The Sherman's

Liv's first dance competition

2011-11-19T20:28:00.001-07:00

Liv had her first competition! Her class wasn't actually competing like the older girls were!! Everyone her age got a trophy!!

Liv before her dance

Getting lined up with the other little dancers!! This was the first performance where Liv just went right to her group and wasn't nervous!

Afterwards, she was pretty proud of her trophy!!

I posted the videos on face book -- I was having problems posting them on here.

Summer/Fall Catch up Pictures

2011-11-09T11:17:00.001-07:00

Here is a little catch up to our summer and fall -- I am hoping to try and keep up more on the blog -- I need to get a better camera for one! But any who here you go!!

Here are some photos from Halloween I am horrible and didn't take any pictures of the kids in their costumes. During the day we went to Liv's school for her Halloween party and then we went Trick or Treating with the Schiffman's that night.

We went to the fair. Alivia actually performed for dance and we have video of it but can't get it off our camera. So hopefully soon!

We spent 4th of July's at my moms. It's close to the big show!
Alivia's friend Mya spent the night with us!

Austin enjoyed playing with sparklers

Austin also has taken a love to the game of baseball. He loves his mitt and he loves the movie the Sandlot

Austin watching the tractors working all summer and fall!

One day I couldn't find him anywhere, I didn't think to look in the driveway -- he was just standing on Mitch's trailer watching the tractor!

We cleaned out a lot of old boxes that had been packed for quite awhile. This used to be my doll when I was younger I took this doll everywhere with me. Alivia has now taken over. She sleeps with Stephanie (my doll) every night. Alivia says that it makes her fell safe!

We were able to visit Shoshone Falls which was pretty cool! The kids loved it!

Alivia loved hiking everywhere! Austin liked to be carried!!

Papa Rick and Letty joined us!!

Alivia had her first session of swim lessons!! She really enjoyed it and did really well.

New House Pictures (finally I know....)

2011-11-07T18:25:00.000-07:00

Well I know this is way overdue since it has almost been 6 months since we moved but here are some pictures of our new house!!

Master Bed/Master Bath

Kitchen/Dining Room

Fun Features:

The COOLEST trash can ever!!!

This window is probably one of the main reasons I wanted this house!

Pantry/Laundry Room

Living Room

Visitors

2011-09-17T17:12:00.000-06:00

My sister Melissa and her Daughter Oni came to visit for a few weeks in August. We had a lot of fun having visitors at our new house. We don't see Melissa and Oni often since they live in California, but we try to take every opportunity we can to get together every few years!!
Oni - 7 years old

Alivia and Oni with Sparky the fire dog.

Austin and his shoes. I guess I should just be happy that he is wearing some.

While they were here we decided to go see Cinderella at Mystique. We took Kamryn with us.

Alivia did not want a picture with the step sisters for some reason.

After the play the girls went on stage and had their turn.

They also let them sit in the carriage but they had to do it one at a time.

Talking with the fairy godmother.

We actually almost didn't even get a picture with Cinderella but thanks to Oni, she stopped her on her way out.

Austin getting ready to ride the Quad (what the Californians called it) or teh 4 wheeler (which us Idahoans called it)

Waiting their turn

Oni and me on the 4 wheeler.

Austin and me -- He is a crazy driver.

The Giz

Melissa and Oni -- I think this the only picture I got of Melissa.

All the kids -- Don't worry we didn't let them take it out on their own.

Austin, Liv and I

Oni -- saying Peace out til next time.

Alivia's First Day of School

2011-08-27T14:57:00.006-06:00

Wow!! It has been awhile since I have updated this blog. I am back. We are fully moved into our new house and pretty settled. We really like it and the kids are getting more and more used to using there imaginations to entertain themselves out in here in the country.

Alivia started kindergarten last week. I wouldn't say it was love at first site for her but she likes it.
All ready for her first day!!!
Liv with mom and dad!! I was a little emotional dropping her off -- but I fought back and did ok!!
Getting ready to walk in to her first day as a kindergartner.
Found her name badge and then it was time to check in with the teacher.
She had to find the cubby with her name and number (which is 17) and hang her bag up!
Then she had to find her name on the desk and sit down and do a little project the teacher had set out for them.

Then we left and I was greatful for wearing sun glasses!!!

More House Update

2011-04-27T10:42:00.002-06:00

The front of the house was moved onto the foundation yesterday -- today they will move the back!
Kristina and I snuck in and took some pictures of the kitchen -- I got a little excited for moving in after that!!

I will post more pictures soon as soon as we can really go in and get a good look~

New arrival!

2011-04-21T12:39:00.001-06:00

One step closer to country living!!! They will hopefully start things tomorrow or Monday, and we should be moving into it in about 3 weeks. Finally!

This Dude is 3!!!

2011-04-16T06:13:00.002-06:00

I am in a little bit of a denial of this little dude turning 3!! He's my baby and I want him to stay that way!! He is quite the character always trying to make us laugh!! If he see's that he can get you to smile or laugh he will keep doing whatever it is to entertain you -- even if it is naughty!! We love him though so much!! Liv is such a good sister to him and he always wants to be with her. He is her little shadow!! He love love loves sports. He can sit and watch sports center with his dad and uncle Justin and be just as entertained as them!! His new love and passion though is SNOWMOBILING!! You can bet his dad is loving it!! He has been on few rides with Mitch and gets so much excitment just talking about it!! We went to Mitch's race last weekend and he was in heaven!! Happy Birthday Austin -- my wonderful 3 year old (owh -- that hurt I hate saying he is 3) Maybe I will just say he is 36 months -- It sounds a little younger!!

This is Austin with his baby cousin Noah -- who he loves holding!! Anytime Noah is around that is all he wants to do is hold him!!!

Happy Birthday McKay

2011-03-29T22:25:00.002-06:00

7 years ago today I did one of the hardest things I ever think I will do. I gave birth to a 1 lb baby boy who had already passed on. Mitch and I matured spirtually and emotionally quicker than we expected. We leaned on each other and got through something neither of us was prepared to do. We grew as a person and as a couple. I don't talk about Mckay that often, not because I am ashamed or embarassed but because it something that is special to me. Something that is so cherished and close to me that it is not easy to share. I think about Mckay everyday, I don't think about the boy he would have been, the personality he would have had, who he would of looked like, I think about the peace I felt when I held him in my arm and the beauty that surrounded him. I think about how perfect he was in his mothers arms. I think about an image that is forever frozen in my mind, savoring it and cherishing it until the day my Heavenly Father places him in my arms again. I love the fact that Mitch and I were chosen to be this perfect souls parents and pray that we will return to him again one day. For some reason this year his birthday hit me a little harder than the ones in the past. It may have be that it wasn't til 3 pm that I realized what exactly the day was. I was disappointed in myself that I forgot. This month has been crazy and I have had a lot going on but I feel at peace again. I know it will all work out for the best and I will again hold my perfect little baby boy again one day!

Changes!!

2011-03-07T07:34:00.011-07:00

Well there are going to be a lot of changes happening in the Sherman household this month and next. Some our good and some not so good (well not initially). The best news ever is that as of the middle of April sometime we will be living in our new house. It has been a year (+some) in the making and we can't wait. I posted some pictures of the adventure. I tried to post our floor plan but it won't let me. Anyhow we will be out in the quiet country, enjoying the peace and quiet. I am excited!!

These are pictures of the house that was there previously there. It is actually the house I was raised in. My mom deeded the property to us and we have been going from there. Last summer we removed this house (it didn't go far-- my unlce is now living in it next door). After the move we were left with just a big empty basement that needed gutted.

(the shop in this picture above is still there and is Mitch's man cave -- It is an oversized 2 car garage with two finished rooms in the back.)

I have had friends ask about the trees and yard. Yes all the trees are still there. We will probably remove some of them. The grass died over the past year -- if we can bring it back we will but we will have all summer to figure out what to do!

Here are some pics Mitch took of the clean up process - it is now a big empty hole -- which is filled with snow!!!

And now for the snow -- we have to remove it all for the contractor to put in a bearing wall and some stairs -- this should be fun!!

The plan is to have the house placed on the foundation March 28!!! The builder told us it is usually about a week and half to finish the painting and carpet and siding!! By move the house on I mean we are actually doing a modular home so it is being built as we speak!!

Here is the floor plan:

As for the bad news -- Well I am needing to find a new job. I currently work at Portneuf dispatching life flight. Our program was sold last week and they will now dispatch out of Boise. I was offered a job there but with just building a house in Blackfoot I didn't really see it as a good choice. So I have til April 1 and hope to find something!!

Best Bud!!!

2011-02-10T06:18:00.002-07:00

The other day a friend of mine asked Austin who his best buddy was-- He replied GRAYSON!!!!

It is fun to watch these two boys grow!! I think they will be best buds (and cousins) forever!!!

My baby is 5.....

2011-01-18T18:38:00.005-07:00

Alivia is so many things in just 5 years. She is very smart, she is friendly to everyone, She loves animals, she loves to dance and sing (as long as no one is watching). She is the best big sister any little brother could ask for...she is the best big cousin any little cousin could ask for. She loves her older cousins. She loves her aunts and uncles, she loves her grandparents like nothing else. She has a little bit of a dramatic side (who doesn't). She loves puzzles, loves learning her letters for kindergarten. She can't wait to ride the bus next year (although mom isn't to keen on that idea). She has a contagious laugh, she has a warm smile. She is more beautiful than I could of ever imagined her to be (I could stare at her for hours). She loves movies, she loves painting. She love love loves Volleyball and wants to be a great volleyball player like her aunt one day!

Like I said in the short time of 5 years she has found so many things that make her her -- I am sure I could name more if I my hands weren't getting tired. Happy 5th Birthday to my baby!!! (It was Jan 16 -- I am a little late I know)

1 year

2 years

3 years

4 years

5 years

and a beautiful 5 years (please stop time)!

Santa's Cookies

2010-12-25T02:34:00.002-07:00

It has been fun with the kids this year! They are just so excited about everything when it comes to Christmas. This Christmas eve we made santa's cookies, played games, and watched movies. It was pretty fun!! Here we are doing Santa's Cookies.... Aunt Teeny and Aunt Sequoia helped us!!!

Mitch was the taste tester!! Lets just say we finally bribed these boys to get off the computer and help us by telling them they couldn't have any if they didn't help. So they did a few.
Austin's master piece (no worries folks, Austin is allowed 2 cookies, his own knife and his own frosting so we don't have to share Austin slobbers with everyone)The kids setting out cookies for Santa -- Alivia loved this and she was very good at doing this task. I think it is officially her responsibility now!
The kids with there treats for santa before bed!

Hope you all have a Merry Christmas!!!!

Love the Shermans

Christmas Card 2010

2010-12-14T15:07:00.001-07:00

Holiday Berries Christmas Card

Personalize your Christmas cards at Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Teach the Children

2010-12-13T21:08:00.003-07:00

This was our FHE lesson tonight -- it really humbled me and I decided it will be an ongoing tradition to read this -- It is not only the children who need to learn this but I think I need to be reminded of it. It is quite long but it is a great story to help understand the meaning of Christmas!

Teach the Children
author unknown
Last Monday night I had a strange visitor. This is how it happened....

I had just finished up the household chores for the night and was preparing to go to bed when I heard a noise in the front of the house. I opened the door of the front room and to my suprise a special visitor stepped out from behind the Christmas tree. He place his fingers over my lips so I would not cry out. "what are you doing?" I started to ask, but the words choked up in my throat as I saw that he had tears in his eyes. He then answered me with the simple statement of "teach the children".

I was puzzeled. What did her mean? He anticipated my question and with one quick movement. brought a miniture toy bad from behind the tree. As I stood there in my night shirt bewildered the visitor said again. "Teach the children"

My perplexed expression still showed in the near darkness. "Teach them the old meaning of Christmas--the meaning that Christmas nowadays has forgotten".

I started to say "how can I?" when the visitor reached into the toy bag and pulled out a brilliant shiny star.

"Teach the children the star was the Heavenly sign or promise long ago. God promised a Savior for the world and a sign of the fulfillment of his promise. The countless shinning stars at night-- one for each man --now show the burning hope of all mankind"

The visitor gently laid the star upon the fireplace mantle and drew forth the from the bag a glittering red Christmas ornament.

"Teach the children red is teh first color of Christmas. It was first used by the faithful people to remind them of the bloodwhich was shed for all people by the Savior. Christ gave his life and shed his blood that every man might have God's gift to all eternal life. Red is deep, intense. vivid. It is the greatest color of all. It is the symbol of the gift of God."

As the visitor was twisting and pulling another object out of his bag. I heard the kitchen clock begin to strike twelve. I wanted to something but he went right on.

"Teach teh children" he said, as the twisting and pulling suddenly dislodged a small Christmas tree from teh depths of the toy bag. He placed it before the mantel and gently hung the red ornament.

Here was the second color of Christmas. "The pure color of the stately fir tree remains green all year round." he said. "This depicts the everlasting hope of mankind. Green is the youthful. hopeful. abundant color of nature. All teh needles point heavenward---symbolic of man's returning thoughts toward heaven. The great green tree has been man's furniture.

The visitors eyes were beginning to twinkle now as he stood there. Suddenly I heard a soft tinkling sound. As it grew louder it seemed like the sound of long ago.

"Teach the children that as teh lost sheep are found by the sound of the bell. So should it ring for man to return to the lord--it means guidance and return. It furthur signifies that all are precious in the eyes of the Lord. Who is there among you if his son asks for bread would give him a stone?'

As the soft sharp sound of the bell faded into the night the visitor drew forth a candle. He placed it on the mantle and the soft glow from its tiny flame cast an eerie glow about the darkened room. Odd shapes in the room slowly danced and weaved upon the walls.

"Teach the children." whispered the visitor. That the candle shows man's thanks for the star of long ago: it's small light is teh mirror of the star light" "At first candles were placed on the Christmas tree---they were like many glowing stars shinning against the taken over in that remembrance."

The visitor now had turned the small Christmas tree lights on and picked up a gift from under the tree. He pointed to the large bow ribbon and said, " A bow is placed on a present to remind us of the spirit of the brotherhood of man. We should remember that the bow is tied as man should be tied---all of us together, with the bonds of good will toward each other. Good will forever is the message of the bow."

Now my mind began to wonder what else the visitor might have in his bag. Instead of reaching in his bag he slung it over his should and began to reach up on the Christmas tree. I thought he was hungry as he reached for a candy can purposely placed on the high on the tree. He unfastened it and reached out toward me with it.

"Teach the children that the candy cane represents the shepherd's crook. The crook on the staff helps bring back the strayed sheep of the fold. The candy cane is the symbol that we are our brothers keepers."

The visitor then paused. He seemed to realize that he should be on his way. As he looked about the room a feeling of satisfaction shined on his face. He read wonderment in my eyes and I am sure he sensed my admiration for this night. He was his old self as he approached the front door. The twinkle in his gave the visitor away. I knew he wasn't through yet. He reached into his bag and brought forth a large holly wreath. He placed it at the door and said.

"Please teach the children the wreath symbolized the eternal nature of love; it never ceases, stops or ends. It is continous round of affection. The wreath does double duty. It is made of many things and in many colors. It should remind us of many things of Christmas." "PLEASE teach the children"

I pondered and wondered and thrilled with delight. as I sat and viewed all those symbols that night. And my thoughts were of the visitor and all he made right.
To give and help, to love and to serve, are the best things of life, all men can deserve. Jesus the Christ Child as small as an elf, is the very best symbol of Christmas itself.
He's the sign of the gift of love and of life, the ending of evil, the ceasing of strife.
The message to me on the is pre Christmas night has opened a treasure of the deepest insight.

The one thing on earth we all ought to do, is the teaching of children the right and the the true.

This really opened my eyes and I realized I was completely forgetting to teach my children the real meaning of Christmas. Not that I didn't want to but because I wasn't sure how to. This was a fun way that touched both myself and the kids. I am so greatful for all the savior has done for me and I hope that I remember these symbolisms made in this story as I go through the rest of the season!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

4 more days....

2010-11-19T11:51:00.004-07:00

Today Austin is Thankful for Jesus!
Alivia is thankful for the all the things Heavenly Father has made for us!

4 more days til we leave!

The Countdown Begins

2010-11-18T10:36:00.003-07:00

The kids are anxious for something to happen around here. Every Thanksgiving we try to go somewhere -- This year we are going to Driggs, to play in the snow. Alivia asks every day when we are going to go -- I decided to let her do a countdown. Printed off a bunch of activities -- Each day til we go the kids are going to do one of the activities and say what they are thankful for. Here is todays:

Austin is thankful for his Dad

Alivia is thankful for having fun with her Grandma's

5 more days....

Family Pics!

2010-11-09T14:14:00.001-07:00

They have been done for awhile I just have been horrible about getting them posted. A family friend Jared Guardipee did them for us and we were pretty impressed!!! Austin was not very cooperative with the process, but at least we got a few!!
ENJOY!!!

Both Kids

2010-11-09T14:07:00.002-07:00

Whoever thought it would be easy to get pictures done with a two year old and four year was crazy (it was me)! We didn't get hardly any -- Austin would not sit next to Alivia for more than 2 seconds. Liv was good would hold her position just in case we could get Austin to smile but it was rare!!

Austin

2010-11-09T13:54:00.004-07:00

This poor kid got in a fight with something a few days before pictures. I thought about having Jared photoshop it out but scratches and scars are part of being a boy Right? hmmm...

Alivia

2010-11-09T13:48:00.002-07:00

A majority of our photos were just of Alivia -- Her and the camera got along great!! She always did what Jared said to and held her pose for as long as needed. Wish I could of said the same for Austin!
Alivia's Shots:

Family Pics!

2010-11-09T13:18:00.002-07:00

The Family shots:

Family Pictures 2010

2010-10-25T13:18:00.003-06:00

Our friend Jared took our pictures this year- I am really excited to see them here is a little sneak peak!!

Corn Maze and Cookies

2010-10-23T20:08:00.006-06:00

All the kid ready to have fun at the pumpkin patch and corn Maze!

The Crew: Kylie, Austin, Kamryn, Liv and Carter!!

Mitch and Alivia milking Carter the cow! Austin driving the John Deer

Kamryn and Liv having fun playing games!

Alivia and Carter showing off there faces!

Mitch the tour guide-- he was great he had the kids screaming, giggling, running and very entertained through the maze!!!

The kids following there tour guide

The kids scary faces in the maze!
Tonight, Adrienne had to work so the kids had a sleepover-- we made Halloween cookies!
My little helper Austin, Alivia and Hailey -- Abby and Connor wanted to play the computer!

Some of the cookies ---yummmm they were so yummy!

The cookie testers -- they loved them!

Happy Halloween!!!

2010-10-20T21:53:00.002-06:00

This is the first year the Sherman family has taken on the endevor to carve pumpkins!I kept thinking back to all that work with the steak knife and not knowing what you were looking at when you were done. But I promised Liv we would do it. I bought one of those cheap kits at Wal Mart -- BEST $5 investment!! It was amazing. We looked like profressionals after we were done!!! Sorry there are not more pics -- I only had the cell phone -- real camera died!

THE GUTTING....

The results:

Austins Face -- Liv's Ghost

Mitch's goblin that is supposed to scare the teenagers away

so they won't destroy our master pieces!

My nice little Trick or Treat pumpkin!

Girls night out

2010-10-18T12:45:00.003-06:00

My friend Lisa is in a play Lucky Stiff at our local playhouse -- so we made a girls night of it and went to watch her. She was sooooo good. I was so amazed by her talent. It was so much fun!!! All the girlsL: Melissa, Andrea, Noel, Lisa, Me, Andrea, Shauna, Laura

Noel -- My best friend and personal stylist. She did all of my family's hair for our family pictures earlier that day -- she really is the best!

Homecoming 2010

2010-10-05T14:41:00.004-06:00

This year Highland Highschool Homecoming was so exciting because Sequoia (my little sis) won Duchess for homecoming royalty!! She was pretty excited.

My mom, Sequoia and her Dad Mike on the football field during half time of the homecoming game. The rams played the grizzlies and won!!My best friend is a hair dresser which comes in handy sometimes. Her is Sequoia after having her hair done!

Alivia loves her Aunt Sequoia and wants to be just like her when she grows up! I hope that she is too~

Her is Sequoia and her date -- He is a nice guy! Sequoia decided last minute she wanted to go, her date was a friend of my brothers and took her!! Thanks a bunch to him!

Sequoia and her date!!1

Justin with his date!!

All the young men in there group!

All the beautiful girls in the group!~!

The whole group!!

They had a lot of fun! Durin the day they played disc golf and water balloon volleyball. For dinner they went to one of the guys house and his mom made a delicous dinner. They said the food was amazing!! Then after the dance they went to Justin's dates house and had a bon fire and watch Iron Man 2!!!

Cousin Sleepover

2010-10-04T09:48:00.004-06:00

We had the cousins over for a sleep over. Adrienne had to work so it all worked out well. They were able to come to church with us. It was Alivia's primary program but she got a little nervous and ended up not doing it!

Here are the kids after there baths playing on the computer! Hailey is 10, Abby is 9, Connor is 6 and Alivia is 4~

Austin our little wild 2 year old was missing Grayson!

All the kids settled down for a movie -- !

Photo op before heading off to church!! Man I thought getting 2 kids ready was tough -- try 5~

(all the grandkids minus Grayson and Sophia)

Alivia loves her cousin Abby -- She follows her everywhere!

Adrienne stopped by on her way to work!

My little beauties!

The kids were sick of having there pictures taken so we let them take ours!

We had a pretty fun weekend!

17 and single.....

2010-09-24T10:04:00.004-06:00

Happy Birthday to my wonderful brother and the best uncle ever!!!

He gets upset when I post these pictures but I figure if he didn't want them shown to the world he wouldn't take them then right.....

1st day of Preschool

2010-09-16T17:46:00.005-06:00

Liv started preschool this week. She loves it....She says she wants to go everyday! But she only gets to go Tues/Thurs!! I am excited for her to go. She loves learning and I am not a very good teacher!!!

I decided since I didn't take a ton of pics the first day I would take a few from her second day too!

Sunday Best

2010-09-16T17:43:00.003-06:00

Liv and Austin posing before Church. The flowers are our neighbors!

State Fair 2010

2010-09-16T17:27:00.005-06:00

Liv and Austin at the Mckee's Petting Zoo ... Probably the funnest part for them at the fair. Liv is an animal lover....she had so much fun petting the animals and feeding the goats

Austin is a little bit more hesitant though when it comes to animals

Austin and Grayson on the wagon ride

Grayson and Austin waiting

Alivia on the Roller Coaster .... Austin was next to her but I couldn't get a good picture of him

Grayson, Liv and Austin on the boat ride

Liv and Austin on the Kangaroo ride

Princess Jasmine

2010-09-16T17:17:00.002-06:00

Alivia went to her friend Alana's party this summer and dressed up as Princess Jasmine!!!

California 2010

2010-08-27T20:11:00.001-06:00

So I was trying to get all my posts done tonight but its not going to happen so here is something to start with and still to come is Long Beach, Sea World and San Diego! Enjoy -- warning Picture overload!

Vegas Baby....

2010-08-27T19:48:00.006-06:00

To start of our big summer vacation we stopped half way in Vegas to stop and see my dad (I feel bad no pictures) and to rest before we headed to Cali.

Alivia posing in front of the fountain at our hotel in Vegas.

Austin showing off his muscles!
This is Gabby -- what is a family vacation with out a babysitter..... She was great and I don't know if I could travel with out her.

We also had my little brother in our car. My little sister and mom went down earlier because sequoia had to go v ball camp before she could play with us..

My lifesaver and Abby

Justin and Austin

Mitch and Justin on the shuttle!

Austin on the shuttle going to the strip...

The statues...When they came alive Austin screamed bloody murder...

Eating at planet hollywood...Justin ran into sylvester

Mitch and I in front of Ceasers palace....

our wonderful babysitter Gabby who made our trip more enjoyable.

Austin getting as close as he could to the fountain.

4TH OF JULY

2010-08-27T19:20:00.008-06:00

Alivia getting ready to leave for Idaho Falls to go enjoy the fire works. Mitch runs a training center right on the river in IF so we have front row seats to the fire work show. We made a fun family day with. Mitch sisters, spouses and kids all came and it was pretty FUN!

Alivia's patriotic hair style it is a star --- she sat through very patiently while I did it~

The kids waiting patiently for everyone to show up...

who knows why he is crying...

We grilled some steak, chicken and hot dogs for dinner....

Wasting time while we wait for everything to get going....

The cousins showing the american colors and posing for a little family photo op...

A little pre show to get the kids excited for what was to come....

this was Austin pretty much the whole time during the pre show Mitch and Amanda put on....He would clap at the end of each fountain though.

Alivia doing a sparkler....she would not put the doll down.

Our little family getting ready for the fireworks to begin..

Melaluca was a great show in IF -- the next night we walked over to the fairgrounds in Poky -- I didn't get any pictures but it by far the best!

This is probably the only thing that can get Grayson to sit still.

Alivia and Hailey enjoying the show!

The kids were exhausted and a few of them didn't make it through the show.

All in all it was a long but great day and everyone enjoyed themselves.....

Except Gizmo....He became the Hulk and destroyed his kennell....

If you look close you can see the wires bent at the top of the kennel where he broke out.

Happy (Late) 4th!

Lava, Jensen's, Schiffmans...Summer Fun!

2010-08-27T18:42:00.006-06:00

Here is a day we spent in lava with my family....
roaming the hills at the pool.

Mitch and my Uncle getting some rays!The new slides at Lava ...I actually went down the white one -- it was pretty fun!

My uncle Mark the celebrity and his beautiful wife Lenora. They just moved down here from Bainbridge, WA..

Justins showing off his so called muscles....

Grandma Tami and Alivia

Austin drinking lots and lots of H2O

Hanging out with Schiffman's has been a common occurance this summer....

beautiful Elle....

Not quite the 4th yet but Mitch and Brandon have never needed a reason to play with fire...

Connor and Alivia have a little water gun fight...

Alivia and her cousin Abby soaking their feet in the barbie pool

Enjoying a day at Jensen's grove...our closest thing to a beach

Hailey pondering...

Austin wasn't going to go near the water but that didn't mean he didn't want to play with the water toys!

Hope you enjoyed the over load...at least I finally posted right!

poor Austin....

2010-08-24T10:19:00.002-06:00

In the last month -- He had his fingers slammed in a car door that locked when the door shut. He poor little fingers were cut from it and swelled pretty good, couple weeks later found a mouse trap and got his other hand caught in that. That cause a little welt wasn't too bad. Last night took a spill on his trike -- look at his poor bump. This picture doesn't do it justice. I know boys will be boys but I didn't sign up for this!!! I sit there and go back and forth each time wondering do I take him or would that be over reacting. Whats he going to do next. This kid sure is busy and he is also pretty quiet so you never know what to expect. I think I may put a bell of some sort on him so I always know where to find him.

I know I have a ton of posts to catch up on and I will soon!! Hopefully!

yesterday.

2010-07-02T02:35:00.005-06:00

Yesterday

I was the big 26! Although it wasn't the greatest....I woke up so sick a little bit of allergies mixed with a bad cold, I got really annoyed with the humidty, mitch had to work, my family was out of town, went and got a shot in hopes of clearing up my overwhelming allergies, took a nap with Austin, went to work for the night.

Today

is a new day I decided today is going to be my psuedo birthday in hopes that it will go a little better! I am still fairly congested but not near as bad as I was, I will in deed be sleep deprived but nothing that a fun day at the pool can't wash away! I will go to dinner with my cousin and laugh. I will spend the day with family and be glad that 26 years ago I was born.

Some pictures of my greatest accomplishments!

26 fun facts about me.... (you may or may not know)

1. I constantly forget how old I am (I was convinced I was turning 27 for the past 2 days and was feeling a little depressed that I would soon be 30)
2. I love my sleep -- I feel daily naps are a necessity!
3. As much as I love sleep I love working graveyards
4. My kids remind me daily about how lucky I am to have them
5. I want to be organized, crafty, a baker, a housekeeper but have know to desire to actually put forth the effort to accomplish it.
6. I love to make list and let them stack up
7. I love to look at old list and laugh at the fact that I really thought I was going to accomplish its content
8. I love to be around people A LOT
9. I like hosting dinners, parties, lunchs, play dates (mitch not so much)
10. I like to plan trips down to every last detail and dime (my family gets very annoyed with me)
11. I hate gossiping but find myself feeding into tempation of it often
12. hate holding or seeing people hold grudges
13. forgive easy and quickly
14. love meeting new people and making new friendships
15. try to not judge
16. love holidays -- not sure I can pick a favorite. A holiday is cause for a party with lots of people
17. love that my mom has been so kind to house us for almost year
18. like to change my mind
19. get really hyper when I drink rockstars (just found that out)
20. love that my husband is able to handle me constantly changing my mind
21. is looking forward to decorating and redecorating my new house
22. I am very content with life right now and don't want a lot of change in that aspect(except my own house would be kind of nice)
23. never took any pictures after Austin was born due to the fact my blood vessels popped in my face and I was mortified.
24. I like neutral colors
25. I just started liking jewlery about 3 months ago
26. I am really glad I am only 26 and not 27 cause coming up with 26 things was hard enough!

Guess where I am going tonight....

2010-06-29T00:38:00.004-06:00

It's kind of blurry but did you notice it is not the midnight showing it is actually a 9 pm showing -- I am so special I know!!!! Happy Birthday to me!!!
To see post from previous premiere nights click here for Twilight and here for New Moon

My Big Boy

2010-06-26T02:45:00.002-06:00

I swore I would not put Austin in a real bed til he could crawl out of his crib. Well I didn't wait that long. We had tried a few other times to put him in a big boy bed, but he just wasn't ready. Then last week I was cleaning there room up and I took the railing off the crib and decided to try again. The only difference was this time I was going to be at work when he went to bed and Mitch would have to do it all. I kind of worried but figured it he wasn't ready Mitch would just put the railing back up and put him in the crib. Well I called him at around 10 to see how it went and he said Austin only got up 2 times. After the 2nd time Mitch told him that he needed to go to bed no more getting up. Put him back in bed and never saw him again. So I got a little teary eyed when he told me that and I made him go take a picture of him. I was thinking he would be on the floor or playing with something he shouldn't be, but nope he was snug in his bed! Really, why am I crying he stayed. And he has stayed for a week now. We have not had any problems with putting him to bed. This little (big) guy is growing up so fast. I remember telling people last month how I was kind of worried because he doesn't talk. Well I guess the lord blessed him because now he doesn't stop talking. I have to tell him no more talking, I sometimes just need a break from his manly baby voice! I love him so much, he has such a special spirit about him. It is so hard to get mad and stay mad at him. Ask any aunt, babysitter, grandma -- He gets this cute little smirk, when you tell him not to do something or explain what he did wrong he simply says "oh" -- Really oh --- Come on!
I could seriously go on and on about him, but I will stop! Good night!!!

Perm

2010-06-24T14:50:00.005-06:00

Yes I did....Alivia now has a body perm! I was born with natural curly hair. I hate it, but love it! Alivia was born with naturally strait hair! Not a huge fan of that! She loves her hair curly so I will usually braid it after a bath! We will gel it the next day then an hour later it is strait again! So my best friend Noel is a hair dresser and she suggested we try a body perm! So now Alivia's hair is curly! The first thing she said was now I look like Teenie (her Aunt)!

My favorite part -- Noel washing her hair! I wish Noel would wash my hair every day it feels so good!

She watched Toy Story while she had her hair done -it entertained her for the most part but it was a long process and she did get a little frustrated in the end!

Suckers make everything better! Noel always has them on hand even if she says they are all gone!

The finish....She was so irritated with us by this time she didn't want Noel to style her hair! She just wanted to go and play with Carter.

She really loves her curly hair! I like it too, just sick of this no washing period. It bugs me not being able to wash her hair.

Bath Time Fun

2010-06-23T16:06:00.002-06:00

The kids love taking baths at Grandma Cindy's after Sunday dinner. Here are some pics she sent me!!!

You have to look at the reactions on the boys faces to Liv's silliness! Its almost like they were thinking who let her in here?!?!?!?

Alivia's 1st Horse Ride

2010-06-21T16:25:00.007-06:00

For fathers day we went to Blackfoot to visit my grandpa's! It was a lot of fun. We bbq'd and just enjoyed being around all of our family. On our way home we stopped at papa mike's and Alivia ended up going on her first horse ride. She was grinning from ear to ear, she was so excited. She was a little hesitant at first, she walked out to pet the horse and Mike lifted her up, neither of us expected a ride. Luckily I had a camera in the car to capture the moment.

Here is Alivia with Midnight.

Here she is getting to know the horse a little

Alivia and Papa Mike

So I can't get the stupid video to post. So I will do it seperate later. Mitch says its to big to do through the blog so I put it on you tube. But now what????

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t39-WAqgVC0

Ross Park

2010-06-21T16:19:00.013-06:00

Mitch's sisters and I decided to take the kids to the pool since it was supposed to be 80's and mostly sunny all day. Not sure why we thought the weather man knew what he was talking about. After being there for a couple hours, the lightening set in and it rained us out, so we went home and bbq'd then tried again and went for evening at the pool.

Austin and Grayson -- Spent most there time in the kiddy pool and enjoyed it ... all though you can't really tell by the look on Grayson's face

I love this picture of Grayson and Austin. It looks like Austin is tell Grayson a good story! Wish I knew what they were saying!

Kristina, the girls and I decided to get slide passes, right after we bought them the lightening alarm sounded and they closed the pool. We went back at 5 that evening when they reopened it so it worked out ok.

Hailey, Abby and Kristina waiting in line for the slide!

Connor enjoying the water!
The good thing about going back later is Connor and Alivia decided to brave it and go down the slide too. There was a video but it was taking way to long to load!

All in all it was a pretty fun day and we are hoping we will get more sunshine as this summer continues!!!

mice mice and mice

2010-06-16T00:18:00.005-06:00

Well we have had some little friends visiting in our house. They were not invited nor are they welcome.

Doesn't this picture make your skin crawl ---

I first saw the furry little creature last week after a yard sale. It ran across Liv and Austin's room. I HATE HATE MICE! I closed down the whole basement and locked the cat down there it took me a while before I would even open the door. Well no luck!

Then the on Monday I was watching my DVR episodes after the kids went to bed it was about 11 pm. Well here comes the furry little creature and it ran across the living room. My stomach curled, i broke out in a cold sweat and was so scared. YES THAT SCARED! I DO NOT LIKE MICE! So I got the mouse to stay back by our door to the garge and set up this baracade:

Then I pushed forward the front of my original baricade and propped the door open with the laundry basket:

It took him a minute to run out. He played peek a boo with me a few times. I am pretty sure my heart was racing -- I kept praying over and over again and sure enough he finally ran out.

Ahhh -- finally and guess what it was now 1 AM and I still haven't watched my shows. I called Mitch who was out of town to tell him about my adventures and he thought that was pretty ambitious. Well I wasn't going to sleep knowing he was crawling around and it was wasn't like Giz was going to be any help:

Just in case after I went down to my bed I blocked the door. I had to get some sleep.

Well two mornings later Mitch was doing Liv's hair for Gym and I had just laid down to get a couple of hours in before Austin was up. Then I hear Liv shreik that she saw a mouse. Not really shriek with fear more with excitement. Here is a picture with the real mice catchers. I cannot believe Mitch got them to sit for this picture. They are not my kids. I would have been a mile a way had I been there -- ugh!

Happy Birthday Mitchell

2010-05-02T04:19:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday to my Stud of a man! I am so happy I found the love of my life to spend eternity with. He really is such an amazing guy! I am so lucky to have him! He works so hard to make sure we have what we need. He is always willing to help with a smile (even if he doesn't always want to) and I bet if you asked he is one of the best Uncles there is!

He is such a good dad to the kids! They look up to so much. I couldn't ask for a better partner in raising them. He helps out a lot on entertaining them while I sleep or while I am at work. The kids had so much fun watching Mitch race at his last race. Alivia tells everyone her dads race number and Austin begs to watch his vroom vroom movies whenever he see's Mitch pull out the computer! They love him so much!

Hope you have a great birthday I know you have a lot of people who love and appreciate you almost just as much as we do!!!

Happy Late Birthday Buddy

2010-05-01T03:57:00.005-06:00

Wow I am so late on doing Austin's Birthday post! He turned 2 last month. I didn't really get excited. I am not ready for him to be two, but he is and he is changing so much. He is finally talking and he is so smart. He loves to mimic his sister. He is her little guinea pig she will instruct him on what to do and he listens. It amazing to watch him take direction. He doesn't say much but he sure does understand. He loves to dance. He has got some amazing moves. He is always makeing us laugh. I love every minute with him. He can drive me crazy but I am cherrishing all the moments good and bad. They just go to quickly. He greets me the same whether it has been 3 hours or 2 minutes. He acts as if I have been gone for an eternity nothing melts my heart like hearing him say Mommy with the cheesiest grin. He is very polite always quick to say Thank you. He loves his big sister and they have become best friends over the past two years. It has been so fun to watch their relationship grow. Here are some of my favorite pictures from the past two years.

The Many Faces of Alivia

2010-04-02T10:04:00.004-06:00

(My personal Fave Above)

Need I say more....

(she took these herself)

Deven Clark Trahant

2010-03-26T21:51:00.004-06:00

Deven was a cousin of mine. Yesterday afternoon he left this earth to return to his heavenly home. He was only 16 and was way to young too go. Our family is left with lots of unanswered questions and a billion why's?

I remember Deven as a fun little boy. Him and my brother were the same age. I was ten years older so they were kind of annoying to me the teenager. But I would give anything to be annoyed by him again. We were neighbors for many years and although there was an age gap between us I truly did love this kid. I will miss his little smirk he had on his face when he walked into a room. I will miss his willingness to help at the drop of dime. He was such a great help to my Grandpa. He would do anything and everything to him.

As a family we are coping as well as we can right now. There really are no words to express my feelings at this moment rather than shock. I feel like I am having a bad dream and just want to wake up already. I am sure with time the void I am feeling will slowly fade although he will never be forgotten.

I pray strongly for his mom Amy, Dad Scott, step mom Margo and his brother Josh and sister Nicole and also for my grandpa who has lost his best friend that they may have strength to get through this traumatic time.

Deven we love you and our family will miss you!

Austin, Austin, Austin

2010-03-06T23:14:00.003-07:00

A common phrase heard in our house is "Austin, what are we going to do with you?" I realized how common it was when I constantly hear Alivia saying also. Here are some reasons why we are not quite sure what to do with him.

He climbs onto the counter gets a cup out of the cupboard and attempts to get his own drink. Although once he gets to the sink he decides its more fun to play with the dishes and dump water back and forth.
He is actually saying "CHEESE" in this picture! He thought he was pretty cute. This was the first time he had pulled this stunt. This was after the doctors check up. The doctor had grape tounge depressors. Austin thought it was just as good as candy. So much so that when he recieved his real sucker he couldn't decide between the two and just decided to go with both.

This was another time that I was up getting ready in the bathroom. I looked over to check on them cause it was quiet. Liv was doing her usually playing on the computer, Austin was sneaking into the cereal cupboard and quietly eating a second breakfast! Austin has a new rule that he only gets his "baby" (aka binky) at nap/bed time. Sometimes he struggles with that, but he found a new solution. After getting dressed he was playing with his golf ball and kept saying bed. I really had no idea what he meant. I finally put him in his bed and then he asked for his baby. I just laughed and gave it to him. He played in there for about 20 min and then wanted out. I didn't even have to ask he put his baby on the dresser and went about his day.

This one was while we were getting ready in the morning. I went to go get Alivia and came back and Austin was in the bath. Maybe it was hint I don't know but it entertained him for a good while so i could finish getting myself and Liv ready!

So there that is why we often say "Austin, what are we going to do with you" ----We love this little boy and I cannot believe he is going to 2 next month. He has the sweetest spirit and now that we got rid of the binky he talking up a storm. He is so cute I could hug and kiss him all day -- but he won't let me do that! Well hope you enjoyed the pics!

Happy V Day and Thanks Grandma Cindy

2010-02-17T12:12:00.004-07:00

For Valentines Day Grandma Cindy bought us some fun stuff to play with in the kitchen. She gave us heart shape cookie cutters, Valentines paper cups for cupcakes and some heart sprinkles. So we deicided we better use all of it.

Here are the results:

(These are the cookies we made for Liv's school v-day party)

Thanks and hope everyone had a good Valentines Day!!

40 Days

2010-02-16T10:01:00.002-07:00

With tomorrow being Ash Wednesday I thought this year it would be interesting to see if I could actually give up something and follow through for the full 40 days! Although there is so much I need to give up it is hard to pick just one!!! So any ideas:

(some of mine)

Pop (of course should do it anyway)

sleeping in

Eating fried food

What are some other ideas or which one of mine do you think I should do?

Please comment soon -- I only have to midnight!

GO COLTS!

2010-02-07T14:18:00.002-07:00

Today could be a great day! Go COLTS!

This Little Girl is....

2010-02-01T19:35:00.002-07:00

Cavity FREE!!!

(This was her present for no cavities. She was so excited to wear it when she got home)

Playdough

2010-02-01T19:11:00.003-07:00

Playdough Recipe:

Mix Well in Big Bowl:

3 C Flour

1 1/2 C Salt

3 TBSP Cream of Tarter

Pour over flour mixture:

3 C Boiling Water

3 TBSP Cooking Oil

Mix all really well and let cool for 1-2 hrs

After playdough has cooled seperate it into to 4 smaller batches.

**Note: Mine was pretty crumbly but once I mixed the lotion in it started to stay together.

Then once I kneaded the food coloring in it was just right.

Add 2 TBSP hand lotion (I used Aveeno because I had it --it shouldn't matter what you use though)

Then knead in your choice of food coloring--

This took awhile for me!

Store in Ziploc bags!! It should last you for quite awhile!!!

2010-01-29T11:47:00.001-07:00

Updates Coming Soon

2010-01-29T04:04:00.003-07:00

...I promise.

The main reason for my lack of blogging is no camera. I just don't find our life that exciting unless I have pictures. I was also the kid in the class that would be more opt to read something if there were pictures attached. So that could explain why.

Go to Mitch's blog for his racing for an update there. He has some fun pictures from his last race.

So until I take a picture and have something to talk about (which will be soon I promise)!

BYE!

Goodbye #3 Hello #4

2010-01-15T03:53:00.010-07:00

Alivia's 4th birthday is only 1 day away. As today being her last day as a little 3 year old I am slightly saddened that my little girl is growing up.

Alivia is an ideal first child. She was very easy going on us. I don't really remember any hard times with her. Not to say that there wasn't just none that were burned into my mind. I don't remember diaper rashes, I don't remember her teething, I don't remember her keeping me up at night, I don't remember her terrible two's, I don't remember terrible three's either.

Here are some things though that I do want to remember about Alivia-

Ambition -

Alivia has ambition in all that she does. She is very indepenent. If she has set out to something such as put on her tights or play on the wii. She does not accept failure easily. She will get quite upset when she realizes she can't do something on her own. Although she will always figure out how to accomplish her goal at hand.

Loving -

Alivia is the most loving little girl. She is always willing to spare a hug to make someone feel better. She is constantly making sure her little brother is cared for. Constantly checking the monitor while he sleeps, giving him whatever he wants even if he has been told no. She loves to keep her arm around him as if to let him know that he is not alone and she will take care of him.

Intrigued -

Alivia is very intrigued about everything and anything. I have been addicted to Greys anatomy after a friend let me borrow the dvd's. Alivia too has watched faithfully with me. During any of the operations she wants to know exactly what they are doing and what is happening. If I get a phone call Alivia wants to know who it was and what was said. When she brings homework from pre school, she wants it explained and wants to know why it means what it means.

Laugh -
I yearn to hear Alivia's laugh. Her real laugh. It is a laugh that warms your heart. She is good at laughing to please, but she also has a laugh that is a 'wow that really makes me happy' laugh. It is rare and can be found by her dad making funny noises or jokes. Or during a really good tickle war (but she is very picky about these due to her bubble she has)

Virtuous-

Alivia is so innocent. I love that about her. When she does something wrong it always an innocent act. The look on her face can tell you that. She gets this 'oh crap -- i don't think I was supposed to do that' look. She always means well. I can only pray that virtue is a life long quality that she always will have.

Aspire -

Alivia has a lot of aspirations at this time in her life, some are as follows: A volleyball player, A princess, A heart surgeon. We only hope that we can raise her to be whatever she dreams of being.

I will cherish this last day of year #3. It was a good year.

Happy Birthday Princess

2010-01-15T03:21:00.005-07:00

4 years ago today, a princess joined our family and changed our lives forever....

She was beautiful, her dark head of hair and huge gorgeous dark eyes....

She had a smile that could touch millons and a heart as sweet as gold....

She was a very smart little princess and amazed her parents daily with her knowledge....

I still wonder what I did to deserve such an angel.

Happy 4th Birthday!

Liv's Birthday Month

2010-01-08T17:46:00.002-07:00

It is officially Liv's birthday month -- we haven't been very organized this month but I am getting there. She made the playlist for this month! I am a little under the weather so when I get feeling better I will do a better post!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T21:26:00.003-07:00

Merry Christmas

to all!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas -- I know we did. I have lots of pictures from our really fun holiday which started at the begining of December! I promise to have them up soon!!!

Posts soon to come:

**Teenie and Grayson get here

**Cookie day

**Bear Lake

**Christmas it self

and much more!!!

Good Night!!!!

2009 Christmas Letter

2009-12-13T23:29:00.002-07:00

Dear Family and Friends,

Another year has come and gone. It is amazing how much can actually happen even though it feels as if we have no time do anything. We have been very blessed this year in selling out house in a bad market. We are very excited for our future and hope to have our own home again by the end of the summer. Until then my mom has been kind enough to let us stay with her. Here is a catch up on what has been going on with us this past year.

Mitch is still working for my mom at Dance Designs Inc. He is also getting ready for his 5th year of snowmobile racing in the Rocky Mountain Hill climb Association. He has started a blog so family and friends can follow his season. He is playing on a men’s basketball out at Fort Hall and is having a lot of fun with that.

I am still working every other weekend at the hospital doing dispatch for life flight. I love my job and that it allows me to do what I have always wanted to do and that is stay at home with my children. I have loved this last year and what they have taught me. I am finding a new love for baking (not so much cooking though).

Alivia, has matured so much this last year. She is a beautiful 3 year old who will be 4 next month (time flies). She is going to Pre School at Grace Lutheran and is so smart. She amazes us daily. She currently loves Twilight, Barbie’s, Grey’s Anatomy and has decided she wants to be a Heart Surgeon when she grows up. She is healthy and is currently doing so well at her school. Her teacher says she is so polite and is very caring about the other students.

Austin is our quiet man who is slowly becoming alive. He will turn 2 in April. He didn’t start talking much til this past month. His favorite word: FOOTBALL. He loves all sports and loves to go watch his aunt and uncle’s basketball games. He will sit glued watching the players run up and down the court. Austin is a wonderful eater I only point that out because Alivia is so picky so I have enjoyed feeding Austin. He also is a very happy guy. His smile melts our heart even his big sis.

Well that is the update from the Sherman’s –Please follow our blog mitchshermanfamily.blogspot.com we update regularly with our family happenings. We hope everyone has a safe and Happy Holiday wherever you may be~
Love, The Shermans

Austin's Safety Chair

2009-11-26T18:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T13:23:00.007-07:00

This year I had to work for Thanksgiving so Mitch and the kids came up to the hospital and we had our Thanksgiving feast in the cafateria (mitch and the kids will go to my grandma's this afternoon). Anyhow here are some pictures from our feast...no specific order either.

The pumpkin pie!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

New Moon

2009-11-23T11:42:00.007-07:00

My bestfriends, Shamae and Jessie bought tickets to the new moon premiere party. We have been waiting (not so patiently) for the big night. It was a lot of fun, it was full of laughing, ooh and ahhing and a little bit of blushing. We cannot wait til Elcipse!

Here we are just hanging with the guys.

Little sis showed up late because she had a bball game -- guess it was worth it cause they won!
Shamae with Edward...
I wanted to pose with both of them, I didn't want either to feel left out.
Jessie, they were smittened by her. Edward almost smiled when she put her arm around him.

Playing Cullen Baseball

Yes Jessie is a pro --

She even hit a home run!

Shamae at bat ....

yeah...didn't want to post this one, but figured I had to since I posted theirs.

Just waiting and waiting somemore!

Twilight tats...

Well the verdict is in: I LOVED IT! It was sooooo GOOD!

Pictures from last years party click here.

Late Post

2009-11-23T11:28:00.003-07:00

I meant post this awhile ago but forgot. Here is my little brother and his cute date Tenisha. They were going to CO-ED. His first date dance.

New Moon!

2009-11-21T13:32:00.003-07:00

I have been waiting patiently...but I am soooooo EXCITED!!! Tonight I am going to a big premiere party and then onto the movie to see NEW MOON (I know it actually premeired yesturday --but this was easier for me saved me waiting in line in the cold, but I get free stuff and lots of food)!! I went to the Twilight party last year and it was totally worth it---This year it is supposed to be bigger and better!! Pictures will follow soon!!!! (i feel like a crazed teenager --)

sNoW~SnOw~

2009-11-14T07:45:00.004-07:00

Alivia asks me daily when she wakes up if it has snowed. And daily I tell her yes...but only in the mountains. She is then disappointed. So today I got off work and carefully drove to Fred Meyers and bought these....Cause guess what she gets to wake up to,**I know it is not a lot, but it is enough to satisfy a 3 year old girl who has been waiting and waiting for this wonderful white stuff we call SNOW!

for Mama Mia fans . . .

2009-11-08T18:27:00.002-07:00

Last night Alivia went to the movie with her cousins and grandma. When she got home I asked her how it was. She said good. Then I asked what she did after the movie -- she said:

"we went to the beach, We danced at the beach and . . ."

She is the best I love that she can make me laugh!

My 1st Button

2009-11-08T00:25:00.002-07:00

I added a button on the left under friends. It is indeed my first button. Click it and enjoy!!! I sure have!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-03T10:37:00.004-07:00

This year was not that exciting of a halloween for us. We didn't get to decorate due to the move so we never really got into the true spirit fo halloween. But we did make the best of it. Alivia was Island Princess. Although she was set out to be Jasmine since May but we couldn't find her costume. We think it is in a box that went to storage.

Friday before Halloween I took the kids to Liv's school carnival. Both kids had a lot of fun!

Even Austin did a few games!

This is a cute little pumpkin Liv made at pre school -- I was a dummy and forgot to take a picture of it when she brought it home. So I took this a few days later and the paint had started to chip. It was cute and our only halloween decor we had this year!

Here they are -- Island princess and spiderman the fireman (or as we decided in the end a little nacho libre).

Here is the island princess showing off her beauty. I got her all dalled up so she could go trick or treating with a friend since I had to work. Well she hung out with Mitch and handed out candy to the trick or treaters. It must have wore her out. She left with her friend and returned 2 minutes later cause she was too tired to trick or treat. Oh well. She still made out good.

Before I went to work we took the kids to a few houses so I could see them trick or treat.

This is actually my moms house. We had just left, but new she was dying her hair so we thought we would ring the doorbell and make her answer it with all the dye in her hair. It was funny-- she would have killed me if I put a picture of it though!This is are old neighbors house. Alivia told her she would go trick or treat there so we made it one of our stops. Then I was off to work.

Here is a cute picture of Austin sporting grandma's shades!

See ya later!

Our little Gymnist

2009-10-30T13:46:00.002-06:00

Alivia has been doing dance and tumbling these last few months and she has finally conquered her bridge. She loves showing it off to everyone!

Sleepy Boy....

2009-10-23T04:57:00.002-06:00

What can I say...this guy makes me laugh even when he is sleeping!

Happy 15th Birthday Sequoia

2009-10-22T11:15:00.003-06:00

overdue pictures....

2009-10-14T19:47:00.006-06:00

Well I know I am way behind on this post. Back in August we went to Long Beach with my family. My little sister had some volleyball camps at USC Long Beach so we got to go with her and have a little vacation! It was a lot of fun and we were worn out when we came home!! Here are some pictures from our trip!

Alivia collected a lot of sea shells on this trip

building a sandcastle...
Hasselhoff watch out --- you ain't got nothing on this.... (my little brother Justin)

so dramatic
What a STUD
Not my favorite pic of me but oh well....
Mitch and Alivia wading in the water!

Austin loved this wagon -- the only problem he didn't like the stuff in it. As we pulled him he would throw stuff out.
Mitch and Justin playing in the waves!

GoOd NeWs....

2009-10-03T01:32:00.006-06:00

Ok-- So I decided not to post anything about this whole endevor in hopes to not ginx it!! Well it is pretty much a done deal so I am going to go against my better judgement and post it -- If it falls through then it falls through.... Alright here it goes....

We have SOLD our HOUSE!!!!

I know -- weird huh! Most probably didn't know it was for sale

(unless you drove by and saw the sign in the yard)

F.A.Q

Why? Don't really know. Felt like the right time. If you know me well I like change~I kind of like sudden change too~I don't really like to think about (cause then I might talk myself out of it) Although this was not my decsion on my own obvisouly. I think Mitch is just kind of like me just hides it a little better. I said Mitch lets put the house on the market -- We should give it 6 months and then take it off if nothing happens -- He says "ok" I know we are not a good pair when it comes to impulsive decisions. So we have a REALLY REALLY good friend who was more than willing to list it. And low and behold 4 months later SOLD.

So now what? Well I don't know -- why would you ask such a question. We didn't really think it would sale. Although our REALLY REALLY good friend told us it would. Our house is cute -- It has a special something (a special something I am going to miss). So yeah -- well now what -- well I still don't know! Luckily I have a great sister who with some begging and convincing has decided to give up her luscious 2 bedroom basement for her big sister and brother in law and favorite neice and nephew. In other words I guess we are moving back home to my wonderful mother who seems to always have an open door when we need it. Oh did I mention the wonderful in laws that live in Kimberly ID who have been gracious enough to take our dog til we figure out what to do (he doesn't get along well with the wonderful mothers cat)!

Here are some pictures of our beautiful house -- When I have more time I will do a blog totally devoted to our home and the memories we made there!!!

So once again -- NOW WHAT????? I DON'T KNOW -- But I guess that is the whole idea right!!!

Cherry Springs

2009-09-26T19:17:00.006-06:00

Saturday we went up to Cherry Springs for a picnic and to take some pictures of the kids since it is such a pretty time of year there. Here are only a few of the pictures we took!

Alivia Gizmo and Austin

Adriennes kids -- Hailey, Abby and Conner.

I accidently cut the picture of Grayson. I can't find it of him on the bench. But Adrienne has it saved to her computer so I will get it.

Here are all the cousin--
Alivia (3), Hailey(9), Austin (18 months), Abby (8), Connor (5) and Grayson(9 months)
*This picture is missing little Sophia--so it is not ALL the grandkids!

Even Gizmo went along for the walk--He was a good sport!

Here they are again
The girlies!!

The "high maintance" boys!

Here are the photographers!

Austin with his walking stick! He threw the biggest fit when we took it away!

All in all it was a really fun day!

Teanie's HERE!

2009-09-23T22:10:00.003-06:00

Mitch's little sister moved to Nebraska a while back. Well she was home sick so we decided it was time for her to drive home and suprise everyone with a visit. So Saturday night she hopped in her car around 9 pm and ventured out on a 13 hr drive with her 9 month old baby Grayson. I was working the graveyard that night so she called frequently to check in. She stopped and got a hotel for a couple hours to sleep then finished the drive and arrived in Pocatello Sunday afternoon.

The SUPRISE....
We all headed over to Cindy's after Kristina arrived. Kristina waited outside and I went in with Grayson. Cindy didn't notice at first that I was holding him. She was cooking dinner. So I kept talking to her trying to get her to look at me. Finally I just had to come out and say---Did you notice who I am holding. Then she looked and was overwhelmed with emoition. She was so excited she cried. It was pretty heartwarming. I was pretty proud that Kristina and I actually kept the secret since we are the two that usually spill the beans first.

Here are a few pics from us hanging out tonight!!!

Cousins reunited. Austin loves having Grayson around!

Used Bike+Used Trailer=New Fun

2009-09-23T21:58:00.002-06:00

This bike was hanging out in Mitch's mom shed. So he asked if he could use it. A year ago a friend of mine from work gave me this trailer~we have never used it cause we hadn't had a bike. Now that we do....

We have two happy happy kids! They love to go on bike rides now!!! It has become a fun thing to do with dad when mom is at work. Mom has not yet braved the bike with a trailer yet. Soon though I hope!

Tag Team

2009-09-23T21:51:00.002-06:00

Fair Time

2009-09-23T21:39:00.003-06:00

Of course we did the annual Eastern Idaho State Fair. Mitch tries to yearly get out of it but he fails every year!
Here are a few pictures of our time there. I didn't take too many!!

Aunt Sequoia was so good to ride rides with liv. In the picture below you can't see but Alivia is sitting next to Sequoia. Poor Sequoia this ride was never ending.Austin didn't enjoy it too much since he was strapped down in the stroller the whole time.

He got pretty impatient by the end of the day and was ready to go to bed!!!

Thats all for our fair experience for this year!

Papa Rick and Letty came to town

2009-09-23T21:27:00.004-06:00

Papa Rick and Letty came and spent the day with Liv and Austin while mom worked an extra shift in the ER. They were a lot of fun --we wish they lived closer!

During this day we went to the park, old McDonalds for lunch then to the Blackfoot swimming pool to swim. And somehow during all this fun Letty managed to clean the house so mom and dad had a nice clean house to come home too!!! It was wonderful for all.

Then we ended the night at Chillis Fajita night!! Here are some silly pictures Liv took while we were eating.

Letty thinking hard!!!

Papa Rick being silly for the camera!

hhmmmm.........

2009-09-22T11:07:00.002-06:00

Rosa................Rooooooosaaaaaaa.?.?.?.?.......... I think it's time to update the blog again. I don't want people to think that all we do is work and pay bills and sleep and not do anything fun anymore. I'm sure you can come up with something, right???

hugs and kisses,

hubby

Happy Patriots Day!

2009-09-11T06:04:00.004-06:00

8 Years ago today.....

~~ A day we will always remeber ~~

A special thanks to those who serve our country and their families! We are forever grateful!!!

What a MESS!!!!

2009-08-27T19:52:00.003-06:00

Below is a detailed email mitch just sent to Verizon. Let me just say what a mess. It is quite boring and really probably won't mean much to you if bother to read it -- but I was impressed with how organized mitch was with this email and kudos to him. I really hope we get this figured out. On top of the mess below for the last 2 1/2 months Verizon has been charging for two seperate phone plans so we paid $60 for each phone -AHHHHHH! It is so frustrating and nobody knows what they are doing!!!

This email should target only the discrepency of the reverse transaction. All other account discrepencies have been resolved at this point.
Reno,
I don't want to beat a dead horse, but I need to know that all the right people working on this issue are on the same page. Below is an outline of the events leading up to needing to know what happened to the lost payment.
1. Verizon forwards May 09' balance of $122.84 to Qwest Combined Billing
2. Qwest submits May 09' payment of $122.84 to Verizon
3. Qwest bills customer (Mitch) May 09' billing statement for bundled charges totaling $227.20 (which includes Verizon balance of $122.84)
4. May 28 Verizon receives payment from Qwest for the $122.84 balance.
5. May 29 Customer (Mitch) un-enrolls Verizon from Qwest Bundled services, Verizon electronically reverses payment of $122.84 back to Qwest - Qwest does not show record of receiving reversed payment - Verizon can show proof of successful transaction??
6. Customer (Mitch) pays Qwest $230.00 on June 10, 2009 which satisfies all May balances to Qwest including Verizon Wireless ($122.84).
7. Qwest bills customer (Mitch) June 09' billing statement for bundled charges totaling $83.85 (does not include a Verizon balance)
8. Customer (Mitch) pays Qwest $84.00 on July 16, 2009 which satisfies all June balances to Qwest
9. Verizon forwards July 09' balance of $316.13 ( $122.84, $79.29, $114.00 )
10. Qwest submits July 09' payment of $316.13 to Verizon - (Qwest records indicating they have paid $122.84 twice )
11. Qwest bills customer (Mitch) July 09' billing statement for bundled charges totaling $448.56 ( Qwest is now billing the customer (Mitch) a second time for $122.84 - refer to item 6)

I (Mitch) am current 'to date' on my Verizon account due to all balances being forwarded to Qwest bundled services. To date I have made payments to Qwest of $135.00 and $100.00 in an attempt to satisfy any outstanding debts owed to Qwest (refer to item 11). Previous attempts had been made at the Pocatello Verizon store to rectify the discrepency to no avail. Also, I successfully (and finally) was able to transfer my phone to a business account with Brandon Ekstrom on Aug. 19, 2009. At the same time Brandon went out of his way to make sure emails were generated to the correct people about the situation. I was notified by the Pocatello Verizon store on Tues., Aug. 25 that the reverse transaction of $122.84 had been characterized as 'lost'. I recently came in contact with you (Reno) after my wife had discussed the issue, and have since then forwarded a detailed account summary dating back to May 28, 2009 showing that I have not received a credit for said amount at my financial institution.

In black and white it appears that Qwest has paid the balance of $122.84 twice with Verizon receiving the first payment on May 28, 2009 and reversing that payment electronically on May 29, 2009. The second payment being received by Verizon on June 29, 2009. I would suggest that a report be generated showing whether the reverse transaction between Verizon-to-Qwest for $122.84 on May 29, 2009 was completed successfully or unsuccessfully. Qwest and the customer (Mitch) show no record of a credit being received for $122.84 after May 28, 2009. As stated above I have made multiple payments to Qwest in order to satisfy any balance owed to Qwest (including item 6). My objective is to alleviate the amount of $122.84 from being regenerated and payed multiple times so that all accounts are cleared of any outstanding balances. It has been brought to my attention that this issue has created a high level of concern due to the relationship between Verizon and Qwest and also to keeping the customer at hand. Please make all attempts to clarify that a solution is being sought. Thanks for your time. I appreciate the recent effort that has been made on the part of Verizon.
Regards,

Mitch Sherman - DirectorProject Mgmt. & ControlsDance Designs Inc.Bus: (208)637-1185Cell: (208)243-1210Fax: (208)237-9040msherman@dancedesignsinc.com
This email should target only the discrepency of the reverse transaction. All other account discrepencies have been resolved at this point.

Bye Bye Curls.....

2009-08-05T11:08:00.004-06:00

I had been meaning to trim Austins hair lately --It had been getting pretty long! I can't believe how his first haircut changed him from my little baby boy to my little toddler boy!

He is sooo handsome but is not my baby anymore!! Who knew that the curls made up so much of him!!

Time Out

2009-07-11T02:00:00.003-06:00

These are a few pictures I had of my kids in time out! I just thought they would be fun to share~

This first one was just the other day. Alivia had been struggling this day and had actually visited time out a few times. I was to my limit when I found that she had got out Mitch's wet paint brushes and painted over our new primed wall with the brown paint. It wasn't as bad as it seemed at first I think she had just pushed my final buttons so I blew. I wouldn't let her move from time out til Mitch got home so she was there for about 5-10 min. I went upstairs to check on Austin. When Mitch got home I yelled down that Alivia needed to tell him something and he said she was asleep. Needless to say by the time she woke up we got over it and she was let free. Good idea on her part!!!

The next picture was taken when the dads were in charge. I think I was at work and Jessie (Kamryn's mom) was at a church function! Anyhow it was a text I recieved saying "we are all in time out for taking out all of the wipes! As you can tell they were punished harshly. I have a slight feeling that Austin didn't last 2 seconds after the picture was taken and I am sure the girls followed in tow!!!

Kristina and Grayson

2009-07-05T14:16:00.004-06:00

Aunt Kristina and Grayson are moving to Nebraska to be with Uncle Cody!!! We sure are going to miss them! We normally see Grayson and Kristina daily so it sure will be a change. It hasn't set in yet, but I know Alivia is going to start missing them soon!! She loved having Grayson around and she loved taking care of him. She also loved her Tinnie--can't wait til they come home to visit or maybe we will have to take a vacation to go visit her.

Here are the cousins (missing: sophia) hanging out eating pizza after playing all day at Adriennes.We got them together again Thursday before Tinnie left. It will be crazy to see how Grayson will change not seeing him everyday!

Adrienne, Me and Tinnie
The LAST lunch! We went to Pizza before Kristina Cody and Grayson hit the road.

Whats been happening here!

2009-07-05T14:06:00.002-06:00

Well it has been a long while since I have posted so of course this is going to be post overload so I can get caught up and sleep at night!!!

It has been raining a lot her. That hasn't stopped Alivia though. She loves to be outside and thanks to Grandma Letty for getting her a rain coat --she has been able to play outside rain or shine.
Austin has learned to walk. Took his first step on Fathers' day! Itwas priceless I promise to get a picture/video on here soon.

I am still working in the ER every other weekend night graveyards. I also took a new job at PA clinic just to fill in and help out when needed.

Mitch is just hanging out fixin odds and ends around the house and working. I would tell you more about what he does at work, but I will leave that to him.

Well enjoy the following posts! They go in order of starting with the most recent so sorry you will have to go backwards.

Sorry bout the underline couldn't get it off!

1st Dance Recital

2009-07-05T14:00:00.002-06:00

Alivia and Kamryn (Alivia's best friend) had their first dance recital. They did so well. However the video did not turn out so well. This dance had been a year coming and I was so excited to see it come together they had so much fun!!!

And there they go off to grow up!!!

Disneyland Pictures

2009-07-05T13:58:00.001-06:00

Yeah--It's been a couple months but here our the pictures from Disneyland. I am soooo sorry it took so long. Also one more problem they are in order backwards. So you may just want to use the links on the right side to look at each day individually.

Day #4 Characters Breakfast

2009-07-05T03:44:00.006-06:00

Alivia and I in front of Sleeping Beauty's castle. This day we were able to wake up early and go to the park before it opened. We were also able to eat breakfast with the characters. The kids thought it was pretty neat. Alivia was able to get her autograph book filled up with a picture to go with each name.

I love Austin in this one... he was not very fond of any of the characters
Although he didn't mind the fairy godmother.

Mitch and Rick were just as excited to meet and take pictures with the characters.

I think this one looks like tigger and her our dancing

We had Chip (or Dale not sure which one) sneak up behind Austin for a picture!
On the story book boat.
After the character breakfast and a few rides we headed over to Newport beach. It was a lot of fun. But I forgot the camera. So hopefully Adrienne or Rick can email some pictures and I will get them posted.

Disneyland Day #3

2009-07-05T03:14:00.008-06:00

We started this day by being greeted by Alice at the Main entrance. Alivia was excited to meet any character, but she had no idea who Alice was. Either way she went up and talked with her got her first autograph and took a picture. Now when she see's this picture she thinks it is Cinderella not dressed up for the ball.

For the first part of the day we headed over to Toon Town where we were able to meet Mickey and Minnie!

For dinner we ate at Woody's Ranch. It was a little spendy but good food and fun!

This picture is my favorite from this whole trip!
We stayed late this night to watch the fireworks. It was really neat they had Tinkerbell fly from the matterhorn to Sleeping beauty's castle. Alivia was amazed. How neat would it have been to be a child in this situation. She saw Tinkerbell flying in the sky.

A pretty good picture (if I may say so myself...I actually took this from Adriennes pictures)Thats it for Day 3

Disneyland Day #2

2009-07-05T02:08:00.011-06:00

Day #2 -- We headed over to the park around 9 am. I would have to say this was the warmest day that we were there. It was probably the busiest too. Although we didn't start to use the fast pass til after this day so that could be why......

First thing everyone (but Letty and I) rode on the fire truck from the main entrance to the center of the park. We stayed behind to push the bus (our double stroller).

Here are Alivia and Connor with the driver

Then we headed over to the Buzz Lightyear ride. This ride was fun. We all were able to go on it.

Then it was off to Autotopia. Alivia was even able to drive her own car. Although I didn't get a picture of it. Here is Rick and Mitch!

Letty was fulfilling her grandmother duties and stayed behind with Austin so we could all ride.
Here is Alivia with her first set of ears!!!
This was the best picture we could get with Buzz. He was a hard guy to catch!
Then we headed over to the submarine ride. It was pretty neat.
Then to Matterhorn. Believe it or not Alivia loved it and we went on it two times just for her.

After Matterhorn we went to Small world.Then to Dumbo. This isn't really the kids on the ride. It was too fast to get a good picture of us.

We did the tea cups too! Austin loved it!

I was getting a little sick from the spinning rides so Letty took Austin and Liv on the carousel.
Thats all for today--see you later.

Disneyland Pictures Day #1

2009-07-05T00:17:00.010-06:00

Here is our family at the SLC airport awaiting our plane to Cali!!!!

Mitch and me....
The wonderful people who made this trip possible Rick and Letty!!! Mitch's dad and his lovely wife!!!

Adrienne and Breena.....

Connor---Sorry it is sideways!!

The kids waiting and watching our plane pull in

This is after we arrived at the John Wayne AP in Orange Co. The kids wanted a picture in front of the fish. But the fish part didn't really turn out!!!

Alivia in front of our hotel

The kids in their bunk beds...not really bedtime we had just arrived and they were so excited for the bunk beds they thought they would test them out!

Here we are -- finally the entrance to Disneyland (and California Adventure)

Alivia and Mitch waiting for the Celebration Parade to arrive! Austin walking around while we waited for the parade. (not quite walking on his own yet...that is still to come in a later post)The Celebration parade. This is the float that parked in front of us! It stayed the whole time and did a little show.

Alivia and Letty dancing to the parade songs.

Alivia, Connor and Breena taking part in the parade! It was a fun and interactive parade!

Our first official viewing of Mickey and Minnie as they passed by. They were on a different float so we only got a small glimpse of them. Taking a train ride around the park to see what we were in store for during the week!

Thats it for Day 1---Stay tuned for more!

Disneyland Pic's

2009-06-05T06:28:00.001-06:00

Nope not yet.....but soon I promise!

At least no one was hurt....

2009-05-13T11:43:00.004-06:00

Yesturday we had a few firsts....
First car accident Alivia was in....
First car accident my little brother was in while he was driving (not his fault though)....
And first accident for Mitch's new truck....

Justin, my little brother, likes to play pranks on me. I had him run to my house to get me something I forgot and Alivia wanted to go. Being lazy I didn't want to change out the carseat so I had him take Mitch's new truck. When he called me and said someone just hit me --I totally blew it off and told him to quit joking around. He kept trying to convince me it wasn't a joke, I could tell towards the end of our bantering that he wasn't letting up and he really had been in a wreck. Alivia got on the phone and said that man hit us. I asked her if she was ok and she said yes.. then I asked if she scared and she said "I'm not scared I'm a big girl." So I told him to hold on and jumped in his car to head down the hill and check it out.
I kept trying to call Mitch nervous about what to say since I let Justin take his new truck and it had now been hit. When I finally did get ahold of him he had just pulled up to the accident just by chance. Justin said he prayed silently Mitch wouldn't be mad...Mitch wasn't. He told Justin thanks..he needed a new bumper.
As we pulled up to the gas station where they had moved there cars too I got Alivia out and the other guy driving felt even worse cause he didn't know there was a baby in the car. He told her he was sooo sorry and she said "It's ok", Then when he found out we had only bought the truck 4 weeks ago he really felt bad. He was on his way home from a funeral and he said his dress shoes slipped on the brake. Justin says he saw him coming and knew he wasn't stopping. Either way it was an accident and no one was hurt.

Here are the pictures of the minor damage (I say minor because it really only messed up the bumper) He was driving a ford power stroke so you can see the bugs from his bug guard on Mitch's tail gait.
Here is where the extent of the damage was....

Mitch is kind of bummed he will have to get a new plate. The snowmobile plates aren't cheap.But he was very excited to get a new hitch.

Double Trouble

2009-05-13T11:12:00.002-06:00

Well these two kids like to make messes. It seems like every time Carter and Alivia are together they make paint (out of lotions and other stuff) they make mud (out of bubbles and dirt) they just like to make messes. And this time they decided to fix Austins hair (with mom's hair gel and some lotion)...

Happy Birthday Mitchell

2009-05-02T04:35:00.003-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MITCH. HE IS A WHOPPIN 26 YEARS -- WOW ONLY 4 MORE TIL 30! I HAVE TO WORK ALL WEEKEND SO MITCH IS GOING TO SPEND HIS TIME TAKING CARE OF KIDS WHILE I SLEEP -- WHAT A GOOD SPORT. I LOVE MITCH SO MUCH HE IS GOOD WHEN IT COMES TO TAKING CARE OF OUR FAMILY-- I APPRECIATE ALL HIS HARD WORK AND HIS GREAT SENSE OF HUMOR THAT KEEPS US TOGETHER. LOVE YOU AND HOPE YOU HAVE AS GOOD OF DAY AS YOU CAN!