10 on Tuesday Disneyland adventure edition

1. We're back and almost fully recovered! Just in time to go on another trip to Gma and Gpa Higbee's house:)

2. You guys, I am not one to gush, but we had the best time on our trip!! I can't believe how great the kids did! We loved it...
3. Just to keep it real, I will admit there were a few tough times, we kept up our track record and traveled smack in the middle of the worse storm of the season. We landed in Las Vegas the same time as the biggest snowfall in 8 years, and spent a few hours on the interstate waiting for the roads to be opened. I also tripped and fell flat on my face before we even made it out of the parking garage at Disneyland. Our second morning at Disney was a little rainy, but we still drug the kids all over. Ben was just a little exhausted by the end of the day! Despite this, a great time for everyone!!
4. The wedding was beautiful and Andrew and Tara seem very happy. We were happy to share the day with them and wish them much love and joy in their future.

5. I think the kid's favorite part was being with their cousins. They were happy waiting in line, playing at the hotel, and even freezing on the beach as long as they had good company.


6. Disneyland is just as magical when you bring your kids. I treasured watching their awe in "It's a Small World" and the pure joy on Rachel's face when she got the Jingle Bell horse on the carousal.
7. QOTD: Ben: (as we are getting in the little car for the Roger Rabbit ride) "I'll drive"

8. We saw tons of Disney characters while we were there, but my favorite was Mary Poppins- everyone just loved her!
9. While in Disneyland, I ran into our neighbors, the Hamblins. What a crazy coincidence! I had no idea they were going to be in California!

10. Annabel is already asking when we can go again!

10 on Tuesday

1. Wow! I don't know if I'll actually get to ten today- I am racing around like crazy trying to get ready for our trip. We leave tomorrow!

2. Drug Rachel and Ben all over town today finishing last minute errands and they were great sports (having been bribed with a donut). We put on snow tires (we have a terrible track record of always traveling during the worse storm of the season), updated our AAA, bought new underwear, and picked up chains for our tires. Our only disaster was a smashed porcelain Christmas sleigh at the tire store. The mechanics took it all in stride.

3. I think I have called Joe 17 times today. Partly to make sure we have everything ready and partly because I am having fun playing with my new phone.

4. That's right, we upgraded (Joe's phone finally just died). We decided to get our new ones before the trip, so we went in the other day. After mocking us for having phones from the dark ages, the ever so helpful sales agent showed us the latest cell phone technology. I'll be honest, it was a little overwhelming. After agonizing for hours, I finally settled on the one that was most similar to my old one. The one exception is that my new phone has a full keyboard. On that keyboard is a space bar. Sonowmytextmessagesdon'tlooklikethis. That's right, I never learned how to do a space on my old phone. I didn't tell the sales agent that.

5. QOTD: Rachel: Oh gross- Annie smell my coat!!
Annie: It smells disgusting!
Rachel: I know, it smells just like dad!

6. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the yellow permanent marker Rachel drew around her lips will fade before the wedding.

7. Just in time for our trip- tons of snow!! Here's who was thrilled:

8. And here's who wasn't so thrilled:

9. Another testament to how boring my life is- the main point of interest for far too many in the comments was the mechanic (who will remain nameless) I had a crush on 15 years ago. Sad. :)

10. I will probably not post again until after the holidays, so I hope you all have a wonderful holiday. Merry Christmas to all- and to all a good night!

10 on Tuesday

1. Busy week! We've been racing around, making Christmas preparations, baking goodies, decorating trees, all very fun. Except for last night, when Rachel was up all night puking with a nasty stomach bug. She seems better today.

2. We took the kids to see Santa last week. Annabel was distraught because she had forgotten the very detailed list she and Amelia had made out. Ben was a man with a mission. He marched up and said, "I want a Thomas." and left. Rachel was so terrified she was shaking like a leaf and was rendered speechless. And then she finally blurted out that she wanted a cupcake maker for Christmas.
3. I cannot mention the cupcake maker without rolling my eyes. Every year the toy manufacturers release and advertise the most ridiculous toy known to man. Inevitably, that is all my children can talk about. Last year, it was Butterscotch- a $250 stuffed miniature Shetland pony that was in every store we entered (including the grocery store). This year it is the cupcake maker (if you really want a laugh, click on the link and read the reviews). I've tried to explain to Rachel that she already has a cupcake maker (me) and has no need for another. Hopefully whatever Santa brings will be so wonderful, she will forget about the existence of the cupcake maker.

4. Question: Has anyone every thrown caution to the wind and snuck on all the Disney rides despite the fact that they were 5 months pregnant? Please note that I in no way condone pregnant ride sneaking at Disneyland, I'm only asking out of random curiosity.

5. Flashback- Growing up, I spent a lot of time working at my Dad's Napa Auto Parts store. As a teenager, I would make deliveries. At Christmas time, we would take goodie plates to all of our biggest customers and they would give something yummy to us. My two favorites were from the Ford Garage (partly because they sent a delicious cheese tray, and partly because I had a small crush on one of the mechanics) and Bob's Auto Clinic. Everyone loved when the plate from the Auto Clinic arrived because it was filled with the BEST. PEANUT BRITTLE. EVER. Seriously. Bob's wife, Ciska made it and every year it was gone within minutes. Want some? Here is the recipe.
6. QOTD: Rachel: Hey Annie! Do you want to come see my puke?

7. Had my name mentioned in the December Creating Keepsakes magazine. That's what they do when they really like your pages, but still don't want to publish them ;) They list your name at the bottom of some obscure page. I didn't even notice it until a friend (after having it in her bathroom for a month lol) called and mentioned it. Still- it made me smile.


8. Please note the Christmas playlist I have linked to the right- enjoy.

9. So far the biggest hit of the Christmas season is this advent calendar I made out of matchboxes. It's filled with little treasures and notes and everyday the children cannot wait to open the little drawers.

10. Tender Mercy: Just before Thanksgiving, Rachel lost her build-a-bear. Each night, we would assure her that we would find it the next day. Everyday, I searched. I called neighbors and friends, to no avail. Rachel would cry every night she went to bed without the bear. Finally, one night I lay awake wondering where in the world it could be. I said a quick prayer for help. Then at three in the morning a voice said, "It's at Old Navy". I had not been to Old Navy for two weeks, and even then it was a quick stop for a birthday gift for Annie. I didn't think Rachel had the bear with her when we were there. Still, the next day, I stopped and asked. An employee went to the back to check the lost and found and came back with the bear. I screamed- I was so happy!

10 on Tuesday

1. I know you're all dying to know- we did not find out the sex of the baby. I'm super excited. Joe is resigned to another 4 months of suspense and my mother is horrified.

2. Hope you all had a super Happy Thanksgiving! Despite an evil eye infection for Joe and I, we had a great time with family.

3. In case you didn't know, Joe is a big time Black Friday shopper. Last year, he camped at Best Buy. This year, with my brothers-in- law, he did it again. He was a great shopper and found super deals for Christmas. He's a little sad that all of his shopping is done

4. Last week, Annabel and I went on a special date to select treats for her class to celebrate her birthday. We also went to the book store and sat on the floor and read tons of Christmas stories. For some reason, since our last visit they have removed the small table and chairs we usually sit at (I'm fairly certain Ben was to blame for that). We finished the evening with Hot Chocolate and lots of whipped cream at IHOP. Annie said, "I had a really fun time on my date mom." Me too.

5. Looking for a fun and cute holiday project? Check out this adorable advent calendar on 2 peas.

6. Had a great time with the girls last week! We shopped and shopped, had great food, talked, and just had a great time! I called Joe about 5 times a day for directions, random google requests, and in a panic one night after encountering the most terrifying hotel you can imagine. Open your dictionary to "SEEDY" and you will see a photograph of this hotel. Luckily, Joe was quickly able to find us much more appropriate accommodations just down the street and I was able to sleep that night.

7. Attempted Christmas card photos of the children yesterday. We going to go for a family shot, but our nasty eye infections kept Joe and I out this year.

8. Here are some of the outtakes of the event:























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9. Want to know where I get the cute stuff for my blog? It's here and just so you know, they are doing awesome giveaways through the whole month of December, so if you're into digital scrapbooking, head on over!

10.QOTD: Annabel: Are we going to get some of those things that babysitters have on their teeth for Ben?
Me: You mean Braces?
Annie: Yes! I mean just look at his teeth!!!-
This coming from the girl who has the extra tooth.

10 on Tuesday

1. This week marks the halfway point for our baby. Our ultrasound is tomorrow. Because I'm a girl who likes to live on the edge, I decided a while back to NOT find out the sex of the baby. Joe said he was game for whatever I wanted to do. I found out this week that the only reason Joe agreed was because he was 100% certain I would change my mind. I have not, so we have been having a healthy debate about what to do. I keep questioning how much of a vote he really gets when I am the one carrying and delivering said child.

2. Had the best time with Desiray this weekend! We shopped, ate out, stayed in a hotel and made all of our Christmas cards. We laughed until she puked and just enjoyed some kid free time. Joe was a saint and stayed here with the kids so I could go (Okay he gets one vote).

3. Guess what? I'm doing it again this weekend! My sisters and mom are picking me up for a weekend of Christmas shopping. I can't wait! Joe will stay with the children again.....(Maybe he should have an equal vote...hmmm).

4. While we were shopping in Anthropologie, I fell in love with many things but my favorites were the Aprons -so fun and homey. On my wish list for this year!

5. Took the kids to the mall today to play on the ice cream toys. While there, Ben found a kindred spirit. A little boy who liked to shoot people and things as much as Ben does. Even better, this little boy could do machine gun sounds- Which are soooo much better than just regular gun sounds.

6. QOTD: I had just gotten out of the shower and my audience had dispersed with the exception of Rachel, who wanted an encore. She watched with interest as I put on my deodorant.
Rachel: Why do you put that on your armpits?
Me: so they will smell nice.
Then hours later in the grocery store she shouts: MOM! I CAN SMELL YOUR ARMPITS FROM HERE AND THEY SMELL YUMMY!!

7. A big shout out to my Gma Kay, who is online! She called and asked for a link to my blog and I'm so happy to welcome her to the world wide web.

8. Look Delicious? They are! My very favorite cupcake- get the recipe here.

9. Annabel is being spotlighted in school tomorrow. Her teacher sent home a sheet of questions to ask her. I loved her three wishes:
a. To see the tooth fairy
b. To ride a unicorn
c. To go to Disneyland:)

10. It's almost midnight and I'm still thinking I'm not going to find out the sex of the baby. Really, there is no need - I'm 100% positive it's a girl. So positive that I made a bet with Joe. If it's a girl, I get to name it. If it's a boy- he does. You're all going to have to wait until April to find out.....

10 on Tuesday

1. This weekend, we braved the crowds and hit the sale at Old Navy. Hats, scarfs and gloves for $1- you can't beat that. Everyone thinks so, I know because literally everyone was there. Rachel has found that her scarf doubles as a nice leash for when she wants to be a puppy.
2. Annabel's birthday wish was to go to Build-a-Bear again. Because literally every weekend is booked until her birthday, we took the kids this weekend. A good time was had by all and Annie picked a sparkly blue bear and dressed her up as Hannah Montana.
3. It's my week to take the kids to school. There was no way I was riding bikes and I had to get groceries, so I jumped up at the crack of dawn and showered and had all of the kids dressed and ready and we were all out the door by 7:45. I felt like I was pretty on top of things. I remembered my shopping list and my reusable grocery bags and had on my new cute fleece from Old Navy. Then Jen pointed out a few hours later that my fleece still had the price tag hanging from the armpit and the size taped to it.

4. I had another publication! A layout this time. Annabel was flipping through the magazine and said- "hey that's me!" She was very impressed.

5. I'm looking forward to a fun weekend with Desiray. We are hitting the town to celebrate her birthday and I can't wait!!

6. While we were driving home the other night, Joe made the mistake of asking me about our Christmas cards. I spent the next hour telling him about different patterned papers, colors, and my concern over 3 dimensional accents. Bless his heart, he stayed awake for the entire conversation. Still, I'm pretty sure he won't make that mistake again.

7. Other than some squirt guns in the bathtub, our house is a weapon free zone. No guns for little kids here. Unfortunately, Ben has become increasingly aware of the deprivation and has been forced to make one out of the plastic extension cord holder from the garage. He likes to carry it around and shoot everyone. After we are all dead, it conveniently turns into a guitar and he strums a few tunes.

8. I've been listening to Christmas music- I'm working on a playlist for you all.

9. QOTD: Me: "Ben, why don't you come sit on my lap and rock with me?"
Ben: "No, you're not even my best buddy" (and then he shoots me).

10. Art from Rachel- I'm loving all the hearts!

10 on Tuesday

1. Despite a little bit of the sickies on Thursday night, the kids were able to pull out of it to have a very Happy Halloween. This year, Annie was a witch (again) I did buy her a new hat that she refused to wear because it itched too much (that's the Chaffin in her). Rachel was a pink unicorn. I had no idea where I was going to find a pink unicorn costume, but by some miracle, there in Target in all it's glory sat one pink unicorn costume (with a small tear, so we got it for 30% off). Ben was a cowboy.

2. Photos of our evening. They sat like this and I couldn't believe how solemn they all looked (they really had a fun time) so I said, "come on guys, smile!!" and then I got this picture:

3. Howdy partner!

4. Witchy Woman:

5. "Hi my favorite color's pink, what's yours?"

6. Right after Trick-or-treating, we headed to Gma and Gpa Higbee's house in Twin Falls - we had a busy weekend planned!

7. First, we drove to Boise and stopped at Mike and Jen's house to meet the newest addition to our family- my sweet niece, Kathryn. She was such an adorable tiny little thing- I've never had a baby that small! We are so thrilled for Mike and Jen and wish them and little Kathryn all the best.

8. After our visit it was time to head to the church for my nephew, Benton's baptism. We are so proud Benton and the choice he has made. We loved sharing this time with family and can't wait until next time.

9. As a special treat, Aunt Kari and Uncle Chris hosted a girls only slumber party at their house. The girls had the best time painting fingernails, singing and dancing, and sleeping with the dogs. They are still talking about it. Thanks Higbee's for a fun weekend!!

10. QOTD: Rachel: Mom, your belly is starting to get bigger for the baby, and so is this up here (Patting my ginormous bosom). It almost looks like you're going to have 2 babies! Almost.

Reminder: Don't forget to vote!!

10 on Tuesday

1. We are in full fledged Halloween preparation mode. Costumes have been purchased/ borrowed, cookies have been made, and the children are giddy with anticipation for Halloween parties and trick-or-treating. Look for photos this week.

2. Self-Portrait. Somebody didn't want me to look at the camera.

3. Our ward party is tomorrow night and we are in charge of the cupcake walk. I have spent an absurd amount of time, trying to find the best cupcakes to make. Last year, every single child (including my own) ignored my generously sprinkled orange cupcakes in favor of much more elaborate choices with gummy worms and plastic spider rings. I was more than a little embarrassed to take my entire tray home as if they were sprinkled with arsenic rather than brightly colored candies. Not this year. I've done my research. What do you think of these brain cupcakes?, or these little guys are kind of cute, or there is my favorite: the Kitty litter cake. After much thought, I decided to take a year off and just man the booth this time. Next year, I'll bring the kitty litter.

4. We took the kids for a hike up in the hills on Saturday, they loved being outside and throwing rocks. The actual hiking? Not so much.

5. Some fun photos from our hike:

6. After the hike we met the Kohl's at the pumpkin walk. The pumpkin walk is a local tradition, where groups of people use pumpkins to create scenes and everyone can walk through and see them. The theme this year was "Hero's" A fun time every year.

7. QOTD: While we were on our hike, We taught Annabel how to rough it tinkling in nature's toilet. Apparently this caught Ben's attention because hours later at the pumpkin walk, completely surrounded by people, Ben said, "Mom, can I poop on this grass?". Good times.

8. I'm experiencing some pregnancy cravings. Lots of garlic chicken pesto pizza, some fries and gravy, sugar donuts, and most recently some delicious oranges I picked up this week. What was your most crazy pregnant or just plain hormonal craving?

9. A Halloween card:
10. Took the girls to the dentist this week. Turns out Annie has a spare tooth. Just sitting there hanging out in case she needs it.

Happy Halloween everyone:)

10 on Tuesday Joy in the Journey edition

So Lucy posted a challenge a few weeks ago after General Conference to find some joy in our journey. While it has taken me a while, it's been on my mind. A great thought to have on your mind- all the things that bring you joy. So here's my list. Lots of things bring me joy, but I must limit my list to ten- that is what I do on Tuesdays:)

1. This little thing:
The reason I've been such a huge slacker and the thing that consumes a lot of my thoughts and causes random smiles throughout the day. We are due on April 11 and aside from the nausea, exhaustion, and occasional hormonal display of emotions- I am feeling just great. The children were thrilled with the news until they saw the ultrasound pictures.
"that's our baby?"
"why does it look so weird?"
"I don't even see any legs"
Note to self: next time just tell them and keep the ultrasound to myself.

2. Another canning day with Jen. Rows of canned applesauce, apple pie filling, and apple butter. When you work all day and start to hear all those lids start to pop- what a great feeling! I've already made applesauce cookies and yesterday we had an apple pie. Delicious. As always, the company was great too, I'm so glad I live so close to my sister.


3. My partner in crime: Joe. I'm constantly grateful for his hard work and love and support. He doesn't bat an eye when I call him on his cell and say "I really need a butterscotch dipped cone immediately". What a prince.

4. Good Friends: I'm so grateful for friends that challenge me to find Joy in my Journey. Harmony posted a challenge too. She challenged me to post pictures of (Gasp) ME! Something I never do!!. The story she linked touched my heart and I immediately fixed my hair and put on some makeup to take a picture. But something just didn't seem right. Then yesterday, while I was taking pictures of the kids playing outside, Rachel took this picture of Annie and Me. Hair in a ponytail. Glasses. No makeup. Much more me. And I look so happy, so photo credit to Rachel for this one.
5. The little things that bring me laughter. QOTD: Rachel: I don't think Dora the Explorer can see very good because she is always asking for help to find things.
Annie: I know! She's like, "Can you find the castle?","Where's the map?", "Do you see Swiper the Fox?", and I'm like, "It's right there!!"
Rachel: Maybe she needs glasses.

6. New experiences. This week for our date, Joe and I went to his friends Diwali celebration. Diwali is a traditional Indian celebration of good over evil. What fun! I loved the amazing dances, music and clothing. Things like this make me see what we all have in common as children of God.

7. My Blog. It's been a little over a year since I started my blog. I love that I can look back and see exactly what our family was up to one year ago. I love seeing the pictures of the children and how they have grown. Blogging helps me to recognize the treasure of those everyday moments.

8. Annie: I love her enthusiasm for school, her kind heart, and her helpful nature.



9. Rachel: I love her zest for life, her confidence in her own abilities, and that she is generally content and happy with everyday.

10. Ben: I love his big happy smile, his ability to keep us constantly on our toes, and his unending admiration and love for me!

10 On Tuesday

I swear I typed this on Tuesday, I just saved it to add a picture and completly forgot to post! I'm not a huge slacker!! But wasn't DWTS crazy?!?! Thanks for your patience and interest in my so not interesting life!!

1. It is starting to feel like fall! I'm loving the changing leaves, cooler weather, and ever changing plans for Halloween costumes. I think I'll pull out my decorations today!

2. QOTD: Rachel: Mom I can't find my shoes anywhere!
Me: Your shoes are in the living room.
Rachel: No they're not! I just looked in there.
Me: Yes they are- let me show you....Oh, you're right! They're not in here! I swear I just saw them in here.
Rachel: Was it just in your head?

3. Dear Coldstone Creamery,
I love you! You have been my special favorite treat for some time now. Unfortunately, I am a traditional person and was completely devastated when you stopped serving my favorite flavor, White Chocolate. For almost a year now, I have gone with my fall back, regular chocolate. I keep coming back thinking you will bring White Chocolate back. I mean, it's a classic people! Quite frankly, I find it hard to believe that flavors like blueberry muffin batter and Oatmeal are as popular as White Chocolate. Please bring it back, or I will add you to the list.- Emily

4. Desiray came to visit on Friday, and Joe stayed home and watched all 7 kids while we went to lunch- what a guy. Des was great and it was so fun to hang with her and her cute kids!!

5. Annabel has earned a free mini pizza from pizza hut for doing excellent on her reading. She is ecstatic.

6. After my shower this morning, I walked in to the kitchen to see Ben sitting in the middle of a mountain of Krustez. Ben said, "I want some hotcakes!"

7. The girls are going on an adventure to Grandma Nan & Papa Tom's house this weekend with their cousins. They are very excited. Poor Ben and Avery are stuck with me. Provided that Avery is weaned by then:)

8. Jennifer pointed me to a great blog- you can find it here.

9. Yesterday the children became obsessed with a snake they saw while walking home from Jake's house. With the help of the neighbors they created a trap to try and contain the snake for future observation. My brave neighbor, Kandice, actually captured the snake and I watched in complete horror and awe as my girls both held it in there hands and played with it. They were taking it to our house to live in the sandbox, when I noticed the snake was looking more and more lethargic and made them release it in the neighbors back yard.

10.

Ten on Tuesday

1. Question: Anyone else despise housefly season? I don't think there is anything more annoying. Especially when you have 3 kids that each go in and out of the house 15 times a day and all share the inability to properly shut the door behind them.

2. For breastfeeding advocates everywhere. I don't know why, but every time I think of this, I snort out loud laughing so hard.

3. Had my first photo shoot on Saturday. My brother and his fiance's engagement pictures. I was so nervous. Andrew and Tara are sooo in love and they were great sports.

4. Here are some of my favorite pictures from the shoot.

5. QOTD: (I had just caught Ben sneaking out of the kitchen with a huge tub of frosting hidden behind his back) Ben: Don't see me!!!

6. Somehow the universe found out that Joe is juggling 2 jobs, full time school, family, and a calling in the Elders Quorum presidency. Today he received summons for Jury Duty.

7. Was very happy to get this in the mail today.Why? Because there, on page 108, in all it's glory is one of my own creations. My first card publication. I would post a picture, but they've asked me not to until the book has been out for a few months. Very exciting.

8. Clarification: We are going to Disneyland (not Disneyworld) Andrew's fiance is from California, so they will be getting married in Los Angeles in December. We decided to make a week of it and take the kids to Disneyland while we were there.

9. Joe was the hero of the week. Our car wouldn't start and he diagnosed the starter, did some research, found where we bought it in Maryland, had it warrantied, and installed it himself. What started out as a $282 problem, ended with him spending 0 and a car working like new.

10. What's that you say Monique? Some of your friends have recipe blogs? I don't know who you could be referring to....Surely you don't mean me- the slacker who hasn't updated hers since February!!! Here's a favorite fall treat- Banana Bread.