See Jane Blog

Valentine Mailbox Station

2012-02-07T09:37:00.000-08:00

I saw these cute mailboxes on a website attached to a cute candlestick and wanted to copy them. The craft store only had one wood candlestick and it was $4.00. I came up with this less expensive idea. I bought the wooden dowel for $2.00 and used a scrap of wood we had sitting in our garage. The mailboxes were $1.00 each at Target. I put Aaron on the case and he cut it, routered it, drilled holes and had James paint it. I just hot glued the mailboxes to the dowel and in the hole to secure them. I thought it turned out cute and wanted to share an easy and cheap idea. The kids love to check their mail each day to find notes and treats.

Before and After

2011-10-11T16:03:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share what Aaron has been busy doing this summer. He never ceases to amaze me with his talents. He can fix anything and build anything and he does such good work. He has never done anything like this, he is just able to figure anything out and he does such wonderful work.

I entered a contest for a backyard makeover last year, this is what our backyard looked like:

I submitted these pictures along with this poem:

We've lived in our house
For five long years
The inside brings smiles
The outside brings tears

Our four little children
Love playing in the sun
But a yard like this
Just isn't much fun

We started a patio
When the weather turned hot
But a one foot square
Is as far as we got.

A backyard makeover?
A wish come true!
We could play outside
And barbeque too!

I wanted to win so badly! I didn't. The family that did was much more deserving. It was fine because Aaron took matters into his own hands this summer and look what he turned it into. He isn't finished yet, he put electrical throughout and plans to add lighting, a privacy fence/half pergola, a deck, built in grill and tons of plants. I love it, we spend so much time back there now. Isn't he talented?

2011-10-05T22:21:00.000-07:00

This week our baking day is on Thursday instead of Friday. Don't miss it, we won't have another one for two weeks. We will do special orders (two dozen minimun)

Come after dinner, bring the family and enjoy the best cookies in town

and the good company of your neighbors.

Free hot chocolate for everyone!

See you Thursday (Oct 6th)

6:00-8:00 PM

This week we have chocolate drizzled butterfinger, chocolate crater, strawberry,

chocolate chip, frosted sugar, lemon drop and M&M

Introducing!

2011-09-09T11:20:00.000-07:00

My friend and neighbor Lisa, my mom and I have started a baking business. Here are the details from our blog:

Neighborhood Bakery!

We are so excited to invite you to our pre-opening bake sale.

This Saturday, September 10

2:00- 4:00 PM

7493 Park Maple Drive

West Jordan, UT

We will be featuring many of our favorites and the most popular among our many friends and family members. Unique cookies, muffins and other treats.

Don't turn on your oven, don't make a mess of your kitchen, don't be stuck with four dozen of the same cookie. Let us provide you with delicious treats made from high quality ingredients.

Can't make it? Reserve yours today!

Email us at

bakemydaygirls@hotmail.com

bakemydaygirls.com
We do special orders.

Some of this weeks treats include our famous Lemon Drop Cookies (sure to sell out!), Peanut Butter and Chocolate cookies, banana muffins, chocolate chip cookies, snickerdoodles, pumpkin cookies, oatmeal cream pies, soft frosted sugar cookies, cookies 'n cream cookies, smores cookies and more!

Free samples!!!

Let us make your day!

bakemydaygirls.com

Back to School

2011-09-07T13:25:00.000-07:00

This year we have a 5th grader, 2nd grader and two kindergarteners. Everyone loves school, loves their teacher and has great friends. Mommy may love having alone time for a few hours each day, after the sadness wore off, it was nice to be productive. I am even blogging for the first time since May! Time for some serious catch up.

Cake Classes!

2011-03-25T11:22:00.001-07:00

My sister in law, Dawn is starting up cake classes! She is a culinary school graduate and pastry chef extrordinaire. I am SO excited, I am taking them all. I can't wait to learn how to make a cake that not only looks good, but tastes divine. I wonder if she is offering them so I will stop asking her to make my kids cakes, just kidding - she is way too nice and generous. I have been so lucky to have her near by, she has spoiled us on many occasions with cakes for my kids birthday parites. I am taking the Tuesday class, come join me! Here are just a few of her cakes and all the details, in her words:

I am starting to teach cake classes out of my home in West Jordan. I am starting with a "beginner" class, and will add more advanced classes shortly, such as a rolled fondant class. The advanced classes will require that you take the beginner courses first. These are hands on classes!

The beginner class will be a 2 part class. The first class will teach you about professional cake pans and basics of baking a cake. You will then learn how to make chocolate mousse and learn how to layer and fill a cake. Then we will talk about cupcakes and you will learn how to fill cupcakes with chocolate mousse, and learn how to make American buttercream. You will get to fill with mousse and decorate 6 cupcakes to take home that night.

In the second class I will bring out the cake that you layered in the first class, and I will teach you how to make Italian buttercream. You will then learn how to frost a cake using a decorating turntable. You will learn some easy, fun, basic decorating ideas. You will get to take home your finished cake that night.

The beginner class (both parts) cost: $50

My first session will be Tuesday April 5th (part 1), and Tuesday April 12th (part 2). Both of these start at 7 p.m.
I also have a Saturday session on April 23rd (part 1), and April 30th (part 2). Both of these start at 9 a.m.

Class is available for ages 16 and up, and no children or babies please.

I only have 5 spots available for each session. You would need to be able to attend both consecutive classes. I will have all the supplies you need for the class - just bring an apron!

Feel free to call or email me with any questions, and please forward information on to anyone you know that would be interested. If you would like a special session and have a group of 5 people that can do that specific session, I am more than happy to accomodate your requested date, and make it a private session.

Please leave me a comment with your email address if you're interested and I will contact you.

If I have enough interest for classes in Phoenix, I would consider going down there :)

Valentine's

2011-02-13T22:07:00.001-08:00

Look how cute this Valentine is that my mom gave to all her grandkids, I love it and wanted to share it. So cute yet so simple and easy to do last minute if you need to. The card:

Inside:

(Cick here for a tutorial if you are interested.)

Speaking of Valentine's, check out the cake that my sister in law made for me (not to mention 24 other people!). Isn't it gorgeous!?!?!? I am not sure I will be able to cut into it, it is to cute. I told her that I am going to wear the gum paste flower in my hair or decorate my house with it.

Happy Birthday James

2011-02-13T21:39:00.001-08:00

James turned 10 today. For his birthday we let him invite one friend to go to a basketball game. This boy is nothing but basketball and football. He talks in his sleep sometimes and it is always things like, "go long for it!", "he's wide open, pass the ball!" or "score! " I am certain that he dreams of nothing but sports. We can't help but call him Jimmer these days, it is a name that is mentioned a lot at our house, this is our most favorite Jimmer, 10 years old:These two are quite the pair! They spent a majority of the afternoon before the game working on these signs.

Happy Birthday to my most favorite boy! We adore you!!!

Valentine Craft

2011-01-18T13:36:00.001-08:00

I found another craft I felt was worth doing. I didn't realize how long it would take, but I would still do it again. I wanted to put a ball of flowers on my candlesticks but had a hard time finding some that were big enough and cute enough that were less than 30 dollars a piece. I came across a way to make the fabric flowers you see all over the place for cheap! I saw them at The Idea Room and I knew when I saw them that I had to have some. Can you guess what I made these with?

Party streamers! It was 99 cents to make an entire ball of rosettes, now that is what I am talking about! Forget paying 30 to 40 bucks! I did take a long time to make, but was totally worth it, I just turned on The Bachelor (my guilty pleasure) and crafted away. Now I want to make a bunch and have a bowl full of them in different sizes. You would never know it was made with crepe paper, it looks so much like fabric, but it is cheaper and you don't have to cut it into long strips.

(I forgot to take steop by step pictures, but The Idea Room has some great ones, here )

resourceful

2010-12-14T13:04:00.000-08:00

"Hi James, How is your snow fort coming along?"

"good"

"Why is your head covered in snow?"

"The shovel wasn't working so I started using my head."

"Way to use your head buddy."

Who dunnit?

2010-12-13T21:34:00.000-08:00

I put a bright white table in the girls room and "somebody" colored all over it. Problem is, NOBODY did it. Let's try to solve this "crime".

The couch in my bedroom:

The bathroom stool:

Blinds:

Window Sill:

I think someone may have finally figured out that you should avoid leaving any obvious signs that you were at the scene of the crime.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-30T21:53:00.000-07:00

Best seat in town. . .

2010-10-12T18:29:00.000-07:00

(or in the neighborhood anyway)

When a dump truck arrived to deliver fresh wood chips in our park this afternoon, these two were as entertained as it gets. I wish I was so easy to please. My favorite part was the huge smile on the dump truck driver when he saw he had an audience.

Feeling Halloween Crafty

2010-10-02T13:34:00.000-07:00

It isn't too often that I see a craft that interests me enough to want to actually make it. When I came across these, I knew it was perfect for me, it looked inexpensive, easy, fast and cute! I am thinking of all the different holidays and seasons it would be fun to make one for. I found it here.

I turned these:

Into this:

and my mom turned them into this:

Where I found my supplies:

candlesticks - Michaels, 2.99 each

round base - any craft store, .50

letters - Hobby Lobby, .99 each

Glass Jar - Hobby Lobby, 2.99 each

Finial - .99 each or knob - bag full for 2 dollars or so at any ol' craft store

ribbon - any craft store, about 2 dollars

paint - my paint bin, free

(about 20 dollars to make all three and just over a half hour. I didn't have any coupons or sales and was not patient enough to wait for them, you could do it for quite a bit less if you did.)

I used hot glue for all parts excepts to adhere the glass onto the

candle stick and then I used super glue GEL.

Preschool

2010-09-02T20:24:00.000-07:00

Literally ran and would never look back . . .
Unless I asked them too.

First Grade

2010-08-17T12:44:00.000-07:00

1st grade

5 missing teeth!

and a brother who loves her

First day of school

2010-08-16T13:56:00.000-07:00

What 4th grade looks like around here:

(pretty handsome, if I do say so myself!)

Asleep

2010-08-11T21:16:00.000-07:00

Just another afternoon nap

I scream, you scream

2010-08-03T15:22:00.000-07:00

My twins turned 4 on Sunday. We had not one, but two ice cream parties for them. There was a friend party for their girlfriends and then a family party. Happy birthday girlies!!

Cute ice cream garland, compliments of my crafty sister in law, Alissa.

Ice cream crafts (ice cream sunday foam craft magnents from Oriental trading), pin the cherry on the ice cream cone and ice cream cone balloon races.

Tip for ice cream parties: scoop ice cream into balls, freeze on cookie sheet then put in bowl when ready to serve. Saves time and messes as they go through the sundae bar.

Decorations:

Pinata!

Party favors, ice cream bubbles, lip gloss, shooters, stickers, ring and chocolate suckers.

Our Family Reunion

2010-07-25T21:34:00.000-07:00

My whole family got to go to my sister and her husband's family cabin a few weeks ago. As always, we had the most wonderful time. I wish I could somehow have captured the fun the adults had playing games at night and sitting around the fire after the kids went to bed. Too much laughing is definitely good for the soul! I also can't believe I don't have a photo of the boys shooting their new guns. Here is our trip, in a nutshell and in no particular order.

My favorite view, my nephew Calvin's chubby little hand. Asking me for more. More treats, more bubbles, more glow sticks. Whatever he wants from his Aunti Jane, he gets! This hand is so cute, I want to eat it up, dirt and all. He had to go and move to DC on me, darn it.

My main girl Debbie (Dawn's cute sister). I love her, everyone does. I love how she makes
everyone around her happy and smile. I love how she has a great memory and I love her use of words. She has such a big vocabulary. We are going to miss her when she goes back to Kansas.
Lots of kids! (15 to be exact) Notice tiny baby at the top.
Clueless baby, he had no idea he was sitting on the top step as part of a photo.

Our strong and handsome men. Lucky ladies are we!

4 wheeler action

Rides, sidewalk chalk, outdoor fun.
Big cousins comforting little cousins.

Water slide!

Forest scavenger hunt

Impromtu glow dance by me and Aaron. We had a million glowsticks around the fire so we copied an idea we saw and taped them to ourselves. First and probably last time I ever saw my husband dance.

Living on the swings, hours of fun everyday.
Bubble makers and finger knitting lesson by Aunt Katie.

Fishing, everyone caught some! The boys ate them for dinner.

Thanks Bracken family, we had too much fun and we love your cabin!

I may have a problem

2010-07-14T14:37:00.001-07:00

I discovered Yogurtland. It opened near my home just two weeks ago.
I save our spoons . . .It is not uncommon for me to eat this as my lunch and/or dinner and I have been known a time or two to make an appearance there twice in one day. Maybe I should get a job there? It is so good! Go discover it, you won't be disappointed.

Feet

2010-07-07T22:17:00.000-07:00

What is wrong with this picture?

I love it when this happens. Which is all too often, especially considering someone has two very different sized feet and needs two very different sized shoes.

My favorite pair of feet in the entire world:

Shhhh, twins sleeping

2010-05-27T15:26:00.000-07:00

They always start out in their own bed.

I love to go check in them at night and see what has happened.

Random stuff

2010-05-12T14:26:00.000-07:00

Just wanting to post a few random things.

Aaron had to be out of town on my birthday last week (oh, woe is me - no, not really - it was a great day!). My kids gave me this when I woke up. I treasure it. (thanks mom)

While doing the dishes Monday evening I got to enjoy this beautiful view. I don't know what I enjoyed more, the rainbow or the cutest attached vases my sister sent me for my birthday (thanks Kate!!) I am obsessed with them.

When Aaron got back in town I mentioned to him that my car was a mess. The next thing I knew, he took all the kids Mother's Day shopping and when they got home I opened the garage door and this is what I saw. All five of them, busy at work. Made me so happy.

And last, Antrhopologie sends me a coupon for my b-day every year. They are always packaged to die for. This year was a little card with a candle, the candle is part of a necklace. How fun is that?

Proud new Aunt

2010-05-07T18:19:00.001-07:00

This is my brand new nephew, Clark. I took these photos of him this week and am so proud of them. I am head over heels in love with this handsome little guy and the only thing I want to do all day long is hold him! I make no apologies for the number of photos I am about to share, I am only sorry I am not sharing more. But hey, we have to keep his announcement photos a surprise!

This is our house!

2010-04-17T14:25:00.000-07:00

We decided to sign Julia up for soccer with her cute friend London. Today was the first game & she had an absolutely wonderful time!

Her team, although much smaller than their opponents, won! Do you think it could be that the 5 year olds were intimidated by her older brother and his signage?
He was so excited for his sister that he spent the past three days prepping her for the big game. He showed her many fancy moves and told her time and again not to be afraid to slide!

PS - He scored a touchdown today at his first game of the season!

Easter 2010

2010-04-11T20:13:00.000-07:00

My Grandpa Joe & Arnold Friberg

2010-04-03T17:39:00.000-07:00

If you recognize this painting:

then you are probably familiar with the great artist, Arnold Friberg. My Grandpa Joe & Arnold Friberg were close friends for over 70 years. Mr. Friberg was also famous for painting the sets for THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. Every Easter when the movie is shown, I'm reminded of this photo:

Arnold Friberg with my Grandpa wearing the actual robe

that Moses (Charlton Heston) wore in the movie.

PS - Notice George Washington's hands - - they are modeled after my grandpa.

Another take on "magic" jelly beans

2010-04-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

Since we woke up to this today:

I thought I would test our "magic" jelly beans in the snow

Welcome to Easter in Utah!

Cutest Easter Tradition

2010-03-30T20:19:00.000-07:00

I blogged about this last year after Easter and got requests to do it before the holiday this year. I think this is by far the cutest Easter tradition.

1. Buy some "magic" jelly beans

2. Plant them in your yard, this only works the night before Easter

3. The next morning go outside and see what grew.

I love magic jelly beans.
Anyone know how I can make some dollar bills grow overnight?
Now that would be fun!

(PS - I found these at Walgreens for $1.00, which is by far the best deal. I went to a specialty candy shop and they were half the size for about 5 dollars!)

My Brother

2010-03-23T14:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Jeff!

10 reasons my brother is AMAZING

1. He is super smart -- he has a PhD in electrical engineering .

2. He is the BEST dad ever - - his kids adore him.

3. He taught himself how to play flemenco guitar and he is awesome!

4. He has a great sense of humor.

5. He reminds me of my dad (handsome, kind, funny, generous, spiritual and hard working).

6. He is a gifted athlete.

7. He keeps himself in great shape by running year round. (even in the snow)

8. He is the most disciplined person I've ever known.

9. He loves to learn and reads text books to relax?

10. In spite of all his talents, he's the most humble person I know.

St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-18T00:10:00.000-07:00

Growing up we never really did anything to celebrate St. Patricks day except wear a bit a green, of course. I was not prepared for the fun that is had around here for Kindergarten. Every kid made a Leprachaun trap (I could not believe how amazing they were!) The Leprachauns come at night and make a disaster of the room, leaving chairs turned over, scribbles on the tables, notes on the board and more. No one caught him but he did leave a gold dollar for everyone. There was face painting, games, cookie decorating, a treasure hunt, candy, stories, hat making and more.

While most people were green on St. Patricks Day, a tender hearted little guy I know was very blue. He had way too much fun with his best buddy in town from California (more on that later.) and had to say goodbye before going to school. Broke my heart!

Happy Birthday Julia!

2010-03-10T21:23:00.000-08:00

The sweetest girl I know turned 6 today

She was put in charge of all activities for the day. She isn't having a friends party so I told her she could invite a friend to join us.

Lunch: In-N-Out.

Activity: Shopping for jewelry, clothes and stuffed animals

followed by crafts at home

After dinner : Spoiled rotten and well deserved.

Happy Birthday sweet Julia !

Crazy Hair Day

2010-03-10T21:04:00.000-08:00

When we woke up on crazy hair day I didn't have anything in particular in mind . . .

However, when I saw the finished product it reminded me a lot of:

Furniture makeover

2010-02-27T21:11:00.000-08:00

My good friend moved to South Africa last week and she sold a lot of her stuff to accomodate the move. I was able to buy this piece for $25.00! I had some paint in my garage and decided to give it a little change. This and a couple of other pieces have sparked quite a few changes at our home, if I ever finish I will post some more pictures.

Before:

After:

Valentine

2010-02-14T21:01:00.000-08:00

My Valentine.

I made this shirt for him. Well, actually for me but I thought he would like it. When he saw it he couldn't stop laughing. I guess than means he liked it (?)

Part of our day:
No holiday would be complete without our menu, right?
Click here for the white pizza recipe, here for the pasta carbonara and here for the salad.

Happy Valentine's Day! I hope yours was great.

That boy of mine

2010-02-12T22:00:00.000-08:00

He turned 9 today

Nine things I love about James :

1. He loves sports and is pretty darn good at them.

2. He loves to read and he is very smart. He has read at least 5 big chapter books since Christmas.

3. He is very sweet and kind. Several of his friend's moms have told me that he is always nice to their little brothers and sisters and includes them when he is at their houses to play.

5. He is appreciative. For example - two weeks ago I brought the 5th LIGHTNING THIEF book home from the library for him to read (simple gesture on my part). He hugged me over and over and kept saying, "Wow, thanks mom! Thank you SO much!" Made my whole week, his appreciation for that small thing.

6. He is very helpful.

7. He isn't afraid to blow me kisses in the middle of his basketball game or give me hugs in front of other people.

8. He is a great brother. When James is involved, all four kids play without conflict together for hours. He doesn't tease and he loves all of his sisters.

9. He is well behaved and responsible. His teachers, both school and church, have always told us how obedient he is. Even when all the kids are acting up together, he seems to remember the rules.

He got to design his perfect day today, so--we had cinnamon rolls for breakfast, played at the park all morning long, went to see THE LIGHTNING THIEF with a few friends, opened presents, had dinner at In-N-Out, and watched the slam dunk competition with his dad.

More Valentine's

2010-02-10T16:53:00.001-08:00

Today we decorated cookies. Click here for my very favorite recipe, it is my mom's. Another mom in Julia's kindergarten class gave me the best tip for decorating cookies with kids. I used to dirty a million little bowls, spoons and knives so they could go to town decorating. Not any more. I bought a box of disposable pastry bags. I bought a box of 100 at the craft store (bring a half off coupon - they were priced over 20 bucks) And now when we are done there are NO dishes to wash!!! I just throw it all away.
One more thing - I saw this here and knew I had to do it. There is still plenty of time to make your own. I thought this would be a fun thing to do each year and see how they grow. Another reason I love this blog, Thanks again Lorie for the fun ideas!

Recipe Organizing

2010-02-09T04:17:00.000-08:00

For years organizing recipes has been on my list of things to do. I decided the easiest way for me to organize them would be to start a blog and one at a time, type them up. After a while, I will have all my favorites orgainzed and easy for me to find. I thought I would tell my friends so they can have access to our family favorites.cjaneinthekitchen.blogspot.com

Valentine treats and a fun blog

2010-02-08T13:07:00.000-08:00

What do you do when you have a lazy Sunday afternoon at home? Gather the kids, melt some chocolate and go to town. These are all easy, fun ideas I have seen all over the place. Dipped Oreos, Marshmallows and heart suckers made from two mini candy canes. I don't know who to give credit to since I see them everywhere and only have them bookmarked in my head.

My mom made these last year, I think she saw the idea here. This year I added the chocolate and a gumball cherry. These look cute in a celephane bag tied with a cute ribbon.Finally, we made our Preschool Valentines. Just take cardstock and vinyl, cut hearts, punch holes and lace ribbon through it and stuff it with candy! This was in my family fun magazine a few years ago. This was especially fun since all four of my kids like to sew and lace.

Speaking of ideas, if you don't already check out BeDifferentActNormal, you should! She posts several times daily all the cute crafts, holiday decor, recipes, etc., etc. Plus, she happens to be my brother in law's cousin and I hear she is super nice.

A good book

2010-02-07T21:37:00.000-08:00

We had a couple of extra Books of Mormon laying around the house so we gave one to each of the twins. I never expected that it would become their most played with item. I must hear the words "Book of Mormon" twenty times a day. Every Monday they want to bring them to school for show and tell.

I did not set up any of these situations, these were all taken within a few days.

When they colored, they asked their big sis to write one on the page When they read, it is always in the pile of books:
Everytime I start the car and back out of the driveway, I look back to make sure they have their seatbelts on and without fail, they each have a Book of Mormon in their lap. One time I was unloading the car and they had positioned their three bears in the seat to read:

They showed up as I took a bath and ran on the treadmill:

It is most often the first thing they pick up in the morning:

They ask me if they can take it on every errand we run:

I think that they are so excited about it so they can teach their mom a thing or two. Thanks to them and their constant reminders, I am slowly getting better at pulling my copy out and reading it more often, Heaven knows I have some improving to do.

If you want one click here - it's free)

New Recipe Sunday, Super Bowl Style

2010-02-07T21:02:00.000-08:00

So this is what our Super Bowl looked like:

Potato Skins - these I changed a bit.

I omitted the paprika and added seasoned salt instead.

I also cut the skins in half then in half again)

Ultimate Spicy Beef Nachos from Cooks Country

White Chocolate Carmel snack mix

Creamy Carmel Toffe Dip

All of these recipes were SO good! Our only problem today was too much food. We should have invited about 15 more people to join us. Oh well, at least my famiy is fed for the next few days!

Therapy, Sports Therapy

2010-01-16T19:43:00.000-08:00

I have mentioned before that James is way into sports. He wakes up every morning at 6 AM and the first thing we hear coming from the family room is ESPN or the game from the night before that he set to record since he had to go to bed. Sometimes it is an old game he loved, he watches those several times as if he had never seen them before.

It can be an issue when there is a really big game or his very favorite team playing. It affects him in a way that I can understand to a degree. I have felt that disappointment before. I remember like it was yesterday going to my brother's high school basketball games that were so important to me, if it was a bad game I would be sad and really frustrated. I have a clear memory of the Phoenix Suns losing in the 1993 playoffs and the disappointment that followed. Or the time I was living in Oregon and the Arizona Diamondbacks won the world series, I was energized!

Sports are fun that way. I grew up with a dad and brother that loved playing and watching sports and I saw it firsthand. They are exciting, stressful, frustrating, nerve racking and create an energy you don't find other ways. We sit, we stand, we jump, we scream, we dance and celebrate and we yell at the television. The greatest games and plays are fun to reflect on for years to come. I was always amazed how my dad would remember a specific game, players name and number, inning, quarter or half, the year it was played and that specific, awesome play. I think a lot of people can do that, you remember those very best and worst games and plays like you do major life events.

The past college and NFL football seasons are the first time we realized the effect sports have on James. A couple of times he was so frustrated that we had to pull back a bit on the football. We have had talks about it. He knows what is a good way to act and what isn't.

I noticed he has been so pleasant after his losses for a while now. I also realized what he did after a game tonight and then realized he has been doing it for most of the season.

He turns on the XBOX, pulls up the two teams that played the game and he plays it, the right way. Once his game is over and his team won, he has gotten over the real loss and replaced it with his XBOX win! I love his way of dealing with it. Quietly, without a word, turns on the game and lets it all out. His therapy. Doesn't bother anyone, doesn't tease his sisters, doesn't slam his door or talk back to anyone. He very quietly sits down and deals with it. Somehow he always wins the game version of the real game, never a loss.

Tonight it was the Cardinals loss.

Good boy, always cheers for his mama's hometown teams. I asked him yesterday what NBA team he likes the best and he basically told me he was taking applications trying to decide. He said he needed to look into the different teams and see what he thought of them. I told him he needs to make it the Suns.

A few things I learned

2010-01-12T18:05:00.000-08:00

I have learned to keep all permanant makers on top of the fridge.

I learned that a lock on the microwave is a good idea.

I keep child knobs on the fridge, pantry, toy closets, and front door.

I keep all medicine, sharp objects and chemicals out of reach of children.

Having said that,

It is a good thing I love these so much:

Otherwise, I just don't know what I would

do when they do things like this to my new bedspread:

And I now keep paint pens under lock and key.

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T22:46:00.000-08:00

May your 2010 be as carefree and joyful

as this precious little one

December Recap

2009-12-31T12:58:00.000-08:00

Just like everyone else, my December flew by. There were a lot of things I did not do, I didn't make treats for my neighbors and I didn't blog much, I didn't have family pictures taken and I did not mail out Christmas cards. Yes, there were things I did not do but there were a lot of things I did do. This year I focused on my kids, every single day we did an activity or craft together. At the beginning of the month I made a list and we stuck to it. It was nice to put all things aside and just enjoy the holidays.

We played a lot of games, did lots of puzzles and spent many nights sleeping

near the Christmas tree watching Christmas movies

We did a few crafts with food. Our rice krispie night was my favorite, I like Addie's anatomically correct snowwoman and of course James made a football.

We did some service

We visited Santa Claus

We had a good ol' time at Grandma Susan's annual Christmas party. Delicious food, gifts galore, scavenger hunts, a visit from Santa Claus, reindeer and Santa crafts, white chocolate nativities (thanks Amber!!), singing Christmas carols with a great serenade from Uncle Jeff on the trumpet and new pillowcases from Aunt Dawn with names embroidered on them. Oh, the excitement of Christmas eve, I wish it would last longer. I get as excited as my kids to to see the look on their faces on Christmas morning.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

Happy New Year!

If at first you don't succeed

2009-12-27T21:44:00.000-08:00

I attempted making a baked Cheesecake for the first time.

My first attempt was a failure, a big failure:

When I released the spring form pan, it collapsed and turned into a big pile of cake and crust and I wanted to cry. I was in charge of dessert for Sunday dinner and wanted it to be just right.

Instead of giving up I stayed up all night trying and trying again. Here are my second and third attempts and the recipes following.

Ta Da!

Ta Da Ta Da!

Have you ever made a baked cheesecake? It was pretty easy and so worth it. The Oreo one comes from my friend Jill, she made it one time and I think I made a fool of myself at how much I loved it so she brought me one for my birthday. Best birthday treat I had. She is a fabulous cook. The plain cheesecake which we topped with strawberries is adapted from My Kitchen Cafe which she adapted from Tyler Florence. I changed up the crust and was glad I did. I added brown sugar instead of white and doubled it and then added 1 1/2 tsp of cinnamon.! I absolutely adored this one. My sister is in town and she said it was one of her top three favorite desserts ever. The Oreo cheesecake is so rich and chocolaty and the other has a hint of lemon and is more of a refreshing taste and it also has twice as much crust as the Oreo one. Both delish.

P.S. If you make a baked cheesecake -spray the spring form pan well with cooking spray and let it refrigerate OVERNIGHT!!! I wouldn't release the spring after 30 minutes like the recipe says. I would suggest keeping it all tight in the pan until it has been refrigerated long enough to set and firm up. The next morning I ran a sharp knife around the pan and the cake came out nicely. I learned the hard way and ended up in the kitchen well past midnight and again the next morning trying to do it the right way. Live and learn, right?

Now THAT'S a Gingerbread house!

2009-12-09T21:35:00.000-08:00

When my sister-in-law (many of you know Dawn) told me she was entering the Gingerbread Festival at Thanksgiving Point this year, my first thought was, "Oh how fun! I should do that one of these years." I didn't realize just how hysterical that thought was until I saw what she created. I really had no idea just how amazing (and BIG) it would turn out. The store windows really light up and even the little cakes stands are edible! Doesn't it make you happy?

James, sports fanatic

2009-12-05T21:45:00.000-08:00

I think it is safe to say that James is obsessed with all things sports. He LOVES to watch, play and talk about football and basketball. When he was offered $70.00 to sell his football ticket to his favorite team he, without hesitation, said, "NO WAY!" I love that he values the experience more than money. He will always remember going to sporting events with his dad.

Today was his first basketball game and he shoots . . . he scored!!!

My favorite part was watching him get into the game from the side. He was up then down then up and back down again, calling all sorts of plays, fouls, rebounds, out of bounds, you name it. Here is a very small sampling of him from the sidelines, all stressed out, energetic and having fun. The boy could not sit still.

Christmas Craft

2009-11-30T20:56:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share an idea for an easy and inexpensive craft. It seems like every holiday I decorate with candy. I have candy for eating and candy for decorating, the candy I use in these is now three years old ~ it's great, I am not tempted and my kids know it is "yucky and old" so they don't even ask.

Anyway, on to the craft.

Here are the supplies you need:
I bought these all at Michaels, I am sure you can get them at any ol' craft store. I spent a total of 17 dollars to make the following three and that is without any coupons or sales.

I don't have step by step photos or directions, I really don't think it is necessary. It is helpful, however, to have a sister-in-law who has a craft room like a celebrity and is so generous to cut the vinyl snowflakes for me. Thanks Alissa!! You really could do a million things with this, any holiday would be cute. Who doesn't love a gumball machine? If you make one, please share the finished product ~ we'd all love to see it.

Times two

2009-11-30T02:00:00.000-08:00

It is just my opinion,

but I think four feet

are WAY better

than two.

Thankful

2009-11-25T18:49:00.001-08:00

I asked each of my kids what they are Thankful for, these are their honest answers. These will be fun for me to look back on each year as they grow. I took these pictures today, I found it funny the twins were watching their daddy set up the tree wearing bathing suits and angel wings - they love to dress up! Julia had a Thanksgiving feast at kindergarten, I caught James after playing long and hard in the snow with his buddies.

Happy Thanksgiving
This is what we are thankful for:

Busy, busy kids

2009-11-18T14:09:00.001-08:00

My mom watched my kids last week so I could run some errands. While I was gone she taught James and Julia a new craft. They haven't stopped since. The first day they needed constant help but now they can thread a needle, separate the thread, and put the hoop on the fabric. I am amazed at how many little projects Julia has finished all by herself. She has already made my Christmas gift, which I am certain will be one of my most favorite gifts this year. James was reluctant at first until he heard how his Uncle Jack is quite crafty. Uncle Jack is really cool and tough and way into sports so that gave James the green light. Besides, a missionary needs to know how to sew. And someday I bet his wife will be happy he can do basic sewing, right?

These are all original designs, the pile has grown tenfold since I took this.

A stick of butter on Halloween night

2009-10-31T18:30:00.001-07:00

Halloween night I ate no candy!

But shoot, I may have eaten a whole stick of butter.

We had chicken tortilla soup and this cornbread with honey butter

You MUST make this . I have tried many cornbread recipes, even the one where you add a yellow cake mix to a box of cornbread mix (which I didn't think was all that great) This is THE only corbread I will ever serve in my house again. I want to serve soup and chili once a week just so I can accompany it with this.

Sometimes I post a recipe and hope people that try it will like it as much as I do and worry they may not. I have no doubt this will be a winner in your kitchen. So put it on your menu for a cold day this week with your favorite chili and get cooking. You can thank me later. Just beware, before you know it you may consume an entire stick of butter in the form of this honey butter.

Ready for action :

When we went to Grandma Susan's house to trick or treat, we were greeted with this sign:

When we looked in the window, this is what we saw. How cute is this?

It was a fun night, butter and all.

The look on Addie's face is the look I had on my face when I ate the cornbread,

sheer joy I tell you, sheer joy.

Strange things have happened

2009-10-30T21:07:00.001-07:00

Tonight we had a family Halloween party. There was witch hat decorating, pumpking carving, Halloween movie watching and picture taking. Very strange things happened when we saw our pictures . .. . mwaaaahahahahahah.

Make your own spooky pictures here

Guessing game

2009-10-28T21:13:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love children's artwork? I pulled this little treasure out of James's backpack and it is one of my new favorites. He was asleep so I couldn't ask him about it. It took me a minute to figure out what this four headed monster really was. Can you figure it out?

Grandma Susan's annual Halloween Party

2009-10-27T19:42:00.000-07:00

My mom throws parties for her grandchildren that they look forward to all year long. Last night was her annual Halloween Party, fabulous as always. When we arrived it was decked out in tasteful Halloween decor and the tables set perfectly. One of my favorite things about her dinner table is everyone gets their own miniature salt and pepper shaker. (click here to see my post from last year on her Halloween Decor, it's to die for)
The food was fabulous. On the menu this year, broccoli cheese soup, rolls, salad and of course, Dunford chocolate donuts. A must for Halloween parties and every day of the year really.

We had a little photo session:The kids decorated haunted houses

Of course, the traditional Grandma Susan treasure hunt. Treasure hunts started with my mom and dad's first grandchild and continue strong for all fun get togethers and holidays. This one was my very favorite. She gave each child a glow stick and then made trails around the house of each color. The house was pitch black and the kids had to follow their own color which led them to a treasure. It was so fun, the adults had as much fun as the kids for this. I wish I could have gotten better pictures, but you get the idea.

Great big thank you to my mom, Grandma Susan for another wonderful party!

Yummy fall treat

2009-10-24T07:15:00.000-07:00

This simple treat is a family tradition, I don't remember a Halloween growing up where there wasn't a big glass pumpkin full of this. It is the perfect combination of sweet and salty, soft and crunchy. It is kind of snicker-ish-y tasting, and you don't even miss the chocolate. I dare you to sit in front of a bowl of this and not eat every last corn and grain of salt. (P.S. Target does not carry Spanish peanuts, I already checked)

Fall festival

2009-10-24T07:12:00.000-07:00

Last night we ventured over to Farnsworth farms for their weekend fall festival, it was so cute. It is just a little farm and on the weekend they show "It's the great pumpkin Charlie Brown" on the side of a trailer, have face painting, carnival games, a hay ride, a bounce house, food and some vendors. I felt like I was in a very small town, it was super cheap and the kids loved it! Everyone picked out a pumpkin, of course James hunted the biggest one on the farm which is great until you have to pay per pound, silly boy. I was just happy to find a pumpkin patch that offered more than just getting a pumpkin in the middle of a big empty field. For some reason I am bugged by pumpkin patches that just throw some pumpkins on the ground and call it good. We want hay rides and games and fun, patch people. We will definitely be going back every year.

Halloween!

2009-10-01T21:20:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to share with you the Santa Barbara Bows

Halloween '09 collection!

My girls will be wearing these all month long this year and every October for years to come. Santa Barbara Bows are the best, THE best bows you can buy. They arrive to you in absolute perfection and are super stiff and hold their shape for a very, very long time. We have Halloween, Christmas and even St. Patrick's day bows from four years ago and they still look brand new. How lucky am I that my very own sister is behind these?

Order today, they are limited and will surely sell out.

Since we are on the topic of my sister and with the risk of embarassing her, I will brag a bit about one of her many talents, her writing skills. If you don't know her or read her blog start by reading this one post. You will be completely entertained and will laugh your head off. Let her know I sent you and while you are there grab some cute Halloween bows.

(I can't wait to see her Christmas collection)

Recipe you'll love to hate

2009-09-20T08:11:00.000-07:00

We eat healthy breakfast everyday of the week at our house except Sunday. Sunday is our Waffles, Pancakes, Cinnamon Roll day and it is naughty. Today was no exception. There are a few recipes that I only allow myself to make one time every year or two, they are that good. And bad. Oh so bad. This is one of them. I absolutely love it and hate it at the same time. I have lost a few pounds the past few weeks and without a doubt put every last one back on this morning while eating this. This came from a cookbook given to me when we were first married that was written by our Stake Relief Society Presidency. With out further adieu, I present:

Blueberry Breakfast Cake

3/4 c. sugar

1 stick butter

3/4 cup milk

1 egg

2 cups flour

2 1/2 tsp baking powder

3/4 tsp salt

2 cups frozen/fresh blueberries

Mix all ingredients (I mix dry then add to wet) and put in a 9X9X2 pan.

Prepare crumb topping:

1/2 cup sugar

1/3 cup flour

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/4 cup butter, cut in

Mix until crumbly and sprinkle over cake before baking. Bate at 375 degrees for 45 to 50 minutes.

I have made these into muffins in the past with great results too, just watch the baking time.

Glaze:

(as if a cake and crumb topping isn't enough, lets add a glaze)

1/2 cup powder sugar

1/4 tsp vanilla

1 1/2 tsp - 2 tsp hot water

Mix all ingredients and drizzle over cake while hot.

Enjoy!

Labor Day adventures

2009-09-09T21:46:00.000-07:00

Since we are so lucky to be a short half hour drive to the the canyon we thought we would head up for Labor Day. I had heard about Silver Lake from my cousin and friend and thought it sounded perfect for us. We had so much fun enjoying the cool, crisp air, a great hike, fun company, laughter and a yummy picnik. We will be going back very soon to see the fall colors. This was a great activity for young kids, there is a great boardwalk that goes around the lake and lots of spots for fishing.

And so it begins

2009-09-02T15:04:00.000-07:00

Weird, since when do they let little babies go to preschool?

Two little sisters and friends, side by side as they start

yet another adventure together.

This one makes my cry a bit if I start to think too much about it.

As my mom says,

Do preschoolers wear backpacks or do their backpacks wear them?

Tiny legs and slippers

2009-08-30T21:03:00.000-07:00

This post is for myself so I will always remember this little moment. While the boys were having their fantasy football draft tonight, me and the girls escaped for some story time. As I was starting book number two I looked down at these precious little legs and just stared at them for a while. The girls started to wonder why I wasn't reading so I had James bring my camera so I could remember this image and so story time could resume.

I love being able to snap a picture and freeze moments for forever.

Grocery shopping with twins

2009-08-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

Grocery shopping isn't my favorite thing to do with two three year olds. In fact, many times I ask myself why in the world I do it. I have recently discovered a way to shop with them and the three of us genuinely look forward to the experience, it so much fun for them now.

Start with a store that offers little shopping carts and let them be in charge of picking out produce and putting the groceries in their own cart:

Promise them a ride on the ponies at the end and let them be as silly as they want to be:

Finally, if they don't crash into other shoppers or knock down displays (which will surely happen someday), they get a donut.
We all drive home calm and happy. We spent more than we planned to since I was able to take my time and browse more, but I think it was well worth it.

Off she goes, sniff sniff

2009-08-26T09:05:00.001-07:00

First day of Kindergarten, in pictures

She better be smiling becasue she is excited to color and go to recess and becasue she is thinking just how happy and fun it will be to see her mom and sisters after school.

My buddy

2009-08-17T21:08:00.000-07:00

Isn't the first day of school so bittersweet? I found myself crying after he went into his classroom. Lucky for me, he is beyond excited about school. In fact, last night he was acting like he does on Christmas Eve - he asked me if he could go to bed early becasue he wanted to wake up and go to 3rd grade. So early to bed it was, snuggled and cozy in my room for one last slumber party of the summer before 3rd grade.

My very own logo!

2009-08-10T14:35:00.000-07:00

I wanted a cute logo to go with my photography and there was only one person I wanted to hire to design it. Jamie at Studo JK, she is amazing. I blogged about her talents once before here. I absolutely adore everything she does. She was a delight to work with and created a logo beyond my expectations that made me giddy. She even created a button for my blog (please feel free to snag it for your blog) and gave me ideas and tools for even more ways to improve my blog.

Introducing, See Jane Shoot, the logo:

Here are a couple of my latest favorite shots I took.

Click here to visit my improved photo blog

Click here to visit the Studio JK blog

and here for her Etsy store, you will be in love.

Pink Honey Party

2009-08-10T03:16:00.001-07:00

You are invited

What: A Pink Honey Designs Party

Date: This Wednesday, August 12

Time: 7:00, open house

Where: My house

Come say hi, stay and visit and come see these cutest designs. I have one that I love and get compliments on it wherever I go.

I am certain chocolate will be involved. And Diet Coke.

These are gorgeous watches, you will love them.

They are the cutest ones I have seen and the prices are better than other brands. Besides that, the designers are hot stuff and I love them.

I hope to see you Wednesday!

PinkHoneyDesigns.com

I heart Firemen ~ Summer fun

2009-08-03T21:04:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law called me one morning and told me that some Firefighters would be at a park near them spraying children. I couldn't stop laughing at the thought and was so excited that I could hardly stand it. Oh my, was it ever fun. You could not have been there and not have a smile from ear to ear the whole time. I can't wait to do it again next year. I am dying for the station by our house to come do it for us, I made one attempt to arrange it and failed. I may give it another try. Does anyone in our neighborhood know the firefighters down the street? Can anyone pull some strings? I think it was the funnest, happiest evening of our summer, for kids and adults alike.

One of my favorite parts was watching the firemen, they were beaming the whole time, like this cute one:

We sort of developed a crush on the firemen (come on, who doesn't?) In fact, my mom suggested I take a picture of the back of their shirt and as I was shooting she said, "Jane, I told you to shoot his back, not his rear end!" ha ha ha, she was kidding people!

What three looks like

2009-08-01T22:08:00.000-07:00

We took the girls bowling for something fun to do on their special day. They were in their glory the whole time, to say the least. Everytime they would bowl, they turned around to celebrate and ran at full speed to their mom or dad to hug. Notice how Ava is mid-air going to hug her daddy after a successful turn.

Can it really be?

2009-08-01T05:44:00.000-07:00

Today my baby twins turn three!

Happy 3rd Birthday to my Ava and Addie Jo!

I think it is time to stop calling them "the babies". They absolutely love ladybugs (or "ladies" as they call them) so we threw a party with all things ladies.

The ladies we all adore:

The party invites:

The party guests:

Party games and a brother so thoughtful to make a Lego ladybug for the festivities:

Party food:
My favorite part, the cake:

made by Dawn

It's true, we even had a little moment of

"it's my party and I'll cry if I want to" :

Lots of fabulous presents, thanks everyone! :

Party favors

They were napping, part IV

2009-07-15T18:54:00.000-07:00

Once again, I put my twins down for a nap. This time I was sure there were no books , no pens or pencils and no chairs in sight. It was quiet alright and I gave them about 10 minutes, what could they possible do that they haven't already? I am telling you, if one doesn't think of it, the other one surely will.

I can't wait for tomorrows nap.

Sweetest Party

2009-07-11T21:05:00.000-07:00

I had to share these pictures that I took at my niece, Sofie's birthday party. It was the most adorable party, which is no surprise when the mother and party planner is my sis-in-law, Dawn. Some wonderful ideas to share.

It all started a week ago when the party invites arrived at everyone's doorstep. They came complete with a cupcake. If you haven't tasted Dawn's cupcakes you haven't lived. Knowing her, if you said the word she would deliver you a dozen. She is the most generous person and so kindly shares her talents. Now don't you all go at the same time asking her for some. Check these out:The fun and sweetness continued when we arrived at the party:

Another of Dawn's cake creations, a true work of art.

The candy buffet was a huge hit, at the end of the party each guest got to fill a bag full of their favorites.

And for the finale, the party bags. Can you believe your eyes? Hand sewn, embroidered.

I simply have no words.

All was quiet . . . again

2009-07-11T18:35:00.000-07:00

Twenty minutes after putting my twins to bed I assumed once again that they would be fast asleep, I will NEVER assume that again. When I walked in, they were both very busy with pens and pencils drawing fast and furious all over the wall. Here is their works of art, they look a little too proud. Once again, I couldn't get mad at these faces. I let their daddy take care of time out.

How much do YOU love Chick-Fil-A?

2009-07-08T06:20:00.000-07:00

Chick-fil-a has cow appreciation day this Friday. Free combo meal if you come dressed as a cow. It isn't that bad, we actually went last year with a bunch of neighbors and we all ate free, we just cut a few black spots and taped them to our shirts. No one even laughed at us. Truth be told, when I go places with all my kids we can be a circus anyway, whats a few cow spots and some ears? Go here to print a costume that is super easy, my four kids will all be wearing it for a kids meal. OK, I will too. If you want to See Jane dress as a cow, meet me for lunch. I will be removing it as soon as I order though =)

If I can get Aaron to wear a costume maybe we'll go for lunch AND dinner, but I really think it would be a cold day you know where before he dresses as a cow. Maybe when we go there for dinner I will tape a cow tail on his rear when he isn't looking, ha ha.

My sisters friend sent her this when she mentioned meeting for lunch there, I think it expresses how we all feel, agree? I never met a person that didn't love the place.

It was naptime . . .

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

I put these two down for a nap and it had been quiet for some time so, of course, I assumed they were asleep. Problem is, I bought them some new chairs a week ago and they can't stop sitting in them. They are the most exciting thing in their lives. I went in their room to make sure all was well. Instead of being fast asleep like I assumed, they just sweetly smiled at me, like all was normal. This is the second time these chairs have kept them from napping, they are that fun. At least last time they sat in them on the floor. I kept telling them, STAY IN YOUR CRIB, so, technically, they were obeying me, right? I just couldn't get mad at them, I thought it was too cute. I was just trying not to laugh as I told them it was wrong. Could you get mad at these faces?

I'm giving these away, tonight!!

2009-07-07T18:51:00.000-07:00

I love to make treats and I love even more to eat them for breakfast the next day. This is a problem. My solution is, as soon as I wake up and take a little bite, I quickly turn on the faucet and throw the pan of cookies, brownies or whatever under the water and my temption is destroyed, just like that. I realize this is kind of a waste so I have come up with an alternative to this wasting of yummies. I have a million recipes bookmarked that I would love to try, but I don't want to make dessert every night of the week. Tonight we are having a little girls night, cousin slumber party with my girls and their cousins, of course my first thought was, what is for dessert? I had two recipes I couldn't decide between so I made them both, ridiculous, I know. I don't have a football team here tonight, just a few little girls with small appetities. So, onto my solution. I made up two plates of my treats and the first two people to leave a comment get them.

Rule 1: You must live in my neighborhood, you know if you do. I will be watching my comments and they will be delivered soon. This give a way closes at 10 pm. If I get no comments, these will be put to death under the kitchen faucet first thing in the morning. I think I better stick to my protein drink for breakfast.

Rule 2: Cari J, you are not eligible. I still have your plate from the Cinco De Mayo flan you so graciously shared with me and it is currently full of these. I am embarassed I still have the plate two months later, I could only return it if it was full of sugar. We tried to delivered them once and will try again soon to see if you are home.

Here is what we made:

If you are interested in the recipes, click here for the smores brownies and here for the peanut butter fudge treats. They are both yummy, very, very sweet. Hopefully not too sweet for you.

Look for more give-a-ways like this to come. I have found a way to try new recipes and make my old favorites without completely destroying any sort of diet I may try to adhere to. I can still have a taste without eating the WHOLE pan. And don't think I haven't done that before. Thanks for helping save a girl some calories. Good luck, enjoy your unexpected dessert!

4th in Denver

2009-07-06T18:27:00.000-07:00

We were able to visit Aaron's family in Denver this weekend. They live in Parker and it is such a beautiful city. The only problem was it was too short. It was lots of fun with cousins,

We celebrated this little darling's 2nd birthday

(isn't she THE cutest? I wanted to sneak her home with us)

We were able to attend this gorgeous girl's baptism,

And we went to a Rockies baseball game and watched the fireworks after.

Adventures in babysitting

2009-06-25T20:33:00.000-07:00

Starring

~Alison~

When I was little, the word BABYSITTER was right up there with words like ICE CREAM TRUCK, BIRTHDAY PARTIES and SATURDAY MORNING CARTOONS. That's because our babysitter was Alison. Seriously, having Alison take care of us was a party in itself!

My mother, a self-proclaimed paranoid parent, trusted Alison so much that she let her start babysitting for short periods when she was only ten . . . and she was amazing! We loved her like family and still do.

On one occasion, she took me and my sisters to the mall for a photo session.

I think this is when "Babysitter" began to blur into "fourth sister."

Today, Alison is as wonderful a mother as she was a babysitter. She has seven beautiful and talented children. My mother has always said that Alison's life should be an inspirational movie.

I know it is a little early, but - - -
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALISON!!

Swimming with cousins

2009-06-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

Today we got to play with some of our cousins from Denver. These are some of my favorite pictures from the day.

I especially like this little sequence with my handsome little nephew.

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-20T20:57:00.000-07:00

Inspired here

Our happenings and some recipes

2009-06-15T21:15:00.000-07:00

I have not been blogging as often as I used to, not that I am assuming anyone really cares, I am just sayin'. Here are some of our family happenings, some more exciting than others (some much yummier than others too)

We have been playing LOTS of football and basketball, practicing without training wheels,

Learning to swim so we can enjoy the summer fun to its fullest, can you tell which kid is rather nervous during his (or perhaps her) lessons? They are learning fast and doing great.
And, these two little friends have been . . . .

Potty Trained! After 8 years of buying diapers we are done. Is it great and wonderful, but at the same time sad to have no babies in diapers.
And, for the yummy part, we have been trying some old favorite recipes and some new ones.

Here are a couple that are a big hit in our house.

Of course, both Mexican dishes, our very favorite.

Taquitos, recipe found here. They are so good, the kids la la loved them.
The taquitos are awesome, this picture-not so awesome, I did a crappy job of shaping them, we had to eat them with a fork, next time though, next time! I used canned chicken and was able to throw these together pretty quick.

Taco salad - finally a dish my kids not only eat, but eat seconds, thirds and even lick their plate clean. For some reason, they adore when I serve this. The prefer the version with taco meat over the grilled chicken. I am loving salads on hot summer days.Just add all your favorite veggies/meat/chips/whateva - the key is the dressing - I could drink it alone, it is SO good! Click here for the dressing recipe.

Free chocolate

2009-06-05T15:46:00.000-07:00

Visit this website every Friday now through September for a free Mars chocolate candy. I already got one coupon in the mail and just registered for another. They give away 250,000 per week, so register earlier in the day. Although, today I did it at almost 5PM and I still got one.

Enjoy!

(I am not responsible for any weight gain resulting from an extra chocolate bar a week)

***Update***

I just noticed that there is a limit of four per household, sorry. At least you won't be eating THAT many extra chocolate bars, four can't hurt, right?

Picture time

2009-05-29T11:49:00.001-07:00

Here are a few pictures I took on my trip to California, there is an amazing park down the street from my sister's house, it was perfect for picture taking. I love nothing more than to be able to photograph my own neices and nephews. Here is Calvin, cutest tiny little guy, best baby in the world:
My gorgeous sis and her handome little guy. I wish I looked as good as her post babies.
Two sets of twin girls! Anna Kate, Andie (Alexandra) Jane, Ava & Addie Jo

Jolie, Leah kissing Cal

Leah, my little munchkin of a niece. I sometimes secretly want to trade her for my twins, I adore her that much!

My beautiful and very talented sister and her cute as can be family.

California Trip & 10 year anniversary

2009-05-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

We spent the past week in California with my sisters. Lots of cousins and swimming, shopping, girls day out with no kids, yummy food from all our California favorites, including my sister Aileen's kitchen, treehouses, ziplines and more.

For Aaron and my 10 year anniversary we got to sneak away without kids to one of our favorite places, San Diego. We stayed on Coronado Island in the same fancy hotel we spent our honeymoon. We got a villa right on the water and it was pretty much the perfect spot.

I also got to do some photo shoots with my neices and nephews and I can't wait to share those pictures, coming soon . . .

New Recipe Sunday Asian Style

2009-05-17T18:23:00.001-07:00

We haven't had new recipe Sunday for a very long time. I was excited for this one. All dishes were 5 stars, yummy in our tummy, delish on a dish, great on a plate. We will definitely be making these all again in our house.

First up: Appetizer by my mom, Wontons w/ dipping sauce

Wontons (from The Essential Mormon Cookbook)

1 lb. sausage

1 egg

4 ounces water chestnuts, drained and chopped

3/4 cup finelly chopped celery

4 green onions, finely chopped

1/2 tsp Accent

1 pkg wonton skins

cooking oil

brown sausage, drain fat and move to large bowl. Add all other ingredients except wonton skins, oil and sauce. Place about 1 tsp of sausage mixture in middle of each wonton dkin. Fold into triangle shapem moistening and pinching edges together. Then pinch long ends together and twist into cresent shape. Heat oil to 375 degrees. Drop wontons in oil (about 6 at a time) Turn over when lightly golden. Drain on paper towels. Wontons may be frozen and reheated. Makes about 40.

Sauce:

1 1/3 cups packed brown sugar

1 1/3 cups pineapple juice

1/2 cup vinegar

2 tsp ketchup

2 tsp soy sauce

1/2 tsp gartlic salt

1/4 cup cornstarch

1/2 cup water

In medium saucepan bring all ingredients but cornstarch and water to a bol.

Thicken with cornstarch mixed with water.

Next up, I made chow mein, it is my favorite thing to eat at Chinese restaurants and I have never attempted to make it. I thought this was the perfect chance. It turned out great, I loved it. (I may or may not have had three servings of it) Click here for the recipe (again from one of my favorite recipe blogs, her recipes never disappoint) I made mine veggie w/ a package of cabbage/carrot mix, mushrooms, onions, bean sprouts and celery. I sauted the veggies in oil, added about half of the sauce then removed the veggies from the pan. I then tossed the noodles with the remainder of the sauce and then tossed all veggies in with the noodles. I used three 6 ounce packages of chow mein noodles and doubled the sauce recipe here.

Main dish by me. I chose sweet and sour chicken and it was so good! It took some effort (I was in the kitchen for an hour and a half to make the chicken and the chow mein, that includes cleaning all dishes too =) ) Well worth the effort. Click here for the recipe, it is seriously good. I did add green peppers, onions and pineapple chunks to it but next time I would add them just to the end 20 minutes or so of cooking so they still have some crunch.

Lets talk Dessert: Dawn made us almond joy cookies and a joy they were! Again, I may or may not have had three. All diets go out the window on Sunday dinners around here. The recipe for these will soon be on the recipe blog, whats4dessert.blogspot.com

Our Zoo trip

2009-05-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

Perfect weather + good friends + no school + a beautiful zoo = a great day

Trip to the doctor and the prize

2009-05-07T21:38:00.000-07:00

Today Adalie had a fall, became very lethargic and threw up. She had a concussion and had to been taken right to the doctor. I was very worried.

She seemed to be fine when we arrived and showed signs of improvement.

At the end of her appointment she received a token.

The token would work in a vending machine full of toys, eight different choices.
She looked at all the choices:

Sparkling bracelets

Glittery rings

Little rubber monkeys

Puzzle balls

Bouncy balls

squishy balls

cute little animals

What did she choose?

Why, this:

It was the first time since her fall she laughed and smiled and we were so glad. What a silly prize for a pediatrician to have, I think we will get one everytime because our whole family got a big laugh from it.

Here are a few of her and Ava mustache free that we took before realizing just how bad her fall was. Actually, we started to get nervous as we took photos because she just wasn't acting herself and being smiley so we quickly aborted the photo session and gave the nurse a call.

Cake decorating

2009-04-29T11:27:00.001-07:00

A couple of months ago I hosted an Enrichment at my house. My sister-in-law Dawn, who is a pastry chef and attended Scottsdale culinary school graciously agreed to come and share her talents with many of us. I have been asked several times to do a blog post about it for those who wanted to come and couldn't make it. I loved the approach she took, she did simple things that anyone could do. We only had an hour and I got a lot of great ideas. She often works with fondant and her cakes take hours and hours to make. Click here to see her blog, she has a slideshow on the side of some of her cakes, she is awesome.

Here are some of the things she showed us: (this class was before Easter, so a lot of ideas are springy)
A marshmallow bunny with edible Easter grass, a flower she made with scrapbook paper and a couple different sizes of flower punches stuck to a toothpick with a brad in the center. She make the "leaves" with green ribbon stuck through a bobby pin (yes, a bobby pin). The third one is a vintage postcard she printed for free and mounted on cardstock and the last is a fortune cookie she dipped in chocolate and sprinkled for St. Patricks day.How cute and easy, suckers tied with a ribbon! She also did this with cute suckers shaped like flowers.
Slice a strawberry and fan it out, a pinwheel made with scrapbook paper (click here for a pattern) and the bunny is a foam sticker, how simple and inexpensive, yet so very cute.
These are the three cakes she decorated. The bunny and flowers are made of chocolate. For the bunny, she took a cookie cutter, put it on wax paper and filled it with white melting chololate. To make the cute flowers, use colored chocolate and usuing a squeeze bottle with a small tip, trace flowers from anything (she used a cute scrapbook paper with those shapes) . Place the coloring book page or scrapbook paper on the counter, then put wax paper over it and trace with the chocolate, let it set and stick it in the cake. (That is my very favorite one)
The middle one is a cake with buttercream, ganache poured over it and topped with lots of berries, some covered in chocolate. She then took pieces of ribbon through a bobby pin and stuck them randomly in between berries. The final one is simply flowers and ribbon through bobby pins stuck to the top.

See how easy and yet how cute? Anyone can do these. Thank you Dawns for the fabulous ideas and all your hard work and time you put into teaching this.

Evening at the park

2009-04-19T20:43:00.001-07:00

This evening while at a fantastic party for this handsome little guy's 2nd birthday,

I snapped some pictures of these pretty girls and handsome boys:

Party and showers ideas

2009-04-16T08:43:00.000-07:00

I came across a blog about a month ago, it is called Creative Parties and Showers and if you are planning a party, you have to go there for ideas, it is full of great ones. Today my twins flower party is featured! Click here to visit the Creative Parties and Showers website

My new blog

2009-04-14T18:36:00.000-07:00

cjaneshoot.com

I have been having so much fun practicing and learning photography. I was amazed at the response I have had and am just so excited about it. I have been busy with appointments and each time I seem to learn more and more.I am still offering the $35.00 photo session if it is scheduled by next Wednesday, April 22 (the actual shoot doesn't have to be by then, just set on my calendar). I will be raising my price to $50.00 after that. I still have a couple of spots open for this Saturday and the weather looks pretty good. Next week should be perfect weather also and I have spots open several days.
For this price you get up to one hour of shooting time and it usually ends in 500 to 800 shots. I spend two to three hours editing, you get a cd with all images on it AND you can let me know of any you like that I didn't initially edit and I will edit those as well. You do your own printing and have all images digital.

Please click here to visit my site and see the work I have been doing

31 dates in 31 days !

2009-04-13T09:48:00.001-07:00

No, not me. I wish me and Aaron could find the time and funds to go on 31 dates in 31 days. I guess we could, if you count eating dinner at a table with four little people as a date or if bathing, brushing and flossing four kids together could be date material.

.
.
This is all about one of my favorite people, my friend from high school, Janelle. She is going on 31 dates in 31 days for 31 final days of her 31st year and I want to help, but I need YOU to help me help her.

Isn't she gorgeous?

She lives in Las Vegas and needs more dates, do you know anyone that would like to
go on a date with a beautiful, fun, adventurous, smart and funny girl?

Actually, who wouldn't?
(only a damn fool, as my dad used to tell me)

Her website is
www.funwith31.com

Help me find a fun guy for her to go on one of her 31 dates with. I think that this will be so fun for everyone involved, I can't wait to read about all 31 dates and see pictures.

He should be in the Las Vegas area, unless you know of a super rich, fun, handsome
guy that would fly her somewhere for a date, why not?

Spread the word.

Thanks everyone!!

Fun Easter tradition and the true meaning

2009-04-12T14:26:00.001-07:00

Last year my sister-in-law, Dawn told me about a tradition she had in her family and now does for her kids on Easter. I could hardly wait for this Easter to come so I could start it with my kids, I think it is the cutest idea ever, and my kids all believed it!

The night before Easter you plant jelly beans

And in the morning, look what grew!

Now for my true meaning of Easter thought, a cute thing James once did.

Last time we went to California and our trip was over we loaded up in the car and drove off, leaving his only boy cousin his age (on my side of the family) and best friend behind. Needless to say, he was very sad and cried for a while. I tried to distract him and keep him busy by giving him a notebook and pen. He drew for a while and finally calmed down. At our first gas station stop I was cleaning up the car a bit and grabbed his notebook he had been drawing on when he was sad. I found this:
In his cute little first grade handwriting and spelling, it says, " I know that my Redeemer lives, what comfort this sweet sentence gives" I have this piece of paper hanging inside my medicine cabinet where I see it every morning and night. It was so nice to me that at his saddest little moment he thought of this. Today I am thankful He died for us and that He lives and for all that it means to me.

Happy Easter and a recipe

2009-04-11T21:26:00.001-07:00

I hope yours is full of decorating and eggs,

a nice church meeting,

dinner with familyand lots of yummy treats

I never met a sugar cookie that I didn't like. I tried a new recipe from one of my favorite cooking blogs, mykitchencafe. I have tried many of her recipes and they have all been big winners in our house. Check her out! These cookies were super good, I made the frosting w/ the heavy cream but ended up adding an extra cup or more of powdered sugar. Click here for her recipe, it will not disappoint.

Happy Happy Birthday

2009-04-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

to my fabulously famous Aunt Marilyn. I love you!

Easter Photos

2009-04-05T15:06:00.001-07:00

We usually take Easter pictures before Church on Easter Sunday and it usually results in a very frustrated me. We are no doubt in a hurry and lets face it, taking the perfect picture of all four of my kids is no fun and easy task. Aaron usually dreads when I say, "picture time". Not this year ladies and gentlemen. Since we were home all day watching conference we thought a Sunday drive would be nice so I threw the kids Easter clothes on and we headed out with my camera. I am so very happy to say that next Sunday we do not have to take pictures. Aaron will be thrilled.

If you don't want to mess with Sunday morning Easter picture taking, I am offering to take Easter photos of all your kids or your whole family for a very low price. You will get an hour of picture taking, a couple hours of editing and a cd with all images on it for $35.00. My prices will continue to go up once I feel more confident with my skills, take more classes, read more books and get more equipment. I think this is a great deal for both of us, I get to continue learning and practicing and you get a great price.

My wish . . .

2009-04-03T16:10:00.000-07:00

is to master using my camera and photoshop.

I have several photographer friends whose work I envy.
Now where do I find the time to learn it all?

I got to practice more with my camera with these photo shoots.

First up, my cousin's absolutely adorable 1 year old twins:

Next, my drop dead gorgeous nieces, Anna Kate, Alexandra, and Hallie.
(Hallie is in the middle, sorry, but this aunt can't tell the twins apart)And finally, some engagement photos!
I vote them the best looking couple, don't you think?
It was so fun to shoot adults, they actually sit still and do what you say.

Julia's Hello Kitty Party

2009-04-02T17:04:00.000-07:00

This year, Julia wanted to have a Hello Kitty party. She had a lot of friends, look at this picture, every single girl is smiling, can you guess why? Why, it is because Julia's handsome older brother was in charge of making them smile. I have never in my life seen so many girls (17!) laughing and giggling for so long.

They made Hello Kitty necklaces, played games and danced around.

My sister-in-law Dawn made this cake{cute} so she would have a candle to blow out.

And here are the Hello Kitty cake pops me and Dawn made for the party, aren't they cute? I was so proud to say I made them, I never would have thought it was possible. They are cake inside and dipped in white chocolate. (click here for instructions)

Even though there were so many girls, I think it was a success.