The Nielson Five!!

Scottsdale Performing Arts Field Trip!

2011-02-06T17:15:00.006-07:00

Kaleb LOVES his class!!.....can you find him??

It was a fun day of puppet shows, music classes, dancing & crafts - Kaleb had a blast!!

He even wanted to be on stage with the live band! (ha ha)

"I'm Kaleb!!"

What a day!!

Halloween Fun!

2010-11-28T18:51:00.007-07:00

I haven't posted in a while, so I thought that I would quickly share some pics from our first Halloween in Phoenix!!

A cheeky pumpkin & a bat!

Lana was given the worst job - but seemed to enjoy it (ha ha).

We decided not to buy any decorations - so Andy made his own! (ha ha, so creative)

Oh, this is what happens when I say "Look scary!"

Of course we went to our Ward "Trunk-or-Treat" - we had dinner & then some carnival games!

Rocket, Dash, Snow White & Kai Lan!

We also attended my parents Trunk-or-Treat.....the kids LOVED the train ride.

This was taken ON Halloween Day - notice how Lana is wearing a different costume?? YES, she was ALICE IN WONDERLAND.....she just refused to wear the costume to the parties (ha ha, stubborn!)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

The Cheshire Cat!

2010-10-27T23:47:00.004-06:00

My baby sister is a HUGE fan of Theater & even though she's definitely her own character, we LOVE going to her school performances. This past month was "ALICE IN WONDERLAND"......she was hilarious! It was fun to see how our kids enjoyed it......of course when the Queen would shout, Kaleb would copy (ha ha). Its so funny now, whenever Lana sees a picture of the Cheshire cat, she says its "Aunt Candace" (ha ha).

Alice, Lana & The Cheshire Cat (aka Candacey)

Kolby is loved!!

2010-10-04T00:44:00.002-06:00

Kolbys class chose to write little sentences about him & it totally made my day to read them, so I had to share it.

Our favorite sentence: "He loves happy" (ha ha)

Kaleb is 7!!

2010-09-12T23:13:00.005-06:00

We are so proud of Kaleb - even though he's a challenge at times, being autistic, he is definitely one of the sweetest & funniest kids you'll ever know. He is so excited to say "I am 7 years old", its like he's been waiting for this birthday all year! (ha ha) He's holding this birthday card because Lana wrote on it.....yes, she's so proud of herself (ha ha).

Thanks to his SpongeBob birthday card, we've had that birthday song in our heads for a while (ha ha). We had a fun time with my family - there's never a dull moment!

We celebrated the whole weekend - he had a party at school, then on his actual birthday he opened some presents & made treats, then on Labor Day we had my family over for dinner, presents & cake. He had such a fun time!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KALEB - we love you SO much!!

Kaleb, the artist!

2010-09-12T23:06:00.003-06:00

I love when my kids come home from school with pictures.......& this one from Kaleb is hilarious. Yeah, he's not a fan of drawing & he gets that from me (ha ha). I just can't help but laugh at the little squares under my arms......are those the FLAB under my arms......or MUSCLES?? (ha ha ha ha).

My brothers' first FOOTBALL game!

2010-09-02T13:01:00.005-06:00

Hmmm, where's my brother, you may ask??.....well, he's the one in the BLACK shirt - yeah, he couldn't play his FIRST game, due to failing English Honors (ha ha, poor Michael) - at least he got to help out.

We still had a lot of fun supporting the Camelback Spartans - my old school!

Lana & Kaleb made a new friend (ha ha)....unfortunately his family was cheering for the other team (ha ha).

Enjoying the game - Candacey, Ake & the kids.

Even Kolby had a great time!

Camelback won 10-6 against Central!!

"No medicine!"

2010-09-02T12:47:00.002-06:00

I know, it looks like poor Lana is being tortured.....& actually, if you asked her, she'd say she was (ha ha).
My kids have a problem with taking liquid medicine......either they let it drool out of their mouths, ask for a drink so they can spit it in the cup, or make gagging sounds like they're about to throw up (ha ha ha) - yes, my kids are dramatic!
SOOOO, I thought that I would be smart & buy the medicated strips that just melt on your tongue.......Kaleb STILL made his throwing up sounds, but eventually chews it & says its yummy.....& then there's Lana, who wouldn't even let it get to her tongue - it sat on her TEETH for a while, then she lets it drip onto her shirt, then asks for a popsicle to get rid of the taste.

I told Lana that if she doesn't take it, she has to go to the hospital....& as she's crying, she whines "I'll go to the doctor at the hospital"!!

Back to SCHOOL!!!

2010-09-02T12:07:00.002-06:00

Oh, it was a LONG & HOT summer break......the boys were SO excited to get back to school.....different schools again, but at least they get to ride the bus again (ha ha).

Kolby is now in Middle School, so that makes us feel REALLY old!! His new teacher seems really nice & we have set great goals for him. He's gonna have an awesome year!!

Kaleb is back in uniform again......red, blue & white shirts this time. He's in a smaller class now with autistic kids who will eventually be transitioned into a regular class - he is such a smart boy, we know he'll do well.

We're hoping that Lana will be put in a Pre-School soon.....she's on a waiting list.....& she hates waiting (ha ha ha).
HAPPY LEARNING!!

Our 1st Phoenix Summer!!

2010-07-25T21:54:00.003-06:00

Our kids have been enjoying our backyard since its TOO HOT to go to the public pools (ha ha)......you'd think they'd have a lot of INDOOR pools here (ha ha).

Lana created a 'flower' with our water balloons!

The kids enjoying their pools!

When we're indoors, we've enjoyed putting puzzles together!

Yes, even Lana helped me with this one! (ha ha)

Hope everyone is having a great summer!!!!!!!

FATHERS DAY!!

2010-07-25T21:41:00.003-06:00

I am SO in love with this guy!! Andy is the greatest Dad & I am so lucky to be his wife - we make an awesome team! (ha ha)

I'm also grateful for this old man!! (ha ha) You can tell just from the huge smile on his face, what an amazing person he is - he always keeps people smiling!! (I think he's really laughing at the lame presents we got him, ha ha ha ha)
Love you Dad!!

Andy didn't get to be with his own Dad on Fathers Day.......we miss him so much - our kids definitely miss Papa Nielson too.
HAPPY FATHERS DAY TO THE DADS IN MY LIFE!!

"I'm a big boy!"

2010-07-25T21:15:00.003-06:00

Its hard to believe that this handsome little guy is 10 years old!!
He is doing so well - its funny to see how he communicates with us now.....whenever his sippy cup is empty, he literally tries to find me & brings it to me (yes, that's progress). When he's hungry, instead of sitting at the table like he usually does, he now grabs my arm & pulls me towards the fridge (ha ha ha). We are so proud of him - every day I am still helping him say MAMA......I can't wait til he actually says it with me!
We love you so much Kolby!!

8th Grade Promotion!!

2010-06-12T18:55:00.003-06:00

This is my little brother Michael - he just graduated from Junior High.......yeah, that's his signature pose. (ha ha, crazy!)

There were limited seats, so only my parents & 2 of my sisters were able to attend.

Don't my parents look so proud?? (ha ha) They are though - he received the Mike Brunson Athletic Award plaque & a couple of certificates, one of which was a Mary Mann award - she was in our ward when we first moved to Arizona, so that was an honor.

CONGRATS MICHAEL!!!
This Fall he will be attending Camelback High, where I attended 15 years ago (ha ha......yes, I'm OLD!!!)

The Princess is 4 years old!!!

2010-06-07T00:22:00.010-06:00

Don't you just love the fake smile? (ha ha) Lana had been waiting for her birthday to come for a few weeks - she kept reminding us that it was on 'May 30th' & that she would be '4'......when I asked her what she wanted for her birthday, all she would say was 'ummm, cupcakes' (yes, food is important to our family, ha ha)

Most of my family came - Les & Dennis were camping - we had dinner at our place, it was fun!

Gma & Gpa Hola made Lana her very own table & chairs for her tea parties - she LOVES it!

Yeah, I was hoping being 4 would make her nicer, but this pic was taken just when she's about to hit Kaleb out of the picture (ha ha - angelic, huh?)

Time for presents! She got so many fun things, but the one that makes me smile is her Kai Lan doll - she takes her EVERYWHERE & she sleeps with her too - she also makes me babysit her when I'm watching TV (ha ha). Thank you for the presents!

This is Lana's first birthday away from the Nielsons, so they sent her a present - 2 HOMEMADE tutus, a wand & hair accessories - she calls them her costumes & loves it!.....unfortunately, Kaleb wears them too.....on his head! (ha ha)

After a LONG night, we caught her relaxing & reading a book - she didn't want to leave her toys, it was so funny.

We are so grateful for our little Princess - I love our mother-daughter conversations, she's so curious & asks the funniest things. She is so caring & loves to play with her brothers - I love how excited she gets when Kolby actually plays ball or even sits by her (ha ha). She is definitely a Daddys Girl, which isn't good, cos she's learning bad habits (ha ha). We love you Lana!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Mothers Day with my MOM!!

2010-05-17T21:55:00.006-06:00

We started Mothers Day with going to the same ward ALL together......the Tongan ward that my family attends. We only took up 2 middle rows (ha ha) - I can't believe how big our family is getting.

Then we went to my parents house where Dad had already made an umu (cooking underground).....of course I was assigned potato salad (ha ha ha). It was a DE-licious meal!

Kaleb being his silly-self with my sister Ake

Time for presents! We got Mom a new wallet (with pictures of the family in it).....& her favorite candy (sugar-free of course).

We ended our wonderful meal with a yummy dessert provided by Lesley & Dennis. This was taken just after Ake ALMOST dropped the cheesecake upside down (ha ha).

Andy usually gets me flowers to plant, but since we live in HOT Arizona now & we only have rocks & bushes in the front yard, he decided to get me a hibiscus plant - my FAVORITE flower. Its been so fun to see it bloom - Lana & I look forward to checking on it every day. Thank you honey!

I am so grateful for my beautiful Mom - I feel like I'm closer to her now than I was when I was a teenager. It is so wonderful being able to see her whenever I want to - she is a great example to me & I love her SO much.

Field Trips!

2010-05-07T14:04:00.004-06:00

The boys are adjusting well to their new school.....especially since they have FUN field trips (ha ha). Just last week, we went BOWLING!!

Don't you just love the "I can't believe you're taking a picture of me in front of my friends" look on Kaleb (ha ha)

Kolby refused to sit down, so he kept dancing & sliding around on the wood floor (ha ha)

Of course they used the ramps & bumpers (ha ha....they have their Mom's skills, so they needed it)

Don't tell Kaleb, but Kolby beat his score......& YES, Kolby got a STRIKE!!

Last month we went to the PHOENIX ZOO!!

We had SO much fun!!......I was so grateful for the double stroller that I rented, cos there was a lot of walking (which the boys DIDN'T want to do, ha ha).

I love being a Stay-at-home-Mom, so I have the time to go on field trips with the boys - they have great teachers & awesome friends!

All about Kaleb!

2010-05-03T12:10:00.003-06:00

All I wanted was a picture of Kaleb with his 2 front teeth missing.......but then they both had to get their faces RIGHT in the camera (ha ha). Lana has food on her face & we always laugh at those nostrils of hers (ha ha ha).

Yes, they wanted another picture together......hanging out in Lana's room.

Kaleb made this in his primary class yesterday & I thought it was cute that he actually wrote that by himself. This morning, Andy pointed out that there are 'frowning' faces along the top (ha ha)......what does that mean?? He doesn't WANT to 'Love one another'??

I've been tagged!!!....thanks Anna.

2010-04-28T16:50:00.010-06:00

Four Shows I Watch:
1. The Office ("Hope grows.....in the dump" - Michael & Dwight)
2. Fringe (Walter is hilarious!.....who else has a cow in their lab?)
3. Vampire Diaries (Beats Twilight ANY day.....it just needs werewolves, ha ha)
4. Glee (Yes, I'm a Gleek!)

Four Things I'm Passionate About:
1. Food (ha ha, only the healthy ones of course)
2. My Family (especially Andy)
3. My Religion (CTR people!)
4. My job.....as homemaker (ha ha)

Four Phrases I Say A Lot:
1. "I love you too" (yes, Andy always says "I love you" first, ha ha)
2. "Uh uh, no Kaleb" (I don't even need to explain, ha ha)
3. "Kaleb in, Kolby out" (Putting the kids in & out of the shower, ha ha)
4. "Alrighty"

Four Things I've Learned from the Past:
1.Never go anywhere with the kids ALL by myself (ha ha)
2.Don't ever give up!
3.Quit whining, cos it doesn't help (ha ha)
4.Always write a shopping list before I go to the store!

Four Places I Would Like to Go:
1. New York (for shows, sites & shopping)
2. Hawaii (I really want to go to PCC & enjoy the beautiful beaches)
3. Tonga (to visit my Dads family)
4.Cook Islands (to visit my Moms family)

Four Things I Did Yesterday:
1. Went to church
2. Visited my family
3. Played speed with my siblings & Andy
4.Made roast for dinner

Four Things I'm Looking Forward To:
1. Getting a haircut.
2. Going to Cali this summer - DISNEYLAND!!
3. The day my sister or sister-in-laws get pregnant (ha ha, HINT HINT)
4. Owning a brand new car!

Four Things I love about Winter:
1.Snow (not that I'll be getting any here, ha ha)
2.Christmas (especially buying presents)
3.Wearing pants, so I don't have to shave my legs as much (ha ha)
4.Winter sports (not that I play any - just fun to watch)

Four Things on my Wish List:
1. I wish I could lose 50lbs, so I could look like I did before my mission (ha ha).
2. I wish I had a family annual pass to Disneyland
3. I wish I had an iPhone
4. I wish for......world peace. :)

Four People I Tag
1. Stacey
2.Heather
3.Nicole
4.MaryAnn

Fun in the SUN!!

2010-04-26T23:23:00.005-06:00

Of course we're enjoying the beautiful weather here in Arizona.....so we were really excited when one of Andys BFs (Blake Hydrick) from High School invited us to go swimming with his family!

It was a 'Beach' pool.....notice the sand, then the water? (ha ha) It only went to about 4 feet, but it was SO fun.

Poor Keilana almost drowned......Kaleb thought it was fun to try & help Lana swim, by pulling her by the arms into the deep water (while she has NO arm floaties & she's screaming NO)......then letting her go. Luckily, I wasn't far from them & was able to grab her when she started to sink. Oh, that was scary!

It was such a beautiful place......there were waterfalls & fish nearby.

Thanks Blake & Becca for inviting us - we had a BLAST!!

My sisters' wedding!!

2010-04-26T23:01:00.004-06:00

Lesley & Dennis have finally tied the knot!!

The wedding party: L to R
ME, Shelby (Lesleys BF), Ake (sister), Les & Dennis, Matt (Dennis' twin brother), Muimui (brother) & Adam (friend)

Lana was the flower girl!

My siblings had way too much fun dancing (ha ha)

The beautiful couple & my parents!

Congratulations Dennis & Lesley - we love you both!!

We've MOVED!!!

2010-04-20T21:46:00.002-06:00

Its true....we left Utah & are living in Arizona.
Here are some 'before' pics of our new home.

The front....yip, no grass!

One of the bathrooms...

Our kitchen....

Family & Dining room....

My favorite room - the living room....except the peach walls (ha ha)

We are really loving it!! I have more pics to share of what we've been up to the last couple of months......that post is still in progress!!

Christmas Time!!

2010-01-09T23:18:00.009-07:00

Gees, I am SO frustrated with blogger, cos I can't rearrange my pictures! There isn't a faster way to move them around & its annoying!!........this is why I don't blog much. (ha ha)

Anyway, these are out of order, but this is what we did during the holidays.

First of all, we helped Gma & Gpa Nielson put up their Christmas tree:

We went to the movies to watch 'The Princess & the Frog"

Decorated a Gingerbread House:

Went to see Santa & go on the train ride:

Went shopping at Old Navy & saw Santa again (ha ha):

Went to Thanksgiving Point to see the lights & reindeer:

Attempted to take family pictures:

Visited G-G Nielson on the way to Phoenix:

Had Christmas with my family - we had a great time!!

Played pool at Dennis' house (my future brother-in-law)

Stayed at the Luxor Hotel in Vegas - & got an upgrade - the kids LOVED it!

Had Christmas again when we got home:

Andy, I mean Bumblebee hopes that everyone had a wonderful Christmas!!

Lukie's 3!!

2009-12-19T20:13:00.007-07:00

My handsome little nephew, Lucas just turned 3 years old!

He had his birthday party & Gma & Gpa Bonnetts home.........yes, it was a 'Cars' party!

Dinner was a buffet of delicious soups!

Of course Kaleb & Ela were jumping around downstairs.....literally, they're jumping (ha ha)

He loved it when everyone sang "Happy Birthday"

Nielson tradition - bite the cake!

Time for presents! We bought him a cute outfit from Cracker Barrel & since we knew that he loves 'Cars' the movie, we bought a few fun toys - he's admiring the foam puzzle.

The party people!

It was funny to see all the kids play with Lukes toys while he was opening his other presents........like Lana here with his stretchy noodles. (ha ha)

YAY, Luke's turn to play! Happy Birthday Big Boy - we love you so much!

Visit from Tere!

2009-12-08T20:15:00.003-07:00

My cousin Tere from Arizona came up to Utah for her vacation, so it was fun to have her with us for 2 days. Its hard to do fun things when its COLD outside, but we tried to have some fun.

Tere loves seeing all the different temples around, so we stopped by Mt. Timpanogos that is close to us.

Since Thanksgiving Point is close & we love to see lights, we went to the Christmas Light displays.......it was so fun! We saw reindeer & walked around in the cold (ha ha).

My sis-in-law Debbie works at Cracker Barrel, so we went to her restaurant to eat lunch & then SHOP of course (ha ha). Kaleb loved having Tere around - he followed her like a puppy & kept calling her "Denay" (ha ha)

She's the only family around on my Moms side, so it's always awesome spending time with her. Love you heaps Tere!

Rivalry Game Today!!

2009-11-28T13:09:00.002-07:00

Hmmm, who will it be this year? The Utes AGAIN??.....or will the Cougars get their act together & surprise us all with a miracle win?? (ha ha) I know, its sad that I don't have much confidence in my favorite College football team.....I'm working on it (ha ha).

Both teams have the same record of 9 wins & 2 losses, so its definitely anyones game!

GOOD LUCK COUGARS!!

MUST-SEE MOVIE!

2009-11-28T12:47:00.005-07:00

After eating a delicious Thanksgiving meal made by my wonderful in-laws, Andy & I got the kids to bed & went to watch 'The Blind Side'. It was an amazing movie......better than New Moon - YES, I said it! It was a great family movie - it makes you laugh, cry, love football & even make you think about adopting (ha ha). I'm definitely becoming a fan of these 'true-story' movies.

GO & WATCH IT!!

2009-11-26T10:03:00.002-07:00

Have a wonderful day with your friends & family!!

Chimney fun!

2009-11-25T00:41:00.003-07:00

How does Santa bring your presents into the house?.........down the chimney of course!

I have never seen one of these before, until now, when I helped Andy put it together. Its almost as old as he is.......his parents have kept it all these years. It looks like a real fireplace, huh? (ha ha)

This is perfect for an apartment or home that doesn't have one (ha ha).......especially if you have kids that believe in Santa (ha ha ha). Its just a cardboard project that takes about 15-20mins to put together.......its so cool!

Andy & Kaleb are trying to keep their hands warm (ha ha ha)

Lana wants everyone to have a 'Merry Christmas'!

TEAM JACOB!!

2009-11-20T12:53:00.003-07:00

Yip, I'm one of those Twilight fans.......but I wasn't a fan of this movie. It was good, but not GREAT! I had a hard time getting into that book too, so that's probably why I didn't love the movie as much. I LOVED the werewolves & wanted more......and I'm sorry girls, but I still think that Edward isn't all that cute.

Thanks to 'Gordon Family Dental' we were able to go to an earlier showing of the movie! We also had Andys sister Debbie & her friend Tiffany come with us - it was fun! We were able to eat dinner while watching the movie & I loved that!

I think I need to watch it again......maybe I'll like it more the 2nd time.
I wonder if Andy is up for it - he doesn't look that excited (ha ha)
He loved it! Thanks for taking me honey, you're the best!

Weather Changes

2009-11-18T13:45:00.003-07:00

Being from Arizona, I have really only known one type of season.....summer, all year round (ha ha). I've lived in Utah for 10 years & whenever the seasons change, I ALWAYS complain. The weather here is weird - this is how its been in the last couple of weeks.......

We went on a Sunday drive to Cedar Hills & LOVED the view (can you see the Timpanogos Temple?) This day was sunny, but still cold & windy.

We also had our first snow storm......of course I took the picture from inside the house - I'm not going out in that cold (ha ha)

One day the sun was totally out & I thought that it was only supposed to be 50 degrees, but it went up to the 70s.......that explains Lana in her long-sleeved shirt & pants (ha ha).....so we had to go to the park!

We have also had those days that just look gloomy, but it definitely puts a smile on your face when you see this fly by.

I really shouldn't complain because I LOVE Utah - I just wish the weather would make up its mind (ha ha).

HAPPY WINTER!!

Cousins Sleepover!

2009-11-07T17:20:00.003-07:00

I don't recall ever having a sleepover when I was little - but watching these kids most of the night was pretty cute. As I am writing this post, Kaleb & Lana are still taking naps.....yip, exhausted!

They all seem to be dancing, but there is no music playing (ha ha).......they are soooo entertaining!

We missed you Marsh!!

Trick or Treat!!

2009-11-04T19:58:00.005-07:00

Who is this intimidating Autobot, you ask?

Its my big boy, Kolby 'Optimus Prime'!

Who is this superhero with the huge muscles?

Its my bodyguard, Kaleb 'The Dash'!

Who is this beautiful Princess?

Its Keilana 'Snow White'!

We had such a fun Halloween - we carved our pumpkins that day (ha ha, unlike those who carve theirs for FHE the week before).......we ate delicious 'chilli in a pumpkin'.......took the kids trick-or-treating in the neighborhood........and then had cousins come over.

The Nielson Clan!

L to R: Annamarie (Duck), Lucas (Dragon), Ela (Witch), Claudia (Witch), Kaleb, Lana, Kolby, Me (something in the medical field, ha ha ha), Debbie (Princess) & Tink (Pony)

I hope that everyone had a fun & safe Halloween!!

Yeah, I'm sure people wondered WHY I carved my pumpkin this way! (ha ha)

Cornbellys!

2009-10-26T00:51:00.006-06:00

If you live near Thanksgiving Point - this is a MUST before Halloween!

We did quite a few things, but I wanted to share our favorites:

First of all, I am a big fan of this rocking chair & my cute kids!

Andy didn't get to ride one, but he really enjoyed watching Kaleb ride the bull!

Kolby LOVED the bouncy pillows......& the 2 clowns rolling on it!

Kaleb loves to be silly, so he loved posing with the fun boards.

Of course Keilana loved Pumpkin Princess Land.....but I guess she was too good to smile.

It was definitely a fun-filled day with my beautiful family!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN EVERYONE!!

Kalebs school pic!

2009-10-21T15:28:00.003-06:00

Kaleb is LOVING Kindergarten - he is such a quick learner & has recently loved to read.

We are so proud of you handsome boy!!

(Kolbys pic should be coming soon.......stay tuned, ha ha)

Well-child Check-ups!

2009-10-20T17:12:00.002-06:00

I am a mean Mommy!

First of all, as Lana & I are getting ready this morning, I asked her if she wants to go for a ride, and she says "Okay Mommy, I'll get my sweater". Then, I forgot to inform Kalebs teacher that I had to take him out of class early, so when we got to school to get him, he was missing out on P.E & getting new books for the week. Sorry Kaleb. He kept thanking me for picking him up though & excited to go on a ride......the last time we went on a ride was to a park. As we're driving to Provo I tried to keep them happy, but giving them goldfish & listening to their playlist on my ipod......it seemed to work well. Then we pulled up into the parking lot at the Doctors office & Kaleb says "Mom, Doctors?? No Mom, it hurts." I told them that it was just a check-up to see if they're growing big & strong, and that they won't be getting any shots today. Kaleb was a little nervous. Of course when we get in the waiting room & see the fish & 'Bolt' is playing, they are just fine. Then we're there for over 30 mins & the kids get impatient, so I call Andy to come & help, which I am sooo thankful for. The rest of the appointment went well..........

Kaleb has gained 10 pounds since his last check-up (ha ha......I swear he's not fat, just solid)

Lana even gained 7 pounds & hasn't gotten too much taller since last year (ha ha)

The kids were so brave, and then as they're getting their shoes & sweaters on, the nurse comes in.......we decided to give them flu mists. I know, no warning for the kids. Kaleb HATED it, but Lana was so brave & just sniffed it right up (should I be worried? ha ha). So, yes, I didn't lie, the kids weren't getting shots & any kind of owies, just a spray shoved up their nose, ha ha. I am so mean! Well at least they are protected again the swine flu, right?? (ha ha) I am so glad that I have had healthy kids all year.

Team Crush!

2009-10-18T15:14:00.003-06:00

My little brother Michael plays in a football league team 'Crush'.

According to my family & the coach, he is a great player (yeah, we haven't been to any of his games). He was the Quarterback for a few games, but since the team is so small, he's had to play other positions & loves it.

Last night he had his first injury. A huge kid landed on Michael when he was tackled to the ground. My parents took him to the ER & the doctor says he's fine & just has a bruised rib, he just needs to rest & take pain pills (ha ha). The joys of football!

Who knows if he'll get better before his last game......next Saturday.

My brother Muimui (aka Crush Manager, ha ha) - far left & my brother Michael in the very back.

GO CRUSH!!!

GO COUGARS!!!!!

2009-10-17T12:21:00.003-06:00

Lana & I are ready with our BYU gear - awaiting the game!

They're still doing pretty well this season, with only ONE loss (which brought them down quite a bit in the rankings). We are hopeful that they will continue to do great!

VERSUS

SAN DIEGO STATE
TODAY AT 4PM!!

The Balloon Has Landed!

2009-10-16T10:47:00.003-06:00

What a crazy story! The boy gets yelled at & hides for a few hours, while his Dads balloon is in the air & everyone thinks he's in it? Now, I could see Kaleb doing something like that, but I don't think he'd hide to avoid a spanking....I mean, a yelling at (ha ha ha). I was soooo worried about that kid & then they find him hiding in a box in the attic.....and I can't believe he never answered anyone when they were screaming his name around the house. I'm just glad that he was found safe. Lesson for today: Don't yell at your kids!

20+ pounds lighter!

2009-10-15T15:11:00.003-06:00

Thanks to this:

and this.....

I am losing FAT!! (ha ha)
20 more pounds to go - wish me luck!
(I definitely don't look like I've lost weight, and everyone seems to notice that Andy has instead of me - but I am feeling great & loving how I fit smaller clothes!)

Up-to-date in ONE post!

2009-10-14T17:22:00.008-06:00

Well, its ONLY been a few months since I've posted, so here's what we've been up to:

GRAHAM FAMILY REUNION!
(My mother-in-laws family)

It was a fun weekend.....we went swimming & had lunch at a park & had a BBQ at Dave & Annas place. We had quite a few family members missing, but can't wait to see everyone again.

UNCLE BILL'S GRAND OPENING!!

My Uncle is a mechanic & opened his new shop in Salt Lake......spread the word, he's really good!!

KALEB TURNED 6!!

What can I say?.......he was spoiled, ate cake & played with his new toys.

KOLBY'S INJURIES :(

Yip, our precious boy is in a class of BIG 4th graders, so he's been easy to pick on. In the first 3 weeks of school, he had been hurt 4 times & this one was the worst. Since we've met with the Principal, things have definitely been better. Awww, I just get sad again looking at this picture. A girl in his class reached over & scratched him for no reason, while he was eating his lunch.

10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!

Do you guys have any idea how fun it is to go to an amusement park with NO KIDS?? Yeah, we went with NuSkin again this year to Lagoon & had the BEST time! We went to the Lion House in Salt Lake for dinner & then played all night!! (okay, just til 11pm) I am so grateful to be married to a wonderful guy who loves me & makes me soooo happy. I love you Andy!

KEILANA'S HAIRCUT!

Oh, this one wasn't PLANNED.....as I was in the shower, Lana found the scissors & thought it would be fun to chop all her hair on the right side of her face. Thank goodness for Cookie Cutters who made it look somewhat like a girl haircut (ha ha).

GRANDMA HOLA :(

This classy lady is my Grandma Laisa Leger Hola - yes, I was named after her & I am definitely proud of it. She passed away last month, 2 days after Andy & I were with her.

The Holas have been planning for a reunion for YEARS now, but there was never a good time. Now that Grandma has left us, so many of us got together. All of my Dads siblings came from all over the world & I got to meet so many cousins. Thank you Grandma for uniting the family again - we love & miss you!

THE OFFICE WEDDING!

Yes, it finally happened!!.........I'm sorry, I had to share it (ha ha)
I just wish that Kevins' shoes were showing (ha ha ha ha)

Free splash!!

2009-07-20T17:13:00.004-06:00

There's a new place right behind the Highland City Building, where the kids can play around in the water.........and its FREE!! In the picture below, they also have water shooting up out of the ground (in the circle), but I guess its only turned on during certain times of the day.

We were the only ones there for a while & so the kids ran around like crazy!

Lana loved climbing on the rocks & getting sprayed!

Kaleb enjoying laying in the water & feeling the current pass by.

Kolby just enjoyed sitting in it & enjoying the cool water.

And of course, Andy figured that when you cover one hole with your foot, it adds more pressure to the others, so he can spray us........FUNNY HONEY!!

And this is how the Nielsons love to cool off!!

Look, before you drink!

2009-07-07T15:08:00.003-06:00

Mmmmm, doesn't this orange soda look soooo good??

Do you see anything STRANGE about it?? Look closely.

Closer, closer, near the bottom........

Yip, its a spider alright. Oh, did I mention that the bottle is still completely sealed??

Lesson for today: Just drink water! (ha ha, j/k)

A wedding in the family!!

2009-07-07T11:00:00.005-06:00

My little sister Lesley is getting married to her boyfriend of 2 years, Dennis.

We are all so excited - Dennis is a great guy & if you're friends with Lesley on Facebook, you can tell that she definitely LOVES him! My family loves him & are so glad to finally have him be a part of the family.........my brother Muimui told Dennis he's 'craaaaaaazy', but I think Dennis knows what he's marrying into (ha ha).......Andy's surviving isn't he??

They will be getting married next Spring - and just yesterday, Lana & I received invites to be a flower girl & a bridesmaid...........I know, I feel too old to be a bridesmaid, but it should be fun!

My other sister Ake is the Maid of Honor & we are sooo excited to start planning!

CONGRATS DENNIS & LESLEY - WE LOVE YOU BOTH!!

4th of July FUN!!

2009-07-05T13:19:00.010-06:00

We started the weekend by going to Provo for 'Freedom Days' - we enjoyed entertainment, food, booths & rides. We also got to see the car show - Kaleb liked the army truck.

The next morning we went to the 4th of July Parade.

The kids favorite things to see are the drummers in the school bands, the cool floats and balloons.

Mine & Andys favorite parts - the Liahona Band & dancers........and of course, the Provo Mission float - we LOVE missionaries!

After we took naps & the kids swam in the pool, we had Ela's birthday BBQ........with an indoor pinata (ha ha).

Ela blowing out all 5 candles.

Then we went to Grammy & Papas neighbors home for a big party with bouncers!

Debbie, Lana & Lydia enjoyed the slide.....

.......while Kaleb loved the trampoline & entertainment.

We ended the night enjoying the Thanksgiving Point fireworks display.

We hope that everyone had a fun & safe Independence Day - what a wonderful country we live in!!

5 days later.....

2009-06-30T19:52:00.006-06:00

Well, the Nielson family is really busy through the summer with birthday parties.........we start with Kolby on June 19th & then 5 days later is Grandpas & then 5 days later is mine & then we end with Elas, 5 days later on the 4th of July. Yip, it ends with FIREWORKS!!

Our cute boy is now 9 years old!

Grandpa opening presents & yes Marsh, Spongebob came to the party.

I am now 30 something (ha ha).........we had such a fun birthday picnic at the park.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US!!

Our baby is 3!

2009-06-04T09:49:00.002-06:00

We started her birthday celebration going to watch the movie 'UP' - she loved it!

After the movie, we ate McDonalds & then the kids wanted to swim.

On Sunday night we had family come to Grammy & Papas house to eat cake & ice cream........and of course watch Lana open presents.

Blowing out the candles! She had such a wonderful birthday!

She is such a big girl now - she talks a lot, yells at the boys like she's Mommy, eats popsicles like crazy, calls Daddy on the phone, plays Mario Kart (she only knows how to move, not turn), loves to ride her scooter or car, loves giving hugs to Aunt Debbie's dog & cats, enjoys playing 'Candyland', is very picky about what to wear, her favorite colors are pink & purple, and the only yogurt she likes to eat is the 'kiwi lime pie' LIGHT (ha ha)......which she has to have before she goes to bed. Yip, she's the boss!

We love you Lana - HAPPY BIRTHDAY PRINCESS!!

Congrats, Kaleb!

2009-05-28T12:01:00.007-06:00

He's FINALLY done with Pre-school - he has a late birthday, so he's had pre-school for 3 years! (ha ha). We are so proud of him! He loves to learn, so we're hoping that sticks with him straight through to High School (ha ha). He will definitely miss his teacher "Miss Brenda" & she will miss his 'thumbs up with a wink' whenever he does something good.

They had the classroom decorated so cute......can you find Kaleb?

Miss Brenda read a few books which the kids helped read.

Lana had an attitude & Kolby was ready to leave......he would rather be at his school.

There was singing.......

& even dancing.

Doesn't he look so excited?? (ha ha).

I made him an m&m lei and fruit snack lei (ha ha) - he loved it!

Grammy & Papa were able to come and they treated us with McDonalds to celebrate!!

Our little boy is growing so fast.........can't wait for Kindergarten this Fall!!

Memorial Day.....with the chickens!

2009-05-27T17:09:00.006-06:00

The Nielson chickens were able to spend most of the day outside & they LOVED it!

Andy is working on a chicken coop for them....looks good, huh?

Of course the kids love to chase the chickens.

Lana enjoyed watching them go in & out of this box.

Ela was definitely not afraid to catch them - she is holding her favorite chick, which she calls "Brownie"

Kaleb took a while to get used to holding them, but he finally did.

Kolby just kept his distance (ha ha)......it was a little windy out there.

We had a great dinner with the family & just enjoyed spending time outdoors.

It's BACK!

2009-05-24T15:51:00.001-06:00

I am so glad that American Idol is finally over, because I LOVE this show!......not Mary & her annoying scream, but the dancing!

Kolbys Yearbook!

2009-05-22T13:30:00.004-06:00

This was Kolbys first year at the Special-Needs school & he loves it! We were hesitant at first to send him there because most of the children are in wheelchairs or have severe mental & physical disabilities, but the last school he was in said that he needs the extra help. We are so proud of Kolby. He is still the only kid in his class who makes vocal sounds & can walk really well. He eats a lot more than the others & has no behavioural (?) issues. At his recent IEP they told me that Kolby is the only kid in the elementary school who goes potty & lets teachers know that he needs to go. YAY KOLBY!! I know, its sad that I have an 8-year old still in pull-ups (ha ha).His teacher is great - she loves getting hugs from Kolby.

Isn't our boy the cutest?

Can you find Kolby "Buzz-Lightyear"?

We look forward to Kolbys new teacher & class this Fall & can't wait to see how well he progresses in everything........I can't wait til he can finally say "MAMA".

We love you, handsome boy!

Riley's 5th Birthday!

2009-05-20T09:23:00.004-06:00

Cool looking 'volcano' cake, huh? My best-friend Nicole made it for her son, Riley.

He had a 'Dinosaur' party!

We've known Riley since he was born & he just LOVES Lana & sometimes Kaleb (ha ha).

Here's Riley hitting the pinata......and Kaleb trying to help. (Yip, I think he did hit Drew in the head - but Drew's tough, it didn't hurt).

Even Lana got a turn......she didn't want to hurt the dino, so she just tapped it lightly (ha ha). She didn't realize that there was candy in it.

The kids enjoyed playing on the playground.

They also played "Pin the sticker on the dinosaur" (right, Nicole?) I didn't listen to the instructions (ha ha).

Lana was so cute being blindfolded & putting the sticker on.

The best part of parties! CAKE!

Kaleb, busted picking at the cake crumbs!

My favorite part of parties - PRESENTS!

We bought Riley some shorts & shoes.

I know, what was I thinking? Kids love TOYS!

Well, it was a great party - now I need to plan for Lana's 3rd birthday that's coming up!

Easter "Shickens" (as Lana calls them)

2009-05-19T09:24:00.004-06:00

Remember these baby chicks that Grandma & Grandpa Nielson got for Easter?

Well, they're growing like weeds......this was taken the first time they got to go outside.

These are the chicks now.
Andy & the kids love to visit them in Grandpa's basement.

Field Trip!

2009-05-13T09:01:00.008-06:00

I was able to go with Kolby on his school field-trip to Salem Pond for "Kids Fishing Day".

All the special-needs schools in the Utah County attend every year & this was my second time going with Kolby - it was so fun!

All the kids at his school were given a pink fish with their school name on it, so they don't get lost.

Of course Kolbys first stop was the playground. Then we had lunch, provided by Albertsons - hot dog or sloppy joe with potato salad, chips, fruit & drinks - YUMMY!

We stopped to say HI to 'Smokey the Bear'

We caught a fish! (Kolby hated it - he just held onto me the whole time)
We watched the ducks & geese

Most of the time, I was just chasing Kolby - he loves that!

Kolbys class (his teacher, Mrs. Downs is in the blue shirt)

I LOVE MY MOMS!!

2009-05-10T13:06:00.006-06:00

Who are these beautiful ladies in the pictures?

My Mom & my Mother-in-law!

I know the pictures are a little old, but I don't think they'd like me to post the updated ones I have of them (ha ha - My Mom eating & Claudia with a chocolate frosting beard).

I am so grateful to be a Mom & to have such wonderful examples in my life. Because of them, I am the awesome Mom that I am today (ha ha). I love you both!

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!!

Scenic Route

2009-05-08T13:28:00.007-06:00

I love road trips - especially when we go to visit my family in Arizona. It's a long drive, but the scenery is amazing! I just had to take some pictures when we left Phoenix.

Yes, I think rocks are beautiful (ha ha)

Gorgeous!

So cool!

Love it!

OH - we must be in Utah (ha ha)

I do love our trees - prettier than cactus.

Gotta love our mountains!

GOING 'PRIVATE'!

2009-05-04T15:04:00.002-06:00

Hey guys, just wanted to let you know that we've decided to make our blog private. I realized that I announced that on my Facebook account, but thought that I'd better let you all know. If you would like to be able to see our blog, please give me your email address. If you don't want it posted on here, please email me: nielsonlh@hotmail.com.

Thanks guys - hope you're all having a great start to the week!

Lana's favorite flower!

2009-04-24T13:46:00.003-06:00

Now that Spring Break is over & the boys are back in school, Lana & I have been enjoying our mornings together.....so this week we were able to take a walk to the park.

Spring is definitely in the air....the weather is nice, my allergies are annoying & there are beautiful flowers everywhere!

Of all those beautiful Spring flowers, Lana only seems to enjoy picking.....

Dandelions!

She definitely sees the beauty in everything.

April Birthdays!

2009-04-23T12:23:00.003-06:00

For those who don't know, I am the oldest child in my family & I have 7 younger siblings. It makes me feel really old knowing that 2 of my siblings are young teenagers......and the youngest is a year older than Kolby (ha ha).

Anyway, I totally forgot to post Birthday wishes for my brother Michael, who turned the big 13 on April 2nd & my sister Candacey, who turned 14 on April 17th.

Candacey was born the year I graduated from High School & Michael was only born 11 months later. I left for my mission when they were only about 1 & 2 years old, and so it was hard for them to understand that I was their Sister, not their Aunt (ha ha). Even after my mission, I got married & still didn't get to be a big sister to them. I love them both so much & I'm trying to be there for them when I can.

Candacey is graduating from 8th grade in June and is the smartest person in our family. She loves to read & enjoys studying - she's a huge Twilight fan - she plays sports, but is taking a break this year to focus on her school work.......yes, it's true (ha ha).

Michael is in the 7th grade & loves to play basketball & football. He loves riding his longboard & watching YouTube videos - he always finds funny ones. I'm not sure if he loves school as much as Candacey (ha ha).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHAEL & CANDACEY!!

Let's go to the movies!!

2009-04-19T13:23:00.003-06:00

"Monsters vs Aliens"

After weeks of watching the previews & the kids, practically quoting the previews, it was great to finally take them to see it. It was a cute movie. The kids loved it!

HAPPY EASTER!!

2009-04-13T10:12:00.005-06:00

Kaleb loved decorating eggs!

We did Easter baskets Sunday morning.....Kolby REALLY enjoyed his gifts (ha ha)

Lana in her Easter dress with her Easter Barbie!

The Nielson Grandkids had fun searching for eggs.

Best family surprise!.....12 baby chicks for the family!!

We had such a fun Easter weekend & hope you all did too!

Conference Weekend!

2009-04-08T10:35:00.004-06:00

We went to Phoenix again for a quick visit & to watch Conference with my fam - it was fun! Saturday was a full day & the men went to the Priesthood session - then my sister Lesley & her boyfriend Dennis stopped by. Dennis invited us ALL to his home to watch the Sunday morning session & said he'd have lunch for us too - HOW NICE! How could we refuse a free lunch? (ha ha). Dennis is not LDS, but he is a great guy & so is his twin brother Matt, who is Lesley's best-friend.

Mom & Dad found the best seat at Dennis' place - of course Kolby didn't want to leave Papa Hola.

Michael, Candacey & Adrienne

We knew they would have lunch for us, but when we arrived, there was breakfast too....some delicious donuts. We had a HUGE sub sandwich & chips for lunch.

Lesley, Dennis, Mom, Dad, Kolby, Dalton & Andy

Enjoying the Tabernacle Choir before the session starts.

Dalton & Muimui playing games during lunch, or was it during Conference?

Dennis & Lesley throwing Kaleb & Lana in the air.....Dennis had trouble lifting Kaleb (ha ha).

Back at my parents house, Ake helped entertain Lana, Kaleb & Dalton during the last session.

Kolby kept wanting to go outside to enjoy the beautiful weather!

My Dad contemplating on the great counsel he has heard all weekend (ha ha).

That night, we had Dennis & Matt come over for dinner - ham & funeral potatoes. It was delicious & so much fun having my whole family together.

57 YEARS YOUNG!

2009-04-01T14:48:00.005-06:00

Last weekend we celebrated Claudia's 57th birthday - it was a blast! We had dinner with them Friday night at Mi Ranchito mexican restaurant, then Saturday we went to watch Ela's soccer game & then took the kids to Kangaroo Zoo (pics later). That night we had yummy pizza & enjoyed a game of Quiddler.

On Sunday, we all got together & had a BBQ - YES, even though there was a crazy storm that morning. Here's Grandma with all her grandkids getting ready to sing Happy Birthday. Kaleb already blew out the candles - that explains Dave's look (ha ha).

Family tradition - take a bite out of the cake.

Dave & Steve tradition - get cake all over their face.

Is that Andy?....no, its just Claudia with a chocolate frosting beard. (HA HA)

Kaleb HAD to try that too (ha ha).

It was a fun time with family!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM & GRAMMY - we love you!!

2009-03-30T09:27:00.004-06:00

Our cute niece Ela plays soccer & its been so fun to attend some of her games.

Coach Dave giving words of encouragement....Ela is #2.

Some of Ela's cheering section! I love how Claudia is holding Kolby back - he really wanted to play. (ha ha)

We LOVE Ela's excitement for the game - she is the cutest to watch!

Ela strolling towards the ball - Dave on the right telling the kids which way to go.

"What Mom?....get the ball?"

"La Di Da" (ha ha)

Luke & Kolby needed to be buckled to keep off the field (ha ha), but they still had a blast!

Ela didn't mind her breaks out of the game - she got to keep warm & eat treats (ha ha).

Disneyland Trip - Day 2

2009-03-26T16:59:00.007-06:00

This day was a little colder, but we were ready for a fun time!

First ride of the day - Carousel.....yes, Kolby is nervous.

Lana's first tea-cup ride - I get dizzy just watching them.

Dumbo is always fun - poor Kaleb had bad allergies that day & YES that is Lana squished between us (ha ha).

Kaleb STRAINING to get the sword out!

We enjoyed the train ride, TWICE!

Lana was REALLY hungry....the restaurant we were at had a broiler problem, so we just bought these from outside & enjoyed the entertainment inside (ha ha).

Kaleb & Lana were so excited to see Aladdin & Jasmine.

For the first time we went to Innoventions (I think that's what it's called) - so the kids enjoyed a interactive hockey game.

It was another LONG day, so here's Kaleb entertaining us with kung-fu moves, while we waited for our shuttle.

We love Cookie Cutters!

2009-03-12T14:53:00.007-06:00

Kaleb & Lana were able to go to Cookie Cutters to get new haircuts yesterday & they loved it! You can make a kid do anything when you put them in a cute little car, while watching a movie.

BEFORE

& AFTER

Thanks to Anna - Kaleb loves having a mohawk (ha ha).

MY BIRTHDAY BOY!!

2009-03-10T09:13:00.005-06:00

My handsome hubby just turned 31 on Sunday.....yes, he's younger than me (ha ha) - but for some reason I kept thinking that he was going to be 32 (ha ha). We had a great weekend together - we went out to eat on Friday night at Hibachi, a Japanese restaurant & then I gave him one of his presents......a new wallet - he loved it! On Saturday we took the kids to Wendys....yes, fine dining (ha ha) & then we went to the 4A State Basketball Finals that Provo High was in.

Provo vs West

It was a great game!

The kids LOVED the snacks & cheering!

Provo cheerleaders did a routine that Annamarie choreographed - it was awesome!

Unfortunately Provo High didn't win this year....this is the 1st time in 3 years.

On Sunday morning, since our Ward starts at 9am, I just gave Andy chocolate donuts for breakfast & then I made his favorite Sunday meal for everyone - Roast! He also received his other presents - his OWN ipod & new work boots. I love spoiling Andy, cos he totally deserves it!!

My brother-in-law Mitch celebrated his birthday on Saturday - so it was easier to have our family party on Sunday. Steve & Claudia got a 'Madagascar' birthday cake & it was delicious! We just gave Mitch a gift certificate to a restaurant....who doesn't like to eat out, right?

Marsh respected the family tradition & took a bite of the cake.

We had a 'Kung Fu Panda' theme for the party & the kids wanted to wear masks - so Anna is wearing the 'Tai Lung' (is that how its spelt? ha) mask & chasing the kids around....see Marshall scream. He was 'Master Shifu', while Lana was 'Tigress' & Kaleb was 'Po' - it was hilarious to watch. It was a fun party!

HAPPY 'BELATED' BIRTHDAY ANDY!!

I love you so much!

Disneyland trip - Day 1

2009-03-05T21:09:00.019-07:00

Our first vacation this year!

Our first day was spent at the California....don't the kids look so excited?!! (ha ha)

Our first stop...Playhouse Disney Live!

We enjoyed 'Flik's Carnival'

The kids LOVED seeing & hugging the characters.

We had such a fun day & went on many rides - Kaleb loved the rollercoasters.

The Nielsons!

This is how we felt at the end of the day!

Dinner at 'Shakeys'

2009-02-27T18:39:00.007-07:00

We were in Anaheim earlier this week.....yes, home of Disneyland & it was great to meet up with family. Andy's Aunt Roberta (Claudia's sister) & her family live there. They invited us to dinner at a pizza restaurant called Shakeys - it was just around the corner from our hotel, so it was perfect. Uncle Mike came, as well as Andy's cousin Emalee & her daughter Abbey. It was so fun & the pizza was DE-licious!

Us with Emalee & Abbey

With Aunt Roberta, Emalee & Abbey (who had the giggles)

The kids are playing with their prizes

Kaleb bought 'bling' with his tickets & Abbey tried sharing her 'monkeys in a barrel' with us.

Earlier that day, we just drove around & went by Andy's parents' homes that they grew up in.

The Nielsons' Home

The Grahams' Home (under construction)

We tried finding the Newport Temple & wanted to go to the beach, but we couldn't find the temple (ha ha) & it was AMAZINGLY too cold for the beach......oh well, next time.

Stay tuned...

2009-02-27T01:33:00.003-07:00

We are on a quick vacation & will be posting pictures REAL soon.....yes, Katy, I said 'pictures' (ha ha).

WANTED: 5 people who want a homemade gift!.......made by me (ha ha)

2009-02-18T11:28:00.003-07:00

I know, I'm not sure why I'm doing this either.....thanks Nicole (ha ha)....everyone knows I'm not crafty - but here goes! :D

The first 5 people to respond to this post will get something made by me! (Katy & Nicole - feel free to post twice since you're my only readers, ha ha) My choice! For you. This offer does have some restrictions & limitations:

1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!
2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It'll be done this year. That gives me a good 11 months to get it done.
4. You have no clue what it's going to be. Who knows? Not you, that's for sure.
5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.

The catch? Oh, the catch is that you must repost this on your blog and offer the same thing to the first 5 people who do the same on your blog. The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me they did win a FAB-U-LOUS homemade gift by me!
*Oh and be sure to post a picture of what you win when you get it!*

Birthday Girls!

2009-02-17T21:54:00.004-07:00

My little sister Adrienne & Andy's little sister Debbie both share a birthday & this year it fell on Friday the 13th! How was their day? Adrienne spent the day shopping at the mall & Debbie got 'pampered'......no bad luck there.

Adrienne just turned 17 & is a Junior in High School - she loves herself (ha ha) - I'm not kidding - she can spend HOURS in front of the mirror.....but yes, she does have her older sisters' beauty (ha ha ha ha ha - I'm referring to Ake & Lesley - what are you guys laughing at? HA HA).

Debbie just turned 23 - yes, that makes me feel very very old, cos I remember her when she was only 12. She works at the Cracker Barrel Restaurant in Springville & also goes to school to become a Dental Assistant......so she is soooo busy.

My family (in Arizona) have a tradition of taking everyone (which is 10 people) out to a buffet restaurant to celebrate birthdays, so they were able to do that for Adrienne & she loved it......of course my Mom does too, so she doesn't have to cook. Since we weren't there for her birthday - we sent her a music card (with the Madagascar song) & some $$.

Our family (Nielsons) got together on Sunday & had a family dinner - then had cake & ice cream - YUMMY!
Debbie is usually hard to shop for, but we know what a huge 'Twilight' fan she is, so we decided to pre-order the DVD for her, so she'll have it delivered to her home & a cute wood sign that says 'It's a Twilight thing'. I can't wait to watch the movie over & over & over again at home (ha ha).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ADRIENNE & DEBBIE - WE LOVE YOU BOTH!!

Bus Driver 'scarred for life'!

2009-01-28T10:40:00.003-07:00

Taking Kolby out to his bus is always the same......Kaleb follows behind in his pjs - I tell him to go back inside because its cold - he grabs a handful of snow & eats it - I yell 'get inside' - then he runs inside & locks the door.
Today, was a little different........Kaleb left our door wide open - I tell him to close it & get into the shower - I help Kolby onto the bus & then his driver honks her horn - for some reason I knew to look back at Kaleb & there he was with his pants down & peeing on the doormat - OH MY GOSH!! I think I was more embarrassed than mad - Kolbys bus driver was just staring straight & kinda looked mad - I just had to apologize. Of course after he pees, he closes the door & locks it. What a morning!!

HISTORY IN THE MAKING.....

2009-01-20T10:41:00.003-07:00

Congratulations to our new President! I watched (& am still watching) the inauguration & even Lana and Marsh joined me too....they loved the singing & music - yeah, not so much the prayers & speech (ha ha).
I was pretty impressed by President Obama's speech.....I hope that he'll make the great changes that he's promising. I'm glad that I was able to witness history in the making. :D

NFC CHAMPIONS!!

2009-01-18T17:09:00.002-07:00

For my Arizona friends -

THE CARDINALS ARE GOING TO THE SUPERBOWL!!!

Who would've thought??.......what a great game!! We had my brother Muimui & his friend Jeremy watch the game with us & I think it was fun for Andy to have guys to watch it with. It was a little nerve-racking near the end, but luckily it was a great ending! Okay, so I'm not a Cardinals fan, but I gotta support my familys' state.......CONGRATS CARDINALS!!

Well, now we're watching the Steelers vs Ravens game..........

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!

2009-01-16T18:30:00.002-07:00

(imagine a photo of him here - ha ha - I'm still unable to post pics, I'm sorry)

My father turns 55 today & he still thinks he's young (ha ha). He loves to watch & play rugby. He is the funniest Tongan I know & he is a great Dad & Grandpa. He always expects a phone call from me at least once a week.....which I sometimes forget, so its great to know that he loves to hear from us. We miss you Dad & can't wait to see you! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! :D

Did you miss me??

2009-01-14T15:02:00.003-07:00

I've been reminded or TOLD many times to update my blog.......its so nice to know that I have readers. Hmmm, where to start?

CHRISTMAS TREE:
We decided to decorate our tree with blue lights & silver ornaments - it really lights up the room (yes, its still up)......I just can't get myself to put it down - I'm thinking of putting red lights on it for Valentines Day (ha ha ha).
HOLIDAY TREATS:
It was so nice this year being in a new area & making new friends - so we were so surprised at how many of the ward members spoiled us with treats. We got a variety of things: a vinyl sign w/special story, a book, popcorn, cookies & brownies (yeah, like we need more sweets - ha ha).
CHRISTMAS EVE:
We had Andy's family come to our place for a Christmas Eve party - it was so much fun. We started with a lasagna dinner & then had the kids act out the Christmas story while Grandpa read the scriptures - it was so cute. They all dressed up: Kolby (Joseph), Ela & doll (Mary & baby Jesus), Kaleb - Marshall - Luke (Shepherds) & Keilana (Angel)......I will post pictures later, which Anna took for us. Then the kids opened their presents from Gma & Gpa Nielson and some from Aunt Debbie......they loved it......they would've been happy if that was it for Christmas - they are so spoiled (ha ha). Then the adults played a gift exchange game - I won some yummy treats - it was a great night!
CHRISTMAS DAY:
Of course I was up until 1am wrapping presents......I mean, helping Santa with presents (ha ha) & so, it was nice to wake up to Lana & Kolby still asleep. But then I was getting anxious & had to wake them up for presents. They started with stockings & loved the little toys & especially their new toothbrushes - Ariel, Shrek & Spongebob. They did great opening their presents by themselves & its 'priceless' seeing the looks on their faces. I love buying presents!! After breakfast, we played with their toys & then had lunch at Gma & Gpa Nielsons - it was delicious & then we played games. :D

I hope that everyone had a great holiday season!

Our first REAL tree!

2008-12-07T18:37:00.001-07:00

It fits JUST right! (ha ha)....12 feet 6 inches tall!

We just got it last night & I think we'll decorate it for FHE tomorrow - I just wanted to share the 'before' picture. Andy thinks its oddly shaped, but I love it!

Thanksgiving Weekend!

2008-12-07T18:11:00.004-07:00

I know, its been over a week since my last post - my computer & mouse won't cooperate with me (ha ha)......I'm hoping that Santa will help me out this year. :D HINT HINT ;) ;).

This year was the first time EVER that I made the whole meal - my sisters, Ake & Lesley; my brother, Muimui & their friend Matt came up from Arizona to spend the weekend with us......so you'd think I'd have helpers (ha ha), but no, they were so tired from the drive, so they slept.

The turkey turned out pretty good!

My handsome helper mixing gravy.

Andy, Les, Matt, Ake & Kolby enjoying the meal!

Lana was a little shy for a while.

We went bowling on Saturday at BYU - here's Andy watching Kaleb & Muimui playing Air Hockey.

I had some time to decorate for Christmas.

Ake & Lesley were able to make some Amish 'Friendship Bread'.

We enjoyed it while we played a 'Washeroo' tournament. We had my sister-in-law Debbie & Lesley's friends Matt & Scott come to play with us........Matt & Scott were the champs!

Thanks for a great weekend guys - it was an awesome Thanksgiving!!

BREAKING NEWS!

2008-11-26T10:10:00.006-07:00

My baby brother Dalton went missing yesterday after school. :(

This is the photo they put on the news in Arizona.
Thankfully, I didn't hear about it until this morning when they found him at a friends home. He is doing well & definitely learned a lessson.
To see the reunion on Arizona's Fox 10 news, go to: www.myfoxphoenix.com/myfox/
"Missing 9-year old found at a friends house"
*If anyone knows how I can download the actual video, please let me know - I would like to post it.

Twilight VIP!

2008-11-21T10:41:00.003-07:00

What can I say? It was a great movie!
A big group of us ladies went together & it was a blast.......we ate dinner, got scanned, had to take our cameras back to our car & got these cute VIP passes. Unfortunately I didn't take any pictures, I wanted to wait until we were seated, but I couldn't even take it in......oh well - we looked great in our red-white-or black shirts.

I also had some of us wear these buttons that I bought - cute, huh?
Well, I am really excited to see it again with Andy tonight - he loves vampire movies, but I'm sure that this one will be really different for him (ha ha).

Bridal Shower/Mini Reunion!

2008-11-17T16:08:00.007-07:00

Kristi Sue Wilcken is getting married!! We both served in the 'Illinois Peoria Mission'.

Kristina (Sis. King) & I thought that it would be really cool to get as many 'sisters' as we could to have a bridal shower for Kristi.

We met at 'Macaroni Grill' in Murray.
From l to r: Kristi(Wilcken), Keli(Harlon?), ME, Lisa(Takara), Kirsten(Malan), Kristina(King), Danielle(Harry), Amber(McDonald), Tia(Arial), Kristi(Sorenson) & Cammy(Child).
We decided to have Kristi take her presents home, but I got her these:

Who doesn't love muffins??

It was soo fun to catch up.......

& to eat a delicious meal!

We thought that they only sang for birthdays, so we were surprised when they had a song for the 'bride-to-be'.

These are my girls - Kristi & Amber.......we ALWAYS loved being around each other during our mission. Amber & I served together in Decatur, IL & it was great! I love the friendships I made during my mission - they are definitely eternal friends!

Primary Program

2008-11-16T19:22:00.003-07:00

Last Sunday was our Ward Primary Presentation & our 2 handsome boys were a part of it.
The theme this year is "I am a Child of God"

Grandma & Grandpa Nielson came to see it, as well as Uncle Mitch & Aunt Anna. Kaleb tried to sing so loud, even if he didn't know the words, it was cute. When we 'signed' the song "I'm trying to be like Jesus", he cried.......he's emotional like his Mommy - I noticed it made other Moms cry too.

Kaleb's part for the program was: "I can thank Him for food"......he said it very well & DEEP (everyone asks if that's his natural voice......it is!)

Kolby's part was: "I love Jesus Christ" (he was supposed to 'sign' it, but we thought he'd fuss, so his teacher held him at the podium while she said it.....it was still cute - he has the greatest teachers!)
It was a beautiful presentation & it was nice to just sit & watch.....oh, and sing.
I love serving in the Primary!!

Move over Mr. Miyagi!

2008-11-13T13:17:00.004-07:00

While I was putting Lana down for a nap......YES - she is FINALLY taking a nap after all these months! (sorry, that has nothing to do with this story).......ANYWAY - I heard Kaleb banging on the wall downstairs & by the time I got down there, he was holding something between his thumb & finger & staring at it. I asked him what he was holding & he said "A FLY".

I hate any bugs or insects, so I looked at it & said "Ewww"......then Kaleb starts heading towards the trash (I thought), instead he went to the bathroom & said "flush it". I followed him & when he tried to drop it in the toilet - it flew to the ceiling. GROSS...its still alive?!! It flew into our little light cover, so of course I can't reach it, so I spray some air freshener above it so it goes into the cover (I don't know why I thought that would do anything to it - ha ha) & then the fly goes crazy. YUCK!! So, either I have killed it or its going to live in my light cover (ha ha). I just don't know why my kids love touching insects......I'll really panic if they start eating them (ha ha).

New 'do'!

2008-11-07T14:20:00.003-07:00

Is it 'Dora the Explorer'?......or 'Cleopatra'?

NO, its our very own Keilana

This was her very first haircut & she screamed the whole time & for 5 minutes after that while she's staring in the mirror.........
fun times, fun times!

It's white outside!!

2008-11-05T11:00:00.003-07:00

Can you tell these were taken from inside the house? (ha ha).......of course I'm not gonna go out there in the COLD!!
There's snow on my window screens & my POOR plants are going to freeze!!

I'm so glad that I have a wonderful husband who will go out in the cold & shovel a path for me, so I can get the boys on the bus.
Thanks honey!!
Lana just keeps looking out the window & yells "Christmas!".
Yeah, that's the only time it should snow (ha ha).

44th President!

2008-11-05T10:22:00.003-07:00

The new President of the United States of America!

President Barack Obama & Vice-President Joe Biden

10 words!!

2008-11-04T13:35:00.003-07:00

I can't believe it! Keilana just said a FULL sentence today, that actually made sense!

"Come on Marsh, let's go upstairs to the toy room" Lana

This is her cousin Marsh (aka Marshall) & he loves to play with the 'Little Einsteins Rocket' in the toyroom!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

2008-10-31T13:40:00.004-06:00

Who is this handsome space trooper guarding 'Miss Stephanie'?

It's Buzz Lightyear (aka Kolby)!!

Who will you call when the 'Decepticons' come around?

Optimus Prime (aka Kaleb)!

Who do you need to grant you a wish?

A 'fairy princess' (aka Keilana)!

We hope that everyone will have a fun & safe halloween!!

Pumpkin heads!!

2008-10-30T11:42:00.005-06:00

Yip - we finally carved pumpkins with our family last night.......okay, Andy did, I didn't. I just barely carved mine today. I love seeing creative pumpkins on everyone's doorsteps!

Halloween Surprise Treats!

2008-10-24T10:49:00.005-06:00

This week we got a visit from the 'Phantom Ghost' & the 'Trio' (Vampire, Witch & Frankenstein).

It's so fun to have someone ring your doorbell & then all you find at the door is a plate of treats! I'm just not very good at making treats & delivering them......I was so lazy, I asked my in-laws to stop by my house & get their share of treats (ha ha)........yes, my sisters' famous chocolate chip cookies. We received cookies & candy.......they were delicious!!

(This is not an actual picture, but they did look that good!)
I did get a workout.......last night (during a commercial break of The Office) - I delivered some cookies for the 'trio' by foot: you're supposed to post the picture on your door or window so others know not to go there.......anyway, I ran to a friends' house down the street & didn't see their picture until I got right to the doorstep......so I turned around & tried going to another home - oh, they have the picture......then I ran across the street to another family - their lights were off, so I couldn't tell........so then I ran to our neighbors house (at this point I'm worried that I'm missing the Office, so I was desperate)........it was dark so I don't THINK they had the picture up, so I just rang the doorbell & ran (too much for me, ha).
I heard them open the door, as I'm knocking on my own door trying to get in.

UEA weekend

2008-10-21T14:04:00.011-06:00

The fall break started off pretty bad........with BYU losing to:

But, on Friday we went to the:

at Thanksgiving Point & it was a blast!! We went last year & I think its becoming a family tradition now. A big thanks to my awesome family for coming with us!

We did the usual......pony rides, petting zoo, carriage ride, huge bouncers & slides, haunted house (which Kaleb loved) & checking out the booths. This year Kaleb tried the rocket launch & the kids enjoyed the dance performances.

Yesterday, the kids & I went to:

I had never been there before, but heard alot about it........it is awesome! I just wish that I had 'interior designing' skills - everything there is beautiful - they would look great in my home! I'm definitely going back!!

What a great ending to the long weekend......hope everyone had fun!

Lana's ready...........

2008-10-15T16:16:00.003-06:00

When Kaleb's school bus arrived this morning, Keilana was so excited and screamed "shoes" (meaning she needed to get hers on)........then eventually she grabbed her Princess purse full of her essentials (brush, mirror, shades, cell phone & necklace) - then she grabbed her backpack & I put it on her........then Kaleb's bus was gone! She wasn't sad, she just dumped everything out of her purse & then turned on the TV (ha ha).
Don't you just love her messy hair & pjs that are too small..........too funny!

What was I thinking?

2008-10-11T15:17:00.004-06:00

Mmmm, doesn't that look good?
We went to Red Robin last night with some old friends of ours who we haven't seen since we left Provo. Anyway, for some reason I thought that it would be nice to take Keilana with us........WRONG! All she wanted to do was walk around & when our friends arrived, she screamed & then cried louder & louder. Finally when the food came, she ate quietly, but she had to be between Andy & I to eat.

We tried to keep her happy with taking pictures.

This entertained her for a while.........thanks pumpkin!
Anyway, lesson learned.......

2 tags?!.........I feel special!

2008-10-08T09:43:00.004-06:00

MY FIRST TAG is from our biggest blog fan - Katy

"FILL IN THE BLANKS"

I am watching the Disney channel
I know that I am awesome (ha ha)
I want a haircut
I have a wonderful husband
I wish I had my own car
I hate cold weather
I miss New Zealand
I fear the outcome of the presidential election
I feel happy, oh so happy
I hear Jason Mraz
I smell a messy diaper......I'll be back!
I crave a shake from the 'Purple Turtle'
I search for the boys shoes every morning, since Kolby hides them
I wonder if I'll ever lose weight
I regret buying halloween candy early & just eating it (that answers the last one)
I love my friends & family
I care about my calling (CTR 5 teacher)
I always go online
I am going to Kaleb's parent-teacher conference tonight
I believe that BYU will not lose a football game this season
I dance with Lana when its just the two of us at home
I sing theme songs with the kids
I fight for the remote
I write in my planner (gotta stay organized)
I lose games to Andy (often)
I win whenever I whine
I never get sick of 'The Office'
I listen to my ipod when I do my workout
I am scared of Lana when she gets mad (scratching, pinching, hitting, maybe biting)
I need to clean my bedroom
I hope to go to Disneyland this year

MY SECOND TAG is from my cousin, Britt

"PICTURE TAG"

This is a different (& fun) tag........
This is the 6th picture in my 6th folder of 'My Pictures'
(Summer '05)
Taken at Seven Peaks......Kaleb & his cousin, Ela May

When I tagged others before, no one did it (ha ha)......so any of you can do these -
HAVE FUN!

Procrastinating.........

2008-10-06T11:56:00.001-06:00

"Hmmmm, what do I want to be for halloween?"

Kaleb wants to be something intimidating....

Lana just wants to be something 'pretty'......

Kolby doesn't care, he'll be happy either way.
(Sorry its blurry, the boys wouldn't keep still - ha ha)

This is what they were last year..............
I guess you'll have to wait in a few weeks to find out what they chose.

Conference Weekend

2008-10-06T11:23:00.003-06:00

I hope everyone had a great conference weekend.........we got to watch all 4 sessions as a family & I was surprised that the kids stayed around to listen. I think they loved how church was on TV.
We enjoyed all the talks - I especially loved Joseph B. Wirthlin's.

It was wonderful to see my kids listening carefully whenever Pres. Monson spoke. Lana would point to him & say 'prophet'.....it was cute. I hope that my kids will always follow his counsel. Can't wait for the November Ensign!

Date Night.............Football!

2008-10-03T14:03:00.004-06:00

Only during Conference weekend will our Utah football teams play during the week - University of Utah played last night & just barely beat the Oregon State Beavers. My friend Stacey said that she hopes they stay undefeated as well as BYU, so it'll be the BEST final game in November when BYU slaughters Utah........I like that idea too.
VS

Tonight @ 6pm
GOOOO COUGARS!!!

A good read?

2008-10-02T15:36:00.003-06:00

I had a few minutes to read today while the kids played, but I keep getting confused or bored. My sister-in-law Debbie said its a good book, but I just keep thinking about 'Twilight' for some reason. Some ladies in my ward said it wasn't all that good. If any of you have read it, please let me know what you think.

Tonight on NBC.......not my shows :(

2008-10-02T14:09:00.005-06:00

Well, I was so excited to watch "The Office" & "ER" tonight, until I talked to my friend Nicole & she said that its not on until NEXT week.....what?.....are you kidding me? Then I remembered about the debate tonight.

Joe Biden & Sarah Palin
I haven't been keeping up with politics lately, so I'm not sure if I'll watch it tonight, but for those who will - ENJOY & keep your opinions to yourself (ha ha).......okay, you can let me know how it went.

Gotta see it!!

2008-09-29T09:46:00.003-06:00

On Friday night, Andy & I went to see the rugby movie 'Forever Strong' - it was awesome!

For those who don't know, it is based on true events about the Highland High School Rugby team here in Utah & how they helped a bad kid from Arizona. I loved the cast & the rugby scenes were great!