Smart 4 You!

Hands Across Anthem

2012-01-22T22:47:00.003-07:00

Today we joined in standing out on Anthem Way in support of Deputy William Coleman. We were surprised to see Lexi on the news with a friend from the ward holding hands. Here is what was broad cast on Channel 10 news tonight. Lexi is 40 sec in on the clip.

Slain Deputy Coleman's Family Speaks Out : MyFoxPHOENIX.com

Overdue Update

2011-05-15T18:31:00.021-07:00

So, we have been pretty busy around our house lately. I was helping out with the Daddy Daughter dance that is held at our school every year. I was in charge of decorating the school cafeteria. I think we made it pretty neat looking. Jared could not take Lexi to the dance because he could not get the night off. So, Lexi asked if Tyler her cousin could take her. We called Tyler and asked him if he would be her date for the dance. He said yes and Lexi was very excited. She had a blast with Tyler, they even won a dance competition. Lexi thought it was really neat to get nail polish.

A few weeks after that, we were all getting ready to say goodbye to Tyler. He is going to be serving a two year mission to Cali Columbia. We are very proud of him. He is a wonderful young man and I am sure that is going to do well over there.

My dad took all of the boys to a spring training game. So, my brother and his three boys went, Curt and Cole went, my dad and then Jared and Logan. Logan had a blast with his dad and his cousins watching the Diamond Backs at the new spring training facility. They sat out on the grass. It was pretty cold and they had to bundle up in blankets to stay warm. Jared told me at one point he went looking for hot chocolate for everyone because the blankets were not keeping them warm. They all got hot dogs to eat and Diamond Backs hats to wear to show their support of the Diamond Backs. I believe that Jared told me that the Diamond Backs won the game which is always exciting to have the team you are cheering for win.

When the kids were out of school for Spring break we took a trip to California. I think that everyone from Arizona was there. Well, maybe not everyone but it was pretty darn close. While we were there the kids got to met Duffy. He is the teddy bear that you can buy in California Adventure. After stopping and saying hi, Lexi and Logan both spent their money to buy their own Duffy bear. Lexi got her bear and outfit just like the real Duffy was wear and Logan's is wearing a a baseball outfit.
It was lots of fun hanging out with my parents. We traded pin with the kids. Went on lots of rides and just enjoyed a break from every day life. Lexi is our brave little girl she went on lots of new rides. She was willing to try a bunch of rides. We were really proud of her. I think Jared will have a riding buddy soon. It was fun to see my cousin Breanne. She came and met up with us at the park. The next day she came back with her husband Casey and Jared was thrilled. He was able to ride some of the rides I refuse to go on.

Just like Grandma Hansen the kids have the trading bug. They love to go up to Cast Members and see what pins they have that hey can trade. It makes me laugh to see them run up to a cast member with Grandma fast on their heels. But the kids are really sweet, if they see a pin that Grandma will want they trade for it for her.

Beside pin trading Lexi has gone mad for Vynalmation. She bought and traded many of them while we were there. I am afraid that when we go again she will want to take all the ones she has and see what she can trade for them. These Vynalmations are not small like pins. There is a store in Downtown Disney called Dstreet that she like to go into because they have all kinds of Vynalmations. Plus, there is a giant one that you can get you picture taken with. On this trip Lexi was able to get Logan into Vynalmations. Logan does collect the Vynalmation pins and now has a small collections of the figures as well.

Also in Downtown Disney is the Lego store. This is Logan's Favorite store. I am not sure why this one is so great. We have two in Arizona but this is his favorite one. He loves to look around the big store. On this trip
I took a lot of pictures of them on the cool Lego wall right outside of the store. At first Logan was not sure he wanted to get on the wall. But he really wanted his picture taken. Lexi is are ham. She is always wanting to have her picture taken. While in the store Logan and Grandpa bought Lego mugs for the family to use. There are names on the mugs. Because they did not have a Brit mug Logan decided to get I love mom and I love dad mugs to make it fair. It was very sweet, and the kids love to drink out of their own mug.

When we got back from Disneyland we were once again

wrapped up in everyday life. But then some big things have been happening. The first is that Jared and I went on a diet. I have lost 20 pounds so far. Which is huge. I gave up soda ( it was my most favorite thing in the world). We are on a Paleo diet. Were are happy, we are eating better and I feel better. Then Jared turned 34 this year. We got him a new bike for his birthday and we are sending him to a police conference that he loves to attend each year. The second big thing that happened is that McKenzie my niece had her first baby. I am a GREAT AUNT. Her name is Emily and she is as cute as a button. After that exciting news, we got ready for my dad to turn 75!!

We all celebrated by writing a letter about what we admired about him. And had a fun little party with just the family. And just as life was getting back to normal Chase informed us that he is engaged!! We are so excited for him and Ashley. We think the world of Ashley. She is a sweet girl and they make a cute couple. They are get married in August and Lexi and Logan are going to be in the wedding. they are both very excited. Welcome to the family Ashley!!

And that has been what we have been up to now school is almost out. And we are planning lots of trips.

What do life, technology and horses have incommon?

2011-03-02T22:17:00.008-07:00

The Smart family has been busy this month. I wish I could say that the reason that I have been busy is because I have been doing something note worthy. But the truth is we have just been caught up in regular life. Jared is working like crazy. Every time I turn around he his giving me a kiss goodbye on his way to work. Logan has his once a month book report that stresses me out until he turns it in. And Lexi, well every morning it is trying a new hair style. I never should have showed her the blogs about cute little girl hairstyles. Every night before she goes to bed she picks out a new look. At least tomorrow is crazy hair day!

Jared and I like to have our taxes done by February. So we have been trying to figure out what to do with the return. We save about half and send the other half. This year we decided to get a 3D TV. I think the kids are almost as excited as Jared is.

The Scottsdale Arabian Horse show was just here in town. I love to go and watch the horses. The costumes are beautiful and the horses are lovely. There is good food, and fun shops. Jared and I try to go a few times during the ten days the event is going on. Plus, I get to hang out with my parents and enjoy the event. This year I had the added bonus of also getting to spend time with my Aunt and Uncle that were visiting from Utah. This year I think I went at least 5 times to the show. If you haven't taken the time to go and see what the show is like I would recommend checking it out next year.

So life just keeps ticking by and the technology just keeps getting better, but the Horse show is just as amazing as it was last year. I would have to say that this month has been busy but a lot of fun.

ASU Spirit

2011-02-05T21:13:00.007-07:00

The ASU spirit squad and the Women's basketball team had a breast cancer awareness game today. Each year the two sport groups get together and premote Breast Cancer awareness. So, the spirit squad girls have a cheer clinic and invited girls 3 and up to cheer with them all day and then during the half time game. The womens basketball team all wears pink and they aske the Sun Devil fans to wear pink as well. Each little girl

gets to make a poster to hold up.They also get a ASU retractable poster, pink tshirt, face stickers and pom poms. Lexi had a blast with the girls.She thought she was so big. As you can tell, Lexi had a blast and is already telling me she wants to do it again next year.

Kelly Moore Bag

2011-01-29T00:07:00.006-07:00

Lately I have been struggling with wanting to take my nikon with me to the kids events, on trips to Disneyland and what not. My main issue is having to carry the camera bag around. It's big, it's heavy and it is ugly. The last time I went to Disneyland I took a backpack. Lets just say I carried around more than just my camera and wallet.

So, while surfing the internet I came accross this website called Kelly Moore Bag. Let me start off by stating that I want one...... No.... I need one. They are very cute and do not look like an ugly camera bag.

There are two styles that I am in love with. The first one is the B-Hobo bag. I love it in the color brown. It is very classic looking. As you can see by looking at the picture on the left.

The other bag that I really like is the Posey bag. If I were to get that bag I think that I would get it in the gray color. I love this bag because it has a special spot for memory cards. The bags range in the 150 to 250 dollar range.

So, I would recommend to anyone that is looking for a cute bag that can hold your camera equipment to go and check out their website. The link to their website is kellymoorebag.com . I can not wait to get one of my own.

A Brand New Year

2011-01-25T02:39:00.002-07:00

So, this is the year that I have decided enough is enough. I wnat to get my body back into shape. I am done it Cancer. I am done with all the surgiers that follow. So I would like to get my body back to feeling and looking healthy.

I got my self a nike+ sportsband to keep track of all the miles that I am walking and soon to be running. :) I have nice running shoes as well as nike trail shoes.

So eveyone tells me that I need to have a goal to strive for. Well, if not getting health is a good enough one I have decided that I want to to get ready for a marathon. I think it would be really cool to run in the Disneyland 1/2 marathon race. So, that is the goal get ready to run in the 13.5 mile run throughout Disneyland. I have until Septemeber/October. So, we shall see how well I do.

Besides getting into shape I am trying to be better about the amount of books that I buy. As many of you know I love to read. I can honestly say 9 times out of 10 I will leave a bookstore with a purchase. So, I have a friend that told me about this great website, it is called paperbackbookswap.com . You post the books that you no longer want to keep and then you get to chose books. It is great so far according to the webiste I have saved $75.00. So, go check it out if you love to read as much as I do.

So those are just two of my goals for this year.

-Brit

Christmas Cards!

2010-12-06T09:13:00.003-07:00

Well, I have made my christmas cards thanks to shutterfly. They should be here in a couple of days. Then I will be able to mail them. My Christmas list is getting smaller. Which that is great! I hope everyone is doing well. - Brit

Starry Snowflakes Christmas 5x7 folded card

Get custom photo Christmas cards online at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

Christmas cards!

2010-11-29T13:57:00.003-07:00

It is that time of a year where everyone has to get their yearly family photo taken and then go about looking for that perfect card. I have always loved the cards that I get from friends and family. This year I heard that shutterfly is doing a fun promotion where we blog about our favorite cards on their site and get 50 for free. I have loved some of the ones that I have received from friends form this website. http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/holiday-cards

So, this year I have a great family picture and am now looking to get a neat card to match.

http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards

Looking at shutterfly's website I love the starlight joy card. I think it will look great with my picture. I also love With Love Chartreuse Christmas 5x7 folded card I think that it would be fun to show our family photo along with some individual photos. another card that I an looking at is the Classic Scarlet Frame Christmas 5x7 folded card, I love the simplicity of this card.
The image that I am using has an old feel to it. So, the Peace On Earth Religious Christmas 5x7 folded card could look really nice with it. It can be found in the holiday photo card area, http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationeryWell, those are some of the cards that I saw that I enjoyed. I guess you will have to wait and see what this years card is going to be.
Hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving.

Mickey's Halloween Party

2010-10-15T09:14:00.021-07:00

So, this year we decided to go to the Mickey's Halloween party in Disneyland. We had so much fun while we were there. We found new and fun places to eat, the decorations were so fun and the kids had a blast. We got to California on Sunday 10-10-10. That was our first day in the park. The kids were so excited to see the Giant Mickey pumpkin and all of the decorations that covered the park.

We at a one Character Breakfast two times. It was so fun. The kids enjoyed being able to just relax and meet some fun Characters.

Many of the Characters are in Costumes out in the front of the park. I thought that it would be fun to have Jared get his picture with a Disney version of what an officer of the law might look like.

One thing I noticed about this trip was there were lines, lines and more lines. But the kids were just happy to be in Disneyland again.

While in Disneyland we were able to hang out with my Aunt Jane, Uncle Scott and Cousin Jared. It was so fun just spending the day with them.

I should not be surprised that Lexi fell in Love with my Aunt Jane. Jane is so sweet and fun to be around. She and her son Jared are two peas in a pod. And Lexi adores both of them.

Here is a big group shot of all of us infront of the giant pumpkin. My parents, our little family, my Aunt Jane and Uncle Scott and Cousin Jared.

Minnie and Friends Breakfast in the Park at the Plaza Inn was fun. Like I said earlier we ate there twice this trip. One it was nice to beable to walk in the park and sit down for a meal with out waiting in a line and Two, the kids had a blast seeing the characters.

Logan wanted to make sure that he was in the picture for this Character. He is at that age where there are some he wants to see and others he could care less about.

You can not go to Disneyland during the fall and winter and not take time to see the amazing Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington. Sally is always at his side when the pose for pictures near the Haunted Mansion.

The Haunted Mansion is decorated all up in the Nightmare Before Christmas Style. It is so fun to see all the Nightmare stuff decorating the the Mansion. I loved the smell of the Giant Gingerbread house that sits on the table where the ghosts are having a party.

Jack is not only out during the day but if you go to the Halloween party he has a special spot to meet and greet people as well as he has a dance party right next door that we stops by to dance in every so often.

Here is Jack Skellington at the meet and greet.

Here is Jack Skellington at the Dace party. He is getting ready to teach us all a dance.

Here we are with Jack at the Meet and greet. Uncle Scott was Gus, My dad was Linguini with Remy on his shoulder, Logan was a Jedi, Lexi was Cinderella I was Snow White, Jane was the Fairy Godmother, My mom was Malificent and Jared was Prince Charming.

Here we are with Jack Skellington. Jared was a good sport about being Prince Charming to go along with Lexi's costume. Everyone thought that they looked so cute together. When we were over by the villians area Anastasia, Drizilla and Lady Tremanie started calling out for Jared. They Yelled "Prince Charming Yohoo!" When they got to Jared they were trying to get him to pick them over Lexi. It was very cute and Jared liked having the girls react to him that way.

All over the park they have these ghost Mickey Mouse lights and tricker treat stations and fog machines going. They have fun halloween music playing and they also have swirling fun shapes on the ground and on the building. The park also has a Halloween Parade and Fireworks show.

When entering the park, They give you only a really narrow walk way so that they can constantly check your braclets to make sure that you paid to be ther for the party. Then the line opens up and you are in the party. Well, as we were going through the line. Two workers had pointed out LExi and Jared then saw Logan and me and then heard me tell my mom and dad to hurry so we would not miss Jack's first show. A worker named Lorrie and Chris stopped me and said, "You are all one big family!" I smiled and nodded. The two workers looked at each other and then at us and said we have to have you in our show. We said that sounded like fun and that is how we got to be party of the Halloween Parade.

Here is the picture that they gave us as a Thank You for being in the parade. While we waited for the parade to start the dancers and the characters came up to the car to say hi and wave. Lexi was so excited to see all of them and Logan thought it was a blast to get to see what it looked like backstage. Logan was a ham. He loved waving at the crowd and smiling at people. Lexi could not decided what side of the car she wanted to wave from. When the parade was over Lexi turned to us and said," I am so working here when I am 18."

When the party started to winded down they had the fireworks show. I loved them. It was so amazing and fun to watch. I have to say, although the trip was fast and it was hard to meet up with many of the friends and family we were hoping to see I would have to say the trip was amazing!

Girls vs. Boys

2010-08-03T00:12:00.014-07:00

On my birthday, we left Disneyland to come home. But before we did we had arranged to split up. The girls would go and do something very girly while the boys did boy stuff.

The men dropped Lexi, my Mom and me off in front of the American Girl store.

Lexi thought that she had died and gone to Heaven. I have never seen a doll store like this. Before we left for California I knew that we were going to make this stop so I made lunch reservations and made sure that we brought Sophia with us to California. Here is Lexi with Sophia in front of the store itching to go in and look around. As soon as we walked in to the store we had to head up stairs to the restaurant for lunch. At the cafe they have little chairs so that your doll can sit next to you and they give each girl a hair tie that is wrapped around their napkins. While we eat there is a little china setting for your doll to pretend she is eating with you. At the table al little table conversation starters, Lexi had fun reading the questions to us and waiting to hear what we thought. When you get in the restaurant they as you what you would like to drink. They they bring you these wonderful bite sized sticky buns. After your drinks arrive they bring you some vegetables and little doll sized rolls to eat while you wait for your food. The food there is very good. For desert they bring you a cookie, a piece of cake and a chocolate moose flower pt for each of you. All in all the cafe was a neat little treat. After that we took Lexi to the Photo area where we had her picture taken and placed on an American Girl magazine. She thought that this was very neat.

Every where you look as you wonder around are doll displayed and in the clothes that they can wear and things for the dolls to hold. Lexi had a very hard time figuring out what she really wanted.Lanie is the doll of the Year. Lexi thinks that she is very neat. WHen she saw that you could get you picture taken at this spot she was very excited to have hers taken.With so much to see and look at Lexi had a blast. It was fun to share that time with her as she went from room to room. She looked at dolls and clothes and the hair styles you can do to them. For a store I had to say I was very impressed.

The Boys went to the LaBrea Tar pit while we were at the American Girl store. The two places are only a few blocks apart.

Jared, Logan and my Dad looked at the Tar and Dinosaur bones that were all over the park. Her they are in front of some of the bones that were found in the tar pits in LA. Logan liked looking at the exhibits and the different types of creatures that roamed the earth a long time ago. Logan told me he thought it was so much fun spending guy time. There were no girls wanting to shop which he loved. Here he is trying to pretend that he was scared by the saber tooth tiger. He was impressed that it was big and had very big teeth. All over the park were pits with tar. Logan thought that it was neat that as they walked in the park they almost stepped in tar a couple of times. After they were done with the tar pits they headed over to the Farmers Market where they had lunch and we met up with them to talk about our day. When they were done we started to head for home.

The kids had a great time at Disneyland and doing their own things. But we were all glad to be home though when we finally saw it around 10:30 that night.

Disneyland

2010-08-02T10:25:00.024-07:00

So, our trip to the Disneyland Resort lasted five days. This was a magical trip from start to finish. I guess I do not have to question then why between myself who took a little over 500 hundred pictures, the Photo pass people that took 75 and my Dad that took an additional 200, that we ended up with around 800 pictures. We got to the park on Sunday in the early afternoon, checked into the Paradise Pier hotel which we love to stay at. From there our Disneyland trip started up. Between shopping, shows, rides and a chance to chat with family the trip we fun and ended lasting the perfect amount of time. Here is just a sampling of the pictures that we took while at the park.

One of the days that we were at the park we decided to go to see the new show that is called the World of Color. I highly recommend it to anyone that is going to the park. I would also recommend buying the picnic lunch that you buy online. they give you a reusable bag, a full meal, plus a drink and for the kids they give them a light up wristband. With this meal you get to have passes to see the show, without standing in line for the fast passes. The meal was not great but well worth not standing inline for tickets for the show. We saw lots of characters while we were at the park. My favorite this year had to be Bert and Mary Poppins. While on this trip I was celebrating my Birthday. While in Disneyland I got a priceless treasure that as we speak is getting framed right now. Bert and Mary Poppins took Logan, Lexi and I for a ride on the Carousal in Fantasyland. We fluffed our hair and cleaned our clothes and waved at the people that Watched. Lexi thought this was wonderful. Just before we got on the ride Bert gave me a wonderful birthday present. A drawing of Mary Poppins, both he and Mary Poppins signed it.Personal, I think he did a wonderful job capturing Mary Poppins likeness. The Message that he wrote was, "Thank You for Our lovely Jolly Holiday on the Carousel! Love Mary Poppins and Bert"Logan's favorite things in the world are trains. Something that he and Walt Disney have in common. Every time we go to Disneyland Logan tries to get a ride in the engine with the train drivers. Here he is with the two men. They were both very sweet to him and told him lots of fun facts about the train. I am sure that Logan will want to come and work at Disneyland so he can drive the train.Both Lexi and Grandma loved going in to all of the shops. It did not matter what the store was both of them wanted to see what the next stores treasures held. Lexi loved trying on all of the different hats. She thought that the Dale hat was very funny. Grandma on the other hand really liked the Mad Hatter hat with hair included. I think that the hat looks great and every time I see this I get a good laugh out of the picture.Logan and Alexis might fight a great deal but they do love each other. When we were over at California Adventure I was able to get this cute shot of them. One of the many shows that we saw was the Jedi training. Logan got to be part of that show. He thought it was very neat to learn all the different moves. Then at the end Darth Vader and Darth Mal came out and fought with the kids. Here is Logan battling Darth Mal. At the end he got a certificate saying that he is now a Jedi knight. He thought that was very cool. Before we left he had to get a light saber so he could keep practicing his moves.Here is a shot of all six of us. We had just ridden the Toy Story Mania ride and the kids had won lots of prizes at the Midway Game Gallery. The kids had a blast.
While Logan was riding the train. I took Lexi to the Bippiti Boppiti Boutique. There you can get your daughters hair done and have them dressed up as a princess. We decided to just get her hair done. Lexi loves to have her hair and nails done. Here is a picture of her with her Fairy Godmother that helped her accomplish her wonderful hair style. Lexi wanted a picture of herself at the Princess area. So, here is a close up of her. She told me later that she felt like a princess. Which was the point of going there. Together the kids got to be in two shows. The first was the Celebrate parade. They thought it was great fun being pulled onto the street and dancing with the characters. The next show was one with Mary Poppins and Bert in front of the Castle. They sang and danced with Bert and Mary Poppins. One thing that I have noticed about Disneyland is that everything look new. Everywhere you look there is a special eye for detail. When you are at the park you can take a picture almost anywhere and it looks amazing. Lexi's Top five rides in Disneyland:

1. King Authur Carousel (She loves to ride it. Plus this trip was even more fun to ride it with Mary Poppins and Bert)

2. It's a Small World

3. The Mad Tea Party

4. Dumbo the Flying Elephant

5. The Many Adventure of Winnie the Pooh

Lexi's Top five ride in California adventure:

1. Jumpin' Jellyfish

2. Toy Story Mania!

3. Monsters Inc : Mike and Sully to the rescue

4. Flik's Flyers

5. Francis' Ladybug Boogie

Logan's top five rides at Disneyland:

1. Autotopia

2. Monorail

3. Gadget's Coaster

4. Casey Jr. Train

5. Disneyland Train

Logan's top five at California Adventure:

1. Toy Story Mania

2. Tuck and Roll's Drive ' Em Buggies

3. Heimlich's Chew Chew Train

4. Monster's Inc: Mike and Sully to the Rescue

5. Francis' Ladybug BoogieEvery day while we were in the park Lexi would grab one of our hands and try to drag us over the the balloons. She wanted one very badly. Finally on the last day we gave in and got her a Tinkerbell and Logan a Buzz Lightyear.Here is Logan and Lexi with Bert and Mary Poppins after there ride on the carousel. They had a wonderful time. While in Toon Town you have to act a little goofy. Which is Logan's favorite character. Here is Logan pulling on the dumb bells. Lexi then of course had to try for herself. Which then lead to the two of them trying to out do each other with posing in front of all kinds of stuff in Toon Town. Logan thought that the door was very funny. Another show that we saw was the Playhouse Disney show. It was very cute and the kids had a blast seeing the characters on stage. Stitch was very cute to both kids after the Playhouse Disney show.Logan thought the Green Army Men were neat and Lexi just wanted to see Jessie and Woody. The Bug's Life area in California Adventure is a hoot. Everything there helps you to feel like you have shrunk to bug size. The kids had a blast running around in there. The day that we celebrated my birthday we took the kids to the PCH Grill for breakfast. The kids had a blast and Logan thought that it was funny that Stitch kept wanting to take my presents. That night we got to met up with my Aunt and my cousin Breanne, her little family and Jared. It was great to eat dinner with them and hang out in the room and visit for awhile.

So, that was our magical trip to the Disneyland Resort.

Sea Life Aquarium

2010-08-01T15:48:00.007-07:00

The Sea Life Aquarium opened up this summer in Tempe. The kids were very excited to go. The Aquarium is inside the mall and it is a cool place to go in the summer heat. When we went we also took Jared's sister and her to kids with us. There are lots of fun fish to see the kids loved looking at the star fish, sharks and playing in the playground at the end.

Logan giving his seal of approval that the Sea Life Aquarium is great.Logan is pretending that the Giant crab is attacking him. He was having a blast.There were lots of games to play as you walked around the aquarium. Here is Lexi goofing around with one of them.Logan, Lexi and Jared smiling for a picture. Lexi and a Manata Ray that stopped by her to get his picture taken. There were all kinds of domes that the kids could stick their heads in the kids thought that it was great. They loved it because it was away for them to get close to the fish. Even Brandon thought the domes were cool.Here are all of the kids that came with us to the aquarium. Ryan, Lexi, Brandon and Logan.At the end of the aquarium Ryan finally let me get a good picture of him. Logan and Lexi posed for one last picture before we left the aquarium.

I would say that the aquarium is a very fun place to go. Since our first trip we have been about five other times. I would recommend going to anyone with kids. Walking thru the tube with the sharks and fish swimming around is pretty neat.

lake fun

2010-08-01T15:17:00.007-07:00

Terry and Curt have a boat at Lake Bartlett. They ask us to come out on the boat to ride every once an awhile. This trip took place for Logan's birthday. Logan loves to ride on the boat. He loves to jump in the water and swim in the lake he is just not big on riding the rafts or trying to wake board. Here are some of the pictures that I took while we were out on the lake.

Here is Chase wake boarding. He is really good at it. He can jump the wake completely and do flips. The kids love to cheer him on.Jennifer and Blake hanging out on the boat as we are heading off to the next great spot to swim. Lexi loves everything about the lake. She loves to get on the raft and stand up waving her arms. She loves to go fast. She has also been on the knee board. She enjoys that a lot.But the thing that my kids love the most about being on the boat is just getting to spend time with their cousins.

A Fallen Officer

2010-06-02T20:24:00.002-07:00

Today I accompanied Jared and his fellow officers from his squad to a Phoenix Officer's funeral.

Officer Travis P. Murphy was shot and killed when he confronted a suspect who had fled the scene of a shots fired call earlier in the night, on May 26th, 2010.

The funeral for the officer was held in Peoria. There were over 3000 police officers, family and friends that were in attendance at the Christ Church of the valley today.

As a wife of an officer there is nothing more awe inspiring as seeing all of these officers come to support the family that Officer Murphy left behind. All of the officers came in their Dress uniforms.

Officer Murphy's wife and Mother and best friends spoke fondly about him. Sharing with us his love of cooking, golf, his humor and his love of family. The funeral was quiet nice.

Once over all of the officers drove to the grave side to show their last respects, in their police cars. I can not tell you how amazing it is too see police car after police car in a single file line with their lights on driving to the grave side. It is a sight that I will never forget. Looking out the window I could see people pulled over to the side of the road, or freeway, standing on over passes waving the American flag. Little children held signs that told the officers thanks. And many people held their hands over their hearts.

To see some wonderful images from the funeral you can click on this link.

http://www.azcentral.com/commphotos/azcentral/14995/29/

Our hearts and Prayers go out to his family while the deal with the loss of a loved one.

You should be an Artist

2010-05-21T20:58:00.003-07:00

So, you might be wondering why there is a drawing of Tiana from "The Princess and the Frog". Well, Lexi has been under the weather for the past few days. She got into something that she is allergic to. So she is covered head to toe in hives. I have had to keep her medicated. This has made her very tired. I took her to the doctor on Thursday just to make sure that she did not have something else. He confirmed that she just had a bad case of hives.

After the doctor I had to run a few errands. I stopped at Costco to get a few things for dinner. While we were there we got a movie which we have watched nonstop. We also got some easy reader books which I have heard over and over. The last item I got was a collection of Walter Foster Learn to draw disney characters. The collection that we got has little mermaid, Princesses, The Princess and the Frog, Tinker bell, mickey mouse and Winnie the pooh.

Once we got home Lexi got every piece of white paper she could find and started to try to follow the instructions. Once she noticed that it did not look just like the picture she was not happy. I told her to try to trace the pictures and then color it. Well, that would just not do. She asked me if I knew how to draw. I said I did. And for the last few days that is what I have been doing. She has been coloring my pictures that I draw.

Tonight, I was working on many different things. I am trying to help Logan with a book report. and Lexi would not let up on the drawings after making three other drawings in different stages so she could do some of the drawing. I started to draw this picture. I got so wrapped up in what I was doing with Logan that I did not realize that I had colored in the picture and everything.

Lexi came over to see if I was done yet with my picture. She looked down at the drawing and said, " WOW mom! You should be an artist. The picture looks like it is 3D and came right out of the movie." After asking me to put it on the internet and show everyone she smiled at me and said ,"I think that I will be an artist when I grow up. So now you have to teach me!"

I just have to laugh as she is telling me what my teaching her art classes schedule will be. Everyday, for an hour and two hours on Saturday. Oh, and I can not forget to help her during sacrament meeting, because all we do is sit there anyway.

Man I love my kids!!!

GRADUATION

2010-05-10T08:21:00.003-07:00

It is that time of year. Students all over the United States are anxiously awaiting the day that they get to put on their caps and gowns. There are two people that I am happy to say are going to graduate.

McKenzie is the first to graduate. She is graduating from ASU. It seems like yesterday I was going to her High School Graduation and now I am going to her College graduation. McKenzie has worked very hard to accomplish her goals and we are very proud of her. So, on Friday I will head down to my old stomping grounds and watch her graduate from ASU. I am very excited for her.

CONGRATULATIONS MCKENZIE!!!!

We are very Proud of you!!

Congratulations Tyler!!

2010-05-07T20:18:00.004-07:00

At the end of this month my nephew Tyler graduates from High School. For each of my Nieces and Nephews I have made a graduation DVD for them as a keepsake. This is the video that I made for Tyler.
I want to publicly tell Tyler how proud I am of him. He is a very Smart and caring young man. I feel that I am very fortunate to be able to not only call him friend but say that he is part of my family. He is a great example to those around him. My children adore him and Jared and I think his a wonderful young man.
Tyler- We love you very Much!!! Congratulations!!

A Great Husband

2010-04-25T18:49:00.001-07:00

Jared is not just my husband but he is my best friend. He puts up with a lot from me. I love him a great deal. I make sure to tell him atleast once a day. While I was having my treatment he stood by me. He rubbed my back when I was sick. He kissed away my tears when I was hurting and picked me up when I could not stand on my own. And now he stands by an holds my hand when I go in and get these shots for the cancer study. I just wanted to let everyone know how special he is. He just had another birthday and wanted to share with everyone how special he is.

Photography

2010-03-08T11:41:00.003-07:00

So I started Taking pictures again. Here is a sampling of them. Enjoy!

Mary Poppins

2010-02-12T09:34:00.005-07:00

Last Night Jared and I went to see Mary Poppins at ASU Gammage. We went with his sisters, parents and his brother and his wife. The musical put a fun and new spin to the beloved Disney movie "Mary Poppins". There are some familiar songs and many new ones to enjoy. "Supercalifragilisticexpialdious" was reinvented and is not only a fun number to listen to but the cast preformed a fun dance to it. That leaves the audience wanting to learn it. And the song "Step In Time" was amazing on the stage. The character Burt preforms a very magical dance that one is surely not to forget. I would highly recommend this musical to anyone. Kids will love it and parents will enjoy it as well. You will leave Gammage with a big smile on your face. I know that Jared and I were smiling all the way back home.
Brit

Saving Second Base

2010-02-09T21:49:00.003-07:00

I should start off by saying I am grateful to the staff at the Mayo Clinic. They might make me crazy sometimes but they did save my life.

Going to the Mayo Clinic is not ( I repeat, it is NOT) like going to the regular doctors office. First I have to take an hour long trek to get to the Mayo Clinic. I have no idea why they think it is perfectly OK to say to a woman with two kids that do not start school until 8:45 am, Hey Mrs. Smart you have a 9 am appointment. Make sure you are there 15 min early to check in. My usual response is "???OK???". So I have to beg my parents or ask people in the neighborhood to help me out with my two so happy to be awake in the morning kids. When I arrive at the Mayo I have to drive into an underground parking lot that is dark and gets no cell reception. So as I go down to parking level 2, because parking level one is full of Cadillacs, my phone is chirping at me that it is not happy to be brought to this particular place. After parking my car I walk over to the elevators that are in the middle of the parking structure. I climb into the elevator and ride up to the Concourse level. It is from here that I exit and walk past an old lady that looks like she was born during the civil war playing the piano. I glance around and realize that I have entered an old age home. Walking with me to the set of elevators that takes me to any one of the four floors of the mayo is a little old lady with an air tank and she is pushing a wheel chair with another little old lady with an air tank. I blink in surprise, smile and turn my head think this can not be happening.

Go to any floor at the mayo and there will be a check in line set up and clusters of neatly lined chairs on either side of the the six to nine window check in counter. They smile and call me up. I tell them why I am there, who I am seeing and hand them the Schedule that they have sent me in the mail. They smile up at me, take the papers, nod, type in the computer, nod, look at my papers, nod and once more type on the computer. They then sign next to my appointment and wave me to the side of the room that they want me to sit at and wait my turn to be called back.

Turning around I notice that once again I am the youngest patient there. I smile at my fellow mayo patrons and find a place to sit. This is where the waiting begins. You read, play on the ipod, listen to the ipod, go to the bathroom, take a nap, stretch your legs, listen to the people talking on the cell phones that should not be using them as they try with little to no hope of ever hearing the person of the other end of the phone because there hearing ad just does not turn up that high.

Finally when my butt is asleep and I have finished my 230 page book that I started when I sat down my name is called. I stand up and walk over to the nurse that is holding my chart. She smiles and says "name and date of birth." To which I smile and give her the answers which is inquiring from me. We walk back to a scale, I am measured, weighed and given a blood pressure test. Now I know that this is standard for all doctors visits the height, weight and blood pressure, but I have to have it done for every doctor that I see. So if I see three doctors then I do this drill three times. One would think well there is no way that my height weight and blood pressure can change that much in one day. But I guess it can.

It is from here I am asked to follow her into a room. Where she hands me a gown and I am told that I am to change into it behind the curtain in the corner of the room. Make sure to have the opening in the from and only take everything off from the waist up. She smiles at me and I smile at her and she leaves. IT is from here that the second lets wait game plays. I talk to who ever has gone with me to this appointment or read, look at magazines that are from 2001. Then FINALLY the doctor comes takes about 30 mins to talk with us and then. IT is off to the next appointment.

I tell you this run down so you get the full understanding of the inner workings of the Mayo before we continue on the the meat of this blog.

On January 15th, I took my hour long trip into town to go to the Mayo Clinic for my Cancer screen test. It is a test that makes sure that you no longer have cancer. They take your blood check your bones and pat you on the back telling you they will get back to you with the results. So, I check in at the lower level I am asked to given them a veil of blood and then and to head over to the other side of the room for my bone scan. when that is done Jared and I leave. Having arrived at the mayo at 10am and leaving at 12pm. I now have to wait once again.

After a week long of biting my nails, pacing the floors and wondering what the doctors are going to see when they see my results, the day finally came for me to go back. So, Jared and I drove back to the mayo. We do the standard drill of waiting. waiting in the waiting room, now I see where it gets its name and then waiting it the patients room. When My Oncologist comes in he informs me that everything looks great!! He is so pleased from me. That I have the bones of a teenage. And the works that I have been Dying to hear "We found NO signs of Cancer." I swear it was like Haleigh!!Angles singing and the birds chirping.

He then talks to me about a study that they are doing. The Mayo is hoping that they have figured out a vaccine for breast cancer. I say that is so great. What does this have to do with me. He in forms me that I am a perfect match for the study. They could learn so much from me because my tumor was gone after the chemo treatment. He also tells me this study they hope will bring them one step closer to the cure. In this study once a month I will come in and they will run a bunch of blood test and scans and then I go back the next day and they put the protein that they know is found in breast cancer back into my body and hope that my body learns to attack it. He also tells me that this study will be a good way to make sure that my cancer does not come back.

So, the study last for six months. That means twelve trips to the mayo. BOY! OH BOY!!! After all the tests are done then they will check me every six months for the next two years. Which is good because that will mean that I will keep me that much closer to them until my five year mark and then I will not need to go back. I will be officially cured of my breast cancer.

There is my major part that I am doing to save second base, saving the tatas and just trying to make sure that no one else has to deal with breast cancer ever again.

Because you know what?...... cancer sucks!

Brit

Halloween Fun!

2009-11-07T14:01:00.003-07:00

The kids Halloween costumes this year were once again picked out by my kids. Logan was a GI JOE Ninja and Lexi was the girl from Camp Rock.
For our Halloween fun this year, we went to two trunk or treats and then went out on Halloween as well. Our Halloween fun started on Thursday night going to the Church's trunk or treat. The kids had a lot of fun and Lexi brought her friend from down the street. On Friday we went over to Jared's Parent's house for more trunk or treating fun with their ward. Their ward had everyone decorate their cars and then have chili and hot dogs for dinner. Each family was to bring a pot of chili or homemade corn bread. The kids had fun going with their cousins around to the different cars for candy.
On Halloween the Jared and I along with the kids went over to Jared's parents house for some pumpkin carving and a birthday party for Lexi. When that fun was all over with we picked up a pizza shaped like a jack o lantern from Pappa Murphy's. The pizza was really good. Then when dinner was done the kids and I walked around the neighborhood trick or treating. All in all I think Halloween was really fun for the kids this year.

Picture Day!

2009-10-23T22:33:00.003-07:00

So, it is that time of year again. PICTURE DAY!!! Making sure that the hair cut is just so. The smiles must be just right and the clothes can not clash with the background. This year the school photographer told Logan not to show his teeth. I think he looks nice but not that happy. When I called the company that took the photos they said they were asking all the boys to smile like this.

Lexi is such a ham in front of the camera. She loves picture day and loves to look just right in her picture.

So all in all. I think the pictures turned out really quiet cute. But more imortantly the kids liked how they looked.

Piano

2009-10-23T04:03:00.006-07:00

Logan and Lexi have been asking to learn a musical instrument. But what kind of an instrument would be good. As a child I played the piano and I played the bass. Jared took piano lessons for a little while as well. Jared's mom offered to give the kids piano lessons on the condition that they practice. So, piano it is. But where to find a piano that won't cost us a lot.
Well, we had heard of a coworker of Jared's selling a piano of his. It was a reasonable price so we decided to get it. We knew that the piano needed a little bit of work but we were willing to put in the man hours. The picture below shows the piano before we worked on it. I guess that I should mention that the piano is a Krakauer Bros. piano.

It took Jared about two days from start to finish to make the piano really shine. I think that he did a wonderful job on making the piano look almost like new. We decided to spray paint it black. Jared added new felt on the wood where the keys and wood meet. This picture shows how great it looks now. If you ask me it doesn't even look like the same piano.

In the process of getting this diamond in the rough piano. We had asked Jared's parents to put our name in a drawing for his Grandmother's piano. We in our wildest dreams did not think that we were going to win it. Well, as Luck should have it we got the piano.

The piano is a 1909 Hoffman upright piano. The neat thing about this piano is that it belong to Jared's Grandmother Smart. It also has a piano bench that has been needled pointed by his Grandmother.

This piano needs a little bit of TLC. But I think in the end we are very lucky to have it in our home. When I am feeling up to it, I will be rearranging the family room to put the piano in its permanent place.

If you were to come over to our house right now you would walk in the front door and seen the black piano, Grandma Smart Piano right next to it, then the couch and then you would see the antique pump organ. I feel like the house looks like a piano shop. But it is all good.

As for the other piano, Jared and I are going to be selling it. So, if you know of anyone looking for a piano let me know. I will be putting it on Craig's list soon.

Teenagers can be a BLAST!

2009-09-22T09:28:00.007-07:00

Logan and Lexi are not teenagers yet. Although I think that Lexi would like to disagree with that. My brother and sister both have, in my opinion some pretty great teenagers and young adults. Each of them brings something fun and exciting to all of the family events.

Chase is the oldest of the grandchildren. He served a mission in Ukraine. He is a fun loving guy that enjoys being around family and friends. It does not matter who you are you feel pretty special when you are around him. As an added plus he has a pretty good sense of humor. He is great a sports, he shines when he is doing anything physical.
(sorry mom that you look bad in the picture but is too funny not to show off.)
The next oldest grandchild is McKenzie. And too soon for me to admit she will no longer be a YSA she will be married. McKenzie is like Chase in the way that she loves to be with family. She loves to listen to what people are up to. She has an amazing voice that she gets from her mom. She along with all of the women in this family LOVES shoes.

Tyler is next in line and an all around entertaining guy to be with. If you ever need a good laugh you can turn to Tyler. He knows the line to just about every movie and quotes them quiet frequently. My kids think he is super funny.

Here is a video that he did that just makes me laugh every time I watch it. Tyler made it for his Spanish class.

And at this point the last teenager is Paige. Paige is very creative. I know that if I have a artistic question on what looks good with what or what is in style right now, Paige can tell me that. She adores Lexi and Lexi think that all the attention she gets is wonderful. Paige is very loving and I enjoy being with her on a one to one. It is at those times where Paige shines.

As I look at the rest of the kids on my side of the family, Cole and Blake are right at the tween age. There are excited for scouting and enjoying the actives of those fun years. I can not wait to see what they will be like.

On Jared's side of the family there is only one teenager, Joshua. He is a very funny guy. He loves to sing and make up stories. He enjoys watching the discover channel which has been very educational for Logan. For instance, the other night Logan and my dad were hanging out and Logan turns to my dad and says, "Grandpa I have something I want to tell you." My dad asks him what it is. and Logan replies, " Do you want to know how sheep are born? Never mind Grandpa it is too gross. ..... Ok I will tell you anyway They just poop them out Grandpa. Poop them Out!!!" My dad asks where he learned this. Logan informs him that on Sundays he watches the Discover channel with Joshua.

All of these YSA and Teenagers have been great examples to my kids. I love each and everyone of them.

VEGAS BABY!!!!

2009-09-12T16:47:00.003-07:00

So, on Labor Day Jared and went to Vegas for a little get away. We went with another couple and had a blast. The casino that we stayed at was the Monte Carlo. The rooms were nice. We were on the eleventh floor and had a great view of the pool.
Our first day in Vegas was on Monday. We arrived at the Monte Carlo around noon and checked in. I unpacked our bags and from there we went over to the Mirage for Lunch. There is a great hamburger place that is call the BLT. Unfortunately the grill was done so we thought that we would go to the deli that was right next door that we heard was wonderful from my parents , but the wait was and hour long wait. So, instead we went to the Diablo that was at our Casino. The food was good not great. After that we walked up the strip to the Venetian to go and pick up our tickets. Instead of walking the very long hot walk back we took the monorail that runs up and down the strip. When we got back we all cleaned up and then went back out to a great Japanese restaurant.
The next day we went out shopping and just checking things out. Then it was time to head to the Venetian to go and see the Phantom of the Opera.

I can not even begin to explain how excited I was to see this show. To start off the casino is amazing to look at. The theater is modeled after the 1858 French Opera house. That is where the Phantom of the Opera is suppose to take place. When we went to take our seats , we lucked out and were offered sixth row up from the stage and center. The seats were great.

The Phantom and Christine had amazing voices. These are the actor and actress that we saw on Tuesday night.

Because this is not a touring show. There are things that are very different. Lot # 666 or the chandelier actually gets put back together as it is going up into the ceiling. and as the show is going on it shakes when the Phantom is angry. There is also a part where the Phantom hangs from the Chandelier over the audiences head. And when the Chandelier falls it comes straight down stopping a foot above the audiences heads.

Also the neat thing about the theatre is that the side are fahioned after the opera house and they have people sitting in the boxes. The entire thing was just amazing.

All in all the trip was amazing. It was so nice to get away and spend sometime with Jared.

First Day of School!

2009-09-12T14:05:00.003-07:00

So, it is that time of year again. The time when kids go to school and mommy's get to get their work done and have fun. I still can not believe that I have two kids in school. Logan will be starting the forth grade. He is not stating where or not he is excited. He did like getting a new shirt to wear on the first day and getting a new backpack.
Lexi is starting the first grade this year. She is sad about leaving her old school. I on the other hand could not be any more excited than I am. No more uniforms, driving to separate schools, and to top it off Lexi rides the bus with Logan. My favorite part of this school year.

It seems like only yesterday they were both at home with me. WOW, time sure flies by.

Utah Fun!!

2009-09-12T14:04:00.004-07:00

So, our BIG family vacation this year was going to Utah to have the Hansen Family reunion. While we were there we also were able to see almost the entire Latey Family as well. Jared, the kids and I stayed with my Aunt Margret and Uncle Butch. It was so nice of them to take us in like that. Our Utah trip went way to fast. We were able to visit the Gateway mall, University of Utah hospital, the Conference Center, Church Museum, Gardener's Village, experience Ifly, This is the Place and many more exciting places.
The Hansen Reunion was a Blast. It was so good to see old and new faces. There was games, visiting, food and fun. The slide show only shows a glimse of our fun time in Utah.

From Utah we headed down to Vegas where we stayed with Jared's brother Criag and his family. The first night there we went to a buffet that was at the Mandaly Bay that was really good. The next night Jared, my parents and I went to see LOVE at the Mirage.

If you have never seen a cirque de sole show in person I would highly recommend going to at least one. Love was just amazing. The music was from the Beatles. The costumes the stage everything about the show was breath taking. I loved "LOVE"! When our trip was done I was sad to see us heading home.

Happy Fathers Day!!!

2009-06-20T23:35:00.005-07:00

I truly love my dad!!! He is my greatest supporter. He stood next to me while I struggled with cancer and when I felt sick and wanted to just sleep, he held my hand and kept me going. Everyone that meets him finds out that he is smart, funny and one of the kindest people that are out there. On this father's day I just wanted to publicly thank my dad for always being there for me and my little family.
The next dad that I want to give a shout out to on Father's Day. Is my husband, Jared.

I know that he cares a great deal for our family and works very hard to provide for us. He tries very hard to find time to play with the kids and spend time with me. He too was there standing next to me while I was battling cancer. And he stands next to me now as one of my best friends.

My father in law is the last dad that I would like to recognize this Father's Day.

Okay first off sorry about the bad picture. But he loves horses and spending time with them. He encourages the kids to learn how to take care of and ride them. He is fun to be with and a really great guy.

To these three Dads I say thanks for being there for me. You all are wonderful!!!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!!!!!!!!!

Lake Bartlett

2009-06-02T23:17:00.002-07:00

Going to Lake Bartlett has to be one of my favorite things to do with my family. While we are out on the boat, everyone is happy and having a good time. We always go on Memorial Day. It is a blast And we enjoy the boat. This year McKenzie brought her boyfriend David on the boat with us. Here are the pictures from the fun day that we had. Thanks again for the fun day Terry and Curt!!!

Elmer B. Smart

2009-05-25T00:41:00.005-07:00

Elmer B. Smart "A True Gentleman" Elmer B. Smart, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away at his home May 11, 2009 after overseeing the planting of his vegetable garden; his last labor of love for his family.Born November 24, 1919 in Union, Utah to Franklin Arley and Harriett Flowers Smart. He grew up on the family farm where he learned the principle of hard work and his love for the creations of his Heavenly Father. He graduated from Jordan High School in 1937. He served an LDS mission to the Eastern States, and later with his wife in the Riverside, California mission. He married his childhood sweetheart Marian Holt on June 16, 1941 in the Salt Lake Temple. He served faithfully in the LDS church his entire life. He held many callings including Bishop. He especially enjoyed 15 wonderful years serving with his wife as ordinance workers at the Jordan River Temple. He loved farming, gardening and was an expert horseman, riding his horses well into his 80's. He enjoyed bowling in his later years and was adored as the permanent substitute on an all-women's bowling league. We will truly miss his kind disposition and his thoughtful words of wisdom. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years; his eight children and spouses, Phil (Debbie), Glen (Carol), Neil (Shawna), Gloria (Steve) Allen, Ray (Sherri), Eileen (Mikel) Christensen, David (Brenda), Susan (Mike) Whittenburg; 38 grandchildren, 73 great-grandchildren, one great- great-granddaughter. Preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Frank, Ralph and Irvin Smart; his sisters, Ethel Simmons, and Martha Sheppick; daughter-in-law, Janis Smart; and grandson, Glen Weston Smart. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 15, 2009 at 12 Noon, at the Sandy Utah Midvalley Stake Center, 1106 East 8055 South, Sandy. Friends may call at Goff Mortuary, 8090 South State, Midvale from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, May 14, 2009 or Friday at the Church from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Interment at Larkin's Sunset Gardens. The family would like to thank all those who have helped with the tender care of our dear father and mother.

Life goes way to fast!!!

2009-04-06T12:03:00.002-07:00

I can not believe that life is moving so quickly. It seems like just yesterday I was told I had breast cancer and I thought how in the world I am going to deal with that to being done with chemo and then on to having my major surgery and now I am getting ready to have my last surgery.
That is just me as for the kids I can not believe how fast they are growing up. Logan received his Wolf merit badge and only has 37 days left of school. Logan did so much better this year than last at the Pine Wood Derby. Once again I am proud to report he was the best sport out there. As for Lexi she is finishing her kindergarden year. I can not believe that she is in school. Lexi can not wait for the summer and the fun that we will all have. Plus, she can not wait to go to a school that does not have uniforms.
Jared took his class on rifle training and did really good at it. Not that I am surprised. He is really good at all of that kind of stuff.
So, that is our life fun fast pace and excited to what may be waiting just around the corner.

What is a CCW anyway?!?

2009-03-24T00:09:00.002-07:00

So, a few months ago a friend of mine told me that she wanted to get her CCW. (Conceled Carry Weapon )I had heard of Jared talking about what a great idea this was for me to do as well. I was able to brush it off with a that really doesn't sound like me but thanks anyway.

Then Jared comes to me and says "Brit my boss is having a CCW class and I want you to take it." I reply to his request with, "How much is the class?" He smiles thinking that I am going to instantly agree ( he is so cute that way) and says, " Well the class is really $100 dollars but you get to take the class for $50. He is dropping the price for friends and fellow officer's wives." I nod my head and then ask, "Can I just have the money and spend it at the Tiffany store?" He shook his head and said "NO!" Being that Jared hates to lose he tries again. "There are going to be a couple of other wives from the squad. I think that you will love to Hang out with them."

Right there is what I think Jared thought his winning argument was. I really do not think he has ever taken a full day, all day class ever. You really can not talk to anyone except for break time and then it is only 15 min.

If you have not already guessed, I decided I would take the class. Not that I really want to be carrying around a gun. I really do not see myself as the type. But to really get myself more aware of the gun laws that are in place.

I have to say Jason is a good teacher. I learned a great deal. I passed my test with flying colors. And I even qualified with a gun. Does this mean I like to go shooting, hunting and camping? ...... NO! I still would rather go shopping but I am way more comfortable with a gun. So that is what I have been up to.

Sadie

2009-02-22T00:47:00.003-07:00

So, I am cancer free. But the kids were not buying it. We promised them when I was healthy and my treatment was all over we would get a new pet. While we went through chemo and sitting in the hospital I researched dogs. I thought that I wanted us to get a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. But Jared was not so sure. So, I looked at multipoo, maltese and Cavaliers. I bought books and magazines I looked up all kinds of information I could on every breed. I decided that the Cavalier was what we were looking for. We wanted a dog that was calm that enjoyed just being with us. I wanted a dog that did not bark a lot and I also wanted a dog that enjoyed to just sit around and be with us. One day Jared and I went to go look at a breeder that had a bunch of puppies that were for sale. They were three weeks old. Jared and I thought they were okay. Sitting in a corner was a tri color Calvalier girl that was sweet and had not barked the entire time we had been in the house. The breeder told us that if we were interested that we could look at a 10 week old Cavalier that was a little girl that came from this tri. She brought out Sadie. We fell in love with her at once. We decided to get her. She never barks, she loves to just sit in our laps she has not had a single accident. She is a perfect little lady. The picture above is our little lady Sadie.

I saw this thought it was fitting

2009-02-14T13:19:00.002-07:00

After all this boring cancer stuff. I thought that this shows a great way for us to celebrate me not having cancer anymore. Enjoy the video.

Short and to the Point!

2009-02-14T13:04:00.003-07:00

OK! So, the surgery went great!
I am SOOOOOOOO sore.

I walk like an old lady. Very funny to watch.

I am happy to report that I am officially CANCER FREE!!!!! That is super neat. And I can not believe that on Monday I will have been done with treatment for three weeks. I love you all. Hope that everyone is doing great!

The Day has finally come.

2009-01-25T12:25:00.002-07:00

So, yesturday my Aunt Kathy came to stay with us. She is going to help take care of my kids. They are so excited to have her here. It is really cute to watch how they interact with her. It is nice to know that the kids feel so comfortable around her.
My surgery is tomorrow. I can not explain the feelings that I am feeling. I am scared, tired and excited all at the same time. I know that the surgery is going to go on with out a hitch. I am just scared about the idea of going and having it and being in pain later. Not to thrilled with that idea.So, for the next 5 to 7 days my home will be in the Mayo hospital. I wanted to let all of you know how much your prayers and words of encouragement have ment to me. I can not being to thank all of you for your wonderful words and notes and prayers.
I hope I will be able to post something in here right away so that all of you will know how I am doing.

What I was suppose to be doing today!

2009-01-06T14:44:00.004-07:00

What I was suppose to be doing today was have my bilateral surgery and reconstruction DIEP Flap done. What am I doing instead... I am blogging. How could this be so you might be wondering. Well, yesterday I went in to see the plastic surgeon and she told me that the other doctor that works with her my Surgical Oncologist threw his back out and has a herniated disk and his left side was numb so he was have emergency surgery on his back at noon yesterday. I hope that all goes well for him, but that leaves me in a lerch.

As that I do not drink liquor I decided to go and eat what I wanted for lunch and not worry what the doctors are going to say. Because I mean really what are they going to do to me cancel my surgery for a few weeks.... that already happened. So, I went to Cheese Cake Factory and had a Cobb salad ( so good!!!! I have not had a salad from a restaurant in weeks!)and I also had a Godiva cheese cake slice. Let me just say if you love chocolate and you love cheese cake go and get yourself a slice of that from the Cheese Cake Factory.
So GOOD!!!!!

I will try to keep everyone posted on when I am going to go into surgery. That might happen on the 26th of January it might be sooner. Thanks again to everyone that has given their support to me. It means the world to me.

Christmas 2008

2009-01-04T05:55:00.004-07:00

The Christmas Season this year started off with rain, rain and then more rain. And although I love it when it rains, this year I could have done without so much rain. It rained so hard that we had to bring in our five big blowups that we have in our front yard and dry them off because they were so full of water. The kids thought it was so cool to have them in the garage for four days as they dried out.

Jared's family celebrated Christmas on December the 20th. There were a few people missing. Scott was at the party via the way of a long distance cell phone call, Blair was in Nevada on a big job that had to be done, and Stephanie and the girls were still in Demoni. Other than that Everyone else was here. The kids played hard, did crafts, rode horses and played the wii. We had our Christmas program with another family this year that had lost their home due to the way the job market is right now. The family was very nice. They joined us for dinner, caroling, FHE, presents and a visit from Santa. It was really neat to see everyone, and the kids had a blast playing with their cousins.

This year I was in charge of Christmas Eve. The theme was "Coming Home". I came up with this idea because it was Chase's first year back from his mission. Jared's parents came as well as Amber and Chad's little family. We had a great time. Everyone preformed a skit. Jared and I made a music video of all of Logan and Lexi's visits with Santa to the song "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" Sung by Bruce Springsteen.Terry's family did a skit on what each of their family's favorite thing to to at Christmas time was done to the music "Tradition" from Fiddler on the Roof. Greg and Jennifer's family sang about mom's Christmas cookies and what their favorite ones were to the Song "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies" from the Nutcracker Ballet. And Amber's family talked about what they like to have for breakfast on Christmas morning. For dinner we had Prime Rib and cheese potatoes,green beans and cranberry jello. We had a special visit from Santa, and the kids put on the nativity. Here are some pictures from the evening.

We had Christmas at my parents house and the kids had a great time. Logan got a ipod shuffle in green that he loves, amoung other toys. Lexi got a cat that looks and moves like it is real, it is her favorite present that she got this year. Jared got a ipod nano and a razor that are tide for his favorite gifts. I got a Tiffany mesh ring that I love. I also got my Nikon digital camera early that has been so fun to play with. As a family, Jared and I bought the kids a wii with a bunch of wii games. But the kids think that Santa gave it to them not us. So, that was our Christmas!

Rocky Racoon

2008-12-26T20:30:00.007-07:00

Rocky Racoon

Okay, so McKenzie tagged me to do this fun little itune game. The hardest part of this was thinking of people that I knew that had mp3 players. Most of my friends for some reason do not own a ipod or an mp3 player. I myself do not know how I would live without mine. It has gotten me threw chemo, long car rides, and tuning out my kids when needed. I have to laugh at the answers that my ipod came up with for the questions.

THE RULES!!
1. Put Your iTunes on Shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. You must write down the name of the song no matter how silly it sounds!
4. Put any comments in brackets after the song name.
5. Tag at least 10 friends.
6. Anyone tagged has to do the same, because fun pointlessness spreads like a virus.

THE ANSWERS!!!
If someone says, “Is this okay?” You say?

Only Hope - Mandy Moore "A Walk Remembered"

How would you describe yourself?

Ready, Set, Don't Go! - Billy Ray Cyrus featuring Myle Cyrus "Home at Last"

What do you like in a guy/girl?

Everyday I write The Book- Evlis Castello "The Wedding Singer"

How do you feel today?

Never Enough -Five Finger Death Punch "The Way of The Fist"

What is your life’s purpose?

Herculean- The Good, The Bad and The Queen "The Good, The Bad and The Queen"

What is your motto?

Vindicated- Dashboard Confessional "Dusk and Summer"

What do your friends think of you?

Welcome - Christina Aguilera "Back to Basics"

What do you think of your parents?

It's Not My Time - 3 Doors Down " 3 Doors Down"

What do you think about very often?

Should've Said No - Taylor Swift "Taylor Swift"

What is 2 + 2?

Relax, Take It Easy - Mika " Life in Cartoon Motion"

What do you think of your best friend?

DOA - Foo Fighter " In Your Honor

What do you think of the person you like?

Why Don't We Do It In The Road? - The Beatles "The White Album"

What is your life story?

Rescued - Jack's Mannequin "Everything In Transit"

What do you want to be when you grow up?

The Great Wall of China - Billy Joel " River of Dreams"

What do you think of when you see the person you like?

Cowboy - Kid Rock " Devil Without a Cause"

What will you dance to at your wedding?

Undone- The Sweater Song - Weezer "Weezer"

What will you dance to at your wedding?

All About Soul - Billy Joel "River of Dreams"

What will they play at your funeral?

Breaking the Habit- Linkin Park "Meteora"

What is your hobby/interest?

Clair de Lune - The APM Orchestra "Twilight Original Movie Soundtrack"

What is your biggest fear?

The Right Man - Christina Aguilera "Back to Basics"

What is your biggest secret?

The Reason - Hoobastank " The Reason

What do you think of your friends?

Got Me Going Crazy - Jonas Brothers " A Little Bit Longer"

What will you post this as?

Rocky Racoon - The Beatles "The White Album"

I am Tag:
Chase , Paige , Carson , Tyler , Kathryn , Rebecca T., Jill, Jodi, and anyone else that has an ipod.

[HQ] The Twilight Before Christmas (Parody) / The Juice Box

2008-12-23T19:43:00.001-07:00

For those of you who love twilight. This is super funny. It is perfect for Christmas time. Enjoy a good laugh.

Christmas Tag!

2008-12-17T02:04:00.007-07:00

Christmas Questionnare-ness

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Got to say Hot Chocolate with whip cream

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Santa gives the kids one super cool gift not wrapped (Jared's family never wrapped presents so that was our compromise) Where the presents for mom and dad (or the cheap not so cool gifts according to Logan) are wrapped.

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? The Christmas tree must have white lights on them. I think it makes the tree sparkle. On the house a mix is cool with me.

4. Do you hang mistletoe? I do not. But I think maybe I should.

5. When do you put up your decorations? I put up my decorations a few days before Thanksgiving so that when our family gets back from our Flagstaff Thanksgiving Everything is ready for Christmas.

6. What is your favorite holiday dish? I would have to say my mothers Christmas cookies. Skip the dinner and go straight for the things we have been waiting for all year.

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child? There are way to many but I do have one as an adult. So, Jared and I decided to make the day of it on his day off. We would walk around the outlet malls here in Anthem and then go to Santa's house for a shot with the Jolly Old man himself. As we entered the building Logan is trying to remember everything that he wanted. Although his list was short he wanted to make sure that the colors and names were right and where Santa might be able to get them if His elves were not able to make them to his exact specifications. Lexi on the other hand is singing a song about Santa and how he says HO HO HO! Everyone thought she was a sweet little angle. LOL!! As we got closer to Santa Lexi turns to Jared and says I need a list. So Jared runs her to a little table to jot down the two things that she wants from Santa. As we get closer to it being our turn Lexi decides that Pictures with Santa are not such a good idea. Santa was very sweet and talked to Logan as it got time for Lexi , the camera people were on their toes ready for the shot. AND BOY DID WE GET IT!!!!!!!!!!!! Here is what is being said as this wonderful picture is taken Rolling his eyes he say she is always like this. Santa tells Lexi "OH it is not so bad." Lexi just sits and frown at the lady with the rubber reindeer that she keeps squeezing hoping to get the winning smile.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I was about 10 I was over at a friends house and she told me. I was so upset. I would not talk to her for a week.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? We open gifts on Jared's side on Christmas eve or a week before so the entire family is there. On my side we open our gifts from our brother and sister.

10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree? I put on my jingle bell garland (Christmas tree alarm system) followed by the big bunches of bells that match. then I try to put on like ornaments so that none of them are too close together. Last is the tree topper.

11. What is another favorite Christmas tradition memory? Every year we get together as a family on my side for Christmas eve. Every year has a theme and an ornament. One Year we did a cowboy Christmas. I thought I would pee my pants watching my mom on a stick horse running for her life to help win the relay race.

12. Can you ice skate? I can.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift? It was a baby doll that I got when I was little. She had black hair and blue eyes that opened and shut.

14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Being together with family. I love it more than anything.

15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? My mothers Christmas cookies all of them... well not all of them I hate hermits ( a German fruit cake cookie).

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Getting my kids pictures taken with Santa.

17. What tops your tree? A big red metal heart

18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving? Giving!! I love to pick the perfect gift and then wrap it up really pretty. And watching the person then get all excited as they open it. Super cool in my book.

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? Carol of the bells. But I do love I'm getting nothing for Christmas by Relient K too funny.

20. Candy Canes? I like them. Just do not want so many that I feel like I am going to smell like peppermint for the next year.

21. Do you feel Christmas is too commercialized? Yes, but now a days what holiday isn't.

I'm tagging Kayla and Christine.

Christmas Cards

2008-12-11T01:51:00.004-07:00

So, here is our Christmas Card that we went out this year. I usally have a family photo on the front but this year went with the kids photo. The reasons for this are :

1: The kids photo is so cute this year. I think this is the best one that I have ever gotten of them.

2: The family photo although okay. I did not care for because I look sleepy and like I am wearing a wig.

The inside of the card says:

A Christmas Hello and a little wish too, to let you know We're thinking of you! Happy Holidays!

Jolly Old Saint Nick

2008-12-08T21:05:00.003-07:00

So today we took Logan and Lexi to see Santa. Logan could not wait to tell him his wish list. Logan is hoping to get a wii and a Lego train. Lexi was not sure what she wants. She says she would like some Barbie stuff and a wii as well.

A Flagstaff Thanksgiving

2008-12-04T03:01:00.011-07:00

Every Year for Thanksgiving we go up to Flagstaff, Arizona and stay at the Little America. We have such a BLAST up there. We celebrate Lexi's birthday on Wed., then I take family pictures before we go to the best Buffet in Arizona on Thanksgiving and on Saturday we go to the Lighting ceremony at the hotel.

Here are the pictures from are super fun weekend.

That was our Fun Thanksgiving. I hope that everyone of you also had a Fun and relaxing Thanksgiving too.

Twilight Arizona Premiere

2008-11-19T23:13:00.008-07:00

So, tonight Jared, Logan and I went to the Arizona Premiere of "Twilight". The Premiere was a way for Stephenie Meyer to enjoy the release of her movie with Family and Friends. How you might be asking do we know Stephenie. Well, Jared has know Stephenie's Family and Poncho's (Stephenie's Husband) Family for forever. I went to school with one of Stephenie's brothers. He actually went on my first date with Jared. We all went ice skating. Plus, I knew one of Stephenie's sisters and While I dated Jared I got to know Poncho's family. They were in Jared's parents ward. Plus, Logan is friends with Seth, one of Stephenie's sons.

So, here were my dates for the evening. Don't they look so handsome. Logan was very excited to go see the movie. He also thought that it was very cool that he got to go and Lexi had to stay at Grandma Smart's house.

When we got to the Movie theater we went and got in a line. We saw Paul (Stephenie's Brother) there with his wife and other people that we have known for awhile were there as well as many people that we did not know. We were lead into the theater in group as we got to the theater where the movie was to be played we were asked to show our tickets and then each person was given a gift card to purchase popcorn and drinks. As we were lead in we were able to stop and say hello to Stephenie and Poncho. Jared and I thanked her for the invite we got our picture taken with them.

The movie was great!! It was not word for word the book but the feelings and the outline were pretty close to the book. Everyone cheered when the title for the movie came on and when we saw Stephenie's cameo in the movie. And of course we all cheered at the end. Logan enjoyed the movie until the end. Then he got a bit scared. I will not say what frightened him, because I know that some people have not read the book yet.As we were leaving the theater we were told that we could each get a poster from the movie. This is one of the two posters that we received, the other is the image from above.

The night was GREAT!! It was really neat to see everyone dressed up and there to help the Meyers celebrate this neat event.

My Little Cheerleader

2008-11-19T01:46:00.004-07:00

So, this year Lexi wanted to try her hand at Cheerleading. Young Champions of America has a program that they do once a week at the local schools. We signed Lexi up and she is really enjoying herself. They had Cheer Pictures this week and here is a picture of her with her pom poms.
The cheer that Lexi likes that they say the most goes like this:

Peaches and Cream

What's the Matter with the other team?

Nothing at All!

They just can't play Football!

Looking at this little lady reminds me that my baby is not a baby but is growning up really fast.

BIG POST!!!!

2008-11-09T00:08:00.012-07:00

Okay so this is going to be a really long post. I have a lot to talk about. There are fun things that have happened and things to be thankful for. First, a week before Halloween Paige and her friend Carson held the annual Hansen Halloween Party. It was held at Terry's house. The girls did a great job and the kids seemed to think it was a blast.

Paige had set up all kinds of games. Like how much candy in the jar and what dead body parts do you feel and how fast can you wrap a mummy. Greg and Jen's family came along with the Dukes, Dale ands Lisa with their two cute girls, Chase's friend, Paige's Boyfriend and his family and then Grandma and Grandpa.

Lexi loved hanging out with all of the teenagers. I am telling you I think she thinks that she is going on fifteen instead of five.

Lexi, Cole and Logan dressed up to scare people as they were coming inside. They thought this would be a lot of fun.

Then as usual we carved pumpkins. and let me tell you there were a lot of pumpkins to carve. Logan this year was really into carving. It was neat seeing him so excited.

Lexi want a Cinderella pumpkin while Logan started out wanting Sponge Bob but went with carve your own face.

This year Lexi wanted to be Sleeping Beauty for Halloween. I asked what she might want to be back in September. And she never changed her mind. She was a little sad that I would not buy her a real sleeping beauty wig. I made her wear her Hannah Montana Wig telling her no one would know.

Logan came up with his own costume idea. He wanted to be a Shamu trainer. I thought that sounded cool. So I found a wet suit on clearance for five dollars went on to the Shamu website and bought the Believe necklace that the trainer are wearing during the show and he carried around Lexi's stuffed Shamu.

As the kids went around the neighborhood people thought that Logan's costume was very neat and that Lexi looked just like a Disney Princesses. I have to say when they came home I have never seen so much candy. It filled a Fry's reusable grocery bag.

I can not believe that I am saying this but I am done with Chemo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! On November the Third I got my last infusion of chemo. Although I hate the pain that follows a treatment. I left Mayo on that day feeling great!! I can not believe that I finished all eight treatments.

On Wed. the Fifth I went back to the Mayo to talk to the surgical oncologist. But before I visited with him they ran a mammogram and a diagnostic mammogram. Guess what they found when they looked at my film. NOTHING!!!!!!!! There was no tumor. They could not find it. The Chemo worked it dissolved my tumor completely. I can describe how excited this new made me feel. I have one last step in my treatment and then I am done. I have to go in and have surgery. I will keep everyone posted on what date that will happen. So there is the news. that is what is happening.

The End is Just Around the Corner

2008-10-26T17:37:00.001-07:00

On Monday I had my Seventh Treatment. There is just one more left. I am so excited that I can not stand it. As far as treatments go it was not that bad. Now I just have one more and I am done. I can not say that it is easy. Because the pain from the chemo that I get can suck big time but soon I will be done.
We went to the ward turnk or treat. That was fun. I was in a wheelchair because right after chemo I can hardly walk. But it was nice to see my ward family.

Twilight Trailer Spoof

2008-10-16T23:49:00.001-07:00

I stumbled across this Spoof Trailer. These guys are so funny. They also have a Dark Knight trailer that is pretty funny as well.

Oct. 6th the sixth treatment of Chemo!

2008-10-06T22:21:00.003-07:00

So, today was my sixth chemo treatment. I can not believe that I only have one more month and then I am done with Chemo. (HAPPY DANCE!!)

As you go through chemo you find the nurses that you like and enjoy working with and the ones that you would rather not. Today I found out that my favorite nurse Charles (he is a traveling nurse) is leaving and his last day is going to be on the 17th. I was so sad. He is a very funny guy, but I am sure that he and his wife are going to love Seattle and the chemo patients are going to love him up there.

Any who, I have two more chemo treatments and then I have surgery four to six weeks later. Right now I am trying to decided what kids of surgery I want. I know that I do not want a Lumpectomy because that would mean that I will have six to eight weeks of radiation every single day but Saturday and Sunday, after they take out 3.2cm or more of breast tissue out of my left breast. And when I am done lets just say my left breast will feel and look like a dried up wrinkled prune and be a lot smaller than my right. So then I will need another surgery to fix the left Breast and even then they can not promise that it will feel the same or look the same. So, I don't think so. That is so not for me.
So what you might be wondering am I going to do. Well, I am leaning on choosing a mastectomy or a bi lateral mastectomy. Either way the surgery that I am going to do is using my own tissue.
"The deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap procedure is another option for women who would like a breast mound present immediately after reconstructive surgery. This procedure has several benefits — a faster recovery period than traditional TRAM flap surgery, no loss of abdominal muscle tone and the "effect" of a tummy tuck because excess tissue is removed from the abdomen to reconstruct the breast. " - quote on the type of procedure that I am going to do from Mayo Clinic. It means a 10-16 hour surgery and 7 days in the hospital. Two in ICU and five in a regular room.

After the six to eight weeks of healing time I am done. I will just have to do regular check up every six months to see if the cancer has come back for the next five years. I will also have to do hormone therapy which is taking one pill everyday for the next five years, and if the study proves that it is better to take it for ten I might be taking this pill until I am 41. WOW!!

So there you have it November 3rd is the last day of chemo. Still can not wait.
I love you all!!

School Photos

2008-10-06T22:11:00.002-07:00

Well, it was school year photos once again. Logan wanted to make sure that his hair was just so. He is growing up so fast. Lexi wanted to make sure that everyone knew that the picture was of her.

So this is Logan's third grade photo. I think he looks very handsome. I asked him what he thought. He said, " Well, the girl's in my class said that it was the nicest smile in the class. So, I guess it is good."

When Lexi brought home her pictures she was so excited that she could not stand it. When I started to cut them up to hand out to family Lexi got all upset. "Hey, those are mine." I told her that I was giving them to family and that seemed to make her happy. If you look at the picture Lexi is wearing her A necklace. A for Alexis. She said that none of the other girls had that and so everyone would know that she was Alexis. I had to laugh. She is just getting so big and to smart.

My Fifth treatment!!

2008-09-23T10:10:00.006-07:00

Before my fifth treatment I received a call from my genetic doctor. Her name is Katherine Hunt. She informed me that at this point in time my cancer is not genetic. Which is really good news. I was so worried for the rest of my family what the news would mean. I guess I just got the luck of the draw. I have to laugh because I guess you could if I did not have bad lucky I would not have any luck at all. But all is good. I know that Lexi is safe as well as Logan and my Nieces and Nephews.

So, my fifth treatment was yesterday. Before I went into treatment I was scared out of my mind. I was worried that I might have an allergic reaction to this type of chemo. Plus, there was a chance that I could go into anaphylactic shock. And like I said before if I did not have bad luck I wouldn't have any luck at all. So, I was worried that I would be that one part of the group of people that does that. But everything went off with out a hitch. I went into the Mayo at 8:45 am and left at 5:30pm. I felt drained but really up beat when I left. By 10:00pm I was bouncing off the walls which is weird. They told me it was probable going to happen because of all the premeds that they gave me. So, I did not finally fall asleep until about 4:00am and woke up at 8:30am. Awake but a little tired nothing unmanageable.

Now, I am trying to get ready for Halloween and Christmas. I know Christmas is two months away but I am afraid of what the next step in my treatment might bring. I might have surgery before Christmas. If that is the case then Christmas might not happen for our family. So, I am starting now. Plus, I am in charge of the Christmas Eve party for the my side of family. They told me that I could do next year but you know I am looking forward to putting this Christmas Eve party and would not give it up for anything.

So, that is what we are up to. By the way, my sixth chemo treatment is on October the 6th. Funny huh!!!
Anyway love you all!!!!!

WE ARE HALF WAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-05T18:01:00.004-07:00

I can not believe that I am able to state that I am finally half way through my treatment but I am. I can not tell you the relief that I feel that I am almost done with this treatment. There are a lot of positives to consider.

1. This is the last time I am going to half to watch them hand pump in my chemo.

2. I will no longer need to get the extra shot to keep my white blood cells up. ( I can honestly say I do not care for this shot.)

3. I AM HALF WAY! only four more to go.

4. I was scared that I was going to be flat on my back by now and so far I am still able to get around not to say that I love to take a nap. I find that I am more tired than I ever have been.

5. And although I do not care if I am Bald, I only have to be bald for just a few more months then the hair will start to grow back.

6. Plus, I have a GREAT ward, friends and a wonderful family that has helped my through this in ways that I can not even express. They are what help me get through each day. Their words of encouragement keep me smiling and help me to know that I can make it through this with a smile on my face and a bounce in my step.

To those of you have read this little blog and have stood by me as I have set out on this journey I say to you thank you. It is because of you that I am where I am right now. You are wonderful!!

Saying good bye!

2008-09-01T07:33:00.003-07:00

About two and a half years ago we welcomed Tali into our home. She is a sweet dog that loves to bark and swim and run and run and run around the house. When I was told that I had cancer she was a bit of a comfort to me. Licking my hand and trying to be a good girl. When I was told that I should not be around outside dogs because of their poop and what not. I was sad. I did not know what was going to happen to Tali. My sister was great she offered to take Tali while I was going to go through treatment.

Now, I will be the first to admit, I think I tried to make the family fit the dog and not the dog fit the family. With Tali out of the house the kids were calmer the house seemed more pleasant, and I have to admit it was a nice change. Still, the idea that Tali was not coming back had not crossed my mind.

About a week ago, my sister called me and told me that her trainer Joe , a very nice lady, knew a guy that wanted Tali. Now, I have to say at first I was shocked. I knew the man I had met him briefly at a few PWD shows and water trails. He was a very nice man. He bought a dog named Cody from a breeder that I was going to get a puppy from but decided to wait a few more months. Cody and most of his litter mates have died from varies disease most of them being cancer. To say that Brett and his family was devastated by their loss. I had to feel bad for them. Losing a pet that you love is hard.

I guess I should say that I knew that taking Tali was hard on my sister. Nemo her PWD loved the companion, Curt did not like the new pet. I do not blame him. Tali can be difficult.

So, I started to pray about what I should do. My parents offered that when I get better that they would help me get a new dog. Buy it for me if they had to. They told me that I needed to find a more clam breed one that like just sitting in a persons lap for hours at end. I have to say I think that they were right. I mean I loved Tali but she was never really into just being still. Plus she was so energetic that it would get the kids going even Logan. And Logan does not need help getting going. I mean with his ADHD, he is always ready to go and full of energy.

I also had some pretty strong feelings that Tali needed to go and be with this family. She was meant to be with this family. I know it sounds weird. But I know I was only meant to have her in our family to help this man and his family with being able to get her.

On Sunday, all of my feelings were confirmed. The family came to see Tali and it was love at first sight. For her as well as them. I can not tell you the joy that I feel knowing that she is where she needs to be. Sure, I will miss her. But she is where she finally belongs.

Round Three

2008-08-29T03:47:00.002-07:00

Well, on Monday I had round three of chemo. It was not the best day of my life. When I started chemo I had a port put in. For the last few times they have had a hard time getting blood from my port. This time they got no blood. so they had to stick me in my arms.
I can not tell you the fear that I felt as I thought of having to go and get a new port put in. But on Wed. I went to have it tested and the meds that they had put in my port got it working again. so maybe on time number four I will only have to get one needle in me.

First Day of School

2008-08-20T21:44:00.007-07:00

Okay, so the first day of school was last week. But I thought that everyone would like to see the cute pictures of my kids that Jared took.

Logan is now in the third grade. I can hardly believe that he is old enough to learn multiplication and how to write in cursive. As you can tell by his alone picture he is anything but excited to start school. When I talked to him after his first day I asked him how school was he said,"It was school. Okay I guess." WOW!!! He is getting older.

Lexi is starting Kindergarden. I can not believe the day has finally come. We are so excited for her and as you can tell she is pretty excited for herself. When I asked her how her day was she said,"GREAT!!!" And then went into a play by play of what happened on her first day of school that lasted for about a good thirty to forty minutes.

Because of being sick there is this super nice mom that has been taking Lexi to school and bringing her home everyday, because her son goes to Lexi's school as well. On the first day as Lexi was getting out of their car and walking in the gates the office lady greeted Lexi and asked if the boy next to her was her brother. Her reply was, " NO, HE IS NOT MY BROTHER! And my Dad forgot my plant you got an extra one?!" We only later that day found out that she said this as Jared took her plant to school and the same lady started to laugh as Jared told her who the plant was for.

So that is how the kids did and what they wore to their first day of school for this year!!!

HAIR?!?!

2008-08-09T15:45:00.003-07:00

Well, I guess it was only a matter of time really until the day came that my hair would fall out. I can not say that I am surprised. I will admit that I cried a little. It started the other night. I was laying in bed when all of a sudden my head started to hurt. Hurt does not really describe what it felt like it was more of a burn. Anyway I got up and ran my fingers threw my hair and out came clumps of hair. Once again I was sad but knew it was coming. It had already sort of started that morning. So, I guess I should have know that it would only be a matter of days for it to really start coming out.
By the time I could not stay awake for another second I had a garbage can full of my hair. When I go up the next morning I told Jared and my parents I wanted to go to super cuts to get my head shaved.
I can not help but to smile every time I think of the boy that thought he was watching the coolest thing ever. And then asked his mom if they could shave her head.
So now I wear hats, scarves and wigs and am waiting for the rest of the hair to come out. I guess I should say stubble. but it is what it is.
And as I wait for the chemo to be over I am still smiling!!!

Fun with the cousins!!!

2008-08-05T03:59:00.011-07:00

When we decided to have Logan's baptism after Chase got home from his mission. We knew it would be great to have it with as many of Jared's family as posible. We were really lucky that everyone was able to come but Blair's family.

This is Logan with his cousin Hunter. Hunter is the son of Craig and Christine. They live in Nevada.

Here is Jared, Brit and Logan with the Bishop of the Anthem Ward. He is the GREATEST!!!!!! Our family just loves him and his beautiful wife.

Jared and I could not have been happier for Logan. Although I was tired after having just had surgery and getting ready for my first round of Chemo it was nice to have something to celebrate.

Alanna, Lexi and Brandon at Grandma Smart's house. They were having a blast playing together.

Here are all of the Smart grandkids. Well almost all of them. Stephanie is pregant with number four. But this is all of them for the time being.

Brandon, Lexi, and Amanda swimming with Stephanie. They had a blast swimming from the steps of the pool into her arms.

I Belong....

2008-07-24T23:16:00.002-07:00

Logan was baptized today. I was so proud of him. Chase spoke on Baptism and did a wonderful job. He gave an example of a paper boy and that before the boy was baptized the boy was able to be tempted and so he could get burned by the flame or temptation in this case. after the boy was baptized he was new again and was not easily tempted so the flame did not harm him. The kids loved watching him talk about it. Terry spoke about the conformation and her talk was sweet and the kids loved it. She had a beautiful wrapped boxed with different things in it to give to Logan. the Kids all squealed when the walkie talkie spoke back to Logan. Jared baptized and confermed Logan. He was all smiles. It was wonderful to see him follow the teaching of the church . This was a special day to me. I could not help but think back to my baptisim and smile. I am sure that Lexi's will be just as nice and hers will be in just three years. That is a scary thought.

A Week that is FULL!

2008-07-20T22:56:00.002-07:00

I can not wait for Thursday. Logan is going to be baptized on Thursday. I am so excited for him. What a neat treat. I remember getting baptized and how neat I thought it was. When I have some pictures I will post them of that. Jared is going to be baptizing Logan and Jennifer and McKenzie are going to be singing. Chase and Terry are going to give talks. I think it will be so nice for Logan plus how many kids get so say that they were baptized on Pioneer Day.
Then on Friday I will start chemo. So, only time will tell how that works out. But I do know that my last day of it will be on Halloween. So, that is cool to think about. Plus, that means I should be all done by the first of the year which is what I am looking forward to. What is it that people say, a new year a new start? Well, I am excited for that. I now know that the trials that we receive while we are here on the earth are not only given to us to help us to grown as a person but can prepare us for new obstacles that might come our way.
Anyway hugs to all of you.
Brit

New Doctor News

2008-07-18T07:58:00.003-07:00

Yesterday, Jared and I went to go see the doctors to decided what was the best course of action to take. We had already had our minds made up about what we were going to do. And then after talk with the wonderful doctors there we have decided to do chemo first, then we will be doing genetic testing while I am doing that for the next 16 weeks, and then we will do surgery.
We feel really good about the decision.
After being at the Mayo for about 3 hours we went to go have a birthday party with the family. It was a blast. we went to sweet tomatoes and the went bowling.

How everything can change with one word.

2008-07-13T00:04:00.003-07:00

On July the 7th I went in for my yearly exam with my doctor. After the exam was over. the doctor started to tell me that she was going to do a breast exam on me. Something that I try to do once a month or once every other month. About half way the doctor looks at me and asks if I knew I had a lump on my left breast. I honestly did not know what to say to her.
From there it was a mad search trying to find out if I could get into to get a mammogram. Something I thought I would not have to endure until I was at least 40. But there I was the next day July the 8th. I was standing in front of the machine and then place in an ultrasound room from there and then back into another room where they then did a Biopsy of my left breast. After about two days of no sleep and worry. I got a call telling my that I had Infiltrating ductile cancer Grade 3.
All I could think was WOW!!!!
For that word caner could change my life so fast.
So Here I am at the beginning of my journey. Scared but optimistic. I feel calm that the outcome will be good. But scared out of my mind, like the guy in the scream painting.
I will trying to keep everyone posted.
Brit

Fun time in San Diego!!!!

2008-07-06T12:46:00.020-07:00

After driving for six hours. We arrived in San Diego. After checking into the hotel we took the kids swimming in the pool and then got ready for Dinner. We decided to eat in Old Town San Diego. Greg, Jennifer, Tyler, Blake and Carter met us there. We ate a neat Mexican restaurant.

Here is Kent, Barbara, and Margret. They were hanging out while we waited for a table.

After dinner we walked around the shops near the restaurant. Tyler found a Nacho Libre mask. He had to get it. It was so funny to see him posing as Nacho.

Our first full day in San Diego was spent in Sea World. Everyone was enjoying the time that we spent there. There was a new area and it was the Sesame Street area and movie. Lexi thought that area was great.

She loved that area almost as much as she loves the two different Shamu shows.

We all enjoyed the the Dolphin show.

The rides at Sea World are fun. Jared and Madison and Maggie rode on all the rides. and Enjoyed getting wet.

Here is Jared, Maggie and Madison on the Journey to Atlantis ride. The girls loved it and they got really wet.

Lexi loved every stuffed animal that she saw. Even the Penguins. She wanted to hug every stuffed animal that she saw.

Here are Logan and Lexi in front of the Penguin enclosure.

The kids loved the star fish. they thought it was so neat to hold them. I think that we went to the enclosure about four times while we were there. The next day we went to Legoland and the kids thought it was neat to see everything built with Legos.

Here is Jared and his Officer Lego twin.

Logan wanted to get his picture taken with the Bionicle statue. He thought they were really neat.

This ride was like a really fast merry go round on water. Jared and Maggie rode together. As you can see Jared was having a blast.

Lexi and Madison rode together. Lexi though the ride was neat.

As we were walking around Logan found a Thomas the Tank Engine statue. We had to get a picture of it.

Here is Maggie, Madison, Lexi and Jared on the Beetle Bounce. Lexi was so sure that she wanted to go on this ride. I asked her about four times if she was sure that she wanted to do it. As I took this picture I asked her one last time was she sure. She said yes.

As you can see she did not like the ride very much. In fact I would say she hated it.

Chase came HOME!!!!!

2008-07-06T12:34:00.005-07:00

Logan, Lexi, Paige and Cole made signs as we waited for Chase to get off of the plane. The could not wait to see him.

Here they are waiting for him to get off the plane.

Here is Chase and Logan. Logan and lexi were so exctied to see him. Lexi kept looking at him to make sure that he was really there and was not going to get back on a plane.

We all were glad to see Chase. He is just a sweet and happy as he was before his mission and now he can say he servied his mission and Returned with Honor.

Logan's Photo shoot

2008-06-15T22:37:00.007-07:00

This is first picture that I took when I took the pictures for Logan's photo shoot.

Logan wanted his picture taken on the Train tracks.

Logan is so excited to get Baptized. These are some picture for his invitation. I think that I will use the top photo for it. I still have to touch it up a bit but I think it is the best one.

My Little Boy Scout

2008-06-12T21:07:00.003-07:00

I can not believe that Logan is now a boy scout. He has passed being a bobcat and is now working on becoming a wolf. He loves working on everything in his book. I am so proud of him. Logan loves it and can not wait to be like his Dad, Grandpa Hansen, Uncle Greg, Cousins : Chase and Tyler, His Uncle Blair and Uncle Craig and get his Eagle scout award.

The Five Love Languages

2008-06-01T23:40:00.004-07:00

This is a book that I am reading. it is titled "The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate" by Gary Chapman. I think this is an amazing book that everyone should pick up and read. It helps you to understand what you need in your life.

To check out this book go to Barnes and Noble to check out this book.

After reading it I found that I am a Time oriented and service oriented person. These are the things that I need to fill my love tank.
I think that Logan is a Time oriented person and Lexi is a touch oriented person. If I had to guess I would say that I think that Jared is also a touch and time oriented person.

A day on the lake and then fun at the pool.

2008-05-31T11:00:00.006-07:00

Logan turned EIGHT!!!!! I can not believe it. He has gotten so big. For his birthday we went to Lake Bartlett. After a fun day at the lake we then went to Peter Piper Pizza. It was a blast. here are some pictures from that:

A few days later we went to the Water park that is here in Anthem and the kids had a blast swimming at the pool.

End of the School Year!

2008-05-20T00:55:00.003-07:00

I can not believe that Logan is almost done with Second Grade. It seems like yesturday that he was starting Preschool. Well, now Lexi is going to start Kindergarden at the Anthem Montissori school. We are so excited for her to be able to start school in the fall.
This Summer is going to be a busy one. Chase my neiphew comes home from his Mission in the Ukrane, Logan turns eight and will be baptized, and We are going to be taking some great trips which I will have to post the pictures to as we go on them.

IT IS NOW 6PM!!!!

2008-04-11T18:25:00.001-07:00

Button Button Who's Got the Button!!!!

For this challange I want you to add buttons to your los. the idea to this is go crazy with the buttons. The more the better.

***So the Challange***

***For the Challange I want you to use a lot of buttons. The More the better.***

****As a Bonus Use the buttons in a different way. Like I used two buttons in my paper piecing, as the center of the apple. *****

IT IS NOW 8PM!!!

2008-04-11T18:14:00.004-07:00

Too Many Pictures not enough Space or do you just hate your handwritting!!

For this challange you are to find a way to add more pictures to you lo or hide your journaling in a unique way.
***Challange To make a Lo using the folding frame technique. ***

**As a Bonus do both hidden pictures and hidden journaling, instead of one. *****

How Many of me

2008-04-08T10:09:00.002-07:00

I found this and thought it was cool.
There are this many people with my name in the United states.

HowManyOfMe.com

There are
0
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Jared has this many.

HowManyOfMe.com

There are
12
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Logan Has:

HowManyOfMe.com

There are
3
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

And Lexi is:

HowManyOfMe.com

There are
7
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Not Much is new!!

2008-04-08T09:47:00.002-07:00

Let's see there is not that much that is new going on right now.
Logan was allowed to go to the pine wood durby. He was such a good sport. He got third in every race but one. In that one he only got second but he thought it was a blast. I could have not been prouder of him.
He also feels the need to be the Man of the House when Jared is not there. The other day he and Lexi had me so stressed I did not know what to do with my self. Logan came up me and said, " Mom why don't you go in your room relax and read your book." I could have died. It was too funny.
Lexi is just having fun being Lexi. She has a best friend named Bella and they have lots of fun together.
Jared still loves work and is enjoying the responsiblity that the Sargent has given him.
Other than that life has been pretty slow.

Shake

2008-03-16T23:09:00.001-07:00

This is a song from a singer by the name of Drew Alexander. When my niece was here she said that this guy was a friend of Chase's. I just really like this song.

It is Now 9pm!!!!!!

2008-02-08T20:01:00.000-07:00

Everyone Needs a Little Bling Sometimes!

I love to add Bling to my los. I like to see how it sparkles when the light hits it. I have never added bling to ghost letters before or to metal accents . So this time i decided to try.

**The Challange**

***For this challange add some Bling to your lo.***

*****As a bonus add bling to more than one area. *****

The Time is Now 8pm!!!!

2008-02-08T19:04:00.000-07:00

Too Many Pictures not enough Space!!

For this challange you are to make folding frames. In doing this you will beable to put more photos on one page. to get instruction go to this link:

http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/cr_scrapbooking/article/0,2025,DIY_13776_3863966,00.html

***Challange To make a Lo using the folding frame technique. ***

**As a Bonus make two frame instead of one. *****

Here is how mine turned out.

Page un opened

Bottom frame opening.

Completely opened up.

Unopened frames.

Top frame opening up.

Completely opened up.

The Time is Now 7pm!!!!

2008-02-08T18:16:00.000-07:00

1234

For this challange You are to use numbers in your title.

I have seen this done in many lo's and always thought that it helped to make the title of the page *POP*.

***So use numbers in your Title***

***As a bonus use different types of chipboard of stickers to create your title.***

Virtual Challenge 6pm

2008-02-08T17:18:00.000-07:00

For this challenge you are to use paper that you would other wise never use and do something with it. So in the end you make a lo that you can truely say you enjoy.

For me it was the water paper. I took a fancy pants pollen dust stamp that was a swirl and stamped in back then white to give a double stamp effect. by doing this it helped give the realistic water paper a new look. To top it off I decided to try to add stickers that I also hated. My daughter loved these stickers so I got them. Thought that I would never use them and found that it worked. I wrote out the word Shamu in glue then added glitter to it. I think it helped. It made for a fun page.

****So there is your challenge.*****

*Use paper that you do not like and create something that in the end you can enjoy.

****As a bonus try to add stickers that you do not like as well****

YOU JUST CANNOT FIX STUPID

2008-02-05T01:13:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I got an email today from my dad. And this is what I saw I had to share. It was to funny for words. It totally turned my day around. I hope that this cheers up your day as it did mine.

The Passing of a Prophet

2008-01-30T21:23:00.000-07:00

Many people have heard by now that the prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints died this last sunday. He was a special man to many. He will be truely missed. This is a poem that I recieved the other day that I tought was really neat about the prophet.

Prophetic Passing

I imagine he's running to Marjorie now,
Yes, running, not waving his cane.
I see him embracing his father and mother
While they keep repeating his name.

I see him now meeting his forebears,
Brother Brigham and Joseph are there.
Sweet reunion of prophets, united by service
That only such noble men share.

I see him embraced by the Savior
While Father says, "Good and well done.
So faithful in stalwart endurance, I welcome
My noble, most excellent son."

I then hear the ripples of laughter
As he says the reception's just fine,
But he hopes that he'll get an assignment or two
Since there's no need to waste any time.

I hear his clear voice in the stillness
At the close of this sweet Sabbath day,
Have faith and move forward - there's work to be done.
President Hinckley would want it that way.

Anna M. Molgard
January 27, 2008

Here is a few pictures to get you up to speed

2008-01-30T02:48:00.000-07:00

This Fall has been an interesting one, to say the least!!! It started with
Lexi cutting off her hair, to dressing up for Halloween, Lexi's birthday at Club Libby Lu to get Hannah Montana makeovers,Thanksgiving in Flagstaff, going to the railroad park to see the lights, and Logan and Lexi learning to ride their bikes. Here are a few snap shots to get you up to speed with our life.

Pirate Princess Lunchbox

2008-01-28T04:34:00.000-07:00

Okay! So, here is the lunchbox that I was to make for the store Devine Memories. I made it out of Rusty Pickle paper and ribbon and rhinestones. So, this is the front of the lunchbox.

The next picture is of the back. I cut out the skull of paper and mounted it on to doubled chipboard. The wings are wood and painted white then I added glitter.
The last picture is of the top of the box.

I really enjoyed making this.

Smart Look-alike Meter

2007-08-31T22:26:00.002-07:00

Look a like meter

2007-08-31T22:26:00.001-07:00

Pulling the Hair out!!!

2007-08-31T22:26:00.000-07:00

So, school has started for Logan. He loves it. He thinks that his teacher is just the best. Not only is she nice, she is cute too. Logan thinks that this is what makes a great teacher. Well, if that all there is to being a god teacher Why is it again that I went to school for four years to get a degree in education.
But really I am glad that he is learning and enjoying himself a great deal. He is a little spit fire though. He knows what he wants and likes and what he does not want and does not like. This quality can be pressing at times. Like when we want to go to a friends house and we are not going because this mom can not seem to get a hold of the other parent. Logan can not understand why I can not just sit next to the phone and call and call and call and call until they answer their phone. Or why when it is 10:30pm why I do not feel like making him a big dinner again after we had a nice dinner at 6:00pm.
But he puts the fun and unexpected into my life. He has lost both of his front teeth. He looks so cute. I want to take a picture of it but he will not let me by telling me that I need to stop bragging that he lost his teeth. Which I have to laugh at.
Now Lexi. ( *Closes eyes and shakes head with a sigh* ) That girl is just like Logan. She can not wait to start Preschool. Her school starts on the 10Th and she thinks that is just the neatest thing. I have heard nothing but about all the friends that she is going to meet and that Logan is not allowed to play with them. Because boys are gross and that is just the way that it is. So, Lexi has been trying to grow her hair long. While in Disneyland she told me that she wanted it to touch the ground and that she wanted to be black and not the light blond that she is now. I told her I thought the length was a little long but it was her hair as for if it would be black I did not think that was possible. She frowned but seemed to accept what I told her. So what she did three days ago shocked the pants off of me.
I have been sick. I had a fever, stuffy nose and sore throat. The kids were good the first day. they messed up the house but were good. The second day which was Sunday was not as good. It went from bad to worse in a matter of 20 min. I had just gone out to get another drink to help with how dry my throat was feeling. The kids decided that they thought that it would be funny to let the fridge water clean the kitchen floor so they let it run until the the floor was so wet that when I step int he kitchen I almost fell on my butt. I know that I yelled something like, clean the floor up and here are some towels. And thanks for using all the cold water. I went and laid back down deciding that I would wait for cold water and that I need to lay down after the rant that I had had in the kitchen. After 20min. I could not wait any longer I needed a drink. As I walked into the kitchen I noticed that the floor was wet. but not only that there was something weird all over the floor. As a gripped the edge of the counter to take a closer look I realized that I was looking a strands of light blond hair. I screamed " ALEXIS JEAN SMART, you better get out here NOW!!!" Out she bounces with scissors in hand and her hair looking less than fabulous. I lost it. I will admit it. I was tired, sick and was not up for this. I could not help it. I sat on the floor and cried. No a better word for what I did was freak out. That is what I did I freaked out. Her hair went from shoulder length to two inches long on one side of her head. She did not cut her bangs, and she did not cut her right side of her head. I could not look at her she looked like a Pablo Picasso painting gone wrong. I put her in her room and called a place to see if I could get the hair fixed. I called a place called LollyLocks. Zoe was going to fix her hair. On the phone they told me not to worry they had seen it all.
Jared and I took Lexi to LollyLocks on Monday. When we got their Zoe says, "It's not that....... OH!" From the front it did not look as bad as it really was. from behind it looked bad. She turned to me and asked what I wanted her to do. I smiled and said Fix it but make her look like a cute girl, with a cute cut. She then looked at Lexi and asked what she wanted. Lexi asked for Long Hair. With that She realized that there was no long hair for awhile. Zoe did a great job. Lexi looks cute. I still like the long hair on her better. But she does look cute.
So, with that If this is what the beginning of the school year is going to be like I am not looking forward to the rest of the year. But who am I kidding anyway. It has to get better. I hope everyone is doing well.
Brit

Mr Brightside

2007-08-16T22:57:00.001-07:00

This is my all time favorite song right now. It is a great song o listen to as you work out.

What does Disneyland and 30 have in common?

2007-07-27T23:53:00.000-07:00

OK, so you might be asking yourself what does the two have in common. Well, I turned 30 while I was spending the week at Disneyland. It was so fun. I have never been told Happy Birthday so many times in my life. My parents were great. At night they let Jared and I go out at night and have some fun while they went to bed early. While we were there we had a ton of pictures taken. Although this was a busy trip meaning spending time with kids and enjoying my time with Jared I do not think that I would have done too much differently.
This is a picture of Jared and I on the first night that we were there. As you can tell it was taken on main street and it was about 11pm. I think I had forgotten how much fun it is to just be together and talk about grown up things and have a blast hanging out. It was nice to get reacquainted with my best friend.

This was also from the same night. It was cool to see the castle all bright and picturesque. We just had to get our picture taken. It was funny to see all these really young teenage couples getting their pictures taken in front of the castle with their Mickey Ears on their heads. Girls checking and rechecking their hair to make sure that it laid just right while the guys made sure that the ears looked good while sitting on top to the baseball cap that they refused to take off.

Lexi as one might think Lexi just loved seeing Cinderella and the other princesses. This year there was an entire area for little girls to go and visit the Princesses and make sure that they get to enjoy the look and feel of being a Princess.

Lexi made sure to tell Cinderella how much she loved her. And how beautiful she was. And that she really loved her movies.

Although Lexi was not sure about Mulan she still gave her big hugs and told her that she liked her horse. Which Jared and I had to think about but Mulan did have a horse.

At Disneyland in the watch shop on Main street you can get an Artist to paint a picture and then they will scan it and it will be placed into a watch. You also get the original painting. It is a neat thing that I have always want to get. My sister was the first one to get one. Her got a red monochromatic Pinocchio. Then my mom got a light purple Maleficent. And for my 30th Birthday I got Mickey and Minnie Kissing. Each day is a different artist. My mom and sister and I all have the same artist. His name is Dave Smith. He is and artist that illustrates children's books. His art work is amazing and he has a eye for playing with the characters and making the pop on the paper as well as the watch.

Here he is holding the painting and there I am with the lovely Happy Birthday button that I wore that day.

If you know Logan he loves trains, monorails and anything that has to do with either. So when we got the opportunity to ride many times in the front of the Monorail with Logan he was in heaven. I do have to say that ridding in the front is very different than ridding in the back with everyone else.

In California Adventure, we found Lightning McQueen and Matter. Logan loved getting his picture with them.

Logan and Matter.

I think that every child that goes to toontown must know now is my time to drive a car. Lexi hopped from car to car getting behind the wheel.

Here is Lexi and Belle. We also got to see Ariel, Aurora, Snow White, Wendy, Mickey , Minnie, Chip, dale, Daisy, Lilo, Stitch, Pluto, Aladdin and Goofy.

This picture tells it all. Lexi had a blast she got to get dressed up as Ariel in the Ariel wedding dress. She got to get a crown so she really felt like a princess and in the end it was lets ride on the good old carousel so that I can really feel like a princess in fantasyland.

SAN DIEGO WHAT A BLAST!!!!!!

2007-06-24T20:46:00.001-07:00

San Diego was great. We all had such a good time. The weather could not have been better. We enjoyed many things. We went on the air craftcarrier Midway. While on it Jared, Curt and Cole, Paige and I all rode on flight simulators. Jared did a really good job flying. Curt and Cole as one would expect from a form piolot and a man that owns his own jet business did a great job. Paige and I on the other hand such never be put behind the controls of a plane. we suck!!! I think we died atleast 5 times in three min. It was fun. We screamed and had a blast. and drew a big crowd.

Here is Logan and Jared in front of a jet on theMidway.
This is a picture of what the rooms looked like for the Navy guys that they get to sleep in. Very small and very humid. We spent a day at the beach. It was so fun. But I have got to say it was so cold. The wind did not stop blowing for one min. Although the wind blew non stop it was nice to have it be cool and enjoyable.

Piage and Lexi loved being together. Lexi was Paige's shadow.

Paige and Lexi

We loved Sea World. What a fun time. You can not help but to smile as you watch these great animals and their trainers interact.

Paige Modeling a very classy Shamu hat. LOL!

Lexi and Paige on the Manatee statue.

BELIVE!!

Shamu girl, she flies off to help make sure that everyone follows the advise of Shamu's trainers to believe in ones self.

There is something magical about these wonderful creatures. Lexi and Logan fell in love with them as soon as she saw Shamu.

That is a big mouth!!!!

Atlantis was a really fun ride at Sea world. Logan was a little nervous to ride it so he stood and watched. He got wet as he watched us come down the water slide.

This picture sums up our trip. SHAMU ROCKS!!!!!!

Mothers day

2007-05-13T02:32:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make something for my mom this year for Mother's Day. My mom loves Disney pins and going to Disneyland. So I made this box. And mini album for her. The Mickey Mouse on the box is handmade by me.
Here are the reat of the pages. They are on the back. The picutres from this trip are from our trip last year to Disneyland.

ANYWAY!!!! HAPPY MOTHERS DAY !!!

Brit

Stash Challange

2007-04-01T20:05:00.000-07:00

Ok here is yet another lo. This one was fun for me and my son loves it.

Here is the break down of the lo points.

12x12=20

5x7= 5

boy only picture= 15

stash= 10

scraps=10

blog= 5

brads= 5

chipboard= 6

tag= 1

hadwritten= 5

ink= 5

distressed= 5

buttons= 9

total ponts for lo= 111

total points for the challange= 1780

Stash Challange #4

2007-04-01T18:37:00.000-07:00

Ok, Here is my idea for the button challange. the lo is titled "ALEXIS". As I was duing this lo. I thought that origanlly that I would make a layered chain of buttons across the chocolate strip of paper, but as a was making the page I decided that I liked it a little more plain. So the buttons are on the flower two of them that are layered and then there is a button on the I with a jewel sticker on it. So here is my point break down.

12x12= 20

5x7=5

female only = 15

stash= 10

scraps= 10

blog post= 5

use of x= 10

use of x in title=10

buttons=3

stickers=2

chipboard=1

stamping= 30

mini challange= 100

total points=226

points for challange= 1669

Stash Challange mini #3

2007-04-01T16:35:00.000-07:00

This is a lo that I have been wanting to do for a while but keep for getting around to it.

This is for the stash challange mini challange #3. The dark green paper is bleach with a big stamp several times.

Here is the point break down.

12x12= 20

5x7 picture= 5

all boys= 15

stash= 10

scraps=10

post to blog= 5

gold=5

stamp=30

( used the stamp 5x6=30)

eyelets= 5

ribbion= 1

stickers= 7

metal= 1, ink= 5, distressing= 5, mini challange= 100

total points= 224

total points for the challange= 1444

Stash Challange

2007-04-01T15:16:00.000-07:00

Ok these are cards that I made for Jared's and my anniversary. I also made a pin. I had made this pin before and loved it. So I made another one.

8 cards= 40

pin= 30

no photos=120

stash= 80

scraps= 80

post to blog=5

brads= 12

staples= 12

eylets= 2, ribbion= 17, stamping = 50, inking = 40, disstressing = 40, stickers= 25, use of gold = 5

total points= 558 points

total stash points 1220 points

7pm challange

2007-03-23T22:52:00.000-07:00

A GRANDPARENTS LOVE

Ok here is my veiw of using four different companies patterned paper. The main one is paper loft, chatter box, basic gray, cosmo cricket. This is my dh and his grandparents.

6 pm challange

2007-03-23T22:01:00.000-07:00

"Everybody was Kung Fu Fighting"

Ok here is the challange that said to use the song for the title. I think it turned out good.

STASH Challange/ 5pm challange

2007-03-23T19:15:00.000-07:00

I started the virtual crop so late and I am so tired that I decided to keep working on the stash challange. The 5pm challange was a great kick of for me. I have not used sticker (stickers) in along time. So I decided that this would be a great idea to use my stash. What better to use on a stash lo then something that actually had gathered dust. So here is the point break down.
20 points 12x12, 5 - 5x7 10- male and female, 10 stash, 5 blog post, 30 use of x 32 stickers I still can not believe that I actually used these. LOL, 5 - ink, 5 hand journaling
total: 122 points Points so far 662

Thesaurus Mini Challenge #2

2007-03-22T11:11:00.000-07:00

Ok sorry for the bad scan but here it is.

The Lo is titled : EXPERTS

The word that I looked up was Smart. I think it turned out cute.

Lo came to 231 points

Point break down

20 12x12 lo

5 5x7 picture

10 male and female picture

20 seven letter title

10 x in the title

10 stash

10 scraps

5 blog

10 x on page

1 flower

1 tag, 5 stamping, 5 hand journaling, 5 distressing, 2 chipboard, 5 ink, 2 ribbon, 5 gold, 100 for mini challenge

so points earned total is 540

Another One Bites the Dust!!!

2007-03-19T21:43:00.000-07:00

I can not believe that I can say there are no more clipboards in my house to alter. YEAH!!!!!!!

I like how this one turned out. I am so glad that I am forcing myself to do the mini challanges.

My life as of today!!

2007-03-12T21:23:00.000-07:00

Ok, For starters here is my clipboard titled "Cowgirl" This was a gift for my Mother-in-law for her birthday. The old fashioned picture is of her on a phony as a little girl dressed up as a cowgirl. My mother-in-law teaches piano so I thought that this would help her with keeping organized. The green square is for posted notes the flower in the bottom left corner is a clip so she can keep her check that students give her in one place. On the right corner is a little book that she can write numbers in. And the reason for the clipboard was to clip her calander to it. So she can keep track of dates and what not. So this was 112 points for the challange. Now I need to get towork and get another few things done. I think that she liked it. We will see as time passes if she uses it or not.

Well, as many of you know last week my car was hit by my neighbor across the street. Why many people want to know was my car in the street and not in the garage. That is answered very simple. we were getting our driveway and sidewalk redone. Anthem flippped the bill for that. It had been on the street for a week. It was Sunday night and on Monday we were going to be able to park the car on the driveway or in the garage. At 10:30 pm I have a knock at the door I answer it and there is a girl standing there all upset. She informs me that she moved in across the street and she has no insurance and no licence. So here is the car. I am trying to keep a sense of humor about this. Today we turned it in to get fixed and now are driving around in a rental car. So here is the damage.

As you can see the front passenger door got most of the love from the other car. Looking at my car it is like a picasso painting gone wrong. I am still not sure how anyone can hit a parked car. But where there is a will there is a way or i guess in this cases Murrphy's Laws hit full force. I took these in case I would need to recover my costs for getting the car fixed. And of course Lexi thought oh Mom is taking pictures of the car. Lets get a few of me. She was so funny wearing the overalls, tank top, hat , scarf and sunglasses not shown in the photo because how can anyone
she my pretty eyes mom was her reply,

When I asked her to keep them on for the photo.
She is just a little ham in front of the camera when I do not need her to be but when I need her to work with me that is when I throw in the towel. I have been trying to get a picture of Logan and Lexi that is cute together sense November when we took family pictures. I have not been able to. No added pressure that I need it or anything like that. This is the best one of them being sweet . It is what I will probable go with but it is not my favorite. The only way that I could get the kids to even think about sitting near each other and sort of smiling was to put

Tali in the picture with the kids. SOme man that was walking by stood behind me, and got Tali's attention so that I could focus on the kids with Jared's help a nice guy and me this was the best we could do.

So that is some of the Drama that is my so called life. Each day is definately a new adventure. Best wishes and Hugs to all.
Brit