Barrow Family

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T16:57:00.000-08:00

Started to feel bad that we didn't have a Christmas Card this year so I quickly whipped this up this afternoon. I hope you don't mind my procrastination :) Hope your Holidays are Merry and Bright.

Hello Fall

2011-11-28T13:12:00.000-08:00

We had the best day today watching your excitement as you experienced Fall for the first time. You loved looking at the bright colored leaves as they fell from the trees. The reds, oranges and yellows just captivated you as you watched the trees shiver when the wind blew. Oh my Olivia girl I hope you will continue to always be in awe of the beauty around you and the wonderful world Heavenly Father created for you.

3 months

2011-10-24T15:20:00.000-07:00

Today i looked at you and you were bigger your newbornness is starting to fade away and you are growing every day. You are starting to stay awake a lot longer and you are interacting so much more, smiling and talking all the time. Tonight I listened to you talk to your self forever. I just wanted to hear the sweet sounds you could make. I just love your little ooohs and aaaahs. Your little legs are getting stronger and looking thicker. Your head and neck are so much stronger. As you laid against my chest you kept lifting up your head to look around. Your face looks older to me your cheeks are so full and your eyes are getting bigger. You now start to look at me more while you are eating. You look up at me and stare into my eyes with the sweetest most innocent most loving look I will ever know. As I looked down at your little body I noticed that your feet are now longer than the Boppy and your growing taller. Your little feet no longer curl up against my chest but Streatch out so long. I'm afraid I will blink and you'll have grown again, only this time I won't have captured it in my mind. I must do that, I must remember and relish in the moment, every moment because I already want them back. I can't believe it's been 12 weeks already I am so completely in love with you. You are the most precious thing I have ever seen my sweet little Olivia girl.

Sweet Baby Girl

2011-09-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

Life doesn't get any sweeter than this...

At First Glance

2011-09-19T21:28:00.000-07:00

Sweet Baby girls from the moment I saw you it was love at first sight. I remember thinking is it really possible to love some one so much. I still can't believe you are finally here and that you are all ours. The moment they handed you to me my heart melted as I looked into your eyes. Your face is so sweet and you are perfect in every way. When they placed you in my arms I thought...you are here, I have seen your face. I am totally and completely in love with you and will never be able to live without you. You are my gift from Heavenly Father, what a blessing you are.

At the Hospital

2011-09-19T21:27:00.000-07:00

After a pretty quick delivery, 11 out of the 12remaining hours spent in our labor and delivery room went as follows...

Oh my Loves...

2011-09-19T21:26:00.001-07:00

Olivia Barrow

Born: July 28, 2011

Height: 19.5"

Weight: 6lbs. 14 oz

Every day is a new day. Every day is a new adventure learning and growing together. Just to see how much you have changed over the past 11 days is amazing. You are growing up so fast I hope that I can drink it all in because these moments will be gone before I know it. These sweet moments after you eat and are so content and happy. Your little milk man face, and when you raise your arms up to your sweet cheeks and smile then stick out your little tongue just a tiny bit to show how satisfied you are. Then you snuggle against my chest listening to my heart beat you softly falls asleep.

Oh those are the moments or when you look at me and smile as daddy and are laying together on the bed as a family. And then you open your little hand and grab a hold of my finger. As if to say thank you for being here and making me feel safe. These are the moments I want to remember and never forget.

First Few Days at Home

2011-09-19T21:08:00.000-07:00

There continue to be in awe of you all the time and kiss your sweet head every chance we get.

i love flowers

2010-08-23T20:11:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we had a little birthday dinner for my mom. So I went outside and picked a few flowers from both our yards and made some arrangements for our table. When I was done all I could think of was how I wish I could fill my whole house with fresh flowers every week. I put the bottom arrangement in my room (gave the other one to my mom) and when I woke up this morning Gene laughed at me because the first thing out of my mouth was, "i love flowers."

i have this man

2010-08-17T14:25:00.000-07:00

The other day we were hanging out in the backyard, laying on the grass together talking about how blessed we are, about what we want for our future, and about how there are so many things we are grateful for. As he rolled over to look at me this is what I saw.

I am so grateful to have this man.

Kristin + Marc = Barrow for Eternity

2010-06-16T22:09:00.000-07:00

I love weddings, especially ones that involve family and close friends. This past weekend we were able to be a part of Kristin and Marc's wedding and we had the best time. I love going to the temple, feeling the spirit and seeing tons of your family there together. There is no better feeling in the world than to be in the temple with those you love.
The weather was HOT and super WINDY all the way up until the reception, but you would never guess by these photos our our gorgeous couple (not a hair out of place). The reception was BEAUTIFUL PERFECTION, from the food, to the MC he hee (Gene), to the cutting of the cake and the first dance. The evening was as Kimberly would say, just "MAGICAL".

i love sprinkles

2010-03-23T09:59:00.001-07:00

It's funny how something so small can make someone so happy. When I was in high school I would get a doughnut just like this at least 3x a week at break. What's not to love about yellow cake and chocolate frosting, besides the sprinkles just put a smile on my face. So when Gene brought this delicious treat home for me the other day after substituting for seminary and I was excited. I love how well he knows me.

Here's to another Good Morning!

How Does Your Garden Grow...

2010-03-13T21:08:00.000-08:00

Last weekend Gene, Marc and I Planted our garden for the up coming Spring and Summer months. Gene and I are trying to plant some new things this year. Last year we planted Zucchini, Squash, Tomatoes and Herbs. We ended up with tons and tons of Squash and no Tomatoes. This year we decided that we wouldn’t plant any type of Squash but we planted 5 different types of Tomato. We want to find out which varieties we like the best, and then next year only plant two or three. Our planting list goes as follows: Two Blueberry Bushes (for cross pollination), a hand full of Strawberries plants, One Raspberry Bush, A couple of Broccoli Stalks, One Jalapeno Pepper (just for fun), and Five rows of Lettuce (planted by seeds, four different varieties). We planted Herbs again, also which include, Cilantro, Basil, Thyme, Oregano and Chives. We will see how they do and then maybe plant a few more herbs. Right now my Basil is looking a little sad and needs some attention. Hopefully our Garden will grow really well this year and the fruits of our LABORS will THRIVE. It was quite a bit more work than I had anticipated and poor Gene, his knee was hurting so bad that he couldn’t help much. (He had arthroscopic surgery and an ACL clean up on it the Friday before last). That’s why Marc came to help me dig the big holes and carry all the mulch and fertilizer. I can’t wait to watch it grow.
THANKS SO MUCH MARC!!!

Wishing You Were Here!

2010-03-04T19:01:00.001-08:00

I can't believe that it will be 2 weeks tomorrow since Parker graduated from the CHP Academy,and now they are living in LA. It's crazy to think that we don't get to cut Parker's hair on Sunday afternoons and eat brownies and milk, or hang out and play with Mr. Sammy pants anytime we want to. We sure miss you guys!!!

It was exciting to be able to see a little sample of what Parker did and what life was like while he was at the Academy. The graduates and staff put on quite a show between the inspections,the PT and EVOC demonstrations, and the ceremony it's self.

Here are just a few pics from the Big Day.

And one just because it was my favorite from the day. You just gotta love those sweet cheeks.

A few things we have been up to

2009-10-25T15:29:00.000-07:00

Christian's Wedding

This day was absolutely beautiful, from the Sealing and the spirit that was there to the love of the bride and groom. Janay looked amazing and Christian was adorably in Love. Me, Kristen and Kimberly

My Birthday
My Sweet and Amazing husband took me to San Fran for an awsome birthday week end. We stayed at really nice hotel 2 blocks from Union Square. We ate amazing food, shopped, went to Pier 39 and saw Wicked with the best seats in the house. It was such a perfect weekend. He is the best husband ever and I can't thank him enough for constantly making all my dreams come true.

Logan's Graduation

I know it was a while ago, but it I just had to let him know how proud I am of him for doing so well in school, and for the choices he is trying to make in life. I love you Loges.

Camping With the Young Women

We decided as a Presidency that we were going to take the Young Women to the Dillon's Beach and go camping. It was quite an eExhausting, Memorable and fun Adventure, filled with kite flying, skim boarding, smore making, scary stories around the campfire and lots of bonding.

The Priesthood Chaperones that had to set up all the tents, start the fire and listen to giggling squeeling girls all night..... They had a blast.

The Barrow Family Reunion
We spent a beautiful day at the Gridley Pavillion hanging out, eating and visiting with Family. It was such a wonderful experience to get to know Gene's exstended family and alittle bit about our geneology.

The boys just being goofy

Gene and his brothers slid down well bounced down this slide over and over again and then would come to a pile up at the bottom it was hilarious.

Marc and Kristen got Engaged.

We are all sooooo excited and can't wait for the wedding these two are just absolutely adorable.To Mendo We Go Again....

We had the best time in Mendocino as usual. Everything is so beautiful, we had this amazing little house up in the redwood forest that was absolutely perfect for the Boys because they wanted to spend time paintballing. (don't worry we used biodegradable clear paintballs, we would never want to destroy nature) It had this perfect little arena where the boys could play and everyone else could watch. It was quite fun. Kelly and I even had to play alittle to make the teams even. We went to the beach and to the botanical gardens because of course I had to see the dahlia garden when they are in bloom, and there was a wedding that was going to be held there that day so it was particularly beautiful. We walked around old Mendocino, and had a picnic on the beach. It was so fun to just relax and enjoy being together as a family.

View from the pathway to the Dahlia Garden The Boys and Kelly all geared up

Janay contemplating playing with us

Parker showing off is skills

Kim and Kristen getting ready to set up thier chairs and cheer us on

One of my Favorite places, look how huge that flower head is

Yosemite
We had wonderful time in Yosemite even though it was a little rainy and overcast when we went. By the time we go to the top of the mountain to overlook the Valley the clouds started to clear, the sun came out and a rainbow appeared. The pictures don't do it justice it truley was a beautiful site.

While in Yosemite we did a lot of walking and hiking. We went to all the waterfalls and hiked the first few miles of half dome. Let me tell you the wet small straight up staircase that went up forever with no railing almost did me in on the way down. I definately had to have Gene by my side telling me I wasn't going to slip and fall all the way down. We enjoyed Yosemite Village ate delicious food and of course had ice cream. I can't go anywhere with out having ice cream.

Yeah Our Camera is fixed

2009-04-17T23:55:00.000-07:00

The first picture taken with our camera. It feels like forever and I have a ton of things to post now that we have our camera back and can upload everything. So brace your self they are kind of long. Gene and I on our way to have Tempura and Chicken before one of our Ballroom Dance classes.

To Mexico, We Go

2009-04-14T20:57:00.000-07:00

So we started our adventure by leaving at 10:00pm the night before we were supposed to be in San Diego. We drove all night long and arrived there at 7:00 am where we then proceeded to find the nearest Denny's and started our all week binge fest. After Denny's we still could not board the ship until noon so we headed to where else...Walmart, where else would you go if you needed something anywhere in America, and then Sam's Club looking for sunglasses. After which we found a parking spot in the cruise line lot and took a much needed nap. Around 11:30 we headed to the gate and got on smoothly, all was well, except Bryson was not feeling very well at all. poor Bryson=( After boarding we had lunch were we found the all you can eat ice cream machines which we had to have at least 2-3x per day for the next 5 days he hee. Some of the Highlights of the trip:

* Being with the Solomon's we had so much fun and love spending time with besties he hee. Thanks for going with us guys you are AWSOME. We <3>

* The all you can eat ice cream machine, the 3-4 scoops of ice cream I had every night at dinner, and the molton chocolate lava cake. he hee

* The hypnotist was hillarious and the evening shows were quite entertaining with the lovely 80 style costumes.. mmm interesting.

* Ending every evening with a new towel animal.

* Carrie and I in our matching outfits for the elegant evening. No joke black and white patterned skirts and black tops, with curled hair, and even the matching purses. It was hilarious, and such a coincidence. We both had no clue what the other was wearing.

* Watching the whales breaching and spraying, so close to our little catamaran.

* Sitting at the front of the catamaran and just relaxing as I watched the beautiful coast line and water around me I could have done that for 3 days. Bryson on the other hand, Not so much.

* Snorkeling and relaxing in Cabo. It was so beautiful .... we had such an amazing time.

* Traveling to the La Buffadora and walking through the Mexican flea market for some shopping, churros and tacos that made us late for the bus back to the ship, but they were worth it.

* Gene and Bryson's water balloon fight. It was quite a dead area on the ship, but once the kids saw how much fun the Big boys were having the all rushed over and it became quite a popular spot.

* Resting and relaxing in our room and by the pool, playing cards in the library, listening to Larry in the Kareokee lounge, and dancing in the clubs ( ha ha) and in the "party" area, "go red team, go red team go."

* Sea World was a ton of fun, perfect day, and hardly any people it was great no lines anywhere. All the shows were entertaining and we now have yearly passes. So we must go back to see Shamu #4 again, and again, and again.

* Seeing the beauty of San Diego's Balboa park and botanical gardens. The architecture and landscape was absolutely breathtaking.

* Taking a tour of the U.S.S Midway. We were on that ship for over two hours and did not even see half of it. It is crazy how huge those navy ships are and all that goes on inside to run it and take care of all those on board. I have such an appreciation for all those that serve our great country, Thanks Sean.

* The movie "Paul Blart-Mall Cop" and more ice cream before we headed home for our long drive. Where in we laughed, sang, and drank more Dr. Pepper than ever to stay awake. Thanks Bryson.

I can't wait to do it again!!!! Viva La MEXICO!!!!

Getting ready to board the ship

Gene trying to entertain us with his skills at lunch

I wanted the vanilla frozen yogurt and the chocolate ice cream of course they don't come out of the same machine, so I improvised.Gene and Bryson prepping for the water balloon fightAfter the battleMy favorite towel animal... I love Monkey'sThe beautiful arc in Cabo that we saw from our catamaran as we were heading to our snorkeling spot.Gene sitting at the head of the boatDrinking hot chocolate on the bow of the ship, just the two of us after a great day in Mexico Soaking in the view at the La BuffadoraThe Solomon's at La Buffadora
I wanted a Pina Colada and a Strawberry Daquire (virgin of course) and they couldn't mix them so I just got both, and we relaxed on the top of the ship and watched the sun go down over the ocean.
The Solomons just before one of our evening shows.
Us goofing off in the Kareokee lounge (Sorry Bill and Larry)

Miniature golfing on the tip top of the ship
Me and Gene getting ready to duke it out he hee

The Solomon's and the ship at night (both so pretty)

I just love this picture I think it is one of my favorites I just had to post it

Gene and I in an iceburg at the Antarctic exhibit with the beluga whales and the polar bears at Sea World. All of us except Gene prepping for the excitement that was awaiting us in the Sea Cow (Manatee) Exhibit.The Amazing Shamu (well not the original but like Shamu # 4)!!!

The Dolphin show, where the lady totally biffed it running to the rope, those crazy Sea world workers.I can't remember what it's called but it was beautiful Part of Balboa Park

Gene and Bryson trapped in the brig
Carrie and I also Gene and Bryson pretending to be manicans

Don't they blend in so well, especially Gene with his $8.00 Walmart Aviator glasses

The End of our great trip.

A Quick December

2009-04-14T19:54:00.000-07:00

We began our Holiday Season with the Christmas Stroll on Plumas Street. We were volunteered to be in charge of the Santa booth for the City's Annual Chirstmas Stroll. It was Quite the event. Gene was the photographer taking pitures of hundreds of kids and thier families, and I was the developer, printing off all of the pictures and making sure that everyone was happy. It was quite the act of service, but by the end of the night we were having a good time. Here is a picture of the boys just before we became Santa's little helpers.

Gene, Christian and Marc

Our next activity was my mom and Bill's Hawaiian Christmas Lual. It was quite fun. We had delicous strawberry coconut smoothies, pulled pork sandwiches and fruit. We also had a poster contest where each person or team had to draw a picture of one of the twleve days of Christmas in Hawaiian and then we all sang it holding up our posters when it became our turn. After that we played limbo and as you can see the boys were tearing it up. I was surprised how low they could go.

Look at them go...

Marc

Christianand the Winner is. . . . Logan!!!!

The next weekend Mom, Bill, Gene and I went up to Nevada City for thier Victorian Christmas. I was a really fun night. We walked the up and down the little old streets and looked at all cute unique little shops and ate at a little restaurant that served delicious prime rib and salmon. We then looked at all the lights and listened to the christmas carolers and the sidewalk orchestra, and then we got chocolate and bananna filled crepes mmm so good, and I also got a large bag of Kettle corn. It is one of my favorite things to eat fresh hot kettle corn, and so that is what I asked for and made sure that my bag was fresh and hot. Needless to say we all munched on it all the way home and I had half a bag left by the time we got home. Oh, well next year I know to get two bags he hee.

It was so cold we were all bundled up in our down coats, hats, wraps and gloves. You would have thought we had lived in Utah or something. he hee

Bill, Mom, Me and Gene

On Christmas Eve we had the annual Barrow family christmas party and game night. It was a ton of fun. Although we missed Linell, Heidi, Robyn, Darrin and thier families. They are always such a fun and creative bunch. he hee. But Charlene did a great job colaborating with Heidi for our family history trivia game. Which my group lost, but Gene's group won and we got to share the prize....a large pack of gum and these nasty hillbilly teeth. You probably can't see them very well in this picture, but they were hilariously discusting and looked so real especially Ryan's. OH, so gross ha ha ha...

Sterling, Parker and Kim...don't they look comfy!!

Finally Christmas day, We had a wonderful christmas morning together just Gene and I opening our two christmas presents from eachother. It took all of about 5 mins. he hee After wich we looked at eachother and laugh at how quickly the time goes by when there is just two of you. At around 8 we went over to my mom's and opened gifts with the family. I don't know what it is about gifts, but I love to watch other peoples faces when they open gifts, it is my favorite part. To see thier eyes light up and the big smiles that they get, I just love it. After we cleaned everything up we went back over to our house to start our traditional Christmas breakfast. This is the one where all the boys are in the kitchen cooking breakfast and all the girls are sitting in the living room chatting it is wonderful.

The crazy kids

Mom and La-wen

Me and Tay

Mom and Loges

Mom and Bill The breakfast Crew

The Goods Before they were devoured
Just Plain Silly

We had a wonderful christmas season full of all kinds of fun activites, parties and family get togethers.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-12-02T12:49:00.000-08:00

This year was another wonderful Thanksgiving. My mom and I made a delicous Thanksgiving dinner, we had great company, and a surprise visit from Alexis and her kids. It was so great to see them on Thanksgiving, her kids are growing up so fast and are so adorable. Thanks for stopping by, it is always fun to catch up. We miss our family in Utah.

Me and Gene Me and Mom getting ready to carve the turkey

Me and Mom cooking away... Mom and Bill (We are excited he is here for the Holidays)Gene relaxing after eating his big plate of food

Logan waiting to start eating (What a silly boy)

YES, on Proposition 8

2008-10-27T19:48:00.000-07:00

This election year Gene and I have been extremely involved in helping to support the Yes, on Prop 8 Camaign. We have walked streets, made phone calls, delivered signs, and so on. I only bring this up because it is something that is extrmely important to us. I believe that MARRIAGE is and should remain between a MAN and a WOMAN. This propsition is not about taking away rights of same sex couples, or even discriminating against them. It is about the sancity and the definition of the word Marriage, and I can not stand by ,not help or not do anything for a principle that I believe in. I have family members and friends that are gay and lesbian, this does not change the way that I think of them, it does not change how much I love and care about them. This proposition is not about them, but about marriage. They will continue to have the same rights and privelages under the law and would still be able to have their unions reccognized, just not labled "Marriage". If this Proposition does not pass, a lot of things are going to change, and probably not for the good of our State. Here are a few examples of what is going on in other States that have allowed same sex marriage:

Four Consequences If Proposition 8 Fails

(I found this on a friends blog)

1. Children in public schools will be taught that both traditional marriage and same-sex marriage are okay.The California Education Code already requires that health education classes instruct children about marriage. Therefore, if the definition of marriage is changed, children will be taught that marriage is a relation between any two adults. There will be serious clashes between the secular school system and the right of parents to teach their children their own values and beliefs.

2. Churches will be sued if they refuse to allow same-sex marriage ceremonies in their religious buildings that are open to the public. Ask whether your pastor, priest, minister, bishop, or rabbi is ready to perform such marriages in your chapels and sanctuaries.

3. Religious adoption agencies will be challenged by government agencies to give up their long-held right to place children only in homes with both a mother and a father. Catholic Charities in Boston has already closed its doors because of the legalization of same-sex marriage in Massachusetts.

4. It will cost you money. A change in the definition of marriage will bring a cascade of lawsuits. Even if courts eventually find in favor of a defender of traditional marriage (highly improbable given today’s activist judges), think of the money – your money, your church contributions – that will have to be spent on legal fees.

And think of all the unintended consequences that we cannot even foresee at this time. Where will it end?It’s your children, your grandchildren, your money, and your liberties.

I am not trying to force anyone to believe what I believe, I am only trying to get out the facts and make people think about what they want.

Letha's Birthday

2008-10-27T19:28:00.001-07:00

Ok so I have been really busy and haven't had time to update, but I wanted to post Leatha's 8oth Birthday, because we had such a fun time, all of us all cramped into a cabin. he hee. It really was fun, and relaxing though. We spent the weekend at Gene's uncles brothers cabin in Sierra City I think, anyways it was dang cold outside, and we had to keep two fires going to keep us all warm inside. Jeff cooked amazing meals, and we ate tons and tons of junk food, played lots games, read books, gave eachother manicures, laughed, looked at old family photos, went to church at the smallest chapel ever built in a brach of 30 people. We also listened to Grampa Gene's testimony when he was released from the Stake Pres. (very emotional). We had so many wonderful memorable moments, and I learned so much about the history of the Barrow family. Thank you again Linell for putting it all together.

My Birthday

2008-09-15T16:39:00.000-07:00

I have to begin with what a WONDERFUL HUSBAND and AMAZING FAMILY and FRIENDS I have. I am so blessed to have them in my life. Thanks so Much!!!

The Big Party

A couple of weekends ago, my great husband put together a suprise party for me for my birthday. He did such an awsome job. I had absolutely No clue that he was going to throw me a party, (usually I am extremely difficult to surprise). But he did and I had so much fun. Also the food was great too!!!

Can you say SURPRISED!!! Ha ha

The delicious fondu feast that Kim and my Mom put together, soooooo good it had every thing apples, marshmallows, cream puffs, strawberries, bannanas cheesecake, brownies, grahm crackers, you name it we had it.

Everyone just hanging out and laughing

My Actual Birthday
The next weekend on my actual B-day, I had a wonderful day as well, I slept in, got a pedicure and a massage, and then went to the temple and to dinner with "My Gene"

The Temple

Ok so after our session at the Temple we walked around and just hung out for a little while and while we did so, we ran into a rafter of like 20 turkey's they were just chillin and looking for food I guess just behing the Temple on the grass. This may not mean much to most of you, but my mom told me that she had seen like 20 turkey's too once at the Temple, and I didn't believe her I had only seen a couple at a time spread out, but this time there was a ton of them and I couldn't believe it. It was quite the site. Gene and I couldn't stop laughing. Sorry no picture.

After the temple we had dinner at the Cheesecake Factory and it was sooo good, I love everything on their menu. When we got there the lady told us there was only going to be a 15 min wait, and after 30 mins we decided to see what was up. Come to find out they had buzzed us twice, but our buzzer was broken, so we didn't get it. We were STARVING, so as soon as we sat down we ordered, then ate 3 baskets of bread and were full when our food came, but Gene stuffed himself and ate all his dessert. I was a little smarter and took some home.This was Gene's I am so hungry, why haven't they buzzed us yet, don't take anymore pictures of me face. I thought it was hilarious.JJust being bored

Time Out For Women

The next day I got to go to Time out for Women. It was such a great day. I had never been before and had such a fun time with Linell, Kelly, my mom, and Lori. The speakers were great, (One of them was actually one of my religion teachers at BYU), and the music was awsome. I can't wait till next year.

We had quite the spread for lunch in the parking lot. My mom brought us these really delicious turkey sandwiches, grapes, carrots, and drinks it was perfect. Thank you Kelly for a great day.

Mom's Wedding

2008-08-19T20:18:00.001-07:00

I am finally posting photos from my mom's wedding that happened a couple of weeks ago, We have been quite busy in the Barrow household he hee.

Here are just a few pictures from that wonderful day, the photographer's photos are much better than ours, but you will see what a beautiful and enchanted place the La Caille restaurant is in Utah. We were so excited to have our Cousin Mindy at the Temple that day, it was really great to spend time with her and share that special day. Thanks for comming, we miss you!!!

Mom's bouquet doesn't it look real?Mom and Bill in the courtyard at the La Caille Mom, Bill and his kids at the Temple The drive way up to the restaurant
Mom and Bill right before they leftMom and the kids
Mom and TaylorSharing chocolate dipped strawberries, the were Soooo GoodGene and I driving Logan's car to La Caille

The Summer is flying by

2008-07-07T10:53:00.001-07:00

What Thanksgiving Again: Yup, that's right we did it again, My mom's fiance Bill wasn't able to make it to our Thanksgiving this last year, and was really bummed, so we decided since we had an extra turkey that we would go ahead and do it all again on a much smaller scale for his last visit. It was lots of fun, and nice to have turkey again. he hee Even though it was Spring time.

Loge's we love and miss you, can't wait till you come home!!Happy Birthday "MY"Lauren!!!

Pop's Birthday: the boys decided that for thier dad's birthday they would buy him a tool table, not thinking that he really wanted one, but that they felt he needed one. Come to find out it was EXACTLY what he wanted. He was really excited about it. It doesn't look like much but it took 6 hours to put together, well while watching TV. He hee We had a little BBQ dinner for Sterling at our house since Kelly was out of town. It was alot of fun!

Phantom: Kim, Parker, Gene and I all went to see Phantom of the Opera. It was such a wonderful evening. We headed off to Sacramento and had no traffic and just missed the I-5 construction. We then went to dinner at a new restaurant called Ella's it was sooo good and the best service I have ever had at a restaurant. Every time we left the table someone would come and fold our napkin for us and place it on our table. The staff was so attentive to everything that we needed even before we knew we needed it. The food was amazing and we ordered just about everything they had on the menu between the four of us. Plus appetizers and Dessert. Oh, the dessert was amazing. I had this amazing carrot cake with homemade butter ice cream. It was to die for. Kim and I were in heaven.

Movies: Gene and I finally saw the new Indianna Jones Movie, not too keen on the whole alien temple scene, but a very entertaining movie none the less, and a great way for us to beat the heat and sit in an air conditioned theater for two hours. Plus we got to hang out with some great friends and hear all the details about their wedding.

B-day with the Solomon's: For Gene's Birthday our awsome friends the Solomon's took us to the Melting Pot for dinner. We had tons of fun, and great food, even though our waitress was a little akward. Hardly any of my pictures turned out because of the steam, but this one managed to be clear. Thanks Guys your the best!

Bodega Bay: Marc, Kristen, Gene and I decided to go to Bodega Bay for Gene's Birthday, we had a wonderful time, the weather was perfect until we got to the ocean, then it was a little windy, but it usually is. So we hung out, walked the beach, relaxed, ate tons of crab (well, everyone but me of course) and even more salt water taffy.

We are so blessed to have such great friends and amazing Family members around us. It is so important to us to be able to spend time together, laugh, and create wonderful memories with those that mean the most. We love you guys!!!

Napa Valley

2008-05-16T17:18:00.000-07:00

This last weekend Gene and I spent some time in the Napa Valley. We had so much fun. The weather was sooo nice, and the rolling hillsides were beautiful. We left early friday morning, and picked up our cake at the bakery. Every year we get our wedding cake top made ,mmm so good, but this year we decided to make it a little different and we got a chocolate lady finger cake with chocolate buttercream filling,covered in berries. It tasted exactly the way I was thinking it would, absolutely delicious. he hee. Anyways after the bakery we were off to a beautiful picnic spot for lunch, and after that we were going to spend the rest of the day at the spa. It was soooooo wonderful, and beautiful, the employees were so kind and even gave us free smoothies for our anniversary as we layed out by the pool. It felt so nice to just relax and not have to think about anything or do anything but just enjoy one anothers company. After the spa at like 8:30 pm, we drove to the little town of Windsor where we stayed the night. The place was great our room was like a little appartment, it had a full kitchen, and living room with a fire place, and there was a hot tub right outside our sliding glass door. it was sooo nice. The next day we drove all over, first to my favorite spot of the day the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, in Calistoga. It was super fun, they had cooking demonstration, tours, a great store, and of course an amazing restaurant were Gene and I just had to have lunch. Gene got a steak, and it was the best steak I have ever had, my halibut was awsome too, and the dessert couldn't have been better, we had to get two, they even wrote Happy Anniversary on the plates. After our bellies were so full we couldn't move we decided to head to the redwood forest, and then to the beach to walk around and watch the sunset. It was sooo much fun and a weekend I will always remember. Thanks Babe for being so wonderful to me!

Five Years

2008-05-08T23:31:00.000-07:00

I can't belive we have been married for FIVE years. I feel like just yesterday I was waiting for him to come home off his mission and now we have this wonderful life together. He is so great!!
I just have to take a moment to say that I have the most wonderful man in the whole world, and I am so blessed to be able to spend eternity with him. Everything that he does and all that he gives to me, and for me, everyday truly amazes me. He is such a selfless and loving person. He is forever making me laugh, always keeping me close, and he never forgets to kiss me goodnight(or goodmorning). He is my perfect soulmate. We have had so many wonderful life experiences and memories together so far, and I can't wait for all of the great ones to come. I Love You "MY" Gene!!!!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

The Magic of Disney

2008-03-31T19:40:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago we went to Disneyland and had the time of our life. We hadn't been to Disneyland in forever. It was soooo much fun. We went to Disneyland the first day and felt all of the magic and rode all of the rides. The next day we went to California Adventure and had alot of fun too, but I think that all the Magic is definately at Disneyland. We felt like we were kids again, and acted like it too, it was great. We had churos and watched the fireworks. Gene and I had perfect seats right in front of the Castle. I was determined to find just the right place to watch the fireworks and there were hundreds of people everywhere sitting and waiting and then, there it was, an emptly spot just for us. I love Disneyland!!!

Gene, Parker Marc and I on Splash Mountain. We got SOAKED (we meaning me and Gene)

We got free Mickey ears when we got off the rocket ride. Super fun

Gene Parker and Marc on the faris Wheel.

The Boys excited to be wearing their hats

Me, Gene and Brent at the Tea cups, we could barely fit all of our legs inside, and the boys spun so fast we were all so dizzy afterwards.

Waiting in line for the Tea Cups

Gene in Tommorrow Land where we had ridden Space Mt. (my favorite ride) six times.

Walking into Disneyland before the fireworks

Gene and I in the hang glider just before riding Soaring Over California. Loved this ride

The whole gang, except me, I took the picture

Gene took this one, I thought he did a great job, I love Fireworks, and Tinkerbell

Us in our perfect spot, getting ready for the Fireworks and eating our delicous brownie

Sarah's Wedding

2008-03-16T20:33:00.001-07:00

Yeah Sarah is married!!! We had so much fun a couple of weeks ago at Sarah and Koi's wedding in San Fransisco. It was absolutely amazing. Sarah looked sooo beautiful, and everything was so perfect, from the flowers to the food. Oh, and the cake, Sarah it tasted as good as it looked. I wouldn't have expected anything less from you. It was so great to spend such a special time with friends. We talked and ate and danced the night away. It is so wonderful to have such great friends. I love you all and can't wait for our trip to Florida Brooke we are so on! Miss you all and Tina I am supe excited to come and see little Matthew!!

Gene and I just before the wedding over looking the PresidioSara and Koi Sarah, your dads toast was so special I will never forget it!Two beautiful blondes and a brunette!!! He hee Love you guys

All the Girls but the Bride

To the Snow We Go!!

2008-03-04T18:26:00.000-08:00

Me and GeneThe Girls and I at the Lake The YW Pres. getting ready for the big race
Us having moving only 3 feet and comming to a complete stop

Me and Gene right after the snowball fight
Katie, Joanne and I have become a bobsled team
We went so fast down the hillGene resting after his long hike back up the hill

Gene and I right before we left when it started to snow, Beautiful!!!!

Last weekend Gene and I took the youth of our ward up to Mt. Lassen. It was absolutely beautiful. The air was so crisp and clean and the pine trees every where with fresh powder snow dusted all over them it was gorgeous. We had such a wonderful time. On Friday we left right after school and drove up to the Hood's cabin. (It is amazing with enough beds for all of the girls and the leaders to sleep on. Thanks Jolene.) There we cooked speghetti for everyone and I was quite proud of us at how quickly we got it all together. Then we played games and had a little devotional and sent the boys packing to the Martin's home 20 miles away. After the boys left the real fun began. We played apples to apples with the girls and talked until we couldn't keep our eyes open anymore. Sat. we got up super early to get all the girls ready, because we thought the boys would be there early, but they didn't come around until 10:30am they were having a home cooked breakfast by brother Martin, and then had a snowball fight. After they arrived we then went to the snow finally. It was so much fun, I hadn't been sledding in such a long time. There was no one else where we were so that was great. we all took turns sledding down the hill and having a snowball fight. The Young Men's and Young Women's Pres. tried to have a race. All of us girls piled onto one sled while the boys went down on thier own sleds. The sled that goes the farthest wins. Well, I was in the front and I didn't quite have a hold on the rope, before Gene let us go and went down the hill with the others. and the toggle on the rope got stuck underneath us and we stopped about three feet from were we started it was hilarious. The guys went all the way down the hill and we got stuck. Finally we got it all together and tried it again, and we won, we went way further than the YM pres. but then we had the long walk back up. After the snow we went back to the Hood's for grilled cheese and soup. While we were eating it started to snow it was sooo pretty light fluffy flakes, we all went outside to watch and then decided we had better start heading down the mountain before we get stuck up there. It was such a great weekend. Thank you so much Sister Hood and Sister Martin for letting us use your cabins. You're the best!!!

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-15T16:00:00.001-08:00

So my Gene comes home for lunch with a sweet card, these beautiful flowers and the most delicous strawberry pink and decadent chocolate covered four layer cake with chocolate dipped strawberries on top. Can you say Heaven!!!! It was sooo unbelievably good. He is the best ever, he know just how to get to the center of my heart. Later that night about 30 of us went out for dinner and Dancing. We rented out the back of Salute's restaurant and had so much fun. If only Valentine's Day was on a Friday we could have stayed there all night.

Kim and Parker, Poor Kip his back was killing him so he had to be medicatedCarrie and Bryson with thier place cards which had what we ordered on the back. Thanks Carrie Me and Gene with our Place cards so that the waitress could figure out who we were and get our food to us. Parker knocked out on the bench while we all danced around him. Poor guy!!!!
Me and Gene Thanks Mary and Justin we had so much fun, can't wait to do it again next year!

A Night with the Kings

2008-02-13T10:39:00.000-08:00

Kim in the back with Marc and Bryson. She looks soooo little
Trying to get all eight of us in a picture was kind of difficult Me, Gene, and the largest man you have ever seen sitting directly behind us!
Gene and Bryson and Carrie playing it up for the camera

Marc and Kristen at Coldstone
Carrie and her waters we all took home so many waters.

Me and Gene at the little pre-game event

A couple of weeks ago a bunch of us went to the Night out with the Kings, that was put on by the BYU alumni Association in Sacramento. We had such a fun night. We got there early and they had food for us and cookies and drinks (the Arco Arena employees didn't quite understand that we only wanted to drink uncaffinated beverages. It was really funny to watch their faces as one after another everyone asked for water or sprite.) We then had one of the coaches speak to us, which was quite the ordeal, but kept us laughing. We were then off tot he big game. I was hoping that it would be a good game, but I was not prepared for how great a game it was going to be. It was sooo intense especially in the fourth quarter. Every time we scored they would score, and tie it back up. It was crazy all the way up until the last 5 sec. of the game when we made a basket and won. It was sooo exciting. We also had ice cream at Coldstone so good ever since Gene and I moved to Cali we rarely get Coldstone. So it was such a great event and I was so glad that everyone had a fun time. Thanks guys!!!!

A White New Years

2008-01-09T11:48:00.000-08:00

A few days after Christmas we left and went to Utah for New Years. We had such an amazing time. We got to meet the newest members of our family, Trevor, Landon, Jenny, Carly and Brock, they are pretty special. We had alot of fun getting to know them and just hanging out. We road four wheelers in the snow, went to temple square, to dinner, and to see Carly's Dancers and Cheerleaders at the UVSC Basketball game. (Good job Carly) We also played cards, watched lots of movies and of course went shopping. It was nice to get away for a little bit, but once we returned home we had a huge storm that knocked out our power for two days. Ah, such is life.

Me and Gene getting ready to ride the four wheeler in the Snow.

Gene getting it up and running and going to spin brodys on the ice

Taylor, Me, Logan, and Mom getting ready to go to dinner

Dinner at Bucca de Beppo with Carly.

Temple Square, where we met Brock and gave him some dinner he works security at temple Square. It's pretty neat.

The fam

Me and Gene

Me and Lauren

The kid on our way to church

Carly and Trevor's Basketball Game

The whole bunch on New Year's EveLogan and TalyorMom, Lauren and MeCarly and BrockJenny and Landon

Trevor , Thank You soooo Much for Sharing your Room!!!Us in the Cuddle Sac

Christmas Eve

2008-01-09T11:44:00.000-08:00

We spent Chistmas Eve with Gene's family, and had such a fun time. We ate all kinds of yummy treats, and played some fun games (thanks Heidi). It was a blast. This year the gift exchange was gift cards, and I do have to say that Gene and I lucked out and got the best ones. One for Target and the other Cash. We were super excited. he hee. Here are a few from the night. Mainly of the boys because they just looked so dang cute playing with the little ones. It was so fun to have little babes around. They were quite entertaining.

Boys will be Boys

Marc, Parker, Gene and William

Play time...."Again" and "Again"
Gene and William relaxing after thier workout

Christmas Day

2008-01-09T10:11:00.000-08:00

Gene and I are so blessed to be able to have our families so close to us. We had such a wonderful Christmas with them, but first we had our own little Christmas at our house. Then we went to my moms, then everyone came over to our house for Christmas breakfast. It was quite the spread. We had the traditional orange pancakes by Marc, Kelly made amazing cinamon apple waffles (sooo Good), Bryson and Parker did the bacon, Gene did the eggs and hashbrowns, and Kim and I did the orange juice (he hee) it was so great to not have to do any of the cooking. Those boys are great.

Our Chirstmas!

Mom and the crazy kidsMe and Lauren Logan's Beenie

Gene relaxing

Marc with his new tool belt, we got him for Christmas putting it to good use in the kitchen. If you look close you can see the orange juice concentrate cans in his pouches.

Bryson and Parker cooking awayKim and Carrie

The Solomon's Christmas Party

2007-12-27T11:11:00.000-08:00

We had soooo much fun at the Solomon's Christmas Party. We ate tons of good food and Kim even made Chocolate fondue.Soooo yummy I love chocolate dipped strawberries. We had a Wii tournament. I did well in tennis but got clobbered in boxing, and Gene did well at both. Last but not least we had a white elephant gift exchange. Gene went home with the best gift. He was quite excited as you can see in the pictures. Thanks Kerri and Jared. Ha ha

Me and Gene

Kiim and Parker

Kim and me

Ahhh the FAMILY: Kim, Kerrie, and I

Bryson playing the Wii

Gene with His awsome gift. Oh, and yes the vest and beenie came with it.

He is so cute

Steven also wanted to play with Gene's gift. It was quite popular among the boys.

Ryan and Annie

Tiffany, Steven and Jared

Art and Sherrie

Me and Gene, boy do I love him!

Ward Christmas Dinner

2007-12-27T10:22:00.000-08:00

These are just a few pics from our Ward Christmas Dinner. It was such a wonderful evening. Everything went smoothly and the food was delicous. I couldn't not have asked for it to go any better. The Lord truly blessed me to be able to pull it off, and not be completely stressed out over it. It was such a growning experience for me to reach out and get to know all of the new memebers of our Ward. Plus My Mom and Gene Were amazing and helped me all day, I can't thank them enough for all of their love and support. They are the best!!!!

Love You Guys!!!!!!!

Let It Snow

It's Begining to look a lot like Christmas

2007-12-10T16:16:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that our house is finally all decorated and that it is begining to look and feel so much more like Christmas every day. Gene and I started decorating our house the day after Thanksgiving, because we new this was going to be a busy busy month for us, but it wasn't until last weekend that we actually got it finish.

Merry Chirstmas!!!!

Behind the couch, I finally have curtain rods to hand these from, I have been waiting forever to do this.

The Mantle, every year Gene's mom gives us a new house for
our village for Christmas, and I love it so much, soon our mantle
will be too full and we will have to add them somewhere else,
but it is such a great tradition we love it. Thank you Kelly

The Tree and Entertainment Center

Baby it's Cold Outside

2007-12-10T16:02:00.000-08:00

Since our heater has been broken so far this winter and the part that is on order keeps being backordered Gene and I have started getting used to the freezing cold temperatures, and have been surviving by snuggling up together to stay warm at home, but this last weekend we were watching movies with the Solomon's and Carrie made these delicious chocolate blast shakes. We drank them up and then were freezing again in a house that actually had a heater. So here we both are trying to keep warm with just our heads poking out of the blankets to see the movie. He hee!

Just our heads

Me and Gene

Carrie and Bryson

Let it Snow

2007-12-10T15:06:00.000-08:00

Yeah I finally got my blogger to work, I had been having some problems with it lately, but now it is working.

We are so excited for Christmas. A couple of weeks ago we had the chance to finally put up the last of our Christmas decorations, and I was so excited because I had been waiting a whole year to use these snow themed Christmas ornaments and decorations that I bought last year on super sale after Christmas. Gene helped be put up the tree, unwind all the lights and put the hooks on all the glittery balls and other ornaments. He was so great. We had tons of fun, listening to Christmas music, and drinking hot chocolate.

Gene putting up the tree. This was quite to ordeal because the tree we had didn't come with a stand so we had to come up with a way to make it work with the stand that we had. big stand and little tree trunk.
It is not the pretiest tree
but it was free, and who doesn't love freeThe finished project it looks so much prettier when you can see the lights Our stockings someday they will have our names
embroidered on them
All done and ready for bed! We were so tired you can see it in our eyes.

Oh, the Creche

2007-12-06T12:56:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos of the Relief Society Room that I helped Kelly decorate for this years Creche' exhibit. She did a really great job of getting everything organized and to the Church so that all we had to do was decorate. She is so talented. This room is used to watch the Nativity Video, before or after you view the actual exhibits. I didn't get a chance to take pitures of the cultural hall, because Friday night when we went, I left the memmory card for the cammera in the computer. So sad, but it looked wonderful as well. This year they invited other churches to come and share thier musical talents, and I was so excited to see Amanda's mom perform in the Bell Choir, with St. Andrew's Church. The music was beautiful, they did such a nice job. Thanks for comming. We had over 1600 people come through and view the exhibit.

Doesn't look like a piano any more

All of Kelly's trees

The snowflakes add the perfet touch

This table had a large Nativity on it
It took us all morning to decorate this room, and by noon we were starving. Lucky for us there was a great kitchen crew making delicous soups, homemade rolls by Sister Tenney, and Sister Stentzle made yummy scones for dessert. Sooooo Good!!!

Dinner with the Boys

2007-12-06T12:42:00.000-08:00

This last weekend I went to Sacramento with the boys to look for new suits. It was a long evening for them shopping, but in the end two out of the three found suits. Poor Gene, he couldn't find anything he liked. Either the pants had pleats, and the jacket looked nice, or the jacket fit funny, but the pants fit great. So, we will just have to wait and see. Maybe when we got to Utah after Christmas we will find something there.

After a long day of shopping we wanted to go to dinner. We headed off to the Olive Garden but there was an hour wait as usual, so we went to El Torrito where we got right in. Weird......but the food was great, and we ate way more than we should have. Leave it up to the Barrow boys to polish off 8 baskets of chips and then eat everything on their enormous plates, and mine too. he hee. But it was fun.

Me and Gene Gene and Marc making a funny face
lonely Parker, Kim we wished you were there

Our Thanksgiving Holiday

2007-11-26T08:46:00.000-08:00

We hope that everyone had a very

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

We had such a great Thanksgiving together as a family this year, it was so fun. My mom and I started cooking on Wednesday night and had alot of fun, with Mas there talking and getting the turkey ready for Thursday. My mom and I made homemade rolls, strawberry jam, stuffing, pumkin muffins with cream cheese frosting....You name it we made it, and boy was it delicous. The boys spent most of the morning playing video games and snacking while we cooked, but after dinner it was Gene that stood over the sink for an hour doing dishes while we all cleaned up around him. Thanks Babe, for being such a big help. After everything was clean we watched movies, had dessert and just relaxed. It was the perfect start to a wonderful weekend.

Gene and Me just before Dinner

Family Time

Logan just couldn't wait he ate a peice before the puff pastry but we didn't tell mom, we just covered it up
Mom and I making the rolls we had so much fun
Gene hand mashed all the potatoes it was quite the job
Everyones place was set with a name card listing all of the reasons why I was greatful for each one of them and a See's Candy chocolate leaf of course. The table settings in the kitchen

The other table in the so called dinning room
The buffet in the dinning room Our beautiful turkey, it tasted as good as it looks
Logan sleeping in the love sac after dinner

Stake Road Show

2007-11-11T16:25:00.000-08:00

Oh, the road show was this last weekend and after all the long hours and many practices it went off without a hitch. Gene and Logan did such a great job. They were pretty amazing. I didn't know that we had such acting talent in our little family. We were the first to perform, and the building was packed. Everyone was alittle nervous for the first perfomance, but once the audiance started laughing at our jokes and cheering after our dance number. Everyone felt much more comfortable.

Most of the Cast

The star of the Show. Great Job Loge's!!!

Me and Gene Just before he went on stage

Logan and Lizzy Bro. White, Logan and I practicing the Oleo the morning of Logan goofing off and trying to crawl out of the enlarging machine

These two were the cutes cheerleaders
These were our great two homeless guys with amazing voices singing in the background Bro. Star and Bro. Shorts Thank you so much Bro. Hood for creating our set and his wife was our prop master. They were so great. Bro. Hood actually used to build sets for the Donny and Marie Osmond show.
We had alot of fun, but I am sure glad that it is over and I can now start organizing the ward Christmas Dinner. I hope that it goes as smoothly as this did. Thanks to all of those who helped it was a great success.

P.S. Carrie you did a great job with your wards. It was quite the production. Love ya

We Love Mendo

2007-11-05T13:36:00.000-08:00

Me and My Gene

There was so much drift wood on the beach in one spot, that someone thought it would be cool to build a fort. It was quite the site.The view that was just down the street from our house Goofing off on the bench overlooking the beach

This picture just doesn't do it justice, the colors were like a painting

All I can say is that we love Mendocino, as I am sure you all know since we have been there twice in the past two months. The Ocean views are so spectacular, with the rocky shorelines, and dramatic cliffsides. I just love it. Even though we went with my family, we still had plenty of time alone together. It was great. We went on a few hikes down to the Ocean, and saw some fun tidepooles with star fish and sea anemone. It was so fun, Gene kept trying to get me to touch them, but I was too scared they looked so squishy. We also walked around the little town of Historical Mendocino and did a little shopping. We had lunch and ice cream, sooo good. Then we went down to the beach and walked along the shoreline looking at all the drift wood. The next day Gene bought some rubber band airplanes and we flew them over by the Highlands in the field. It was really fun, he's such a good pilot he hee. Then we watched the Sun Set into the sea. It was so beautiful. Usually there is fog and you can't see the sunset, but this weekend was perfect. No fog, just amazing days with unforgetable sunsets.

Family Fun. . .

2007-11-05T12:18:00.000-08:00

The Whole GangBeautiful Coast LineUs and Mom Us and Bill Mom and BillTaylor and Logan crawling through the brush on the cliff side
They got the PrizeMom and BillLauren"s Lovely Henna tattoo that they did at school, of course she thinks that it would look better on her neck than on her hand ha ha.... that girl is such a character. Playing Poison

Love her
I Won!!!!
Mom and Tay, she was helping him cheat ha ha ....

Quesadillas our first night there, the kids came a little late Lauren and Bill playing the hand slapping game
Lauren: Quite the personality

Taylor and the "dust mites"

We had so much fun in Mendocino this last weekend. The whole family was there and it was a great weekend of fun times, laughs and great memories together. We walked through the Beautiful Botanical Gardens, and then went and had a picnic in Van Damn Park over looking the Ocean. It was here thant we played cards and Taylor accidently threw the frisbee over the cliff side into the brush. The frisbee was dangling on this branch and Taylor and Logan thought that they could climb down and get it. My mom was so scared she couldn't even watch so she left and went on a little walk. It was quite scarry when logan got out there and was holding on to Taylor to reach it, and the ocean was a steep 80 foot drop below with lots of sharp rocks. But they did it and I almost had a heart attack watching. Afterwards we went back to the House and made Minestrone soup and played more games until we couldn't keep our eyes open anymore.

Kinda Cheesy

2007-10-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know that this post is a little cheesy, but Gene and I got a new camera and we were so excited to play with it, that we sat around and took pictures trying to figure out how to utilize all of the settings. Gene obviously knew more about it than I did. I just wanted a cute picture of him in his favorite love sac.

Oh, the Ward Party

2007-10-29T11:26:00.001-07:00

So, this Saturday was our ward Harvest Party, and it was a little stressful at first but, in the end it was a great sucess. All of the kids were dressed up in the cutest costumes. We had a liitle costume parade, and a trunk or treat in the parking lot. Everyone got so into it all the trunks were decorated and the kids loved it. We also had a chili cook-off with cornbread and lots of yummy desserts. There were little bags for the kids to decorate and trick-or-treat with. We decorated with spooky trees and cute halloween bags on the tables. All in all it was a great night. . . . Next up the Christmas Party!!!

Halloween FUN

2007-10-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

Ok, So as most of you know Halloween is not my favorite of all Holidays, but this year Mary and Justin threw a great Halloween Party, with a fun video scavenger hunt. It was a ton of fun. These were some of our favorite costumes from the night. Gene and I are not in the pictures because we forgot to take pictures of ourselves, but I was a Greek Goddess and he was well, I don't quite know but, he did win a prize for the simplest costume. he he

Fun at the Races

2007-10-29T10:56:00.000-07:00

So much fun... I had no idea that watching cars race around a track could be so fun. It was definately not something that I would normally choose to do, but we went with a group of our friends and had a blast. We waved little flags, drank hot chocolate, ate skittles, and cheered for the car that we had picked to win. There was also a demolition durby and that was pretty cool, and really funny, the guys were going totally into it. It was hilarious.

Three Down , Three to go...

2007-10-09T12:32:00.001-07:00

All I can say is WOW, Erin and Grant's wedding was so amazing. I believe that it was everything that they ever imagined and more. We had such a wonderful time, and felt so blessed to be able to share this special day with them. Erin and Grant welcome to the Club. Being married to Gene has been the best thing that has happened to me in my life, and I know that the two of you will soon agree. It is so special to grow together and serve eachother every day.Even though the party is over, the best part is still ahead. A new life Together. It was so great to spend a weekend with all our friends. I miss you guys already, and can't wait to see you all again over the upcomming holidays, and Sarah's engagement activities. He hee. Who's next? Love ya!!!

The Best Husband Ever

2007-09-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

Ok, Girls, I have decided that I have the best husband EVER!!!!!!! So it was Saturday Morning and I was sleeping in, (which I had been looking so forward to doing all week) and Gene had left early to go to work, when my mom calls me and wants to set up a time to get a pedicure for my birthday. While I am on the phone with her Gene walks in with a "little" bouquet of flowers wrapped in yellow and pink tissue paper with a Chocolate brown bow, and I think to myself, Oh, that was really sweet of him. He gives me a kiss and then tells me to sleep as long as I want because he is going back to work, and he leaves. So I proceede to lay in bed even longer and decide to get up around 10:00. when I get up I walk into the office to get on the computer and when I walk in there are a few yellow roses with pink tips on the desk with a note and our picture together. I then think "Oh, boy he is really sweet and thoughtful' and sit down at the desk, to pay the bills (never fun) while I am sitting there I start to think that maybe there are more flowers, so I get up and run around the house. Every room has more and more flowers laying around. There are large bouquets of flowers in the livingroom and kitchen island and little ones on the kitchen counters, in the laundry room, by the front door, everywhere. By now I am so excited and almost in tears from his thoughtfullness, and love. I didn't think that it could get any better and then I go into the Bathroom and onthe mirror he had written me the sweetest note ever. It was so amazing. So then I want to call him and tell him thank you so much, but I had lost my cell phone the day before and our house phone doesn't call his long distance number. So I am freaking out trying to find out how I can get a hold of him to let him know how wonderful he is, and I call my mom and have her bring me her cell phone so I can call him and she comes over and sees all the flowers and starts to tear up too. It was a day I will never forget. I can't believe how lucky I am to have the sweetest most loving and considerate husband ever. He is so wonderful to me and I thank my Heavenly Father everyday for having blessed my life with this amazing man. I know that he will be the best father someday, and appreciate how hard he works to take care of me. He is so special and has filled my life with joy I never knew was possible. Thank You Babe. You're the best!!!

Mom and Me

2007-09-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

On Saturday Morning my mom wanted to take me to get a pedicure for my birthday. So we went and got a Jamba Juice first and then were off to the Spa It was so fun. The place had just opened so everything was brand new and we were the only ones there, so we got extra special treatment. We relaxed and enjoyed being pampered.

Friday Night Out

2007-09-10T14:12:00.000-07:00

On Friday we all went out to Dinner at Chili's, and then we went back to the Solomon's for cookies and cookie dough which seemed to be everyone's favorite. As you can see Gene and Bryson love eating large spoonfulls of cookie dough, and Carrie makes the best. We played catch phrase forever and laughed until our stomaches ached. Gene is so funny he always knows how to make me laugh. We all went home around 12:30 and I was so excited to sleep in on Saturday.

It's My Birthday

2007-09-09T20:21:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday, Gene surprised me by comming home from work early to celebrate my birthday with me. We went to Roseville. He took me shopping for, "whatever you want babe" and then to the Melting pot. We had so much fun. The dessert was soooo good, I love chocolate dipped strawberries, mmmmm, and I love my Gene. He is so great.

Dinner with the Girls!!!

2007-09-09T20:08:00.000-07:00

We spent Monday as a family, golfing and having a BBQ at my Aunt Sandra's house, and afterwards we went to my mom's house for dessert. Well, My amazing family decided to throw me a little pre-birthday surprise. It was so unexspected, but totally great. There were flowers and the best Italian Lemon cake ever. It was so good. (Sorry no pics it was a surprise) Then on Tuesday my mom took my grandma, my sister and me to dinner at City. We had such a nice time. Somoetimes it's fun just being with the girls. he hee.

Our Trip to Mendocino

2007-08-28T21:01:00.000-07:00

The weather in Mendocino was absolutely perfect for our little camping trip. I have never been there when the sky was so clear and slightly warm. It was great. We had a bunch of fun, aside from Gene's vacation illness, and the fact that our extremely large two room tent, didn't have any tent poles. Ha Ha not so funny at the time, but the Lord blessed us with a very large Tree in our campsite, and our Three Eagle Scouts saved the day!!! We went to the Beach one day and tried to go rock climbing to find some tide pools and after all our searching there was nothing to be found, but we had fun and the boys were great at helping me around the rocks. (thanks Boys). They also redirected the stream that was running to the ocean so that they could have leaf races. It's funny the things boys find to entertain themselves at any age. We also went to the Botanical Gardens wich were really fun, and while there I had to go to the dahlia garden because I am so obsessed with them. They were Beautiful and Kelly made these scrapbook Pages for me to remember them, she is so great!! We also went on a little Hike with Ranger "Sharkey" and the Junior rangers to a water fall, that was fun, we learned interesting things about redwoods and Stinging Nettles which Kelly seemed to find the most of. Ouch... We had tons of food and ate the whole time "Tina" had more candy bars that I thought anyone could eat at one sitting and still eat dinner. Of course we had to have s'mores over the campfire, and again Parker was the Marshmallow roaster for the group and I the chocolate Girl. I felt so bad for Gene, He only felt good the first day and part of the last day, so he is not in as many pictures, because he was stuck sleeping in the tent. But all in all it was a good trip we had fun and all slept on the way home. Thanks again Kelly and Sterling

Bachelorette Weekend

2007-08-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

These are just a few of the pages that I scrapbooked for Erin's Bridal Shower this last weekend. We had so much fun in Nappa and at the Beach house. Although I missed Gene to death, it was so great to spend a girls weekend together can't wait to do it again (Sarah, maybe this time you will be "THE LAST ONE STANDING") he hee. Brooke and Anna I have cd's for you guys if you send me you addresses I will mail them to you.

San Fransisco

2007-08-14T17:28:00.001-07:00

This last week Lauren, Logan, my Mom and I all went to SF to play and shop before school started this Monday. We had such a fun time. We went to Golden Gate Park and ate dim Sum by Stowe Lake and then we tried to hit a bucket of balls at the Presidio Golf Course, but Lauren and I didn't bring any tenis shoes so we had to go shopping instead. We went all around Union Square and to the fortune cookie factory in China Town. We also ate dinner at the Cheesecake Factory and then mom and I went and saw the Musical "Jersey Boys" at the Curran Theater. It was a ton of fun. Well, as much fun as you can have with teenagers Ha ha!!! J/K they were really good sports and we had a blast together.

Birthday Party

2007-08-05T21:23:00.000-07:00

This last weekend Amanda came into town for her dad's 60th birthday party. Gene and I had a blast eating, dancing and laughing all night with her family, and friends that we haven't seen in for quite some time.

Mom's little shed

2007-07-25T19:20:00.000-07:00

We spent most of last Saturday trying to get the back yard ready to lanscape for this weekend. We all worked really hard, especially the boys trying to finish the little house in the back yard for mom to use as a storage shed. Bryson and Gene are always busy working on something together

I think he thought his work was done, and that it was time to rest, little did he know it had just begun. Boy is he cute!!!!!
The whole crew, the boys did the hard labor, while mom and I painted, It didn't take too long, but boy was it hot outside!!

The final product of the day, Looks Good Guys!

Sacramento Temple

2007-07-07T21:13:00.001-07:00

We Love our Sacramento Temple! Every time we go it is such a wonderful experience, and we are taking advantage of the opportunity "to wear out the carpets. "

Ward Beach Camp Out

2007-07-06T11:24:00.000-07:00

What a Happy Family He hee!!! Camping is our favorite Thing
After Gene and I set up our tent he decided that since I was the smaller of the two of us that I got to fill up the air matress in side the tent. It almost didn't fit. After the tents we went to the beach and the boys played ultimate frisbee and built sand castles with the little kids, Kim and I got to be the judges.
These lazy boys sitting there watching the others set up thier tents and not even volunteer to help.

We had such a wonderful weekend camping at the Beach, it was alittle cold, but the smores and the camp fire made everything better. Parker and I were the smore masters and all of the little kids kept sneaking marshmallows out of my bag. Does he not look guilty or what.