2011-04-25T09:55:00.000-07:00

I am finally done with the kids room. It feels so good to be done and ready to bring this little man home to his cute room.

So here is the over all room.

Olivia sleeps in her big girl bed. She actually does really really well. Isn't her little toddler bed adorable. She got it for Christmas. We had her headboard custom made to match the crib. Joel made the bed frame, it is pretty stout. I made all the blankets, pillows, and blocks. The hardest part was picking out matching fabric. For the letters and blocks I had a friend scan the fabric into her computer and print it out on paper. It worked out really well.

This is Cody's side of the room :)

I had someone make the boppy cover for me.

I also had someone make the car seat cover, but I made the blanket and burp cloth.

All the newborn clothes are washed and laid neatly on his side of the closet. My stuff is all packed in my new Diaper Bag, which I am SO excited for. It is huge and will be perfect! Also here is my new nursing cover. Mostly all these pictures are for Ruby because we are both having boys and preparing like crazy for them. We talk about our preparations but she has not seen any of mine yet. :)

Ruby gave me the most brilliant idea, Freezer meals! Why didn't I think of that?! So I don't have much but at least I have something.

2 loafs of homemade white bread

2 loafs of Banana bread

Manicotti

Sloppy Joes

Funeral Potatoes

and Cheesy Broccoli Soup.

I am still on blog break, I just wanted to say....

2011-01-11T16:52:00.000-08:00

Today I laughed.

Olivia woke up happy. When I walked in to get her she held up her dog and said "Hi Doggy" then kissed her dog on the nose. Then she looked at me and said "Hi Mommy" she leaned in and kissed me. I laughed.

Ellie called me and told me about waking up to Jared hovering over her demanding " Are you going to say sorry?!?! Well are you?!" Supposedly she punched him in the back and kicked him. WOW.

I laughed.

Julie text me "Landon said he likes when I come out of the dentist looking like strokey your pink dog" Ha I laughed.

I showered with Olivia today. She patted my bum with her two tiny hands and said " Bum Bum"

I laughed.

I am greatful I laughed today.

what I love about Bonnie

2010-12-06T18:30:00.000-08:00

What I love about Bonnie is:

- her brown eyes that change to gold

-her dark brown hair, that is cute when it's long, short, curly or straight.

-her make up, although not needed, always looks like a professional has put it on her

-her ability laugh through an entire story that she is telling

-her beautiful smile and perl white teeth

-her little feet and cute little toes

-her scars on her knees and the cute story behind them

-her love for her siblings and the piece maker she is

-her relationship with her parents

-her ability to empathize with others

Bonnie is the most beautiful person i know and like this picture she is always in the background making sure bills get paid on time, Olivia is taken care of, and making the household run

Bonnie was born November 27 1985. her birthday is always overshadowed by thanksgiving, black friday and whatever is going on in her life. although this is late this is a tribute to Bonnie.

Bonnie has always had a way of smiling at you that would melt your heart. She can give one look and let you know that she is thinking of you.

I know of no other girl who makes a wheelbarrow look cute.

My favorite thing about Bonnie is that she steals every room she walks into. I can honestly say that nobody can turn heads and impress people physically, mentally and spiritually the way Bonnie does. She is not just a pretty face, she works hard at anything she does and has accomplished so much in here life. I look up to her in every way and hope I can one day be like her.

I love you Bonnie

2010-12-04T05:57:00.000-08:00

I am taking a break from my blog, Probably a long one! I gotta take care of a cute girl named Olivia and a cute little one on the way.

Olivia's Pictures

2010-11-17T14:12:00.000-08:00

Ruby came to Logan a month or so ago stayed the night with the kids and took some pictures of Olivia. We took them in my yard and then went to a park. I think they turned out very cute! I love Olivia's cute little body. Thanks Ruby

Food Storage

2010-11-09T12:50:00.001-08:00

Joel and I have been working hard to get our food storage stocked. During the summer I spent a day with Joel's mom Kaye and she taught me how to do freezer corn. Olivia was pretty good to play in the play pen. It was an ALL DAY project, but a lot of fun.

One of the days during the summer all my sisters and I spent a day at my moms doing peaches. The older kids played while the little ones played in the playpen. Olivia spends lots of time in that stinkin thing, ha poor girl!

I spent a morning at my house doing freezer jam. Thanks dad for the over the phone directions.

I took these pictures off an email and I don't know how to make them bigger than a thumbnail.

Halloween Weekend

2010-11-08T08:52:00.000-08:00

On friday Joel, Olivia, and I left Logan bright and early to go help Beau and Emily move. I took Olivia to their neighbors house, who just happens to be one of my good friends Kristin :) When we showed up it was a nice surprise to see Beau's friends from growing up. I LAUGHED SO HARD. I don't know if I just hadn't seen the Merrill's for awhile or what but they made me laugh. I am so sad I didn't have my camera. It was such a good day. The weather was beautiful, the house was beautiful, the company was beautiful!

We spent halloween with Joel's family. They had a huge trunker treat on their street. Olivia loved all of it, especially grandma's decorations. The whole weekend was just so nice!

Graysen did not want his picture taken, so this is the best I got.

Not Surprised

2010-10-28T19:36:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I knew the day would come. Olivia can climb up and over EVERYTHING. The other day Olivia really did not want to take her nap and she let me know it. One hour after I laid her down she was still letting me know it and then BANG! Yup she crawled up and over her crib. The second I heard the thud I FLEW up the stairs to her room. I opened the door and she was running around like a chicken with it's head cut off, bawling. I inspected her head and no bumps, bruises, or contusions. She was fine. What a crazy girl.

She is a climber

2010-10-26T09:39:00.000-07:00

Yes she got up there herself, and down herself.

I've been ...... Tired

2010-10-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

Tired, not busy. Why am I so tired?

I AM HAVING ANOTHER BABY!!!!!!!!!

I am due May 9th and I.Can.Not.Wait!!

This pregnancy has been so different than the last. I have actually been sick, like everyday. With Olivia I hated salt, Right now I am loving it. I am really wanting another girl but I bet we will have a boy. Either way I will be happy.

I am really not into blogging right now so I will update when I feel like it :) and when Olivia decides to start taking naps again.

Today is the first day of Autumn

2010-09-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

This was one of my favorite summers ever!! Joel worked a lot but let me go play. He is very kind.

I still need to post about my Montana trip and the Retreat but here is the rest of the summer that didn't get blogged about!

We did a lot of laughing

Took many walks to get Aggie Ice Cream. Lemon Custard is Joel's fav.

Mom, Dad, and Aunt Linda picked me up on Memorial Day and we spent the day in Clarkston and had a picnic. This picture is at the Logan cemetery where my cousin Angela has her twins buried.

Many BBQ's were enjoyed

Both parents treated us to dinners. Wingers ended a little "poopy" sorry little Gracen

Mom took us to Blue Bird after Julie's piano recital. She did SO good.

Lots of swimming. Olivia would lay there and sleep on my shoulder. I loved it!

Spent a lot of time with cousins

Julie and Landon took us boating several times. It was wonderful.

The Drive-In :)

Fireworks

This summer was slow in getting here, but my little family and I took full advantage of it. We spent most of the summer with family and really enjoyed it. I do not even know how many times we drove that canyon this summer, but at least it is an enjoyable ride! Joel and I enjoyed our time here in Logan too :)

Happy Birthday to you ...

2010-09-20T15:27:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday dear Beau....Happy birthday to you!

I LOVE my brother Beau! There are so many good qualities that makes Beau who he is!

Genuine Kind

respectful

Loyal

Good Looking

Strong, hard working, so dang smart

Observant, helpful

Loves to have fun

is "Rubber Man" a quality?

Beau I hope your day has been good. You are a good brother, uncle, son, husband, etc.

Today..

2010-09-09T20:12:00.000-07:00

It rained and was overcast. I really enjoyed the quiet day.

I made cookies, the house smelled nice.

Got Olivia's bath ready, she was so excited, her naked little body ran to the tub! She slipped and fell and hit her face on the tub.

My first thought " I need to go to the hospital, with that sound she completely smashed her face"

Once we both stopped crying I realized the only damage done was a small chipped tooth. I guess if it goes black I will let you know in the morning.

Sweet little thing was back on her feet quickly, and we both enjoyed play time!

This cute smile now has 12 teeth.

This video is mostly so you all can see Olivia walk.

My Flowers

2010-09-01T09:16:00.000-07:00

This is the day Joel and I planted our flowers.

This is our flowers today.

Joel Welded that flower for me. Isn't he cute. Isn't the flower cute?
We ate a cucumber and spaghetti squash out of our garden last night, I am prety sure that is all we are going to get lol maybe some corn. No picture though, due to my lack of weeding. ha

They are what I live for

2010-08-27T19:19:00.000-07:00

My favorite thing about Olivia is she thinks everything is funny!!

Olivia's Eye Surgery

2010-08-26T18:24:00.000-07:00

Olivia had surgery on her eye today. She had a clogged tear duct so they placed a stent in to hold it open. It will come out in a couple months.

She was so happy to see all the new faces and all the new STUFF. She waved to everyone with her great big smile and said "HI"

After surgery was a different story. Babies come out of anesthesia opposite than adults. Adults are lethargic and babies just fight it. She screamed for about 30 min. Then she was back to her own little self. Poor thing was crying blood.

She was most sad when Joel went to work. She just wanted to play with daddy. I rocked her to sleep and she slept for 3 hours.

Later that night she had lots of fun playing with her dog.

She took a couple steps today.

Nice pictures for not a nice morning

2010-08-22T13:14:00.000-07:00

Olivia woke up at 6:45 :/ that is early for her.

pooped a really messy poop in the bath tub, tried to eat it, threw a fit when I took it away.

threw a fit when I took her out of the tub, and threw another fit when I tried getting her dressed.

clean and dressed, playing contently on the kitchen floor, Mommy walked in just as she was putting a beetle in her mouth.

Joel picked up a wet towel, out crawled a huge spider. Joel tried to smash it, it crawled all over his hand, and across the floor before it was smashed.

me screaming "what did I say about wet towels on the floor, this isn't your fault, but what did I say!!!!!!"

finally, we all headed to church for our nice and early 9 o'clock meeting to discover we are the ONLY ward members to forget it was stake conference.

One word for today "WOW"

Retreat!

2010-08-20T11:42:00.000-07:00

Saturday-Tuesday was a non stop party!

When I gather all the pictures I will share all the details! What a blast!!

This picture was with Josh, Amber, and Kaydence. They were nice enough to watch Olivia while Mom and Dad partied. I think she had a blast.

Goodbye Summer School, and good riddens!

2010-08-12T10:20:00.001-07:00

Joel survived summer school, and with good grades. Proud wife right here!

Despite his busy life we still make time for dates. Summer dates are the best. I can not think of anything I like better than a warm summer night with Joel. The other day we took Olivia along with us to a park and shared our Snow Cones with her.

Another night we got a babysitter and went four wheeling. It really is cool that we live fifteen minutes away from 3 different canyons. We saw a fox just walking along one of the trails. Kinda frieked me out.

Last weekend I meet my mom in Brigham and she took Olivia for the weekend. While Joel was at work I cleaned the house then got my hair cut and a pedicure. When he came home he got ready and we went out. We went to the new restaurant Element in Logan. We were not disappointed. We walked to a couple stores on main street, had dessert and watched a movie. In the morning we slept in and then got a couples message at Sherwood Hills. To DIE for. Happy 12 years of knowing you sweetheart!

What we should have spent the money on is a new camera! All the pictures are blurry, we couldn't prevent it, the camera is just ancient. Maybe for christmas.

Abbi Week

2010-08-10T20:04:00.000-07:00

After the rodeo Joel and I took Abbi home with us to stay for the week. I thought it would be fun, and something nice for Ruby. She was such a good girl and was well behaved. We did things like pull weeds, get ice cream at Caspers, went to the pool, grocery shopped, and cut her hair. I loved that she kept Olivia entertained.

Things I learned about Abbi:

-She is a clean eater, always has a wash cloth to wipe her face

-Thinks anything is a good idea if you say it in a high pitched voice and a smile

-If you tell her no she says things like " ok tomorrow?" " maybe next week?"

-If she tells you that she promises to stay in bed, she is lying. lol She would sit in a corner or the top of the stairs or on the couch until I assisted her back to bed. Scared the crap out of me a couple times :)

-Abbi LOVES pink

Mom took Shari home with her to stay for a couple days as well. On Fri we met up with Julie and we all went to the pool. Very big week, lots of fun.

You wanna see a stud .......

2010-08-05T11:25:00.000-07:00

Well here he is.... the biggest stud out there. What kind of stud doesn't have a few bruises and cuts? That just means he is tuff right? :)

Joel averages an 11 hour work day, does homework every night, and yet he finds time to be with Olivia and I. This was his schedule tuesday- wednesday:

work: 6-5

dinner: 5-6

homework: 6-3:30

sleep: 3:30-4:30

work:5-3

test: 3-4

homework: 4-9

All the while I am going to 7 peeks with my sister, having popsicles on the patio with Olivia and so on. I do everything I can to make his life easier, because he works so hard for me and makes my life so good. When he got done with his homework at 9 we got Olivia out of bed and went to walmart to get ice cream! She loved it. The temperature out side was perfect, a warm wind. He was so pleasant to be around. If that were me in his shoes I would be as ornery as a bear. That is Joel for you. He sees the good in everything and is so high spirited. When we got home Joel did one more assignment and then we went to bed.

I am so proud of all my brother in laws, brother, Dad, and father in law. They are all hard workers and put in long days, good to their spouses, and hold the priesthood. My child and future children have the best examples in there lives. No excuses to not succeed in this life. I feel incredibly blessed. I love all the men in my life.

This picture is a little blurry but still cute. He got those adirondack chairs for fathers day.

This weekend is the anniversary of Joel and I meeting 12 years ago. I Love You Joel!

Olivia's 1st Birthday!

2010-08-05T09:14:00.000-07:00

Olivia was born July 16th at 8:01 am in logan

Grayson was born July 16th at 1:00 pm in Ogden

They are so cute to watch grow up together. 1 year old already!!!!

This little party was so fun. We had lots of good food and homemade root beer. Olivia loves all of her cousins, and I know they all love her to. It is so fun to have lots of aunts and uncles that adore her. She has two sets of grandparents that would do anything in this world for her! I am so grateful for Joel and I's family we love all of you so much!!

aren't these pictures awesome! Ruby took them.

Lagoon Day

2010-08-04T10:11:00.000-07:00

We went to lagoon a couple months ago, sorry I'm so late. You can still enjoy the pics though :)

The Aunts, Uncles, and Grandparents won Kaydence a stuffed animal. Grandpa just couldn't let the babies go home without one. He's to nice!

Thank you Stan and Kaye for taking us all, it was so fun to go with all the kids.

How lucky are they to go when they are so young?! I didn't get to go until I was like five ( i have no idea how old I really was, ha)

I just about died watching these two in this ride. To say they were cute is beyond an understatement.

Griffiths Reunion

2010-07-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

We had my dad's reunion at my parents place this year. We had a big BBQ and played water volleyball. It was a blast. The next day we swam all day and then went to the rodeo. Thanks for taking us mom and dad, It was a fun weekend.

I was leaning back to get out of the picture. Im still in it and I look retarded, lol but mom and dad look cute!!

Pink Wrangler Pearl Snaps, so dang cute!

Olivia loved the fireworks. She was trying to grab them. This girl is a party animal, she danced her heart out all night.

so after the rodeo Ellie and Jared followed us up to Logan and were the first ones to sleep in our guest bedroom, yeah!! We also brought my cute niece Abbi with us. Everyone was in bed by 12:30. The next morning we were planning on getting up and going to church. No one woke up until 9 including the babies! church started at 9 so we kinda missed the boat. Instead we made a big breakfast and lounged around. It was so fun to have them, we laughed a lot.

Kinda funny

2010-07-21T08:33:00.000-07:00

registered the truck in 2008, put the sticker on the license plate.

registered the truck in 2009, forgot to put the sticker on the license plate. Got pulled over once and thought it was funny that I forgot, no ticket. Got pulled over for a second time with Joel, no ticket. This happened 2 more times and we figured we would just see how long this could go on.

registered the truck in 2010, put the sticker on the license plate.

love me some summer

2010-07-21T08:28:00.001-07:00

My friends and I spent some time at 1st dam. loved it

Olivia's Birthday

2010-07-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

Olivia had her first Birthday yesterday! I really wanted her to walk by her birthday but she really does not have the desire, and that is ok! We are celebrating her big day with the family this weekend, so Olivia and I went to the pool for the day while dad was at work. She stood up all by herself for the first time.

Sorry, I always sound like such an idiot on the videos. The video is blurry and quiet, but I took it with my phone.

Griffiths Reunion

2010-07-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

This was such a fun little vacation. Joel has been looking forward to this since the last one we had 3 years ago. All he wanted to do was go with all the boys 4-wheeling ..... and thats all they did :/

So Uncle Calvin, Landon, and Joel went around 7:30 in the morning. We thought they would be home after 2 hours. NO, try 6 hours! They had gotten stuck at a point coming down off the mountain. The four wheeler rolled over all three of them. We were worried and ticked! When they came back all dirty, dehydrated, bloody knees, scrapped elbows, and shiners on there eyes we felt bad for them and didn't get mad.

Doesn't Joel's hair look so stinking cute. We are growing out for a change!

HA, Doesn't Olivia look comfortable?! Aunt Linda kept saying " look at my baby." refering to Olivia. How cute.

We missed Ruby and Emily :(

4th of July

2010-07-13T14:26:00.000-07:00

Olivia and the sun ..... could it get any better?!

Every year for the 4th Joel's family has a get together with the fam in Morgan at Grandma Ruby's house. This is what we have done every year since we were married. We changed it up this year :) Our friend Garrett and his wife Becka were in town, which was really exciting because we miss them! They invited us to stay with them in there cabin at Bear Lake. It was very relaxing. We went out to dinner and stayed up late talking, which is the best! The next day we spent some time at the lake working on our tan :)

Olivia, Bryatt, and Halle! I Love these babies!!

Joel, Me Olivia . Tyson, Eva, Bryatt. Garrett, Becka, Halle.

I worked at the Plasma Center with Garrett and Eva for about 4 years. Garrett is now in med school out of state. Eva and I take care of our babies. Love you guys!

Dear life ..... I will be back in a day or so

2010-07-02T14:36:00.000-07:00

I am excited for this 4th of July weekend.

Last night Joel told me he had monday off ... I tried to not let him see me cry I was so happy.

I love Joel

I love love love Olivia, with every piece of me, I love her.

Fathers Day

2010-06-22T09:19:00.001-07:00

There is something very special about your dad. I love my dad more than words could describe. Anyone that knows my dad would describe him as funny. He can make anyone laugh, especially me! He works so hard, at his job, in the yard, for his kids cars, the church, neighbors, and the list goes on.

It's kind of hard to put into words how I feel for my dad, a little overwhelming.

Joel has been a dad for almost a year! He is a very patient person. When we could not get Olivia to sleep he use to walk out in the parking lot for hours, literally. He helps me so much and always does the chores that I think are to hard! :) Lately he has been saying things like "Are you ready for number two?" and "I am so excited to do this again" It makes me excited. To clarify No I am not pregnant.

2010-06-16T14:38:00.000-07:00

So far I have been up to a lot of summer fun, I will post about it later. For now I will just treat you to a little Olivia. She loves to crawl through the coffee table, and pick her nose

My niece Shari has a stuffed animal {I think it is a horse} named bubbles. There are many impressions of this famous bubbles .......

This is my dad getting ready to do an impression

and Olivia's impression ...... as she walks insert dads pervert noise

Visit to Provo

2010-06-11T15:09:00.001-07:00

I went down to visit Ellie and Ruby and the day I picked just happened to be Julie's day off so we headed down together. Emily had school and work or she would have been there to. Mom let me take her car and wow it made the trip so much nicer than the Geo would have :)

Growing up my mom told us to love our sisters because they will be our best friends (and BoBo) So my mind always new I loved my sisters and brother but as I have gotten older my heart nows it!

Something I always loved growing up was Julie and I always had matching shoes and swim suits and by "always" I mean like twice, Ha. So I like in the picture Ruby and Julie matching and my little Olivia and cute little Abby!

Can you believe I posted a picture of me in my swimsuit!!!

2010-05-30T08:05:00.000-07:00

Notice the towel under her, She doesn't have a diaper on because I was trying to keep her quiet while Joel was sleeping in, and she was going crazy while I tried to change her. The strawberries kept her very occupied. HA, she is the same size as the kitchen aide.

Olivia says Dad and kinda says Hi. She can wave but I haven't really got it on camera, she kinda waves while she is dancing when I say Hi to her.

3 Year Anniversary

2010-05-28T12:34:00.000-07:00

Wed was our anniversary. We hadn't planned anything, just hang out after the baby went to bed. Even though we weren't going out I still got myself all ready so I at least looked nice. All it did was make me sad I looked good, knowing my husband was working late, and then had a meeting as soon as he got home. My friend Eva came over to get her and her husbands hair cut, which I was happy about because they could keep me company :) Eva demanded that when Joel got home we went out and she would stay and babysit. I WAS SO EXCITED

So when Joel got home we left. We went and got Carl's Jr. and ate it at the park in the truck while we watched these 8 year olds play softball. It was so cute, they made us laugh.

Eva you are so great, Joel and I had so much fun just being out. Thanks Eva!!!

Now THIS is a Play House

2010-05-25T12:41:00.000-07:00

OK you have not seen a play house till you have seen these.

These are out of this world!! They are nicer than my home, HA. I would be so jealous if one of my friends had one if I were a kid ....... or as an adult!

Go to fancybuilder.com, on that web site there are a bunch of other links to other web sites that are similar. My favorite site is lilliputplayhomes.com. Here are just some that I like.

Bachelorette Fever

2010-05-24T12:45:00.000-07:00

So Excited for the Bachelorette to start tonight!!!!!

Summer Day in the Yard!

2010-05-15T18:41:00.000-07:00

So today we spent the entire day in the yard. We planted 9 flats of flowers, holy cow!

K so these pics are mostly for my mom to see the flowers we planted. Here is the back flower bed.
Olivia was SOO good for us! We put her play pen next to us while we worked, she spent 4 hours there loving life.

Here is the front flower bed, and if you look next to the car you can see this wood box Joel brought home from work and I filled it with flowers, how stinking cute is that!
I can not believe I have made such a wonderful life with my high school boy friend! I felt like my parents today, ha we worked in the yard then spent the evening just looking at it, ha I loved it.

Happy Mothers Day Momma

2010-05-10T19:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers Day Mom I love You!

Growing up I knew how much my mom loved her mom. My Grandma was indescribable. All of the traits my grandma had my mom has. I am trying to be like my mom, and hopefully I will teach Olivia, and so on. Just a few traits I love about my mom:

-Raising her children was number one on her priority list

- Keeps such a nice clean home, very comfortable

-very supportive spouse

-strong in the church

-makes wise choices

- such a hard worker, my mom is very strong physically and mentally

-smells good

-Makes home cooked meals a few favorites are roast and potatoes, cheese and broccoli soup, sticky buns, mashed potatoes, pumpkin rolls, chicken noodle soup, bread, jam, etc.

-adventurous, I remember going jet skiing with my mom and she was CRAZY on those things!

- Funny, I love when my mom gets laughing hard she is so cute.

I could go on but I won't. I hope I can be as good as a mom as she has been!

Come to Logan?... YES Please!

2010-04-27T12:21:00.000-07:00

It is always a fun treat to have family and friends come visit us in Logan. A couple weeks ago Ruby, Shari, Chad, Abbi, and Julie pilled in the car and came to visit. We all went to baby animal days. It was super windy but very fun. We saw baby bears, turtles, calfs, rabbits, ext.

I love how all the cousins on both sides LOVE Olivia. It is so fun to see them baby talk her, man handle her, and laugh with her, I know she loves every minute of it.

Then this last weekend Josh, Amber, and Kaydence came. We had a BBQ out on the lawn, and played the Wii, Thanks for such a fun weekend!

Thanks for coming to see us!!

A lot of April fun!

2010-04-15T11:49:00.001-07:00

One of the many outfits Jeff and Tiff sent.

Cut and Colored Julie's hair. She is a doll.

Happy Easter!
Visiting Mom and Dad and mom's Rootbeer tin

Out to dinner :)
Easter egg hunt in Morgan.

Are you asleep yet?

2010-04-07T11:09:00.001-07:00

Sunday night we climbed into bed around 10. We hadn't talked or moved since, 11:30 rolls around and Joel slowly crawls out of bed

Me: where are you going?

Joel: I can't sleep Im cold

So we walked around the house, watched the snow fall for a min, then we grabbed the cake and two forks and got back into bed. It was so good, we sat and talked about how bad we wanted to re due our room and how we are going to do it. This is a very common subject for us! We talked about how much we like Olivia :) Then after awhile we feel right to sleep. I love moments like that with Joel. Thats the kinda stuff I would do with my sisters ALL the time!

Baby's first Easter

2010-04-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

For Easter Olivia got a really cute outfit from the Easter Bunny and then a cute basket and several outfits from Grandpa and Grandma Hoellein. You will see pics a little later. Sat we spent with Joels Family and Sat night we spent with mine. Sunday we spent at our own home and it was nice. We enjoyed the nice quiet day.

So what do you think of my hair? It is getting long and I can't decide if I want to cut it short again or let it grow. What should I do?

April First!

2010-04-01T07:05:00.000-07:00

Is this some sort of a prank? Landon are you behind this? wow I am real gullible, I just feel silly.

2010-03-27T12:05:00.001-07:00

The other day Joel came home with a bag behind his back. He bought me shoes! I was so excited, until I saw them....... Gardening shoes? Boring, take em back!

Thats what I thought until I saw the matching gloves. He told me he would get me all decked out to help in the yard, you know, watering the flowers :)

So off to lowes we go! Nothing beats a shopping trip to lowes on a Saturday morning. Got some little tools, a wheelbarrow, fertilizer, can't wait to till the flower beds.

I love my new shoes, thanks for such a nice surprise Joel!

Back to Reality.

2010-03-19T12:38:00.000-07:00

This picture describes perfectly what life is going to be for the next year, a Juggle.

I say that because for the last 5 months we have had it soo nice!! So the company Joel worked for went under and he was laid off. I was super nervous at first. It was right before the holidays and Unemployment covered our bills, so I told him to not worry about finding a job until the beginning of the year.

Well the new year roles around and we really got use to waking up together and taking care of the baby, making a good breakfast, leaving the mess, taking a nap together while the baby napped. Do errands together, drive to Roy when ever we wanted to visit family, you name it. He felt lazy, but I felt rejuvenated and extremely happy!

It was glamorous to have Joel home all the time, we had no extra money, but didn't care:)

NOW, he has a full time job that pays well with great benefits. He was made the Assistant Scout Master. He is full time in school (he has been the whole time.) Now that it is spring we have a yard in desperate need. We are both excited to work on our yard.

Getting So Big

2010-03-14T15:39:00.000-07:00

Olivia is growing up so much. She has some pretty cool new skills:

Crawls ALL over the place,

Sits up all by herself from the laying position,

Gets on all fours and pulls herself up so she is standing on her knees, then freezes cause she is scared,

Gets on all fours then stands on her tippy toes while her hands are still on the ground. Usually face plants it, she just tries so hard to stand up!

Screams, looks at momma to see her reaction, laughs, repeats.

Plays on the kitchen floor and looks at her reflection through the appliances.

Doesn't her hair look kinda strawberry? Also take note of the cute toes!

I sound like an idiot, sorry ha ha. She plays with the drain while the tub empties, I think she likes the sound.

Before

2010-03-08T07:10:00.000-08:00

Ok so here are the before, a little blan, which is probably why I went a bit extreme on the wall color, ha ha oh well I love it.

After

2010-03-08T07:05:00.000-08:00

These pictures do not do her room justice. It's like walking into sunshine :) It's amazing the difference a textured ceiling and walls can make. I am so proud of Joel's windows, he worked really hard to make them look good, and he did!

My Contribution

2010-03-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

Now, I am not a crafty person, you would think I would be since I do hair, but really Im not. My mother in law helped me with the sign and some sewing, and my mom helped me hand stitch the pillows and blanket edges. So thank you two very much.

I spray painted the lamp and picture frame, the lamp turned out much cuter than I thought. It was a lot of fun to put her room together. There is not a lot in her room but when there is a lot of stuff I feel cluttered.

More Olivia

2010-03-07T20:42:00.000-08:00

Best picture ever....

She has been cutting more teeth and is not so happy about it, yet so delightful in the nude.

So I went to post about her new room after she was in bed, and when I looked at the pics I took they were blurry so I will do it tomorrow.

Deer

2010-03-04T14:52:00.000-08:00

Today has been a quiet overcast day. We have had fun looking at all the deer in our yard. At one time we had 7 full size deer, by the time I open the door to take a picture they leap away, darn.

Almost Done!

2010-02-26T18:19:00.001-08:00

Olivias room is almost done. It has been more fun doing her room than it was the bathroom. I am totally jealous, I wish we were doing my room to :(

Thursday was so much fun, we taped off everything and painted, it was a lot of work we were so tired and so hungry. The house was a disaster, kitchen table covered, so we got Carls Jr for lunch. You can never go wrong with a Teriyaki Burger! We ate down stairs in the laundry room cause that is where the computer is and we were listening to our favorite songs, Olivia was so tired she let me just set her in our laundry basket .... ha ha....

We were so happy, It seems so simple but, we were so happy!

Crawling!?

2010-02-23T18:50:00.000-08:00

Today Olivia was on the floor with her cousin Grayson. Joel put a toy in between them and I guess Olivia really wanted it, so she army crawled/ crawled to it. That was the first time we ever saw her do that. Of course we came home to video it.

Two Teeth

2010-02-16T12:19:00.000-08:00

If you look close you can see two little teeth. I am such a dork, I felt the second tooth for the first time today and I don't know why but I got kinda teary. I never understood why moms would say "oh Im so proud" I would think "Proud of what, they didn't DO anything?" Well, this is what I think now.... "Im SOO proud of her!"
Isn't a baby in a white onesie the cutest thing ever! She has been pulling this face a ton. Don't mind the mess in the background, all of her stuff is pilled in my room while we finish her room.

Valentines Weekend

2010-02-14T14:50:00.001-08:00

Yes the whole week end, let me start by saying this was the most anticipated date ever. So, Friday I got the house all clean, went and picked up a card for Joel and movie tickets for the that night, did my hair, nails, and feet (all during the 2, two hour naps) while Joel was at school. I went and picked up Sara(my sister in law Emily's sister), her friend, and her brother Chase to babysit. This was the first babysitter I have had that was not a Grandma or Grandpa, so I was a little nervous. I did make sure they had plenty of treats and movies to watch. I LOVED the text in the middle of my movie from Sara saying the baby was fast asleep and all was well. We went and saw Valentine's Day, It was very good, I loved it. Then we went to Cafe Sabor and shared a meal. It was a perfect date, we really enjoyed each other.

Saturday we got up and headed to Salt Lake, Joel got free tickets to the Boat Expo. If anyone knows Joel, they know he is obsessed with boats. We stopped by both our parents and said hi ...... always fun to visit! That night we rented Couples Retreat and ate pizza. What a good night.

Then this morning I got up with Olivia while Joel slept in, and made chocolate covered strawberries, and breakfast. We enjoyed church and are looking forward to this evenings agenda.

7:00 baby goes to bed and we watch Amazing Race

8:00 pop popcorn and watch Desperate House Wives ( one of our favorites)

9:00 watch Undercover Boss

I loved this weekend! Monday morning, start the remodel of Olivia's room.... YEAH!! This is her in the outfit Grandma and Grandpa bought her, its a little Japan outfit from when they visited Erin and Miah who lived in Japan...... lol so Dang cute!

Teething

2010-02-08T20:26:00.000-08:00

Olivia cut her first tooth. She woke up at 1:30 AM which is very abnormal for her, even after she was feed she still just cried. The next morning I felt in her mouth and there was a little sharp baby tooth, I can not even tell you how excited I was! How many moms tell EVERYONE "Put your finger in her mouth"

Today she was in bad shape: Diarrhea, lots of slobber, runny nose, no naps, had to be held all day, lots of crying. The only time she stopped was in the tub, she loves the tub.

Nothing worse than a sad hurting baby, but nothing is better to me than knowing that momma is the only thing she wants.

Cute Little Olivia

2010-02-06T07:40:00.000-08:00

remodel

2010-02-05T21:04:00.000-08:00

I finally have gotten to a computer to update my blog and to see everyone else. Joel and I have been having so much fun with our house. When we first moved in everything in the house was just fine except for the upstairs bathroom. It was so scary as the pictures show, Joel always said it felt like you were at the consession stand at a fair, he always wanted nachos and a licorice rope after a shower. It was the funnest project we have worked on at our house so far, but now we are dying to do more projects.
Here is a list of everything Joel did (he is my handy man, hubba hubba)

-demolition of the old bathroom, (which is always the funnest part)
-removed old window and installed new full size window
-replaced old plumbing
-re framed exaust walls to create a bigger countertop
-installed new recessed can lighting
-re wired outlets and light swiches to a central area
- created a recessed shelf for towel rack along with a recessed medicine cabinet
-installed new tile floors and shower
-replaced old tub and toilet (discusting)
-lots of finish work
see pictures below.

2010-02-05T21:03:00.001-08:00

Christmas

2009-12-31T19:52:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve Josh, Joels brother made dinner for everyone. Bacon wrapped scallops, Steak, Chicken, and all sorts of good food. Josh is an Amazing Chef!! The rest of the weekend was a lot of lounging, eating, sleeping, and just being content.

Olivia spent a lot of time with her Uncle Jeramiah and Grandpa Hoellein. Jeramiah took Gracen and Olivia any second he could, which was a nice break for me other than the worry of him feeding Olivia cookies!! Bad Uncle.

We had so much fun spending time with Joels family for the Holiday. We didn't want the week to end.

Weekends!

2009-12-20T19:16:00.000-08:00

Since Joel and I have moved into our first home we have had amazing weekends. When we first moved in, our Pear Tree and our Apple Tree were ready harvest so we spent a few weekends with the radio going making Applesauce, Apple Slices, Apple-butter, and Pear Halves. We spent a lot of time doing yard work. If you will notice Joel is doing all the work ( I really do help I just never get ready to do yard work so I don't want to be in the picture!:] )

I like the picture with the mail lady

The first weekend it snowed we went to church had a good Sunday dinner then enjoyed a nice quiet night. Joel lit a fire in our fireplace for the first time. Olivia sat and watched it forever, I think she liked to hear the popping of the fire wood. The fireplace is not efficient that is for sure, when we re-due the upstairs we will probably convert it to gas or a pellet.

We are in the process of remodeling our bathroom. You will die when you see the before and after pictures, it should be done this week. The bathroom has taken up all of our free time the last 2 months!!!

Olivia is getting so big she is so cute!

2009-10-02T15:19:00.000-07:00

I promise I will do better about posting, let me give you my excuse.
Getting into a house is soooo much work!!!! I can not believe how much work it is to get settled in. I have been loving my little baby, she is so much fun. I have her on a really good schedule. She wakes up around 6 or 7 in the morning, Eats, we have awake time, then she naps, this continues until 9 at night. She eats then I put her down for the night, she will fall asleep at about 10. She is such a good baby. I can not believe how big she is already. She weighs about 10lbs now!!
One more excuse, My camera SUCKS!!

Yeah... New Baby Pictures!

2009-10-02T15:05:00.000-07:00

We are Moving!!

2009-08-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted to let everyone know that I am not neglecting my blog I have just been so crazy trying to get my house packed up and take care of my little olive I have not had a lot of energy to post. Joel and I are so excited to move out of our little apartment, a little sad, this was mine and Joel's first place together and we have a lot of very sweet sweet memory's here.

Olivia is such a little cutie I don't go one day without laughing at her, she is truly heaven sent!! We are so blessed to have her in our lives.

Bath Time Anyone?

2009-08-04T19:50:00.000-07:00

My Little Livey LOVES bath time! Grandma had to teach me how to bath her, I caught on quick.Look how content she is to just lounge in the warm water.
Isn't she a beautiful little girl!!!!

The Finished product.

Proud Mom and Dad

2009-07-28T12:51:00.000-07:00

Joel loves to couch over the baby and snuggle her. I love to watch him with our baby, he is so cute ... except when he tricks her into sucking on his nose ..... ha ha its kinda funny!
and of course momma can't take her eyes off of her!
Look at her little feet! She just had a sponge bath so she was a little fussy.

Olivia's Story

2009-07-23T11:21:00.000-07:00

About a week before I delivered I developed what I thought were hives. They were incredibly itchy. Joel literally had to restrain me, I would cry like a crazy pregnant women and he would try really hard not to kill me. I went into my 39 week appt. and at this time it was covering my entire body and it looked like ring worm. The Dr. said that it was a rash induced by pregnancy called PUPS and it would not go away until I delivered. It was putting enough stress on my body that it wasn't healthy for the baby, he said " well should we deliver today?" at that point I panicked and cried, Joel did to. I told him I wasn't packed, I didn't have a car seat, and my dishes weren't done ( in my head I was thinking...I have to go back to work, I started 3 reports I have to finish!). He told me to go home take care of those things and come back in 3 hrs. YEAH!!!

Joel and I got to the hospital and they started the IV's at 4:30 p.m.. Mom and Dad and all the siblings except Kevin:( showed up around 7. It was so sweet to have all of them there, they didn't even get to see the baby- just me lay threw contractions.

I got the epidural around 8, I was very specific with the Dr. that I did not want to be so numb that I couldn't move my legs so he gave me the minimum amount and I left it at that. When they broke my water they were concerned because they baby had pooped inside, which can be a serious thing if the baby inhales it. That made me a little nervous. Everyone left around 11 except Mom, Dad, Ruby and Joel's Mom and Dad. I did not dialate until 7 the next morning. At 7 I thought to myself OK Im not messing around I want this baby here! So I pushed for 1 hr, Joel at my side and Mom at my head. The nurses were idiots. I wanted to hit them upside the head by the time i was through, so did my mom. The Dr barely got there to deliver the baby, which was annoying but what can you do? Olivia came at 8:01 am. The Dr. in a very rushed voice gave Joel the scissors to cut the cord and then rushed the baby off. I thought that was normal. So While I laid there saying how great I thought things went and how good I felt, I had no idea there were complications going on with the baby, I learned about it the NEXT DAY! No body told me!

So as soon as Olivia was born they had 45 sec to suction her lungs to insure she didn't have any of her bowl movement inhaled. They put this long tube down her throat and suctioned 3 times. Then they rubbed her lungs and back vigorously to get her to breath. Her heart rate was at 45, so they rubbed a little more.. still at 50, so they paged the head respiratory nurse down to our room. My mother in law said she was on a dead sprint to my room while she threw on some gloves. They got her heart rate up to 100, and it sat there for a min until it stabilized at 150. The whole time Joel and I are oblivious to what is going on. My poor mom goes out into the hall and collapsed into my dad's arms when it was over. For the first few days Olivia sounded extremely raspy when she breathed. She sounds much better now, and is doing great.

Joel and I really enjoyed our stay at the hospital with our new baby. Joel took such good care of me. Neither of us got much sleep at all. My favorite was Joel laying in bed with me watching TV and eating food. It was very memorable to me.

Olivia Hoellein

2009-07-18T21:08:00.000-07:00

I would like everyone to meet my beautiful new baby girl. She was delivered at 8:01 am on Thursday, 6 lb. 14 oz. and 19 inches long.

I will post all the details when I feel like it... :)

"We" are still hanging in there.... or at least trying.

2009-07-08T17:24:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted for a while because well, Im to tired. Sometimes I don't even talk because I am to tired. I have been putting my energy into working 40 hrs and being nice.... yes that takes a lot of my energy.

Things I have been up to are:

-Ruby and my mom threw me a shower at my moms house, it was sooo nice. We held it on the patio. The patio is surrounded with trees and greenery, it was raining and looked so pretty. Everyone there just put a baby blanket on them to keep warm. I was given so many nice things!

-My sister in law Kamberley is having a baby boy a week after me and we had a combined shower planned for us by my mother in law, Kaye. My grandpa past away and the funeral was the same day. So I missed the shower, the funeral was so nice though. The next week it was kinda fun Joel and I sat in the basement with Joel's parents and we opened presents together. I enjoyed it, I got a lot of fun stuff there too.

- I am not dialated AT ALL, the baby's head is low but thats about it. I have a week and a half left and the Dr. said to not count on delivering on my due date, I will probably go 41 weeks :(

- My right hand is pretty much numb and swollen 24/7

-I wake up 4 times a night to go to the bathroom

- My stomach itches so bad (that is an understatement)

-When the baby moves it makes me so happy!

-Joel is the best supporter I could ever ask for, he is a dream, I love him more than words could say.

-The baby has the cutest wardrobe!! Thanks to all of my family and friends

-I have gained 56 lbs. Lets just say Joel is working on getting me a work out planned.

-Joel and I get shaved Ice almost everyday, its fun