The Huml's

Tangled Reggie

2011-04-04T19:10:00.000-07:00

I was out of ideas. My cupboard was full (had just gone shopping) but I forgot a few necessities for some of my meals and was without a crock-pot for the other. I had to improvise. I'm so glad that I did! This was a really great meal that my kids actually thanked me for and gobbled up! Oh, and they named it too. Cute name isn't it? Here's the recipe if you would like to try something new:

Rotini Noodles (use as much as you need for your family, I don't measure ;))

1 lb. of Hamburger

Garlic Salt

Salt

Pepper

1 can of Cream of Mushroom soup (small can)

1 jar of Bertoli's Four Cheese Rosa

Mozzerrella Cheese

Preheat oven to 350 Boil noodles until soft, drain water. Do NOT rinse. (I actually forgot to and it turned out to be a good thing) Brown hamburger (with any seasonings you desire) After it's browned, add in the mushroom soup and Bertoli's Mix the noodles and the sauce mixture together in an 8x13 pan Add desired amount of Mozzerrella cheese on the top Bake for 15-20 minutes This goes really well with Garlic Bread!

Pink and Brown Baby Shower Theme

2011-03-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

My Sister-in-law, Jen, put on the cutest baby shower for my sister Katie. Cute table center pieces, delicious food, and great prizes for your guests! For awesome ideas on how to put on the cutest little girl baby shower, check it out here: Pink and Brown Baby Shower Theme

Varolo is not a Scam!

2011-03-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

While searching for a way to make some income, I stumbled across Varolo. It's completely 100% free and easy to do. The way you make money is by watching advertisements and growing a "village" of people who also watch the advertisements. It's pretty simple really. I've found that you can really make this a profit by working on growing a village. Which isn't hard to do! I've been a part of Varolo since the beginning, even before the beta launch, and am pretty excited about all the new things that are coming. Varolo is going to make it's official launch on April 17, 2011. So get your villages going and making money! Seriously, Varolo is not a Scam! I wouldn't be telling you about it if it was!

Home for the Holidays

2010-12-14T12:04:00.000-08:00

I am so grateful to have such a wonderful family to enjoy the holidays with. I look at my little family and have to just smile, inside and out. I feel so blessed to have such wonderful children and a great husband. My parents and siblings, and my in-laws, bring such joy to my life and I appreciate all that they are, and all that they do.

During the Christmas Season, I find myself pondering on all the blessings that I have. My family and I are truly blessed. It's been quite a difficult year, but through it all, we can clearly see the Lord's hand guiding us and helping us through it all. We may not always understand the reasons for our trials or what the Lord has in store for us, but if we continue to be faithful and endure through it all, I know that we will be blessed.

Thank you to all of my family who has been there for strength, love and support.

May the Spirit of the Lord find you this Season and Always!

Happy Helpers

2010-11-11T09:06:00.001-08:00

This is our Management crew. He gets to sit there and laugh while the rest of us work LOL
Lots and lots of leaves to rake before the snow hits....unfortunately we didn't get it all done.

Caroline had the most fun raking the leaves while Quentin jumped in them LOL

Here's Quentin climbing the tree. I'm glad that we have big, beautiful trees for the kids to play on.

Working makes us happy!

Bath Time!

2010-10-27T14:01:00.001-07:00

Quentin and Kendrick got to play in the bath for a little while. Quentin loves having a little brother to spend time with.
Doesn't he look like James here? LOL

Learning to babble and jabber at us. He talks like he knows what he's talking about. Remind you of anyone? ;)

All dressed warm after a nice bath....ready to play trucks with big brother.

Oh, and here are his 6 month measurements!

17 lbs (42%), 27.5 in (85%)

Food and FUN!

2010-10-07T14:01:00.000-07:00

This is Kendrick's first experience with rice cereal. He ate it...but wasn't as enthusiastic as he's learning to be about the fun things he can do with food!

This was taken the day before he turned six months old. This new tasty treat is some banana puffs. He went crazy for them after his first one. He's loving his new highchair and more importantly, his sippy full of WATER! He started drinking from Grandma Huml's cup a couple months ago and now he just can't get enough water.

Ooops! He found the camera.

Moving Forward

2010-09-21T17:21:00.000-07:00

James and I recently moved into a cute little house. We are absolutely loving it! The kids have their bedrooms upstairs and are having quite an adventure. It's nice to have our own backyard for our dog and I can worry at little less with the kids going out to play. We still haven't unpacked all of our things. Go figure! It's hard to find a place for everything. The last place we were in we just stuffed everything in the garage LOL but now we don't have a garage and have to stuff closets. All in all it's a great place to live and we are enjoying every minute of it.

Kendrick will be 6 months on October 8th and he is getting so big! The last appointment at Primary Childrens he was 15.8 pounds and 24 3/4 inches. That was at 5 months old. We will see how much bigger he is in about two weeks.
Milestones:
Rolling over
Pushing up off the floor
Trying to get knees under him to scoot forward and reach a toy
Sitting up on his own
Eating solids
Drinking out of a cup! (not perfectly :))That was his own decision....he loves water just like Mommy
Of course, smiling, giggling, cooing and jabbering....just like Daddy LOL

Such a cute family

2010-07-11T16:58:00.001-07:00

Dad put away his shoes and got some time with the kids. We all went to the Egin Lakes and had a blast! We are wanting to go again before summer ends....

It was fun to see the kids enjoying themselves and getting along so well. Oh, and Penny had a blast too!
As we were walking back to our car a woman stopped us and said "I thought you should know that you guys have the cutest family"......I would have to agree!!!

No swimming for Kendrick...but after the end of the day we all went home and got in our 'jamas to relax from a fun-filled day!

A family that plays together....

2010-06-25T14:10:00.001-07:00

Quentin just learned to ride his bike WITHOUT TRAINING WHEELS!....Thanks DAD

What are you looking at?

Thanks Emmett for sharing your backyard for all of this summer fun!

Payton is always good for a laugh! It's so great to have cousins to play with...

Make a FUNNY face!

So pretty in her little dress. Caroline loves to dress up!

All alone..... that's okay, Mom will pick you up in a second

Good Times

2010-06-08T18:33:00.001-07:00

All smiles!
Isn't he getting so big? Two months old today

He's a fast learner...he was doing this at three weeks old!

She loves to be a big sis

These pictures make me laugh and I just had to share

Caroline's 3rd Birthday

2010-06-08T18:21:00.001-07:00

Caroline was so excited about her new bike from Grandma and Grandpa Huml. She just couldn't wait to get on and ride with all of her safety gear. She is doing really well on the bike and loves to be out there with Quentin.

Caroline got a backpack, 2 outfits, my little pony playset, and a two tinkerbells. She loved being the center of attention!

When I asked Caroline what she wanted for her birthday, she kept telling me a birthday cake. This is my first one in a very long time. It was fun to do.

Happy 3rd Birthday Caroline! We love having you in our family!!!

Summer begins....oh so slowly...

2010-06-03T18:24:00.000-07:00

The first sign of a nice day Quentin was outside on his bike. So glad that we don't have such a busy road and a place for him to ride his bike. Goal for the summer: No more training wheels!

Quentin started wrestling back in February and had mixed feelings about it, but by the end of it he really enjoyed doing it. Most of all....he loved getting time with James.

I wish I had more pics of the things that we've been doing and of my other children. But I seem to forget about the camera when my house gets in chaos. LOL I'll do better.

Be looking for an update of Caroline's Birthday!

Kendrick's Blessing

2010-05-03T18:25:00.000-07:00

Kendrick was blessed on May 2nd. We need to get some more pictures of him in his outfit. He was crying and upset because he was hungry....sorry to torture you little buddy LOL.

We are so blessed to have the family that we do. They are all so loving and supportive. It's been a long time since we've had everyone all together, both my family and James'. It was so much fun to be with our families and to enjoy each other's company. Thank you everyone for all of your support and yummy food!
In the picture: Russ and Jared are pulling the teeter-totter to a better spot to play on. Jonah is watching and Nate and Payton are playing on the logs. (The logs have been pretty entertaining)

In the picture: James (talking of course), Vince and Katie watching Emmett and Andy playing on the teeter-totter.

In the picture: Janet, Jim, Becky and Katie watching the kids and visiting. Quentin, Caroline and Gavin are riding the whirly-gig.

I'm glad the weather was okay enough for everyone to go out and enjoy some of the toys.

Our newest addition

2010-04-19T17:59:00.000-07:00

Introducing: Kendrick James Huml

born at 1:03 a.m. on April 8, 2010

7 lbs 9 oz, 20 inches

The past month and a half has been so stressful with dealing with preterm labor and trying to graduate. About a week before Kendrick made his appearance I was having contractions enough to where I went into the hospital 4 times, just to be sent home. All day long on the 7th I was having contractions, but didn't get my hopes up. James had a basketball game and I told him to go ahead and go, nothing's going to happen (I was sulking LOL). Caroline was already asleep and Quentin and I were laying down on the couch relaxing for the night before he was to go to bed. My water broke at 8:15 p.m. and Quentin was a little confused. He touched my tummy and said "Kendrick, you have to wait for the doctor" I called James, (luckily he was on the bench and next to his phone) he rushed home and we took the kids to James' sister Becky and finally got to the hospital at about 9:30 p.m. I was 3cm and ready for an epidural. I went to a 6 and started feeling a lot of pressure and the sensation to push about 15 minutes later. It took about 10 pushes and our sweet little guy was welcomed into the world. We all love our sweet little boy and are enjoying every minute of every day.

Quentin and Caroline have been a good big brother and sister. They help out when asked and love to give him hugs and kisses whenever mom and dad let them.

He is so precious and the perfect addition to our family. We can't wait to get to know him more as he grows every day!

No sense in being pessimistic

2010-02-26T07:29:00.000-08:00

For the past little while I have been feeling like things are not going to get any better. I've just been plain old pessimistic! I don't know if you'd call it hormones, stress, spring fever, or what..... but I'm pretty tired of it. After this episode at the hospital I went into survive mode and started stressing about all that needs to be done before our little bundle of joy arrives. I'm happy to say that I'm feeling better about the whole situation and sensing that Kendrick will be able to make it to full term (whether it be 36 or 40 weeks I don't know) If I can remind myself to stop and rest. I'm so happy to have my family around who is so loving and supportive and who are willing to help out wherever needed. I'm going to get my house in order and ready for a baby....call it nesting if you want, but I call it a rude awakening! LOL
Thanks to everyone for all that you've done to help our family through the recent events and throughout my college years. I wouldn't have been able to do any of it without you!!!!

Just to vent

2010-01-30T08:04:00.000-08:00

I am so tired of these hormones right now! I just want to scream and pull my hair out! I hate that I get so impatient with the kids and I feel like the most horrible mom. I know that they are just being kids....I just need my breathers every now and again. It doesn't help my patience now that I'm working with twelve 2 year olds two days a week and homework up the wazoo. Don't get me started on my husband!

Ya know what.....this just goes to show that it truly is hormones. As I'm writing this I'm telling myself about all the great things that are going on in my life and how great James can be to help out. (SIGH) I just don't like that it puts me on such a roller coaster. Imagine how James and the kids feel! Oh well, I'll just blame it on my oxytocin levels and my inhibited HPA axis.

Earlier Due Date.....(maybe)

2010-01-13T15:42:00.000-08:00

Today I had a doctor's appointment to complete the 20 week ultrasound. There were some things that they wanted to check up on and so I had a repeat ultrasound. Baby Kendrick is weighing 2 lbs now and they figure that my due date may be a little off. To go with the "official" due date I am 25 weeks and 5 days today, but according to the measurement of the baby I am 26 weeks and 3 days. I'm not going to change it on my calendar, (I already figured he was coming early), but we'll see how much earlier it is! Also, there were some complications that require another ultrasound from a specialist and a high-tech machine, but I don't wish to discuss the details on my blog. I'll try and keep everyone updated.....I'm TERRIBLE with making phone calls. >.<

Update!

2010-01-06T07:56:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted for a while....so here's some pics to tell a LITTLE bit about the past month.

Here's PENNY! She's been the sweetest little dog. We just love her to death.

Quentin is a good little helper and loves to take care of our newest addition to the family. We'll see how that goes when the next addition arrives in April.

Here's Penny jumping and spinning in place. I wish the camera captured it better, it's so cute when she does it.

The pictures are a little mixed up....Christmas was first, and then Penny and the new apartment. But you get the picture!

They look so tired, you'd think that they woke up early or something. Nope! It was 9a.m.!!!

Caroline had to try out Kristin's new pogo stick.

Love the mess!? Can you see who's hiding there in the middle....

Kristin looking through her Christmas stocking. She didn't want the orange....just the candy!

Partly cleaned up and Quentin is the first one dressed and ready to go play at Grandpa and Grandma Humls.

4 years already!

2009-12-09T17:50:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that it's been 4 years since my little baby was born? Time has flown by so fast. He's getting so big! 43 inches tall and 48 pounds. He's enjoyed preschool and making some new friends. He is still completely fixated on Bumblebee and Transformers....of course. He has been such a joy in our lives and I couldn't imagine life without him. He's the sweetest, most tender little boy that I know. Quentin is always looking out for other kids and wants to be a good friend to everyone....even Jayden whom he lets lick all over his face. LOL
On his birthday he came into our bedroom at about 7:00 a.m. to wake us up. He'd completely forgotten that it was his birthday and when James and I said Happy Birthday he said "Thanks Mom and Dad, you're the best Mom and Dad ever!" We all got out of bed and let him open one of his gifts, saving the rest for his birthday party on Saturday. You can tell from the picture that he was still a little out of it and trying to wake up.

That night Quentin and I sat down on the living room floor in our pajamas and had oreo cookies and milk. I let him stay up a little later and enjoy some mommy time. He kept asking "Where's my birthday at?" I tried to explain that it's the entire day, it's celebrating the day he was born. But he wasn't satisfied, I think he thought that a birthday is something that you can see, like when the snow falls. He's silly.

Grandpa Jim made Quentin a great cake! He absolutely loved it. As soon as he saw that we put it out on the table (while he was swimming), James couldn't get him out of the swimming pool fast enough! And you know how much Quentin loves to swim..... Thanks Grandpa Jim!!!

Thanks to everyone for all the love and support and for the great gifts. I know that Quentin felt so much love from all of you. He just ate it all up!

Holiday Season

2009-12-03T15:48:00.000-08:00

I am getting super excited for Christmas and all the upcoming events! There is so much going on this month....and, to be honest, it's hard not to get overwhelmed. But I'm sure that all will go well and that the Holiday Season will bring love, peace and joy into our hearts and homes. Just as a refresher (mostly for my own benefit, LOL) this is my families schedule for the month:
December 5th: Quentin's Birthday Party
December 8th: Gender Ultrasound!!!
December 14th: James' last day of school. YEAH! No more traveling to Missoula!
December 16th: Tiff's last day of classes....unfortunately a dumb teacher scheduled a test for after this date...UGH!
December 21st-28th: Kristin's Christmas Visit!!!
End of December/First of January: Moving!
January 5th: First day of classes....
Somewhere in the middle of all this I'd like to have a day to make a bunch of holiday cookies to give out holiday plates.....anyone wanting to make a day of it with me HOLLA BACK!

Trimming the tree

2009-11-24T08:41:00.001-08:00

Our little tree has a couple issues....One of the branches are not lighting up and it looks pretty bare. I couldn't find most of my bulbs and the tree topper and there's no tinsel...yet. I got a little disappointed because of everything that was going wrong. I planned on Christmas music playing in the background and eating holiday M&M's, there was just too much going on to get it all done. But you know what! The kids were dancing around and laughing. They were so excited about our little tree and could care less that it didn't turn out perfect. How wonderful it is to be a kid!

Coming to an end

2009-11-03T08:55:00.000-08:00

I registered for classes for the last time! Thoughts of the future keep running through my head and I am so excited for where my family and I are headed. School is almost over....I can just taste it! James will be done in about 6 weeks and I have less than 6 months! We have so much to be thankful for...especially for the love and support of our families as we work to obtain our family goals. Thank you so much to everyone! We have the most wonderful family

For those of you wondering, my schedule for winter semester is going to be (should be) much better than this current semester. Classes begin January 5th and end on April 7th. Graduation is supposed to be April 10th. So, here's the schedule: I have Wednesdays and Fridays with no classes! Mondays: 12-5:30; Tuesdays: 3-5; Thursdays: 12-5. It's very different for me because I am so used to having my morning classes and getting the rest of the day for other obligations. I am sure this will work out great though...I'm thinking positive thoughts!

Halloween Party!

2009-10-13T15:46:00.000-07:00

October 30th

6:00 p.m.?

Mom and Dad's house

Be creative with your costumes!

Have a fun activity for kids...and adults if you want

It's going to be a blast! Don't miss out!!

First day of Preschool

2009-09-25T11:14:00.000-07:00

I came into my mom's bed and woke her up because I was so excited for school! I got to wear my new clothes and my new Transformer shoes. It was cold outside, so mommy put me in a warm jacket.

When I got to school I put my backpack and coat into my very own cubby. Then the teacher gave me my nametag. I was too busy looking at everything that I forgot to give mommy a hug and kiss goodbye...but she remembered to. After school was done I told my mom about my favorite things and told her "I want to come back again!" I loved playing outside and with the dinosaur toys. They read books, sang songs, painted pictures, and tons of other things. I love my school and my teachers.

I was able to watch Quentin through their observation booth for the last 1/2 hour of school. He looked like he was having a blast and he was listening well to the instructions given. I think he's really going to enjoy preschool.

First Ultrasound!

2009-09-16T17:02:00.001-07:00

Thought I'd update everyone this way...I'm not much for talking on the phone. LOL The ultrasound went really great. They saw the baby and everything is normal. James said to make sure there's not two in there....sorry to disappoint some of you, but there's only one. The baby's heartbeat was good and was moving around and waving his arms. Well, little nubs LOL. They found a cyst in my left ovary but said it's nothing that I should worry about. They also said that there is a blood clot next to where the baby implanted. Also, nothing to worry about. I just can't over-do anything or do much lifting. I said...Good Luck! I go to school and deal with a 3-year-old. I got a stomach ache after and now my left side is sore where they saw the cyst. Other than that...I'm good! So...now's the time for a poll! I'll post one on the side of my blog to see what everyone thinks we're going to have. I don't know how much I can tell you that is different...or the same...from my last pregnancy. It was too long ago and my life is so much different than before. Your guess is as good as mine...well, I have mother's intuition on my side...we'll see who's right and who's wrong! BTW next appointment is October 7th and I get another ultrasound!

Dilemma...

2009-08-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

As most of you know I will be starting school on September 10th and Quentin will be starting preschool on September 22nd. Yay for preschool! The problem is that I seem to be running short on babysitters. (No worries Katie and Brook, you have your families to think of first) I don't know where to go for babysitting. If any of you have an idea or any suggestions, that would be most helpful! Here's my schedule for needing a babysitter: Quentin is in preschool from 8-10:30 on T and TH, but since I start school on the 10th I will need someone during these times until the 22nd. WEEKLY: M- 8-2; T- 11-1; W- 8-2; TH- 11-1; F- 10-2. The semester ends on December 15th.

Let me know if you hear of anyone who would watch Quentin. I really want to stay away from DayCare.

. . . Summer Update . . .

2009-07-23T09:49:00.000-07:00

At Ross Park: This is what happens when you don't have anyone else to take your photo. Peoples heads get cut off! We don't have any other photos from the water park. A little sad about that.
Kristin's first fish!! She was so excited. Mathew caught the biggest fish "but I caught one first" I don't think she's competitive . . . do you? LOL

Quentin fished a little and helped others with their fish, but mainly he played with the worms. Is anyone really surprised?

Just before going to Yellowstone we stopped at the spring that you can drink out of. There were a ton of butterflies and the kids had fun chasing and catching them.
Caroline had fun when we got to get out of the car. Kids just don't do well squished in a car for long periods of time.
It was hot outside, but the kids were really good sports and enjoyed the "smelly hot tubs"

This is my favorite picture. Aren't they so precious!

I sure love my husband and the good man that he is. He makes things so much fun and exciting. We have a great family together!
We've been so busy this summer we made our kids exhausted! We woke up one morning to find Caroline sleeping at the foot of the bed. It was so cute I had to take a picture!

We had so much fun with the kids this summer and can't believe that it's already over. We didn't get as much done as we would have liked, but that's okay . . . there's always next summer!

Daddy's little girl . . .

2009-07-02T14:21:00.000-07:00

. . . not so little anymore! Dad taught her to ride a bike without training wheels. Kristin did so well and kept at it. She'd crash and then get right back on. After she learned well enough we went for a bike ride. She was still a little wobbly. One time I looked behind me to see how she was doing and all of a sudden Kristin disappeared in the tall grass. No more Kristin . . . until Dad said "watch out for snakes" She jumped right up and started screaming. It was hilarious.
Thanks Grandma and Grandpa Huml for the bike. Oh, and for the helmet and gear, I would've gotten pretty scraped up without it!

Out and about for a little stroll around the park.

Kristin was so proud of this little stunt that her and Dad do. She calls herself "Dad's little acrobat"

Caroline's B-lated Birthday

2009-07-02T14:15:00.000-07:00

Caroline's Birthday was celebrated along with the twins, Jonah and Isabelle. They had a blast with their own cakes to tear into. You did a great job Becky! The last picture is Caroline a week later with one of her toys.

A day in Salt Lake City

2009-06-16T12:30:00.000-07:00

In the hotel, anxious to get going. Quentin wouldn't let us stay there until check-out. He whined and complained until we left . . . at 9:30 a.m. After the hotel we went to the movie Up. We got there at the early bird ticket prices and were the only ones in the theatre. Which was nice when Quentin decided to squack like the bird on the movie!

We walked through temple square and Quentin had to throw pennies in all the fountains. Needless to say, "I'm all out"

At Hogle Zoo: Outside the monkey cages Quentin wanted a drink. He thought the lion was going to eat him!

Hanging over the Zebra fences . . . we were having a good time!

He loved the giraffes. Sorry Quentin, I don't think you'll be as tall as they are!

After walking through the zoo we went to the park in the middle of the zoo. Here is Quentin pretending to be a turtle.

The trip was so much fun . . . but so hectic! We decided that I was going with James at 5:30 Sunday night so we hurried and booked a hotel and got our bags packed. On the road by 7:00 and finally got into the hotel room by midnight. Don't get me started on how well we slept, I don't want to start another argument about it. Apparently it's all my fault ;) James' shuttle picked him up at 4:00 a.m. I got a phone call at about 4:30 to tell me that he still had the car keys and so he left them with the shuttle driver to bring back to the hotel!! It's a good thing that the guy was honest! I couldn't sleep until the front desk called me to let me know that the keys were there . . . Phew . . .

Driving wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. Thanks Dad for the GPS, I would've been bawling my eyes out! We walked a lot, I should've worn shoes instead of flip-flops, my feet are paying for it. I was an idiot and couldn't find the mall because of all the construction going on. We walked forever and then on the walk back to where our car was parked I figured it out but was too tired to walk through the mall. I blame it all on the lack of sleep, the construction, and my flip-flops. I picked up James and Kristin at the airport and was anxious to get in the passenger seat! Home my 1:00 a.m. and woken up at 7:30 a.m. by an excited little girl! I'm going to bed early tonight . . .

Two-wheelin' and lovin' it!

2009-05-28T15:40:00.000-07:00

This is his camera smile! I ask him to smile and he opens his mouth really big and wide. What a goof-ball!

Quentin got a new bike a while ago and the weather is finally nice enough to go outside and ride it. He's been loving to ride. I can't get him off it!

The start of a great weekend

2009-05-24T09:35:00.000-07:00

The weekend started out dirty and, by the looks of things, wasn't going to get any cleaner!

Grandpa is teaching the boys the art of building a fire . . . cheating!

Roasting hot dogs. Nate was so good to roast a hot dog and marshmallow for me. Thanks Nate!

Believe me, the marshmallow ended up on more places than his face and hands.

We all got out our sleeping bags after playing freeze tag and red-rover. They were all pretty tired.

The morning got pretty hectic before breakfast at McDonald's. Some people forgot to finish getting ready ;)

Amelia is so sweet . . . as usual. She made sure everyone was happy and taken care of.

Dad even joined in on the fun. Is anybody really surprised?

We had so much fun spending time together. It meant a lot for us to get that much needed time. With school and everything, we all needed the weekend of fun and family!
Thanks Mom and Dad for everything!

I did it!

2009-05-20T18:39:00.000-07:00

I cut his hair with scissors and a comb! Yeah me! He did so good to sit there, not very still, but he sat there :)

I can now recharge!!

2009-05-20T15:51:00.000-07:00

A few months ago when we were in Baltimore, James and I left our camera battery charger and USB cable. We've been on the run-around trying to find a new one. Supposedly Kodak doesn't like to sell their accessories in stores, only online. So, I tried buying it and it was discontinued. A new camera and they already discontinued an accessory . . . I know, ridiculous right! So $62 and a few headaches later our camera dock is here complete with Kodak EasyShare! Be looking for lots of pictures, for I am anxious to click away!

Good ole' days

2009-05-08T17:07:00.001-07:00

You'd think that it was three old men lounging in their yard chatting about the good ole' days. These boys will definitely have a lot to chat about as they are growing up together. Hopefully they don't find themselves into too much trouble. ;)

Yard Sale Ideas

2009-04-24T15:45:00.000-07:00

I had suggested a little while ago about doing a yard sale as a big "Brian and Kitty Forbush Family." Those who want to participate, please comment and give suggestions as to what would work for everyone. I was thinking that with the college campus near by and being on such a busy street that doing it in my yard might bring in a lot of people. Katie had called me and brought to my attention some details that may have slipped my mind. Because the street is so busy it might be hard for people to park (if it's morning to afternoon on weekdays), also, the traffic causes a problem with children. If we are to do it at my place we would have to have one or two people to man, or woman ;), the children either at a park or elsewhere. They can be in my house, but I doubt that that's what they would want to do. We can do it at Katie's place as well. We can set up in the front and have a slippery slide or something for the kids to play with in the back. Katie and I also talked about ideas for what to do with the profits. I have a poll on the sidebar that you can vote on and give suggestions if you have any. The outings might be something like a trip to Ross Park in Pocatello, a girls' outing (consisting of more than dinner), or any other family mini-trip that we agree on. We were thinking that end of May-first of June might be the best time, again, please give input. If schedules don't quite work out with everyone, we can always take the items that you wish to sell and keep track of your profits. Hope to hear from all of you soon!

A reason to laugh

2009-04-23T17:46:00.000-07:00

There may be days when there just isn't much to laugh about. With Quentin around, I don't find many of those. Today Quentin came up to me and said "My butt is breathing." I, of course, have no idea what he means by that, but I have a pretty good idea ;)

Yeah me!!!

2009-04-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

I just got my grades back from Winter Semester. I am so excited because I didn't think I did that well this semester. I got 4 A's, a B and a C+. I ended up with a 3.45 GPA. It gives me hope that I can juggle all that is going on and get an education. July 2010 and my bachelors is over with. Yeah!!!

Three peas in a pod . . .

2009-04-14T18:01:00.000-07:00

Can I just say that I LOVE my kids!It was so much fun having them all here at once, although it got a little crazy at times. They all have their unique personalities that fit right in with our corky little family. Kristin is a wonderful big sister and plays well with them, even though I'm sure that she'd rather do things with older kids. She was so patient with them. Caroline developed a little attitude this last week and we are seeing a lot more personality come out of her, as opposed to the silent-type she was before. Quentin really loved having his sisters here and couldn't stop following Kristin around and telling her "I love you Kristin." I'm sure that got on her nerves after awhile. After the girls went back, Quentin was sitting in the back seat by himself and you could see this confused look on his face. He then asked where his sisters went. I think it's gonna take some time for him to get used to the changes and the coming-and-goings. As they all will. I just love having them around and I'm sure that they love being together.

A dream come true

2009-04-03T17:39:00.000-07:00

I am not much of a meal planner or very good with making lists before I go shopping. Obviously this leads to unnecessary spending, junkfood buying, and a lot of headache. I was looking for a cake recipe online that I could make for James' birthday. I used one of the websites that I posted on my blog and fell in LOVE! It's everything that I need! You can search recipes by ingredient and if you want to exclude certain ingredients then you can narrow your search, you can make your own personal online cookbook to keep recipes that you liked, you can make a menu and it creates a shopping list for you (you can remove from the list what you already have and add other things like toilet paper, if needed). Another really great thing is that with the recipes it gives nutrition information! I have a feeling that I will be spending some time on this website to get everything organized, but it'll be a BLAST! Are you ready for the website . . . www.recipezaar.com Go there, you'll love it!!!

Your butt's falling out . . .

2009-03-30T19:48:00.000-07:00

Payton sure has a way with words! James seems to be at the BUTT of our jokes at times, poor thing. With such big thighs and no hips he has a hard time buying pants that will do the job. When he does buy pants that work better, they rip around the thighs before long. It sure was funny though, kids definitely don't come into this world with social skills. We all had a good laugh, and it's a good thing that James has a good sense of humor. That's probably what I love most about him.

New Schedule

2009-03-23T21:24:00.001-07:00

I registered for classes a little while ago and I thought ya'll might want to know my schedule, since you care so much ;) I go to school on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9-3 and on Tuesday from 9-10. My classes are as follows: Parenting (child studies minor), Intro to Geology, Geology Lab (Field trips . . . yeah), History Systems (for psychology), Social Science Statistics, and Teachings of the Living Prophets. After this semester I will be completed with all of my general education classes and will be able to focus completely on my major and minor. I'm so excited. Also, after this summer I will only have 9 classes left that are required to obtain my diploma. Can you tell that I'm excited?

Good Websites for Recipes

2009-03-17T15:36:00.000-07:00

In my nutrition class we are creating preschoolers meal plans and my professor gave us some websites that are really good to find some recipes. I thought all you wonderful moms would enjoy some variety.
www.kraftfoods.com
www.campbellskitchen.com
www.americatestkitchen.com
www.familyfun.com
www.recipezaar.com
www.foodnetwork.com
www.allrecipes.com
www.supercook.com
www.thepioneerwomancooks.com
www.mealplanner.com
I haven't been able to go to all of these websites. One of them that was cool is thepioneerwomancooks.com, it shows pictures of the steps for each recipe to help you know what it's supposed to look like. Let me know what you think and if you find a great recipe, share it!

Any Ideas?

2009-03-06T17:41:00.000-08:00

I have an assignment due next Friday for my nutrition class and I am stumped on what to do. I have to make a file folder activity for children ages 3-5 that teaches them about nutrition. Every idea that I come up with I can't quite get finalized. In this assignment I have to create a newsletter to the parent about a nutrition concept and explain to them how to do this activity with their children. Essentially, a parent should be able to take this home and use it without me being there to explain it. I am just stuck on ideas. To kind of give you an idea of what I'm talking about, last time I had to teach a food safety principle and I made a game called King Kandy's Fancy Feast, all of the characters in candyland had to learn some sort of food safety practice (i.e. washing hands) in order to eat at the castle. On the back of their character cards they each had their own situation that the child had to help them overcome by using these safety practices. Please help . . . my brain is stuck.

I can't eat your love!!!

2009-03-03T14:29:00.000-08:00

Quentin was eating some Lucky Charms and pointed out to me that the heart shaped marshmallow was love. I agreed with him and proceeded down the stairs to do some laundry. Quentin eventually followed me, bringing with him the sticky 'love' marshmallow from his bowl. "Mom, I brought you love!" I thanked him and kindly declined to eat the sticky marshmallow that he held in his hand "Thanks buddy, why don't you eat it?" "I can't eat your love, mommy!" I then took the marshmallow, being greatful for his love. (No, I didn't eat it)

Recent Achievement

2009-03-02T17:13:00.000-08:00

I am now officially food safety certified!

Can you give me a WHOOP WHOOP!?

I'm not sure what I'm going to do with it, but as a part of my nutrition class it helps to pass.

Sunday Post

2009-02-22T16:40:00.000-08:00

One thing that I have learned in my ethics class is that for something to be morally objective it needs to be made public, otherwise it serves no purpose. I find that in my meetings at church I gain so much while there, but as the week goes by I tend to forget what was taught. Which is probably one reason why it is good to go every Sunday, anyway . . . as I was saying, I would like to share something that I learned. Hopefully I'll be able to keep it up every Sunday. Today in Relief Society we had a lesson on virtue, which was excellent, but I am sharing a quote that was printed on our Relief Society bulletin. "It is by faith that you can lay hold upon every good thing. I pray with all my heart that your faith will be increased, that you are a daughter of a loving God. I testify to you that you have been one of the valiant ones to reach the point where you now are in this journey of life. Just as you are marked as a target by the enemy of righteousness, you have been protected and watched over by your Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ. They know you. They know all of the forces and individuals around you. They know what is ahead of you. And so, they know which of the choices you make, which of the circumstances around you will make the most difference in keeping you walking in the light. I testify that by the Spirit of Christ and by the Holy Ghost, you may walk confidently in whatever difficulties will come. Because you are so valuable, some of your trials may be severe. You need never be discouraged or afraid. The way through difficulties has always been prepared for you, and through difficulties has always been prepared for you, and you will find it if you exercise faith."
- President Spencer W. Kimball
This quote meant a lot to me. I hope it does for you as well.

Vacation Photos

2009-02-22T16:15:00.000-08:00

By the end of the day we were pretty tired. I bet you couldn't tell.

Chesapeake Bay. It may not quite be the ocean, but it may as well be.

Just after her baptism. She is definitely a sweet, spirited little girl.

Waiting for dinner at Outback. She wanted to open her presents before we sat down, hence, the tiara.

Lincoln Memorial: This place was huge. As a matter of fact, everything there was.

Lincoln Memorial: Our camera died before we could get a better photo of it and the reflection pool.

Washington Monument: We had a hard time capturing the whole thing!

First and last stop, Vegas.

Photos are not chronologically placed. Actually, last comes first and vice versa. P.S. Thanks Jen for informing me of the SD card that I can put in my computer. I'm a little techno-challenged.

I may have lost the fight, but we won the war.

2009-02-19T14:56:00.000-08:00

For the past couple of weeks it seems that Quentin and I have been in a power struggle. He seems to think that he can do everything by himself and any help that I try to give turns out to be a fight. In my child development class I am learning about Piaget's stages and Quentin is in between the autonomy vs. shame and doubt and the initiative vs. guilt stages. Learning about these stages has helped me to better understand my child. Last night Quentin was bound and determined to button the shirt of his pajamas all by himself. It was bedtime and I wasn't willing to wait while he did it, so we fought about it for about 10 minutes. I would try and put the shirt on him, but as soon as I did he would take it off before I could button it. So, I gave in and let him try to do it by himself, assuming that he would get frustrated soon and just let me do it. Well, there were four buttons on the shirt and he took about 5 minutes for each button. He was patient and determined to finish the job himself. I sat in his bedroom with him while he did it and encouraged him everytime he was getting it right and praised him when he got a button through. I cannot explain the joy that I felt in taking the time to praise my son for a job well done and for his glowing smile as he felt accomplished in buttoning up his own shirt. It was definitely a fight worth losing.

Getting Spring Fever?

2009-02-17T12:08:00.000-08:00

I don't know about the rest of you, but I am so ready for the sunny days to come. I'm dreaming up ideas for fun things to do outside with my kids. I just can't wait to see the trees all green and flowers blooming. It's hard enough to be cooped up inside with a 3-year-old who just wants to get his energy out. So, do any of you have some good ideas for coping with the winter chill? And what are some fun summer ideas that you are wanting to do? I'm wanting to go swimming, take the kids to the park, go on walks, and hopefully go to Lagoon or a waterpark when Kristin is here.

A good trip . . . An even better family.

2009-02-12T12:28:00.000-08:00

Well, I very much wanted to post a blog full of pics from my first big vacation; but, of course, we left our USB cable and charger to the camera in the hotel in Maryland. Unless, by some miracle, that we have simply misplaced it in all our luggage (Doubtful, but possible). We did have a nice time on our vacation, it was really good to see Kristin and be a part of her baptism. That was the highlight of our time there. She is so sweet and fun to be around. We also went to D.C. and saw the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and The White House, in which James tried to gain privileged access to the front gates (That didn't work out so well) ;) I wanted to go through the holocaust museum, but we were pressed for time with only a 2 hour meter and limited amount of change at hand. We also went to the Chesapeake Bay, that was really beautiful. Crystal and I went shopping Saturday morning and got a Pedicure/Manicure (Thanks Crystal). The mall was huge!!! Of course, to me, any thing is larger than little old Rexburg. There was a 24 plex theater in the mall and we all went to He's just not that into you. Funny movie. I liked it.
What I realized from going on this trip is that I'm not missing all that much of the world. It's great to get to know new people and cultures and to see new sights, but what I loved the most was time with my husband and time with Kristin. I dearly missed our kids at home and wished we could've been all together. I also realized that life doesn't stop when you go on vacation. We came back with housework and homework knocking at our door. If I wasn't behind before, I definitely am now. Thanks to all of my family members for helping out with watching Quentin. It's so great to have family around that is loving and supportive.

Winter Fun!!!

2009-02-01T11:16:00.000-08:00

We decided that we better make use of all the snow we got and went to my parents house to play. Our camera died before we could get pictures of Caroline outside with us. James was having fun making a HUGE snowman. Quentin didn't stay long on the tube, he decided that it would be more fun to play with the kitten and the neighbors dog. When Caroline came out, she had fun riding on the sled and just about fell asleep while riding.

Quentin's Day at the Hospital

2009-01-15T15:48:00.000-08:00

Well, our day started out at 7:30 a.m. at the hospital. Quentin was wide awake and ready to talk to everybody about his Bumblebee toy that he brought with him. I was putting on his hospital gown and he said "I'm not a girl!" He didn't seem to like the idea of a dress. They gave him an IV and wrapped it up like a cast on his hand and wrist so that he couldn't tug on it. After they had given him some stuff to relax him and get him ready for anastesia he started acting a little 'drunken' and used his new blue cast as a gun to shoot people (like Bumblebee). He was so funny and talking about the most random things and laughing at everything. They took him back to take out his tonsils, adenoids, and put tubes in his ears. The nurse came out a half hour later and asked me to come into the recovery room to help him calm down. What was funny is that she asked me if I was "Bumblebee's Mom." I laughed and she told me that he was telling everybody before his surgery about him. It took us about another half hour to get him to calm down and recognize where he was at and that I was holding him. He slept for about an hour and a half then woke up to see James, Katie and Emmett there. He seemed wide awake and ready to talk and play with Emmett, but couldn't quite get all the words out just yet. His voice was very high pitched, it actually sounded really cute to hear him speak. He's been awake ever since and had a milkshake, popcicles and water at the hospital. He even wanted to eat my chocolate chip cookie that James brought me from the cafeteria. I gave him a little taste (it was a soft cookie) and he did just fine. Actually, Quentin was a little upset that we were leaving the hospital. He had so much fun getting pampered by everyone. After we got home he'll get kind of fussy now and then, but has been doing really well. We'll just have to see how the next couple of days go. Thank you all for your gifts and for coming to see him.

Past, Present and Future: A New Year Update

2009-01-02T10:51:00.000-08:00

Last year went by so fast I don't have much to tell. The days seemed to run into each other with how hectic life was. We had a lot of fun getting our lives settled and hopefully next year we can do it all with a little more finesse.
2008 Favorites:
Wedding Day (of course!)
Lava Hot Springs
Family Pictures (a wonderful disaster ;p)
Quentin's Halloween (beginning of the obsession w/ Bumblebee)
Ugly Sweater Contest
2009 Upcoming News:
I will be starting school January 7th. I am taking 16 credits and my classes are: Nutrition and Young Children, Social Psychology, Personality, Building an Eternal Marriage, Ethics, and Early Child Development. It shouldn't be too difficult. I'll still be working at Wal-mart on Tuesday and Thursday nights and every other Sunday. James will begin another semester on the 5th and will be graduating in December. We hope to be able to go to Maryland this February to see Kristin get baptized. We'll just have to see how things work out. Quentin is getting his tonsils out and tubes put in his ears on the 15th. I'm praying that all goes well. We are going to try and be apartment managers to help save a little money, hopefully that works out. James is coaching Wrestling and will be playing Football this summer. It's always fun to see his games, maybe we'll go to one in Utah and do something this summer.
2009 Goals:
Survive!! ;)

Ode to the Christmas Tree

2008-12-15T14:28:00.000-08:00

Oh Christmas Tree, my Christmas Tree
What joy you bring to me!!
With your boughs drenched in tinsel
and your lights all aglow
reminds me of the blessings I hold.
Sheltered in a home full of love
and warmth all around
keeping this Season's purpose
always to be found.

I feel such joy when I walk into my home and see our christmas tree that I had to pay tribute. Every time, I think of how blessed we are and that I should be happy for what we can do to make a good Christmas for our family.

A christmas wish

2008-12-12T17:20:00.000-08:00

And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.
Dr. Seuss

May we all remember the true meaning of Christmas and feel it in our hearts this season and all throughout the year. As we gather together, let us all rejoice in the company of our loved ones and not get too wrapped up in gift-giving and receiving. Merry Christmas to everyone!! Love you all . . .

The man in my life

2008-12-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

James and I met in May 2007 on a blind date that Katie and Vince set up. We went to Wingers and to play games at Jade and Shanda's. It was so funny, later on while we were dating James asked "if we ever need to recreate our first date do we have to go to Wingers" (It wasn't his favorite). He stole my heart with his charming confidence and, of course, his gorgeous eyes and heart-melting smile. He is so willing to help out wherever needed, especially with the kids. He was an instant father to Quentin and never made me question his ability to do what is needed for a family. All of you who know James probably know that he has many interests and hobbies :) He loves fishing and hunting, wrestling and football. He volunteers as a wrestling coach for children in the winter, plays football in the summer, hunts in the fall (archery and rifle), and of course he fishes whenever possible. Yet through it all, he manages to work full-time, get his Masters, and be an amazing help to me and a wonderful father to our children. I don't know how he does it all and still keep a smiling face.

Once upon a time . . .

2008-12-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

I was heating up some pizza in the microwave and Quentin came up to me and said "Go sit down, I'll bring it to you." I began to tell him that I will do it, but then he pushed me and said "Mom, go sit down." It was the cutest thing ever! He did just fine bringing me lunch, maybe I'll let him more often. ;)

Quentin came up to me one morning and said "Mom, I'm stinkin' hungry!"

I was laying down on the couch during a particularly annoying migraine, and Quentin came up and gave me a kiss on the forehead and held his hand on my cheek and said "You're a good girl Mom . . . do you want a drink of water?"

Watch for additions to this blog, I'm sure there will be many!!

The cutest kids ever!

2008-12-02T11:43:00.001-08:00

Caroline

2008-12-02T11:36:00.001-08:00

Caroline is quiet and tender-hearted, but when she gets playing it sure is fun to see her smile and laugh.

Quentin

2008-12-02T11:30:00.001-08:00

Quentin is so sweet and loving. He is such a good brother to his new sisters.

Kristin

2008-12-02T11:16:00.000-08:00

Kristin is so much fun and full of creativity. She sure likes to dress up for the camera . . . or just for the heck of it

Ready or Not, Here I come!!

2008-12-01T20:51:00.000-08:00

Well, all you experienced bloggers out there, there's a new rookie in town and things might get a little crazy. J/K!! I'm still a little confused about how to do everything, but I'm totally stoked to get started. P.S. A little shout out to Kate for the help in getting me started. You knew what I was missing. You, like, totally get me man :)