KEEPING UP WITH THE JENSENS!

Happy 1st Birthday little man!

2012-01-23T14:44:00.007-07:00

I am in love with this guy.

Austin, I love your dimple on your left cheek, I love how you growl to get what you want. You love cars, balls, the johnny jump up, but out of all of the toys my makeup box is your favorite. You started crawling around on new years day and love to follow me around everywhere.

But the thing about you that I love the most is how much you have made me realize to be more loving, more compassionate, I enjoy life everyday. Your birthday will always be a little bittersweet. It was honestly one of the scariest days of my life but I'm so glad we got through the tough times! You will always be my miracle baby no matter how old you get.

Happy Birthday! Although I don't think he really was into cake and presents, but the rest of us had fun! He was featured on Good Things Utah, and we went to Leatherbys.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-28T09:37:00.016-07:00

We had an amazing Christmas. It was actually more like a one month celebration!

I went with my sister to see David Archuleta at Abravanal Hall. It was an awesome concert and neat to hear him announce that he is going on a mission.

We went to Winder dairy and got scones, drove down the Christmas street, and went to Hardware Ranch to see the elk.

We had a family party at the peak and enjoyed playing in the gym.

Austin loved his first Christmas!

We visited Temple Square, The Conference center, The Church museum.

We enjoyed grandpa's famous reindeer pancakes and hot chocolate.

Kaden went ice fishing with his uncles and cousins.

Famous white elephant party.

Dressing up for the nativity scene.

But my favorite part was spending time with my ENTIRE family! I have the best family in the world and it has been years since we all have been together.

I felt like a kid again and it was MY KIND OF CHRISTMAS!!!

The big game

2011-12-09T15:30:00.006-07:00

They did it! 2011 Midget Undefeated Eastern Continental Division Champions

Kaden was so excited to have so much support, even his young men leader showed up. He thought that was really cool. Many Aunts, uncles, cousins, parents, and grandparents were cheering him on. It was freeeeezing.

Off to a slow start, Brighton is a tough team.

Kaden has the best football coaches, team mom, and teammates. We love our football family

Congrats Kaden and we can't wait until next season.

A lot of firsts

2011-12-09T14:46:00.009-07:00

Azzie decided to give herself her first haircut!

And Austin is starting to hold onto furniture, almost crawling, and yes his first word is Dog!

Me and Trevor also enjoyed going to dinner at the Lion House for his company party and walking around Temple square.

Black Friday

2011-11-25T15:55:00.001-07:00

I had to fight off a few people for what I wanted but I got it!!!!!!

Welcome Home Tyson!

2011-11-09T14:36:00.010-07:00

After two long years, we welcomed my brother Tyson home from the Santo Domingo East Mission in the Dominican Republic.

Waiting, Waiting, the kids were so excited to see Uncle Ty!

Some of us got tired of waiting. We also got to hang out with Aunt Whitney. My sister from Ohio.

Finally! Mom and son

Welcome Home!

Kaden said he almost cried.

I am greatful for my family.

Austin meeting uncle tyson for the first time.

I am so thankful for an awesome, full of humor, little brother. He is a great example to me, and especially to my boys. We love you and are so glad your safe and home!

Family Fall Fun

2011-10-19T12:08:00.010-06:00

Another year having a blast with my family at Black Island Farms. Love it!

We spent hours on the slides!

Rode the train with cousin Tanna

Austin even had a great time in the corn box

Corn mazes, haunted house, and an amazing sunset hay ride to the pumpkin patch!

We love fall, and Black Island Farms. Happy Halloween!

A princess and her dragon

2011-10-14T12:06:00.003-06:00

Once upon a time, there was a princess and a dragon.....

Happy Halloween!

Football

2011-10-05T12:23:00.006-06:00

It is football season in the Jensen home! Go Broncos and Cougars (Kearns & BYU)

There is nothing better than having your kid love something and to see them excel. Kaden is such an intense football player. He loves it! His team is 5-0!

Go Kearns Midgets 2011!

Just one of a few interceptions!

Nashville Tribute Band Concert

2011-08-05T10:11:00.000-06:00

Last night we had a great time at the Nashville Tribute Band concert. They have a new CD out that celebrates missionaries. It made us all miss my brother Ty who comes home in a few months. It rained for a little while, but we still had a great time.

Some of you may ask, Who is the NTB? Well they are a collection of country music singers from Due West, Diamond Rio, and solo artists who come together and they have 3 CD's. One about Joseph Smith, one about the pioneers, and one about missionaries. They are available at Desert Book.

Also can't hurt to throw in a little David Osmond, who is also on the CD

Who would have thought there would be mormon country music?

Emma Smith - Never Had an Ordinary Day

2011-08-05T10:07:00.000-06:00

Rafting on the Snake and Bear World

2011-08-03T13:25:00.010-06:00

We had a blast rafting on the snake with some of my family and really good friends.

As we were putting in, the BYU team was there rafting too. They were super nice and were kind enough to let us take pictures. Kaden was sooooo excited to meet them.

This year we luckily stayed in the boat and didn't get our boat wrapped around any rocks! We had a great, safe, and fun trip! Thanks dad for taking us and we had a great time!

Saturday it started to rain so instead of camping in the rain we opted for the comfort inn with an indoor pool/hot tub, and hot waffles in the morning (now thats what I call roughing it!) Before going home we stopped at Bear World and saw a ton of bears, wolves, deer, elk, and bison.

Feeding deer

Austin & Azzie had a great time too!

Happy Birthday Carli

2011-07-06T13:10:00.005-06:00

My sweet little Carli turned 10!

She was one spoiled girl this year. She got a new bedroom makeover, Justin Bieber dolls (her favorite) cute clothes, a CD player, cowgirl boots, a feather in her hair, and some money.

She also got to have her first friend birthday party. We went swimming at the Oquirrh pool. She loved spending time with her friends.

Her favorite things are to play with friends, sing and dance, spend time with her family, and is learning how to play the violin, and is starting Salt Lake County 4H horse club this year. She is really good at riding her horse and hope to see her in a few events next year.

Happy Birthday Carli!

Our 4th of July

2011-07-06T12:31:00.005-06:00

We started our day early with an awesome parade in Tooele. My favorites are getting all the candy, seeing cousin Jonah in the marching band, and the bit-n-spur riding club.

Then we bbq'd with friends and family, and dusted off our boots and headed to the rodeo.

My favorite thing about the rodeo is the barrel racers, Wow they are fast!

We also enjoyed some good fireworks!

Happy Independence day especially to all the troops that serve in order for us to enjoy this great country!

I am 3!

2011-06-26T17:43:00.007-06:00

Happy Birthday Azlyn!

I got a big girl bike for my birthday! And some cut cowgirl clothes, and ponies.

My favorite things to do are play with my friends, go to the park, hang out with my brothers and sister, and go with daddy to ride my horse.

I love chocolate milk, cereal, and macaroni and cheese.

Thanks to everyone who came to my party, it was so much fun and I love being 3!

T-ville Dayzzz

2011-06-26T17:24:00.006-06:00

13th year in a row. I am a Tville Dayz addict. I love them so much. Rides, snow cones, seeing old friends, having a blast with my family, one of the funnest and biggest events of the year!

We got our spot and grandma is an Austin hog!

The kids enjoyed dancing to Abba!

Riding the carnival rides

Video for all my friends and my two dearest older kids that didn't get to come. We missed you but I thought I would send you some homegrown Tville love!

4 Months

2011-06-10T17:15:00.004-06:00

Happy 4 months. Austin is in the percentile range! Weighing in at a whopping 12lbs 3 oz he is in the second % for weight. That is good news since at two months he wasn't even in the range. He is 24 inches long (12%) . He likes to smile, sit in his bumbo, and is blabbing. He is so much fun and is sleeping all night. We love you little bud!

Park City

2011-06-05T19:32:00.007-06:00

For Trevor's work party this year we got to go up to Park City Mountain Resort. With access to unlimited rock climbing, alpine slide, miniature golf, trampolines, rides, zip lining, lunch, and of course our favorite the alpine coaster your bound to have a great time! Thanks Chris and Emily.

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T16:35:00.005-06:00

Since the weather is freezing cold, we were able to go on a few drives and make it to a couple of our grandma/grandpa's graves. Great Grandpa Don in Bountiful

Gib and Shirley in Goshen

and D Ross & DeEsta Young in Brigham City.

We miss you all and it was nice to pay our respects and have Austin visit them. Also a shout out to all those who serve our country. Especially my tres bro's Jaren, Tyson, and Sean.

Happy Memorial Day!

NICU Kits Delivered!

2011-05-18T10:30:00.009-06:00

I want to thank everyone who helped donate or put together the Parent Survival kits. We were able to help over 60 families. It was a great night and I was so excited to deliver them. Going back to the NICU brought so many emotions back. Some good, and some not so good. But when all is said and done, if thats what it takes to get your baby here it's worth it.

One of my neighbor/friends son is in the NICU now and my prayers go out to them. Come home soon Tayton, we can't wait to meet you. His mom was one of the recipients of our NICU kits.

Just to know that you have support and help meant a lot and it was good to be able to help others. I have great friends and family, especially all of my fellow NICU/RSV moms, I love you!

Packages include: "Give yourself a "kiss" now and then
Find "joy" in the little things!
Try to "roll"with the ups and downs of nicu
Try not to go "nuts" while in the nicu
Time away from the NICU can be a "lifesaver"
Take "extra" time for yourself
Take a "break"from the stress of the NICU it will do wonders for you
"TWIX" you and me, your baby is adorable
"Take 5" minutes each day to glory in the beauty of your baby

Hand sanitizer, baby hats, and washcloth with a neat NICU poem.

March for Babies

2011-05-14T18:47:00.002-06:00

Today we marched for healthy babies. I marched for Austin, Tayton, Bailey, and Gracie.

When you walk in March for Babies, you give hope to the more than half a million babies born too soon each year. The money you raise supports programs in your community that help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies. And it funds research to find answers to the problems that threaten our babies and NICU programs.

4 happy years and many more to come

2011-05-13T21:56:00.005-06:00

Happy Anniversary! It's been 4 great years since I married the love of my life. It brings back some great memories. I loved my wedding. I remember most celebrating with all of our family and friends, the start of a great relationship.

We spent a night at the Alaskan Inn. We had our own little cabin complete with sparkling cider, surround sound music, 2 person jacuzzi, and NO KIDS ARE ALLOWED!!!! Thanks Kali, I Love U

We ate a great dinner at Timbermine, and took a pretty drive up Ogden canyon.

Cheers, and cant wait for many anniversaries to come!

One Royal Wedding

2011-05-02T09:19:00.011-06:00

Azzie wanted to dress up for the occasion!

I love my DVR. I recorded the event but still got up at 5AM to watch the biggest wedding EVER! My favorite parts were watching Prince William arrive with his brother,

the hats, (some good and some not so good)

of course the dress

two kisses,

being one of the 3 billion people to watch the 34 million dollar wedding,

the royal family,

how happy they looked,

the car ride,

And having two princesses of my own. I loved watching every moment!

Easter

2011-05-02T09:11:00.006-06:00

We had a great Easter. Easter egg hunts, coloring easter eggs, eating lots of chocolate, and enjoyed a great day at church. Just wish the weather was warmer!

Fun Weekend Trip to Moab

2011-04-17T20:08:00.021-06:00

What an amazing weekend! First it was so nice to get away and be outside in shorts. The weather was perfect. The first day we drove to Goblin Valley and walked around all of the goblin rocks.

Next we hiked a slot canyon called Little Wildhorse Canyon. Then we drove to moab and checked into our hotel and went swimming at the pool. The kids couldn't get enough of the waterslide. Well, actually I loved it too and even got in trouble from the front desk for not going feet first.

The Second Day we hiked up Negro Canyon to a natural bridge. It was long 5 mile hike but it was so gorgeous. Green trees, red sand, and red rock canyons with a stream running through it. Then we went back to the hotel for another fun swim!

During sunset we drove to Dead Horse State Park and the Canyonlands National Park. What a

view. We have our own Grand Canyon.

Third Day was Arches National Park. Delicate Arch is a 3 mile hike. It is uphill the entire way! We made it though and WOW it was worth it! Now back home and back to work, but we all needed a little fun vacation and warm weather.

Austin's Baby Blessing

2011-04-10T19:53:00.009-06:00

Austin was blessed by his dad today. It was such a special day and we had a great time with family and friends. Even a little basement flooding couldn't ruin a good day! Austin spent the day spoiled by mom, aunts, and grandmas. We love you and are so glad you are getting big, strong, and healthier every day.

Bounce House Fun

2011-03-28T09:24:00.007-06:00

Meeting David Osmond!

2011-03-22T07:53:00.003-06:00

I had the opportunity to go to the David Osmond concert with my mom. He was awesome! It was at a small theater in Orem. It was a small venue and we got awesome seats. I actually took these pictures myself and promise I didn't steal them off google. He has such a great voice and I love his music.

After finding out I would be going into labor early at 35 weeks, I went home and thought if my kid was in the NICU I wanted to have good music to listen too so it would keep me occupied. I also prayed for the strength to get through this challenge. I went to deseretbook.com and listened to a sample of his music. I miraculously stumbled upon the song The Loneliest Walk. It's about a mom having to leave her son in the NICU and how long and hard the walk is from her baby to her car. It then relates how Christ ultimately had a long walk and sacrificed everything for us. We are never alone in our trials. He is always there with us.

After the show I got to get his autograph and tell him thanks. The song came from a buddy that co-writes some of his music and his boy was in the NICU. It was such an awesome night that I will never forget.

Enjoy, but much better live!

David Osmond's CD

2011-03-20T02:24:00.002-06:00

Riverton Hospital - Protecting Your Kids from RSV - Dr. Nicole Langston ...

2011-03-16T22:17:00.002-06:00

This is a clip from Fox 13. Dr Langston is the best.

Home again! This time for good

2011-03-15T12:52:00.004-06:00

Lets try this one more time. This time we left Riverton Children's unit. Thank you to the Pediatricians, Nurses, Techs, Respiratory Therapists, Dietitians, Social Workers, and all the volunteers for taking such good care of us. Also my dear friend Kim. Sorry you were there but your a great neighbor whether at home or at the hospital.

After 1 night at primary childrens hospital and 9 nights at Riverton, I'm ready. No more poking and proding.

And last but not least. Thanks so much to Dr Langston what can I say, she is the best!

Things are starting to look up

2011-03-13T21:41:00.009-06:00

Had a rough morning. A not-so-nice nurse and major issues with the ex were on my mind. I got to bed at 3:30 in the morning. I either was going to check my self into the loony bin or go to church. I chose the later. So glad I did. In sacrament they talked about happiness in your circumstances. I really needed it, also in RS it was about service.

President Hinckley said, "It seems to me that [the Savior] is saying to each of us that unless we lose ourselves in the service of others our lives are largely lived to no real purpose...He who lives and dies, while he who forgets himself in the service of others grows and blossoms in this life and in eternity

Austin is getting better. They finally mentioned the word "going home" hopefully on Monday or Tuesday. Also wanted to share some pictures from Saturday. I got a little break from the hospital to take Azzie to the barns to ride her horse.

Still Here

2011-03-12T05:52:00.006-07:00

I was great about blogging in the NICU. It's been harder this time because I only like to remember the positive things in my life. Everyone has enough going on and who wants to hear the drama. RSV is not something fun to write about. IT SUCKS. The terms collapsed lung, spinal tap, meningitis, phnemonia, asthma, have all been used to explain things. What started out as "Oh, you be here for 8 hours" then turned to a night and now I have been here for over a week. I tell everyone that I have taken residence in Riverton and I have a studio suite. Austin is doing better but this isn't a get better fast sickness. Cold virus take along time to recover from and it really effects preemies. I have had so much help AGAIN!!! from my friends and family. My dearest husband who funny enough is a great stay at home mom. He did loads of laundry, watched Azlyn, went to the grocery store, and even took azzie on a little shopping spree. Also my moms for helping watch Austin so I can get a break, my sister for keeping me sane and my dear friends who came by the hospital for a visit. It means a lot.

Once again, thanks everyone for your concern and I appreciate all the sweet facebook and blog comments. I love you all and we hope to be home soon!

RSV Battle

2011-03-09T17:00:00.007-07:00

Oh how life can change in an instant! We were doing awesome just getting back to normal life and then bam! Back at the hospital all over again. Azzie was sick a week or two ago but just had a runny nose and mild cough no biggy, Friday Austin got a mild cough so I though just to be safe and took him to instacare. They tested him for RSV and it came back positive. Because of his NICU history and he is a preemie, we were told to go to Primary Children's hospital Er. I got there at midnight and they took us to an ER room. The ER bed is a little large for him!

He looked good but then they admitted us to a hospital room for observation. He had a cough but everything looked good and the next day around noon they sent us home. It was a long night with two kids per hospital room, one lousy cot, beeping monitors, and being nervous. I got NO sleep.

Around noon we went home. Later that night he sounded congested and looked like he was working hard to breathe so we went to Riverton hospital ER and they have a bronchial clinic. They suctioned him and said still looked fine and sent us home. I had now been up for 31 hours. I got home very late and went to sleep for the night. Austin slept well. That morning he was looking a little blue and sounded horribly congested so I hurried back to Riverton Er. His oxygen stats were very low so they admitted us up to a room. First we were supposed to be here for a few hours, then a night, then a few nights and now 5 days later we are still struggling to get home. He is working hard to breathe and eat all at the same time. Hoping he gets better soon. Love you buddy and you are a fighter!

I got a great view. Very pretty sunrises.

Azlyn loves to visit her brother. They have an awesome playroom, free chocolate milk, Disney princess movies, and an Xbox 360 in every room.

I love getting a deal!

2011-02-25T17:51:00.003-07:00

Today we went to the all kids sale. Its a consignment sale where you can sell and buy clothes. Since I have 4 kids and none can get hand me downs from each other, I am all about getting hand me downs from friends and exchanging. Azzie got a minnie mouse and a potty book.

All of these clothes $23.50

And some for Austin for $14.00

For more info http://www.utahallkidssale.com

I also got discounts to Hollywood connection All day wrist band for 4.50

Jump N Bounce house 3.50

My sister and neighbors got me into this stuff. It's addicting!

Items needed for NICU kits by April 1st

2011-02-23T15:47:00.006-07:00

1) Four 12oz bags of hershey kisses "Give yourself a kiss now and then"
2 )Almond Joys donated!
3 )Four 12 oz bags of Tootsie Rolls Try to "roll"with the ups and downs of nicu
4 )48 oz of peanuts to put in bags Try not to go "nuts" while in the nicu
5) 60 rolls of Life Savers Time away from the NICU can be a "lifesaver"
6) 60 Extra Gum Take "extra" time for yourself
7 )Sixty Fast Break bars Take a "break"from the stress of the NICU it will do wonders for you
8) Sixty Twix Bars "TWIX" you and me, your baby is adorable
9) Sixty Take 5 bars "Take 5" minutes each day to glory in the beauty of your baby
10) 45 bottles of hand sanitizer
or cash donations and I will go get them

Also if anyone has any blankets new or used in good condition I am helping a friend donate them to Primary Childrens hospital.

Thanks for all of your help and support

More Pictures

2011-02-18T13:28:00.005-07:00

First Photo Shoot

2011-02-17T19:52:00.006-07:00

So I have an old friend I used to work with and now she does photography http://timelesscreationsbyasrussell.blogspot.com/

She did such a great job and I'm so excited to see the rest of the pictures.

Austin did a great job too and only peed on us once!

Happy Heart Day

2011-02-15T10:14:00.012-07:00

My littlest valentine managed to sleep, eat and poop all day.

The rest of us enjoyed the day getting valentine day cards from friends and neighbors. The kids ate a ton of candy at school.

Azzie managed to get a few valentines. She was so excited.

We had a nice dinner including home made Lasagna and chocolate caramel fondue with strawberries, YUM!!!

This year I could care less about the flowers, chocolates, or going out on a date. Although they are nice just being home with ALL of my kids who are healthy and happy with my hubby is all a girl could ask for!

Happy Valentines Day!

Joust!

2011-02-11T07:20:00.012-07:00

We enjoyed Jim Bridger Elementary school play Joust

Kaden played the part of a french soldier and had a few lines. He also got to dance and play the flute.

Carli was in the chorus but we think she had the prettiest dress in the entire play. I love online shopping.

You guys did an awesome job and I am one proud mom. It just made me scared to think Kaden will be in jr high next year!

Getting Back to Normal

2011-02-10T08:29:00.005-07:00

Wow, 4 kids is a handful. The last few weeks have been chaotic to say the least. Kaden and Carli are in the school play. They have had to practice a lot and they are so excited for their performance tonight. Also between running to the grocery store, pediatrician appointments, scouts, activity days, loads of laundry, and a terrible two year old, its one great busy life!

While the biggest kids are away, me and Azzie get to play. Lots of diaper changes, feedings, and hopefully we get a nap in.

Austin wakes up two to three times per night. Newborns are tiring but so darn small and cute!

Super Bowl XLV

2011-02-06T14:20:00.000-07:00

Family of 6 enjoying the super bowl!

GreenBay Packers vs Pittsburgh Steelers. Since our team is out I guess we are cheering for the cheese heads. Austin sure is enjoying his first football game.

Welcome Home

2011-02-05T12:45:00.001-07:00

Finally! After 13 days of a crazy mix of emotions we are all home and a family of 6. Words cannot describe my happiness.

The kids were super excited to see and hold him. Azzie has not stopped saying "That's MY baby Austin!"

Day 12-Just Chillin

2011-02-05T07:18:00.001-07:00

Today rocked! He was pretty much just a normal healthy newborn. No tubes or wires and I just got to hold, feed, burb, and change his diapers. This morning I took off his diaper and he went #2 and it flew about 3 feet across the room and got everywhere!

I also got to spend the night in a hospital room and do an in home stay. It's like a hotel room and it was just me and him. The nurse comes in every 3 hours to check up on you. All in all about 6 hours of sleep but its better than going home. I find out today when he is coming home. It might be in a few hours or tomorrow. Azlyn also came home today. We were both so excited to see each other and she gave me a great big hug and kiss when I got home.

Pay it Forward

2011-02-04T07:19:00.001-07:00

Austin did great yesterday! He ate all of his feedings from 6Am until now. He isn't gaining as much weight as he should but we are really close to going home. As he approaches coming home I ask one thing. I am not accepting gifts.

The Savior said, "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it, but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it" (Luke 9:24) Commenting on this scripture, President Hinckley said, "It seems to me that the Savior is saying to each of us that unless we lose ourselves in the service of others our lives are largely lived to no real purpose. He who lives and dies, while he who forgets himself in the service of others grows and blossoms in this life and in eternity. Look above your trials. Try to forget your own pain as you work to alleviate the pain of others. Mingle together with your brothers and sisters in the gospel. We need to talk with and to share our feelings and faith. Cultivate friends. Begin by being a good friend to others. Share your burdens with the Lord. (from the book Stand A Little Taller)

Recently, in my neighborhood we have had 1 baby have heart surgery, and two babies get lifeflighted and go to the NICU. I have been working with the parent volunteer group at the hospital and offered to make 60 NICU parent survival kits. These kits have hand sanitizer, inspirational messages, baby hats, and treats. If anyone can donate even 1 dollar to help me purchase the things I need to make them, that would be my wish. Thanks so much for all your support and in April or so I will be hosting a "Make NICU kit night"

Day 11- I am figuring out this whole eating thing!

2011-02-03T19:47:00.001-07:00

Today was better. I still had to be under the jaundice lights but I had 4 full feedings in a row. The hospital requires him to drink 1.5 oz of milk every 3 hours for 48 hours in order to go home. He eats well during the day but around 3AM he gets to tired to eat and has to get a tube feeding session wich restarts our 48 hour time slot all over again. Today the fire alarms got set off at the hospital and we were on lock down and got prepared to evacuate. Thank goodness it was just a broken pipe and everything was fine but the nurses got a little freaked out for a while.

I am so grateful for my friends and family. We have received many dinners, kind gifts, and most of all my mom, dad, and sisters family for watching Azlyn this week. I am heartbroken to leave her and miss her to death and it kills me to have to decide which kid to spend the day with. You have to be 14 years old to visit the NICU. I get her back tomorrow, I can't wait to hug her to pieces.

Day 10-Back on Phototherapy

2011-02-03T19:15:00.001-07:00

Not such a great day. He had to be under the lights for jaundice most of the day which means I only get to hold him when he eats. He didn't eat very good today. A few half feedings and a few tube feedings. I was at the hospital from 12pm to 9:30pm. With the exception of afternoon I go home to spend time with Kaden and Carli to get homework done and eat dinner as a family. They are excited to be in the school play next week and have cute costumes. I also go my taxes done and visited with Grandma Glover and Grandma Roundy.

Day 9- Learning to Eat

2011-02-02T05:35:00.001-07:00

Yesterday went great! He did better that I expected and had 3 full feedings meaning he ate without the tube. He is off all oxygen treatments and can wear clothes!

He is in a regular hospital crib. No crib warmer, he body temperature is normal.

I was there from about 10 am to 10:30pm with a few breaks for lunch and dinner. It was the best day so far since he was born. I get to take his temp, change diapers, and just snuggle and hold him all day long!

He now weighs 5 pounds 5 ounces. He got down to 5lbs and 1 ounce but now is growing and getting bigger. I love you Austin (surfer dude).

Day 8- My first Bath!

2011-02-01T08:07:00.002-07:00

I finally got my first bath! After the longest 48 hours of my life we got to go see him. After his bath we held him for about 3 hours! Well I got 2 hours and 55 minutes and Trevor got 5. Sorry Trev. He did really good at his first attempt at trying to eat. Not a pro but I was impressed. I hope today he does better. After he is fully eating by bottle or breast then 48 hours later we can go home. Sometimes it can take a few days or a few weeks. Patience is a virtue.

Look mom, all the cords and plugs are gone! (except the orange one in his noes is his feeding tube and will be there until he is a full time eater) in the nicu they call them feeder growers. We went from critical with Respiratory Distress Syndrome kid, to a feeder grower in a week. I really do believe in the power of the priesthood and the power of prayer.

Here's Trevs 5 minutes of fame for the day.

Austin has one totally awesome head of hair. Just about every nurse has said WOW! Not only is it a lot but it looks highlighted. It is totally awesome and we call him surfer dude! Thanks for all of your support and keep up the prayers that he will continue to eat and grow. Thanks, Christa

1 Week old! I missed seeing you today little man

2011-01-30T18:35:00.001-07:00

Enjoyed church today

Helaman 5:12

Remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his might winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they CANNOT fall.

I miss him. The nurse called and he opened his eyes and cried for the first time.

I found another great inspirational blog http://patrickandashley.blogspot.com/ a sad story but a very inspirational woman who is overcoming adversity.

Day 6 A little setback

2011-01-30T09:37:00.001-07:00

People told us get ready for the highs and lows. I thought they meant with Austin not me. Saturday I had a few errands to run and I stopped by to see him in the morning. Later that afternoon Azlyn was running a fever. I took her into the instacare and she has strep throat. She got on antibiotics. The nicu says that we need to stay home for 48 hours before we can go visit him again. I miss him to pieces.

The pros: I get to spend time with azlyn, go to church, watch the pro bowl. We rented a movie last night and it was really the first time I got to relax. Azzie is feeling great now that she has been on medicine for a day.

Austin update

He is doing great! I call every few hours to check on him. Today is his last day on antiobiotics, he is tolerating his tube fed breastmilk, his jaundice is normal and should be off the lights, he is almost on room air. Our next hurdle is learning how to eat which we will start doing monday either bottle or breast. I'm playing it by ear. I just want him to come home. I hope he starts to wake up and be more active and has the desire to eat. Crossing my fingers and praying that all goes well the next few days.

Day 5- We got to hold him

2011-01-29T08:19:00.002-07:00

One proud papa! We finally got to hold him! We also took advantage of the perks of the nicu. My dearest mom took me to maurices to get me some new clothes! I was so excited to try on cute jeans after 5 months of maternity clothes. Then we got to go out on the town to Rodizios for dinner! Not too many people get to go shopping and on a date 5 days after having a baby. Of course I would trade it all to be home.

Austin update

He is barely on any oxygen, he is on whats called a high flow nasal canula but only on a level 2. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes to room air. His lungs are doing better and aren't really the hard part right now. He is just sick and they don't know why. My personal opinion was that when I was pregnant either the ICP or some infection in utero happened because he didn't move or kick much the last few days before he was born and I didn't feel good. My body said it was time to get him out and I'm not one to have pre-term labor. He is sleepy, when he gets poked and prodded by the nurses most babies cry, he doesn't seem to mind. He moves and wimpers, so they are looking for him to be more active. He is so sleepy he cant breastfeed, he has to be tube fed. Hopefully the next few days he will get better and well rested for the big task at hand-Breastfeeding. He also is a little jaundice and has to be under the lights. Also needs to hold his body temperature and then we can go home!

Day 4- A fresh breathe of air

2011-01-28T07:39:00.001-07:00

I learned how to breathe! The nurse called at 9am and said he was off the ventilator! I was shocked because last I had heard they were going to think about it today. But our little trooper did so well overnight the had too! I drove as fast as I could and was amazed. The best way to explain it was the last few days I was just praying he would be ok. Today I met and fell in love with my son. I see his personality, he moves, he breathes, he makes baby noises. He is normal. It's as if I went to heaven and was handed my son.

He still has a few little issues. His IV tube is down his umbilical cord which they are getting rid of today. He has a feeding tube and is responding well to breastmilk. Soon today or tomorrow we will be able to hold and feed him. Me and Trevor had a great date night. We went down and took infant CPR class, had dinner at the hospital cafeteria and tucked Austin in for the night. I have the best husband in the world, I love you babe! Also thanks for all of the hundreds of people bringing dinners, babysitting Azzie, and running my two older kids around. This is one busy schedule!

Got Milk!

2011-01-26T22:09:00.002-07:00

Today was an ok day, not much changes but we both got milk! He got a teaspoon full through a feeding tube. Mama also got milk, ouch! I went to NICU scrapbooking night and met alot of other parents with kids currently in the nicu. Some have cleft palats, some are just needing a little extra help with breathing. It was very nice to have someone to relate too.

My dad got to hold me! Trevor stayed late and they needed to change the sheet underneath me so Trevor got to hold him while they changed the bedding! He was so excited, as for me ya I was jealous. His ventilator numbers went down and we are hoping tomorrow is even better. Good night little man!

Day 2 Jan 25th Family Picture Day!

2011-01-26T06:51:00.001-07:00

Today he got off his blood pressure medicine! First major accomplishment. Mom and Dad are getting the NICU routine down. Every day it gets a little easier. Sometimes it feels like going to medical school when you visit. You try to find out when he gets to come home but they can never give you a date. They say he should be in there for a while and realistically he should be home between Feb 9-21st. If he comes home any earlier its a miracle and blessing.

I got my first picture with my mom & dad today. Although the other kids are not able to visit, they are there in spirit and there are pictures of them at his bedside. I am still listed as critical but they were able to get my hand & footprints done today for a scrapbook. Carli got a big sister shirt!

Everyone asks how I am doing. I will have to say great under the circumstances. It is the hardest thing I have ever had to go through. But there are friends and family members that I know of that have harder things to deal with right now and they inspire me every day. The pros are I get a lot of sleep! I get to spend a lot of time with my 3 other kids. Its hard to walk in and out of the hospital and see healthy babies go home, but they look so tired. When I get out of there it will be one of the best days of my life. I have felt so much love and support from my husband, children, friends and family, but most of all my savior Jesus Christ has held my hand every step of the way. I also have a song by David Osmond called the Lonliest Walk off his new CD. Here are the lyrics. and its a miracle and a crazy story on how I found this song.

you can hear it at davidosmond.com, click on music

She pushes L on that old elevator door

Her heart is broken, arms are bare

The doors are closing and she's staring at the floor

There's still a piece of her up there

It seems like yesterday she saw him on the screen

Painted a room and picked out names

But now she has to leave him under big machines

To keep alive his tiny frame

She's on the way to her car, but its never felt this far

With each step she takes there's another to follow

And one more ache, one more tear to swallow

She's gotta keep moving

Forget about the bruising inside

Through the loneliest walk of her life

He pushes up the board they've tied onto his shoulders

He bears, with dignity, disgrace

He hears the jeering and the wind is getting colder

Tastes the blood upon his face

His body bruised and back still open from the scourges

The consequence of wicked men

He knows no man on earth has ever deserved this

But still he bears it all for them

And He keeps moving up the hill to do his fathers will

Withe each step he takes theres another to follow

and one more ache, one more tear to swallow

we all stand by and watch as the price is paid

Through the loneliest walks of his life

so we don't feel alone in the night

we can have his hand holding the light

through the lowliest walks of our lives

Keep pushing through this lonely walk youre going through

Cause someones walked this way before

NICU Day 1 Jan 24th

2011-01-26T06:43:00.001-07:00

We called today Grandma Day! Both his grandmas got to see him and also Aunt Kali. They too have been up for days and helping me and my family as much as possible. Today Austin started to show a few signs of breathing on his own for a few hours. I pooped and Aunt Kali got to change my diaper!

There are not enough Thank You's in the world that go out to my friends and family. Thanks for putting up with my emotions and just for all of your support. I have literally hundreds of emails, facebook comments, phone calls (please slow them down!) and text messages every day.

My Labor Story

2011-01-25T22:33:00.003-07:00

From about week 32 of pregnancy I started feeling tired, miserable, couldn't sleep, and my skin would itch. I asked my obgyn that I was itchy and he told me to try lotion, benadryl to help with the itch. One night me and Trevor went on a date out to dinner. Later that night I had uncontrollable itching everywhere to the point I was almost in tears. I went online and found a website called itchymoms.com which there is a disease called ICP that causes itchy skin in pregnancy so later the next day I called my OBGYN and got in to take the blood test to see if I had ICP. Turns out I did. It is a disease where toxins go into your bloodstream and cause the skin to itch due to your pregnancy hormones and liver/gall bladder not processing correctly. The next day I was scheduled for a non stress test. Baby looked good but I started having contractions I thought were braxton hicks. I was dilated to a 2 so my dr sent me home and said stay off your feet. Later that night about 11:30 I started having painful contractions and me and Trevor went to Labor and Delivery. They gave me a shot which stopped my contractions and I was sent home at 5AM. The rest of that day I slept, and took it easy. About 5 PM Saturday night the contractions started again. We went back to labor and delivery and I was dialated to a 4 with cotractions every few minutes so I was admitted. I was 35 weeks and 6 days pregnant.

I was a little scared but what can you do? After 5 IV pokes, 1 great epidural, 13 hours later Austin Thomas Jensen was born Sunday Jan 23rd @ 5:52 AM. Came out crying and cute as could be.

They took him to the warmer and a few minutes later they send out a call on the radio "Code Blue" He had stopped breathing and immediately we had an insane amount of people in the room. They did stabilize him but he had to be put on a full ventilator to help him breathe.

The new riverton hospital does not have a NICU only a high level nursery so they lifeflighted him to Intermountain Medical Center NICU about 2 hours after he was born. I did get to kiss him and say "I will see you later bud, mom loves you"

They cut off his baby band off my arm and took me to a mom/baby postpartum room. Trevor walked his new son out to the helicopter and sent him off. The helicopter rattles the entire hospital and I was able to see it takeoff from my room. I prayed he would make it there safely.

After a major breakdown moment with Trevor which I never ever want to recall again being emotionally drained from the whole experience and hadn't slept in 3 days. I somehow managed to eat breakfast and take a good nap. The good thing was the AFC/NFC championship game was on starting at 1PM Chicago's Jay Cuter vs Aaron Rogers GB Packers. Go Bears. (too bad they lost eventually) So I turn on the TV. Its broke! You take away a womans baby and NFL Game? OH HECK NO! I found the nurse button ASAP and said you either get me a TV, move rooms, or I am leaving! I started to pack. They did eventually fix the TV and we watched half of the game but my Dr discharged me around 3PM. I went home, eat, relaxed, watched the Steelers vs Jets AFC Game (crappy Pitt won) and me and Trevor went down to the IMC Nicu to visit Austin.

He was doing better and it was actually such a sweet experience. No tears and somehow I felt that he would be OK. I fell in love even with all of the tubes and wires. I finally found out he weighed 5 lbs 11 ounces and was 19 3/4 inch long. A head full of hair, and all 10 fingers and toes. His major problems are: Not able to breath without assistance, low blood pressure, and is sick which antibiotics are fixing but requires a 7 day treatment. The Neonatologist said it was not ICP that caused him to be so sick. They still don't know and will never know the cause of why he is so sick. I mean yes he is early but should not be in this bad of shape but we can only go up from here. Right?

Getting Ready

2011-01-12T13:44:00.000-07:00

Finally came up with a name. Austin Thomas Jensen due 2/21/11

34 weeks-enjoying sleepless nights, itchy skin, and using the bathroom every 30 minutes.

Now that the holidays are over, we painted the room from pink to brown, set up the crib, and have been shopping for a lot of blue.

I hope everything goes well and we end up with a happy, healthy baby with all ten fingers and toes. We are so excited for his arrival.

Happy New Years 2011!

2010-12-31T18:47:00.001-07:00

I'm ready to party!

During the day Trevor and Kaden went snowboarding at Brighton! They had a blast even though it was cold. Kaden did very well for only his second time ever, and went down the majestic lift 4 times. I was super jealous that I couldn't go but me and the girls went and saw Tangled. It was so cute and Azzie loved it.

For New Years Eve we had some cousins over for a small party.

Complete with another amazing steam-baked crab and lobster fest, Yummmmmmm.

We enjoyed the night hanging out with family. Az stayed up past midnight, unfortunately her dad was passed out by 11:30 since he was so tired from snowboarding, party pooper.

This new year I am looking forward to a new addition in the family in only 7 weeks!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T21:26:00.000-07:00

Finally the countdown arrives!

On the 23rd we went to Grandma & Grandpa Glovers for a pre-Christmas dinner. We got a few presents, went to see the lights at Willard Bay and enjoyed having Aunt Whitney from Ohio come and visit.

On Christmas Eve we went to Aunt Raylenes for an excellent dinner and white elephant gifts. I also got to talk on the phone to my brother serving a mission in Dominican Republic.

Santa brought Azlyn a baby doll nursery complete with dolls, and accessories and a couple of barbie dolls.

Carli got some Liv dolls, cupcake cooking kit, clothes, build a bear, and a violin.

Kaden is proudly sporting his new aeropostale clothes and got Madden 11, and NFL training camp for the wii.

Me and Trevor got our droid phones and are enjoying them. My favorite part was spending time with family and in the morning going from playing baby dolls, teaching a violin lesson, then watching Kaden work out on the wii. I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas, and I am so grateful for my family and all the blessings in my life.

David Aurchuleta Tonight!

2010-12-16T09:04:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of David Archuleta's Christmas Cd and am so excited I got a ticket to go see him perform with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir tonight! Thanks Crissi and Mandi.

Holiday Lights & Scones

2010-12-15T07:57:00.001-07:00

Our family had a great time seeing the Holiday Lights at Thanksgiving Point.

It wasn't that cold for December and the kids loved the lights and the wagon ride.

Then we went to winder dairy for delicious scones and hot chocolate

Happy Holidays!

Secret Letter

2010-12-07T17:44:00.001-07:00

Just thought I would blog about the note taped to my door today. I love being a parent!

To Kaden: don't open unless your Kaden (too bad he is not home today ha ha)

Hi Kaden heart heart heart

You make my blood hotter and my heart pump faster

lov you baby

from: secret admirer

Thanksgiving & Black Friday

2010-11-27T11:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I had a great thanksgiving this year. Wednesday night the girls made banana cream, coconut cream, pumpkin, apple pies and a pumpkin roll. Thursday I woke up and ran outside to grab the paper and read through all the adds, then made a salad and rolls. We went to Trevor's parents house for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner. Then we made it over to my Aunts house to say hi to all of my extended family. My family is what I am most thankful for!

Just a quiet Thanksgiving morning with only one kid this year

About 10pm I hopped over to walmart and already the carts were all gone, luckily I found one in the parking lot. Ran around the store trying to get everything. I was the 3rd person too check out and got the heck out of there by 12:15 and went to bed!

The Final Game

2010-11-24T08:56:00.001-07:00

Thank goodness football is over because it is cold! Kaden's final game was a blast. Trevor was sweet and stayed home with Azzie so she wouldn't freeze and me and my dad went down to Kadens Border Warz tournament. He was so excited to play at Real Stadium even in the snow. They won 21-6 and it was a great end to a great season.

I am thankful for football. It is not only a game but it gets the whole family excited and together. My passion comes from my dad. He used to take me to BYU games back in the 90's and I have been a fan ever since. Its real fun to have my dad around and have a kid that is almost more excited than me. I am just glad I get to be a fan and not have to play in the snow.

Happy Birthday Trevor & Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T19:48:00.001-06:00

Saturday started out with Kaden's final regular season game, tournament to follow. They played Murray and won. He was so excited to have two interceptions and one of them he ran back for a touchdown. Awesome job Kaden!

Then later that night Kaden went out with his friends and went to a Halloween party. He thinks he is too old/cool to hang out with his old parents at home. Azzie took a nap so I took Carli out in the rain to go trick or treating in the rain. We took it easy and rented scary movies. Azzie finally woke up. Her favorite part was handing out candy to the trick or treaters. We had a great night.

Sunday was Trevor and his brother Josh's Birthday. We had family over for pizza, cake, and ice cream.

Happy Birthday Trev!

Halloween Parties

2010-10-30T08:55:00.001-06:00

Friday was a busy but fun day. First we went to the elementary school Halloween parade. Kaden wanted to be a football player.

Carli was a witch this year. She has always been a princess, cheerleader, or something pretty so we though we would mix it up this year.

Then we carved pumpkins. I always wanted to make a throw up pumpkin because I think they look awesome!

Here is me and my costume. I thought it was a cute shirt.

Carli did this one all by herself!

Then we had a ward trunk or treat, then a chili cook off.

My cute Minnie. Azzie has been eating candy non stop and has not put her pumpkin down.

My cute little witch.
Happy Halloween everyone! Trick or treating tonight!

Halloween Fun

2010-10-18T19:14:00.001-06:00

My dad invited my sister and I to go with him to Black Island Farms. I had never heard of it but its a corn maze in Layton. I had such a blast that I am now making it a family tradition.
First we went on a wagon ride around the farm. Azzie loved it and we got to get off and pick out any pumpkin in the field.

Then the bigger kids and Trevor went through the haunted house/corn maze. I was worried about Carli but it turns out she did just fine and Kaden is the one that ran as fast as he could past the chain saw guy. They both had a ton of fun. Then we did a corn maze, and they have these hay slides that are enormous that Azzie and the kids just loved. They also have a kiddy train ride, animal alley, pig races, paintball, cannon shoot, straw maze, and bon fires. I loved this place, had a blast, and cant wait to go back next year. www.blackislandfarms.com

Kaden also that day played a great football game, and we got him to get his pictures done. Finally!

Pictures at Wheeler Farm

2010-10-15T14:15:00.001-06:00

I'm definitely not a pro at photography but I'm getting better. Here are a few from do-it-yourself photography. They turned out cute! I couldn't talk Kaden into coming with us because he wanted to play with his friends, but tomorrow my dad is coming down to do our family pictures. I have such cute girls!

It's a Boy

2010-10-07T12:29:00.000-06:00

I was totally expecting it to be another girl, so I was a little shocked. Everything went well with the ultrasound. I saw 10 fingers and toes, and he looked healthy which was the most important thing. I feel really blessed and hope everything goes smooth from here on out. They did put my due date out another week though so thats a bummer.

So now comes the nesting/getting ready part. My favorite! I already got rid of everything pink. I have a few boxes of hand me downs from my sister (thanks Kali) so we are sorting through it all. I also am getting ready to transition Azzie out of her crib by December. I found 2 twin/bunk beds on KSl for 25.00 and they have wagon wheels in them. They are purple so we are going to sand them down and repaint them. I am doing a western cowgirl/cowboy theme for my two little ones so if you find any cowboy decorations out there let me know.

New Babies bedding (still working on a name)

Azzie's Christmas present

I'm so excited to get started.

Boy or Girl????

2010-09-24T17:55:00.000-06:00

So the big ultrasound is on Wednesday! Hopefully everything goes well and all we want is a healthy, happy baby. Here is my thoughts:

Girl: I think it will be a girl. I already have all girl stuff, her name is already picked out, Azzie and Carli want a sister, and Azzie has to share a room and I really want to do a pink and brown cowgirl room.

Boy: I would be totally shocked if its a boy! I don't have anything, no names picked out, have to repaint my pink room, but it would be fun to have another one since its been a while. Kaden wants a boy and it would be nice to have one of our kids pass on the Jensen name. Also Bart (trevors dad) really wants it to be a boy.

Either way I don't care but am excited to find out.

What do you guys think? Well see if you guys are right. Right now my poll is 50/50.

The first games!

2010-09-11T14:22:00.000-06:00

Football registration 225, cleats 40, gloves 17, fundraisers 100, seeing this smile after a great play, PRICELESS!

After all the hard work and hours of practice, the big game. We had to rush Kaden from a wedding up in Big Cottonwood Canyon to Grantsville in a hurry but we made it on time. I'm glad to because it was a great game. The game ended up being a tie and then we lost in overtime but it was a good tough game.

Then the second game was against West Jordan. Good rival team since we live in West Jordan. We won 24-0! Kaden had a fumble recovery, and some great tackles but the below picture was a great hard hit. K Town Cougar Pride!

Trevor the Roper

2010-09-01T13:49:00.000-06:00

Last year Trevor was into Team Penning (where you try to get a bunch of cows into a pen on a horse). This year his new thing is team roping.

He is the header the first horse who ropes the calf's horns, then the second horse the healer ropes the hind leg. His horse got special training. Trevor loves it.

He goes to Erda every Tuesday night with his brother and dad. This week it wasn't so hot so we joined him and had a lot of fun. While were not ropers it still is fun to ride the horses around and Azzie is getting to be quite a good rider already at two.

Are You Ready For Some FOOTBALL!!!

2010-08-27T17:49:00.000-06:00

Its my favorite time of the year! Fall and Football. Consumes every weekday from 5:30-7:30 Kaden has practice, games on Saturdays, and not to mention my NFL addiction which is Thursday-Monday. Thank goodness for DVR's.

First its the Kearns Fire, water and ice festival and Kaden is in the parade with his team. Then its drills, plays, running and hitting. I don't know who likes it more me or him. We are both passionate about football. This year he got the position he wanted. Starting offensive wide receiver.

The girls don't mind watching either.

Next week is his first game. Bring it ON!

School

2010-08-04T10:34:00.001-06:00

Kaden's first day of 6th grade!

Carli excited for the 4th grade!
They both love their teachers this year. I hope they get good grades.

Just a saturday night drive

2010-07-21T14:01:00.000-06:00

I had to get out of the 100 degree heat. We took a fun drive up the mirror lake highway. We saw a ton of deer, found a few places to camp with the horses next month, enjoyed the beautiful scenery, and the cooler temperatures!

Saying "See you Later" to Grandma

2010-07-13T18:05:00.000-06:00

DeEsta Young Gunther
11/20/27 - 7/10/10
I am not good with goodbyes but rather a see you later. I was so glad to see her last month and she was so excited to hear the news of another baby on the way. We will miss you grandma!

It was so great to see a lot of my aunts, uncles and cousins that I have not seen in years.

More Birthdays and Independance Day!

2010-07-09T15:41:00.001-06:00

The 4th of July is one of my favorite weeks of the year! I am greatful for the country that I live in and it's mine and Carli's birthday! We celebrated the 4th by going to the Tooele parade and the bit n spur rodeo. Forgot the memory card so no pictures. Then we went to cowabunga bay for our birthdays!

I just about fell out of this slide.

You defenitely get wet! Azzie got to go on 5 of the slides so it was a blast.

My favorite part was the pool/lazy river. The water was about 80 degrees, more like a hot springs than a pool. It was so nice azzie cried when we left.

Then we went to Bucca De Beppo for my birthday dinner. I got a sweet card and a new car stereo from my honey. Thanks babe, so 32 wasn't as bad as I thought. Then we went home and lit fireworks.

Kaden Turns 11!

2010-06-30T09:54:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday Kaden

For Kaden's birthday he still is in school but I checked him out a little early to take him swimming at the Kearns pool with some friends. He had a great day and for his birthday he wanted a Kobe Bryant Jersey. Little did I know they are 55.00 for a freakin shirt! I am NOT a lakers fan. He also got some wii games and money to sign up for tackle football. Happy Birthday and I love you to pieces but I don't feel old enough to have an 11 year old!

Happy Birthday Azlyn

2010-06-27T09:30:00.000-06:00

I can't beleive my little Azzie is 2! She has grown up so fast. We had such a fun day with family and friends. First we went to Boondocks for Trevor's work party. We had fun playing minature golf, lazer tag, go carts, and bumper boats.

Then we went home and had a great family birthday party. We bbq'd hamburgers/hot dogs, opened presents, and had cupcakes. Thanks to everyone that came.

Azzie got an elmo, real cowgirl boots, lots of toys and cute clothes.

Happy birthday week to Kaden, Carli, Azlyn, and myself!

We call this mess Christmas in July

Then last but not least going over to the Taylorsville Dayzz fireworks extravaganza. My favorite fireworks of all time and enjoyed tigers blood snow cones. Awesome fireworks but we missed Niel Diamond this year.

Leisha's Wedding

2010-06-23T16:50:00.000-06:00

Trevor's sister Leisha got married last Friday. Carli got to be a flower girl and throw flowers down the aisle. I have two of the cutest girls around.

Azzie actually smiled in every picture so she had a great time. I helped with the food and music so it was a busy night but it was fun and great to have a new brother in law.

My handsome hubby and daughter.

All of my cute nieces

The beautiful bride!

Baby #4

2010-06-20T19:01:00.001-06:00

Our family is going to get a little bigger. Me and Trevor are excited to be expecting the final #4. Not really to excited about being pregnant but the end result is great. Everyone expects us to want a boy but we don't care either way. Hopefully the next 35 weeks go fast. Due date 2/21/11.

Azlyn's first ride!

2010-06-10T14:32:00.000-06:00

Azzie got to go on her first horse ride on our horse Brandy. She was a little nervous but had a great time.

Mini cowgirl in training walking around the stables wanting to brush the hair of all of the horses.

Her favorite thing is to sit on them and give them food.

She learns and watches the pro, daddy

Thanks for taking me to see the horses dad!

My Sisters Wedding

2010-06-02T10:42:00.000-06:00

Congratulations Whitney and Shawn Killpack!
I had such a great time this last weekend at my sisters wedding and just spending time with my family. My big sis shanna drove up from Texas, Jaren flew in from Wisconsin, and Kali came from Nevada. It is a very rare thing to have most of my family around. I had such a great time hanging out with all of my nieces and nephews as well.

The highlight was going to the temple with everyone.

Also hanging out with my dearest sisters!

We all got dressed up and put on our best!

The two princesses of the night!

Then on memorial day we got to visit my grandpa glovers grave and bring his bird budgie by for a visit. We miss you Grandpa!

Carli's Big Recital

2010-05-23T15:13:00.000-06:00

After months of hard practice the day finally came. We go through Dance by Denise who is such a great friend and neighbor and I love her Dance program. First Carli got to perform in front of the whole school. She gets very nervous but loves all of the attention she gets from the other kids when she shows up with her hair and makeup all done up. It almost scared me once I did her makeup because I realized how big she is getting.

Then the next week was the big recital. She also got her trophy and dance pictures. She did a good job and we are all proud of her. Her parents, 4 sets of grandparents, aunts and cousins all came out to support her. We love you Carli!

Tulip Festival

2010-04-28T14:06:00.001-06:00

I took Azzie to the Thanksgiving Point Tulip Festival on Saturday. She kept saying pretty the whole time. It was beautiful. I love gardening and flowers. I can't wait to get my garden growing but until then I will have to visit other ones. The tulips were perfect and they were everywhere. One of my favorite flowers. Thanks to my dad I have a great appreciation for the outdoors!

Easter at the Dunes

2010-04-07T14:33:00.000-06:00

Camping in the snow!

Azzie loved riding the wrooom wrooms.

This year was colder than most but we still had a great time. I have been to Little Sahara Sand Dunes 4 years in a row. We rented a lot of movies and brang a lot of food.

Kaden enjoyed riding around sand mountain

When we got home on Easter we colored eggs and had a Easter egg hunt for Azzie. She got a Zhu Zhu pet!

One of the Best Weeks of my life!

2010-03-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

So we did so many fun things and had such a great time its hard to summarize it all. No major catastrophes or meltdowns so that was good. I was worried about flying 3 kids across the country but they did great! I have so many great pictures so I made a slide show.

Day 1

It was a cool only about 68 degrees so we stayed inland and went to the Everglades safari park and got to go on an air boat ride. We saw a ton of alligators because it was cold and they were out of the water lying on the grass. The kids got to hold an alligator. Then we drove to Fort Myers and checked into our hotel. It had a kitchen so we made a few good dinners.

Day 2

We woke up early and dropped Kaden and Trevor off for their 1/2 day fishing excursion through Captain Tony's. They had a great time and caught 13 fish! Snapper and Grouper. The boat captains fillet the fish and put them on ice and for dinner we took them to a local restaurant and had them cooked. They tasted great!

While they were gone me, Azzie, and Carli drove up to Sanibel Island to hang out on the beach and collect seashells. We also saw a dolphin swimming around just a few feet off the beach!

Day 3

The third day we went to Captiva Island and hung out on the beach. Such a pretty place. Very low key and laid back. I loved it there. We played some football and threw frisbees around. We also stopped at the Sanibel Sea shell show and learned all about all the types of shells found on the beach. Later we walked on the beach and watched the sun set at Fort Myers Beach.

Day 4

We woke up and drove from the gulf side of Florida to the Atlantic side and stopped at Lion Country safari. What an awesome place. You get to drive your car through a safari full of animals. Lions, Giraffes, Rhinos, Turtles, Monkeys, Elephants, and a whole lot of animals that I have never seen. Then after the drive through they have a few kid rides including a camel ride and giraffe feeding. Then we checked into the Embassy Suites in Deerfield Beach, my new favorite hotel ever! Free full cooked breakfast and happy hour every night with pina coladas and strawberry daiquiris.

Day 5

Stayed at the hotel and hung out. Lots of swimming at the pool. The waves were big so we went to get boogie boards and when we got to the beach the lifeguards had it closed due to sharks in the water. You could see them jumping around so we just built sand castles and walked to the pier. Later me and Carli went to dinner at the Mai Kai which is a Polynesian restaurant with a live show. Fire dancers and hula girls. We had a great night out.

Day 6

Went to Gumbo Limbo nature center in Boca Raton. They have a great boardwalk through the trees and then live animal exhibits with sharks, sea turtles, and sting rays. Then more swimming at the pool and the beach was open today (no sharks) I was still nervous and did not dare to go more than knee deep though. Then as the sun set I took great pictures of the kids with my new toy Nikon 3000.

Overall a great trip and I can't wait to go back again!

Love, Love, Love

2010-02-04T17:31:00.001-07:00

Since it is February I have been thinking about things that I love. I love the days where there involves no work and the biggest kids are in school and its just me and Azzie. She lights up my day! She is in love with babies. She wraps them in blankets and puts them in the stroller and takes them for a walk, and brushes their hair. I love her and glad she brightens my day.

Santa brought her about 10 babies for Christmas

Here is another highlight in my day. She is getting big and independent where she wants to feed herself. It must be exausting!

Happy New Year!

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

It's New Years Eve! Time for a great dinner including my favorite tradition Alaskan King Crab. Accompanied by little smokies, cheese ball and crackers, swiss cheese fondue, shrimp, and a veggie tray.

We had family and neighborhood friends over at our house this year. It was such a fun night.

Azlyn lasted until about 11:00PM. She even loved the crab and walked up to peoples plates and snatched some with her little fingers.

Kaylee and Carli having some apple cider.

The Stuffelbeams enjoying their crab.

I even got my new years kiss!

Happy New Year! May 2010 bring hope and joy to everyone!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-30T10:11:00.001-07:00

Every Christmas Eve that I can remember was spent at Aunt Raylene's house eating soup and opening white elephant presents. Its my favorite Christmas tradition. My oldest kids are starting to enjoy it too. Here is Kaden with his army recruiting kit. Carli got a natural bubble bath aka (bag of beans) and I actually got a white elephant.

We also enjoyed spending time with GREAT Grandma Glover

Spent some time with Tanna and Tayton, cousins from Nevada

We then went to bed and woke up at 6:30 AM to open presents. "Santa did come" Carli said!

She brought the girls lots of Barbie dolls, barbies, bratz, moxi girls and their favorite 3 story barbie home!

Kaden got his touch screen phone and Azzie got more babies, babies, and babies

Merry Christmas and looking forward to a great new year!

December Highlights

2009-12-24T11:53:00.001-07:00

This month has been great! I got most of my shopping done on Black Friday so I was able to spend most of my time just enjoying the Holiday season. Some of my favorites were: going to see the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Natalie Cole and seeing the Temple Square lights with my mom, dad and sister, the ward Christmas dinner, 2 company holiday parties, and 4 family Christmas parties, and going to the kids school watching them sing.

Carli's gingerbread house she made at school

Usually we go to the winder dairy country store to get scones but this year I decided to make my own. Yum eggnog and scones!

Another family Christmas party

People that know that I have a real tree ask me if I love the smell. This year I have to laugh due to a funny story. Every year my dearest dad always goes into the mountains and cuts me a tree. I tell him how tall and narrow I want it and he delivers it to my house for free! I love him. When he got here we threw it in the backyard and about two weeks later I went to go put it inside the house but my dog decided to mark his territory and urinate all over it.

So after a few ideas we hosed it down, let it dry, brought it in the house and I sprayed urinating deodorizer and fabreze all over it. Needless to say it does smell nice but not like a real tree. Note to self: DO NOT place tree in backyard with dog next year!

Merry Christmas to All!

Thanksgiving and Black Friday

2009-11-27T13:53:00.001-07:00

We had such a great Thanksgiving! First we went to Grandma Debbie's and had Thanksgiving with Trevor's side of the family. We had a great time eating and looking at the newspaper adds.

Here is Azzie feeding her cousin Riley carrot sticks. Then in the evening we got to go to another Thanksgiving at my cousin Chad's house. It was so fun to see all of my cousins that I have not seen in a few years. I really appreciate my entire family. Also that night we finished the Broncos vs Giants game and we WON!

I went to bed early because I woke up at 3AM to wait in this line:

Here is my sister in law Leisha who got there a few hours earlier to save me a cart. I ended up getting some really good deals and had a ton of fun. I love Black Friday. (Craziness, but when you actually get that deal in the add home, its a sense of pure accomplishment). Bring on the Holidays!

David Archuleta Concert

2009-11-26T07:56:00.000-07:00

Last night I took Kaden and Carli to the David Archuleta Christmas Concert at Abravanal Hall. I am a fan but after going to the concert, that kid can sing!

It was by far one of the best concerts I have ever been too. They had Kurt Bestor, a childrens choir, orchestra. I love Chritmas music. His new CD is awesome!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nV5uFnXCLOs&feature=related

U of U

2009-11-08T12:51:00.000-07:00

I know you are thinking why am I at a Ute Game? I am not a fan but we got the opportunity to go to the game since Kaden plays for the Utah Football League.

First we lined up for the Ute Walk where all the players walk into the field

Then we got to get in early and hang out on the field. The kids got to kick field goals.

and I threw a few passes to Kaden in the en zone.

Some of the players

Then he got to walk onto the field as the players ran out and gave them high fives!

Here is one of me and Trev. Notice I am not wearing any RED! Go Broncos and BYU! We get to go to a Y game in two weeks!

Utah Food Co-op

2009-11-05T13:48:00.000-07:00

One of the things that I am thankful for is the Utah Food Co-op. I heard about it through a friend and I have been doing it for a few months. It's a great way to get meat, fruits, veggies, and bread at a great deal. It's fun and healthy ! Check it out, they have locations from Ogden to Payson.
https://www.foodco-op.net/
Here is one of the month examples:
Standard Share ($23)
2 8oz. top sirloin steaks
4 5oz. pork chops
2 lbs. chicken legs and thighs
1 lb. lean ground beef
1 lb. rice (white or brown)
1 loaf Stoneground’s artisan wheat bread
3 lbs. yellow onions
6 lemons
8 apples
1 cantaloupe
3 red bell peppers
1 romaine lettuce
2 avocados
6 tomatoes

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

We had such a great Halloween this year. First, and foremost Happy 30th Birthday to Trevor!

It was also Kaden's last football game which was sad. I will miss going to his games. It was such a fun year watching him get to play. I can't wait until next year. A lot of hard work and practice but he loved every minute of it!

And then lastly, we just stayed home and had a quiet night carving pumpkins, passing out candy and watching scary movies.

I hope you all had a great Halloween.

Welcom Home Tyson

2009-10-21T13:26:00.000-06:00

My other brother in the Army

Miley Cyrus

2009-09-30T14:07:00.000-06:00

Last night we got to go to the Miley Cyrus concert. It was Carli's first time to a concert, and at then end of the night she said, "This was the best day of my life!"

She was dancing, singing, all night long!

I really like Miley but she looked sick and part way through the second song she walked off stage, then an announcer came on and said she has the flu. She ended up finishing the concert. Even though she was sick it was still really fun.

Harley, Mckenzie, Samantha, and Carli

Labor Day Weekend!

2009-09-08T17:29:00.000-06:00

For Labor Day Weekend we went to the sand dunes. It is one of my favorite places in the world. We went with a few of Trevor's cousins and had a great time. The kids drove their bikes around non stop. I even made it up sand mountain which is the big tall mountain in the background.

My favorite part is cooking in the trailer. It's much more fun and food tastes better when your camping. It's fun to be in the middle of the desert and pull out enchiladas in the oven, or eat an ice cream sandwich.

Azzie had a great time scooting around in the sand. She slept very well and was happy going the whole time!

No injuries, no break downs, we had a great trip!