"iT'S a LOvE tHInG"

Life SUCKS & Then You Die!!!

2009-09-13T11:41:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken on our way to Salt Lake, both of us in our Keith Urban t-shirts that I made, before we knew our terrible fate!

I've been waiting NINE long months (I bought the tickets in January) to see Keith Urban in concert in Salt Lake City and I couldn't wait for it. I couldn't believe the time was here and I was on my way. Kim and I left about 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, September 10th, and got to Sandy a little before 3:00 p.m., so I could get my hair highlighted and cut by my second cousin, Megan. I had to look good for my Keith, don't ya know (I'd gotten my nails done the day before). It took a VERY long time and so Kim and I had to get ready for the concert in the salon and we left in just enough time and with high hopes. All the way to the E-Center we were listening to and singing our guts out to Keith's newest CD, and we counted down the minutes until we saw him. Little Big Town was the opening act and we were going to get there just in time to hear them sing.

We exited off the freeway and I said to Kim, "Keith Urban is in Salt Lake RIGHT NOW!!" and we screamed like little girls. We were BEYOND excited to see him and hear him in person. Kim and I had been anticipating this for so long and we were in DESPERATE need of some fun and exhiliration. I can't describe how AWESOME he is in concert and how our adrenaline just flowed when we saw him last, so we new it would be just as good or even better this time. Kim and I both needed the break, the fun and the outlet.

So we pull up to the E-Center and I see a parking space right across from it. NO WAY!!! We CAN'T be this lucky!!! While I'm parking the car Kim says, "Kirsten, there's no one here!" I say, "What?" I look over and the whole E-Center is COMPLETELY black and there is not a soul around. There's a big ticker tape sign and we see the words, "Keith Urban" and we sit there hoping that it's going to say, "September 11th," but I'm starting to get a REALLY bad feeling!!! Then the sign quickly says, "September 9th." Kim and I just look at each other, I reach for our tickets and there it is in black and white..."Keith Urban, Energy Solutions, SEPTEMBER 9TH!!!!" How can this be true??? How could we be a day LATE??!!!!! OHHHHHHH, THE AGONY!!!

We had to sit there for awhile because it just didn't sink it. It felt like we were in the twilight zone and someone was playing a REALLY bad joke on us. Some would ask, "How could this have happened?" and I say, "BECAUSE I'M STUPID!!!!!!" I bought the tickets in January and I remember thinking when I bought them that the concert was the day before we saw him last time, which was on September 11, so that would be the 10th. I just never looked at the tickets again.

I was so upset that I couldn't even stuff food (bad for me food like candy or ice cream) down my throat...now THAT'S upset!!! My stomach HURT so bad!!! It hurt like that for two days. I'm not even sure I can listen to his music anymore without it bringing back that horrible feeling. I'm so sorry to Kim for messing everything up. We did get to stay at Rhett's house and stay up late talking to him and we also got to take Autumn out to breakfast the next morning before she leaves for Air Force basic training in a few weeks.

Kim and I expected to come back refreshed and rejuvenated and ready to face the next few months, however, I think we both came back feeling worse...oh, well...sometimes LIFE SUCKS AND THEN YOU DIE!!!!

K E I T H U R B A N!!!! Here I Come, Baby!!!!

2009-09-10T09:07:00.000-07:00

In just a few minutes I'm leaving with Kim for Salt Lake City so we can go see our fav, Keith Urban!!! I AM SO EXCITED!!! I'm sure you will ALL have to look at tons of pictures and you should also be grateful that you aren't with us, 'cuz we make all kinds of fools of ourselves...HE IS YUMMY!!! Don't worry, we're both taking drool buckets. :0)

Happy Anniversary You Lovebirds!!!!

2009-09-05T14:05:00.000-07:00

Today is my parents 46th wedding anniversary. Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad. Thanks for being a wonderful example of unconditional love, hard work, compassion and enduring to the end. I love you both!

Keep 'Em Comin'!!!

2009-09-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

Amber is due with her third child March 31st. If it's a girl she wants to name her Wynter Elizabeth (Amber's middle name), but she's not sure since the baby really isn't due in a month usually associated with winter. March is still technically winter though and I think it's a beautiful name. Brooke's Summer was born in November and no one thinks it's a big deal. If Amber has a daughter named Wynter then we will have a Wynter, a Summer, and an Autumn in our family. Now we just need a girl with a spring name...how about "Spring"...NOT!! : ) If it's a boy his name will be Fisher Malachi. Amber is hoping for a boy because then she and Jake will try again for another girl, but if it's a girl they will most likely be done (so sad for me...:0( ).

Emily is due with her fourth baby on Valentine's Day (awwww...what a true expression of love!), and if she has a boy his name will be Daxton Richard (after Ric) and if it's a girl her name will be Kaidence Kathleen (Emily's middle name). Emily's worried about Kaidence marrying someone with a last name that starts with the letter "K," but I say the chances are slim. It would be a little akward if her initials were KKK. :0) She and Brian are feeling like it's going to be a boy and then little Taider Bug will have a brother, but I'm sure they will be happy with whatever the baby is. I want Taidan to have a little brother too, but I'm kind of getting the girl vibe and I'm usually right so we'll have to see. I haven't totally committed to it being a girl yet, but I will post it before they find out.

Ric and I are so excited for grandbabies number 6 and 7 and we really don't care what gender they are. We just pray that they will be healthy and happy and for them to love their grammy and grampa...LOL! We are so blessed!

Why do I always set myself up for failure??

2009-09-05T10:07:00.000-07:00

So, Thursday night I decide I want some extra money so when I go to the Keith Urban concert in Salt Lake on the 10th I can have plenty of money to play, buy a concert t-shirt, take my niece out to breakfast and have my second cousin, Megan, cut and highlight my hair. My great idea is to have a garage sale on Saturday, which gives me only Friday to get ready for it...BEST idea EVER, right? WRONG!!! Who knew garage sales were so much work?

I work feverishly all day, going through my house and also lots of boxes in our storage unit. I realize in the early evening that there is NO WAY I can have everything done in time. I'll have to stay up all night going through more of the storage unit, organizing everything, making and putting out signs and pricing the items. I start to freak out, but then Kim and Morris save the day and offer to do the garage sale at their house next Saturday and to do it with me. I'm happy, but feel like a loser because I didn't accomplish my goal. Next time my goal will be to do the dishes by the end of the day and maybe, just maybe, I can accomplish what I set out to do!! I guess I won't be buying that overpriced concert tee, but oh well!!

I did find a bunch of stuff in boxes in my storage unit though that I hadn't seen in years. I found my bridal shower present from my dear, sweet Grandma Barney that was a groom and a bride made out of dish towels, crocheted hot pads and some other hand towels that she had made. I don't want to use them because they are too precious to me so I think I will put them in my hope chest. I also found tons of pictures of when the girls were small, some of my FBI stuff and a bunch of my holiday decorations that I haven't been able to use for years since I could never find them!! YAY! I look forward to finding even more long lost treasures when I finally do have my garage sale.

funny faces :0)

2009-09-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

More of Miss Leila!

2009-09-03T20:46:00.000-07:00

YES, THAT'S A COBRA!! Why is my grandbaby SO close to it???

Is she cute or what?? :0)

I love this picture of her in her little

piggy tails and learning to crawl.

I only posted one picture of Leila on her birthday post so I wanted to add a couple more that Amber sent me. Every time I see Leila in person or see a picture of her I just want to pinch her cheeks (in a good way of course!)!!!

Happy Birthday Brynnie Boo!!

2009-09-03T20:16:00.000-07:00

Brynlee lookin' cool in the grass at Central Park.

"Yay, Bryn!!!"

Grammy and Bryn at The Touch Everything Museum in Philly.

Brynlee LOVES ice cream...just like her mommy and grammy!

Grammy LOVES her Brynlee Marie!!

Brynlee Marie turned one year's old on July 11th!! How can it be that she is that old already? It seems like I was just in Colorado a couple of months ago awaiting her birth and then going to the hospital and being there when she was born. From day one Bryn has been a happy, peaceful baby. She is petite and beautiful just like her older sister. She is walking and is getting lots of dark hair. She is a mama's girl (and a gramma's girl of course!) and she loves trying to keep up with her older brother and sister. Now that she's walking she totally can and Ash and Taidan adore her and love to "take care" of her. Bryn is going to be a big sister in February and that just seems so weird to think about because she's just too little to not be the baby of the family anymore. I love to hear Brynlee "talk" on the phone to Gramma...she definately has things to say...and I can't wait to hug and kiss her again. Grammy loves you Brynner Boo!!!

jULy bIRthDaYs!!

2009-09-03T19:03:00.000-07:00

Sydney is the first birthday in July. Sydney turned 14 on July 3rd and could probably pass for 16. She is such a cutie and everyone loves her. Syd loves to cook and she's really good too. She is also really good aat fixing hair and her's always looks so cute. Her dream is to be a pastry chef, own a restaurant and also do hair. She could cut customers hair while they eat at her restaurant...NOT (hee, hee)! Sydney cracks me up all the time and I have so much fun with her. Watch out boys when she turns 16 'cuz she's already a teeny tiny bit boy crazy. I'm sure there's tons of boys who have crushes on her too. Sydney is one of only two people I know who wanted Bella to end up with Jacob in the Twilight series, but I still love you Syderella!! Syd always dresses cute and loves sour, sweet, chewey, gooey candy just like her favorite aunt...ME!!!

2009-09-03T18:56:00.000-07:00

My nephew Jacob's birthday is on July 6th and he turned 16 this year...HOLY COW!!! I can't believe he is going to be able to be legally behind the wheel of a motor vehicle...just kidding. I'm sure he'll be very responsible once he gets his license (won't you Jake?). We have a 1974 Nova that just won't die and Jake keeps asking us to buy it. He thinks it's pretty sweet and maybe one day Ric will give in and let him fix it up and buy it. Jake is a sweetie and loves anything to do with animals and taking care of them. Who would have thunk that he would be sort of a cowboy, but he loves his boots and western wear and has even been known to wear overalls every once in awhile. Jake is funny and a good guy. He has a special relationship with my mom and dad and he's a good son and brother. I love ya, Jacob and can't wait to see you again. Be good!!

2009-09-03T18:42:00.000-07:00

Ok...since I'm doing all the July birthdays I guess I have to include myself. I turned 34 again this year! You know how women say they are going to stay 29 forever? Well my "29" is "34" because when I was 34 I felt the best I've ever felt, I was in the best shape of my life, I was happy and I was skinny (some say I was too skinny, but I liked that...sick I know)! I think at the age of 34 you are still considered young, but you have enough life experience that people still respect what you have to say and offer. I had an AWESOME birthday this year!! Went to see "The Proposal" with my sweet hubby and went to dinner with lots of the fam. Then Mom, Brooke and Kim took me clothes shopping and I actually found stuff I liked. I got lots of cards and letters and felt loved and appreciated by my girls, my grandbabies, my extended family and my friends. It's good to be 34 again!!

This is my sexy, come hither look...ROFL!!!

2009-09-03T18:35:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Angie's birthday is on July 31st so she and I are both Leos. Out of all the girls I think Angie and Emily look alike and they look most like Ric. Angie works for the Bloomberg Corporation in NYC and I'm so proud of her. She is smart, beautiful, funny, tough (in a good way), loving, motivated, and always has a plan. When we went on our vacation to Philly and NYC we stayed with Angie and Jay and their little dog Memphis for a couple of days and they are the BEST tour guides EVER!! It was so fun to spend time with just them and become closer and appreciate them even more. I love Angie more than I can say and I am very happy and grateful to be her step-mom and have her in my life. I love you, Ang!!

UNMOTIVATED!!

2009-09-03T18:03:00.000-07:00

I have been so unmotivated to blog, and I'm not sure why. Every day I say, "Today is going to be the day that I catch up on my blogging and post something cute about my grandkids or say something profound," and I think I've been saying that for almost two months now. LOL!! Well, I definately have things to say and post about my cute grandkids (I'll always have things to say about them), but if I wait any longer to say something profound I may NEVER post again. So, for those of you following my blog...thanks for your patience and even caring about my blog. There's not many of you out there, but I haven't forgotten about you and if I do nothing else...here's ONE post for you. :0) I love ya guys!!

Happy Birthday Brian!

2009-06-25T11:18:00.001-07:00

Today is Brian's 26th birthday! He is an awesome son-in-law, husband and dad. He works hard and loves Emily and their kids so much. He's a big kid and loves to play! Have a great birthday, Brian, and know that I love you and I'm so glad you are in our family!

My Leila Ladybug Turns 1!!

2009-06-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

Leila turned one on June 22nd. This year went by so fast and I can't believe she's so big. I miss her every day and wish I could see her more. She is almost walking and a big talker. She loves to jabber and I love hearing her when I'm talking to Amber on the phone. I can't wait to see her again and love on her. Thank goodness she survived she and I falling down the stairs a couple of hours after she got home from the hospital. She was all of a day old and she and I went all the way down the stairs. I was totally freaked out and thought I had hurt her, but she was fine...just a little scared. I love you, my Leila Marie!!!

a PaTRioTic biRThDaY giRL!

2009-06-14T08:52:00.000-07:00

Today is not only Flag Day, but it is my little sister Leah's 31st birthday. YES, I SAID 31st!! This is the little girl who slept with me in a double bed when she was a baby, who's leg would be thrown over my head and diaper in my face when I would wake in the morning and who I would take on dates with me and people would think she was mine. She is now a mom of three active and adorable boys, a full-time student, and working girl. She has had a few rough years but has come out of it stronger, more courageous and more self-confident. She has amazed me and made me want to be a better person. Leah, I hope you have a wonderful day and that you feel the love of your boys and all of your family and friends. Happy Birthday, sis!! I love you.

Another One...Yippey!!!

2009-06-14T08:08:00.000-07:00

So, Emily sent me these pictures on my phone to tell me that my 6th grandbaby will be here in February!! Can you believe it??!! The sad thing is is that she sent the pics to me and I didn't understand what she was trying to tell me. I couldn't really make out what all of the words said. I just thought she was sending me cute pics of Ashlynn and Taidan with some cute posters they had made. She had to send them twice (I didn't respond right away the first time she sent the pics) and then I just responded with "cute posters." She finally had to send me a picture of the ultrasound before I got it! The weird thing is that I dreamt the night before that Emily had a baby boy. Maybe I'm inspired...hmmmmm??? We will have to see. For now if it's a boy they are going to name him Daxton Richard (after Ric) and if it's a girl they are thinking about Sadie, which I REALLY love. Can't wait to have another baby to love and spoil. I am one blessed gramma!!

Our Vacation!

2009-06-10T18:54:00.000-07:00

So, for the first time in 20 years Ric and I went on our first "real" vacation. We had so much fun! The whole time we were gone I just kept saying, "We're on a vacation!" and enjoying every minute. We saw tons of new things, plus got to spend time with some of my favorite people in the world (Emily/Brian & kids and Jay & Angie).

We flew in to the Philly airport on Thursday, May 28th, and Emily, Brian and kids picked us up. I could hardly wait to hop in their van and give the kids a big hug and kiss. It was so good to see them! We went back to Em's house and Angie and Jay and their cute little dog, Memphis, met us there and spent the night. Emily, Bri and kids live on the 8th floor of a huge apartment building. You can see downtown Philly from their balcony and beautiful green trees are everywhere.

*WILL CONTINUE LATER*

I SUCK!

2009-06-10T12:09:00.000-07:00

I have so much to post, but I've been sick (I always get sick when I fly on an airplane) and i just haven't had any energy to do it. I will soon though. : )

Sneak Peak of Our Vacation

2009-06-07T23:25:00.000-07:00

These are just two of the HUNDREDS of pictures I took on our trip to NYC, Philly and New Jersey. We had the BEST time. We saw just about everything we wanted to and even more. I loved being a tourist and most of all seeing my girls (Emily and Angie) and some of my grandbabies (Ash, Taidan and Bryn). It was worth the 20 years we waited to finally have a "REAL" vacation. I have many more pictures and lots more to say, but I just wanted to give a sneak peak! I'll have the rest on soon, plus make up for some of the May birthdays I missed. : )

Allie's Sweet 16

2009-05-22T22:41:00.001-07:00

Today is Allie (Kim's oldest) sweet 16 birthday. She has been so excited, counting down the days until she turns 16. Allie is such a good girl. She always sticks up for the underdog and she's not afraid to stand up to bullies in order to do that. She is beautiful inside and out. She was the most gorgeous baby around, with her dark black hair, her porcelin skin and her big blue/green eyes! People would stop Kim all of the time just to tell her how beautiful Allie was. She had really curly hair as a baby and people actually asked Kim if she permed Allie's hair. Who perms a tiny baby's hair? Anyway, Allie has grown up and is still that beautiful girl. She is smart and happy and full of life. She can't wait to date (there is a certain someone who will hopefully ask her out soon) This picture was taken a few weeks ago for Allie's first official school dance. She went with friends since she wasn't quite 16 yet, but I'm sure those days are over and she will have plenty of boys wanting to ask her out. The best part about Allie is she still likes hanging out with her mom and even her crazy aunt, me! Me, Kim and my mom went shopping with Allie for her dance dress and she let us do her make-up and hair and it was SOOO fun! Allie is not really your typical teenage girls 'cuz she does like us old folks so much. I even think she still finds us amusing and entertaining. : ) Allie, I'm so proud of you and the young woman you have become. I love you!! Happy, happy birthday!!!

iT's dEfiNatELy a LOvE tHInG!!

2009-05-20T21:23:00.000-07:00

Today is our 20th wedding anniversary. In one way it seems like we have been married even longer and in another way it seems like yesterday. I could never put down in words how grateful I am to have married Ric. He is the most hard-working, selfless, compassionate, kind, caring, loyal, patient, loving man I know and he has definately had his work cut out for him in me. He and I were talking today about the fact that our marriage has not been easy, but we both know that we married the person the Lord chose for us. We have struggled and we have worked hard for our relationship. It's the best it has ever been and so worth the effort. I have never doubted Ric's love for me and I hope he doesn't doubt my love for him. Without him I would never have had the chance of being a mom or a grandma, two of my favorite and fulfilling things. I thank the Lord every day for a man who loves and cares for me, our daughters, and our grandchildren and who has a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and honors his priesthood. I am so blessed to be Ric's wife, and I am eternally grateful to our Heavenly Father for bringing us together. Sometimes we wonder how we did get together because we are so different, but we both know that we were meant to be together and that's what counts! I love you, Ric, with all of my heart. Here's to 20 more years!!

aNOthEr mAY BIrThDAy giRL!

2009-05-18T14:27:00.000-07:00

This is Gabi, today's birthday girl! She is Brooke's (my youngest sister) oldest daughter. Gabi is turning 12 today, which to me is UNBELIEVEABLE!!! I don't know how this happened. How? How? How? How, does time go by so fast and everyone continues to get older and older?? Anyway, Gabi is such a sweetheart. She is an old soul and takes care of her mom and her younger sister. She takes care of all of us. She is very thoughtful, always making cards and gifts for all of us. She is also very talented in singing and dancing. I stayed with my mom and dad for awhile when Gabi was just a baby and she and Brooke lived with mom and dad too. I loved going to get her out of her crib in the morning 'cuz she was always so excited to see me. She would jump up and down until I got her out. Then I would take her to see my dad and he would dance with her to a little song he made up. Gabi, I love you so much! I'm proud of the young woman you've become and proud to say you are my niece. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, GABI!!! I hope it's a great one!!

Birthday Girl

2009-05-16T10:59:00.001-07:00

Today is Amber's 26th birthday. HOLY COW!! Where has the time gone?? She was just a little girl with her sweet angel face. Amber was always so quiet and good. She often didn't get the attention she probably needed 'cuz she was so quiet, but she has definately grown up and now she speaks her mind. Yay, Amber! She is such a good mom and wife and I couldn't be any prouder of her. I miss her so much and I'm so glad I can call her my daughter. I love you , Amber. I miss you so much. Thanks for being such a wonderful, loving and caring daughter. Can't wait to see you again. Happy Birthday!!!!

My Sweet Pea

2009-05-15T21:13:00.000-07:00

So, my sweet pea, Ashlynn, calls me on the phone today just to talk. She is all of three years old and she already has the phone thing down. She is so fun and nothing makes me feel as great as when she says, "Grammy, I wove you soooooooo much!" My heart just aches for her and my other grandchildren. I miss them so much. Ric and I are going to Philadelphia on May 28th to see Emily and family and NYC to see Angie and Jay. I have never been east of Montana so I'm so excited to also see what's going on on the other side of the country. Ashlynn has our trip planned already. She says she is going to sleep with me and grampa and we are going to play Candyland, have tea parties with "black" (Oreo) cookies and rainbow (Keebler Elf M&M cookies) cookies, play red light, green light, go for walks and read books. I can't think of anything better right now. Ashlynn, Taidan, Brynlee, Weston and Leila...I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!! Thanks for being the best grandkids ever!!!

The Graduate!

2009-05-13T17:52:00.000-07:00

Leah graduated from Dixie State College with an associates degree. I am so proud of her! She worked so hard and it so wasn't easy for her. She's a single mom with three VERY ACTIVE boys and she does everything herself. She even graduated with honors. She is going on to get her bachelor's and some day hopes to be a dental hygenist. She is woman, hear her roar!!! Congratulations, Leah on being the first girl in our family to get a degree. Hopefully, my turn will be next.

2009-05-13T17:50:00.000-07:00

Me, Leah & Kim after Leah's graduation.

Happy Birthday Dad!!

2009-05-10T21:38:00.000-07:00

Along with it being Mother's Day, today is also my dad's 68th birthday. My dad is the greatest!! He is the hardest working person I know and he is willing to do anything to help anyone. Growing up he didn't always know what to do with a bunch of girls, but he managed. I'm sure we drove him crazy, but he always tried so hard. One of my favorite Valentine's Days was when all of us were grown, but we were all together at mom and dad's house, and the doorbell kept ringing, and every time one of us went to get the door there was a Valentine's card there for us. It was so cute! Dad still tries to get all of us girls a Valentine's Day card from him and he does it in some special way. Thank you Dad for being such a strong, loving man who treats my mother the way a woman should be treated. You set such a great example of the type of man we should want and I'm lucky to have married a man like you!! Happy Birthday, Dad!!

HaPPy mOTheR's DAy!!

2009-05-09T14:55:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to wish all the women in my life a "Happy Mother's Day!" Women rule the world! Thanks to my mom for being an example of Christlike, unconditional love and for showing me that it's okay to be a strong woman. My mom is kind and fun and always thinks the best of everyone. She is selfless with her time, energy and yes, money. I don't know how she puts up with all of us, but she does it with a smile and without complaining. I wish I was more like her in so many ways. Mom, you're the best. I love you!

Ashlynn's Tea Party

2009-05-08T16:35:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite video of Ash. It just makes me smile and laugh. This was taken a little while ago, but I thought I would post it now 'cuz it just makes me happy. This is her first tea party here at Grammy's house and she is loving it. She drank water for hours even though her little hands were so cold and she was sopping wet!

BOOBS & OPRAH

2009-05-08T12:38:00.000-07:00

For those of you who haven't seen the show on Oprah about getting the right bra, you are definately missing out!! I have always just gone to Wal-Mart and bought the cheapest bra I could find. When I was younger, perkier and thinner this didn't matter too much, but since I've gone through puberty in the last few years (nevermind getting older and chubbier), this doesn't work anymore!

I finally gave in and decided to spend the money and get a good bra. I went to Dillards and they have "professional" bra fitters (they have official red coats and everything). So, I get fitted for my bra, determined to spend whatever it takes to get the girls up where they are supposed to be, and I almost passed out when the cute little bra fitter told me what size I needed. No wonder I had boob issues. I was nowhere near the right bra size. I'm not going to reveal that size here, but let's just say that it's much larger than I thought, which for most women would be good news, but I don't like having big boobs. They just make me feel fat!

Anyway, I've been a new woman since getting my new bra. It wasn't even that expensive; only $36.00. I feel so much better though, and I think I look like I've lost a little weight since my boobs are no longer laying down on my waist. Kim, Leah , my mom and one niece (I won't divulge her name 'cuz she's a teenage girl and it might embarrass her) have also gone and gotten fitted and they too swear by it. Their experience was much the same in that they were bigger than they thought they were in the cup size. The lady at Dillards said most women make the mistake of buying their bra larger around and too small in the cup. Soooooo, I thought I would share this experience with all the women out there who have boob and bra issues. Oprah is right! We deserve to have the best bra for us, even if it does cost a little more than $9.99 at Wal-Mart! : )

Easter Sweeties

2009-05-08T12:28:00.001-07:00

Always ready to pose, Ashlynn is ready for her Easter portrait.

2009-05-08T12:25:00.000-07:00

Watch ya got Bryn?? Talk about Easter cutie-pies - T and Bryn! : )

2009-05-08T12:21:00.000-07:00

Sweet, little Leila and big brother Weston on Easter. What did the Easter Bunny bring you guys??

The 3 Stooges? LOL!

2009-04-24T18:21:00.000-07:00

All of us needed to get glasses about the same time and we all ended up picking out almost the very same pair...so funny, or we just have good taste. : ) Not only are we beautiful, but we all have the same talent too! : )

Grandma Barney

2009-03-21T10:51:00.001-07:00

Dear, sweet grandma passed away at approximately 11:00 a.m. on March 19, 2009. I know that she is in heaven now celebrating with grampa, her parents, her sisters, a few grandchildren and all of the people she knew and loved. She's in a better place now and I know I will see her again someday.

Thank you grandma for EVERYTHING! You loved unselfishly and unconditionally and you taught me what it is to be an AWESOME woman! I can't wait to see you again.

FAMILIES ARE FOREVER!!!!

My Dear, Sweet Grandma

2009-03-16T00:02:00.001-07:00

This is is my dad's mom, my sweet Grandma Barney. She is the best person I know - never talks bad about anyone and loves her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and even great, great grandchildren fiercely. She is in her late 80's and she still tries to go to as many special events for her grandchildren as she can. She was just here with us for Thanksgiving.

Two weeks ago she fell outside getting her mail and broke her hip. Luckily, a passerby found her (she lives alone) and called 911. She has been in the hospital for two weeks and has gotten progressively worse. She seems to have dementia and doesn't even recognize her children. It's so so sad and I have been in denial, thinking she was still going to come out of it. She is such a strong woman! I guess she is being released on Wednesday and basically going home to die. This makes me sadder than I can tell you. The only thing that is neat about it is that she was born in the bedroom she still sleeps in and it sounds like she will die there too.

Grandma always made me feel like I was the favorite, even though I'm sure she made all of her grandkids feel that way. I was the first grandchild so I'm sure she really does love me the best...ha ha. I got my love of Coke from her (she used to sneek me glasses of it when my parents weren't looking), my love of black licorice, she taught me to tie quilts, and I got my fierce love of my family and grandchildren from her. I will miss her so much and I'm still hoping for a miracle. She isn't really recognizing anyone right now, but if I could I would tell her how much I love her and how much she has influenced my life. I hope that I can be half the grandma she was to me. I love you grandma!

Love,

Kirsten

P.S. She made me laugh so hard once 'cuz she told me she thought Dick Cheney was sexy!! :)

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY EMILY AND BRIAN!!!

2009-03-13T12:47:00.000-07:00

Even after five years of marriage they can't seem to keep their hands (or lips) off of each other. Maybe that's why they have three kids...LOL.

My Two Cowboys!

2009-03-10T16:17:00.001-07:00

Taidan on his second birthday. Gramma Kiki and Grampa Ric got him his cowboy outfit and accessories. He LOVES to play dress up. Weston also loves to dress up and even has his own cowboy hat and boots. Now we just need to get them each a pony.

A Day at the Park in DECEMBER!!

2009-03-10T13:07:00.000-07:00

Emily, Brian and kids were here in December and we went to the park before we went up the mountain to cut down a tree for gramma and grampa's house. We had tons of fun and luckily, it was pretty warm. Brynlee loved being in the swing. I think this was the first time for her.

Bryn and mom Emily hamming it up for the camera.

Taidan rocked the rock wall. You go T!

Ash doing her model pose. Everything she did she kept yelling, "Gramma, take a picture of me!"

Through Snow, Sleet and Hail We Will Prevail!

2009-03-10T12:23:00.000-07:00

We're like the postman. We won't let anything keep us from getting to our grandkids for a visit. This was one hairy trip, but it was so worth it to see our babies. This is in Vail where we stopped for a gourmet meal at McDonalds...ha, ha!! Good thing Ric learned to drive in Alaska so he knew the tricks of driving in so much snow. I always feel safe with him.

My Sister-in-Law...My Friend!

2009-02-24T18:23:00.001-08:00

Brenda, who is married to Kevin (Ric's youngest brother), and me at her house in December '08. Isn't it great when you actually like your in-laws?? :) I not only LIKE her, but i LOVE her to pieces. She is one of the main things I miss about living in Colorado. She is the best sister-in-law EVER, an awesome mom, beautiful, tons of fun and HILARIOUS !!! I love ya Brenda!!

Grandma Carol and Two of Her Boys

2009-02-24T18:07:00.000-08:00

This is Carol, Ric's mom. Ric is the oldest and her most favorite son (ha, ha). Aren't they cute?

Kevin is on the left and he's the baby. I'm sure he thinks he's Carol's favorite...ha, ha. This picture was taken at Kevin and Brenda's house in Greeley right after Christmas '08. Grandma lives in Ferndale, WA, near Becky and Vince and family and was visiting Brenda, Kevin and fam just like us.

ANYONE NEED A PHOTOGRAPHER??

2009-02-24T16:58:00.000-08:00

Ashlynn, who is 3, took this picture of me while she was strapped in the way back of the van in her carseat. She loves using gramma's camera and taking pictures. She may have a future in photography, huh?? She did pretty well even considering her subject...ha, ha.

GRAMMA, QUIT COPYING ME!!

2009-02-18T19:44:00.000-08:00

First pic is of me and Weston. We have lots of fun taking our own picture and making silly faces. He is my cute, cute boy who gives the best hugs in the world! The second pic is of me and Leila. She is so DANG CUTE!!!!!! Leila is trying to be so dainty with just one finger, but of course I must be an overachiever and shove all of them into my big mouth!!!! I'll probably be 90 years old trying to get the grandbabies to make faces with me. :)

Our Personal Sylist

2009-02-18T17:21:00.001-08:00

Ashlynn loves to do hair. She uses her pretty Disney princess clips and never skimps on how many she uses. What's funny is that Ash doesn't like to have her hair any way but down with no accessories (because she likes to have it "blow" when she runs), but she loves to put stuff in everyone else's hair. She's always very careful to make sure she doesn't pull your hair or hurt you. Thanks for doing such a great job on my hair Ash!

2009-02-18T17:02:00.000-08:00

Taidan helps Grampa with his drink while Ash puts princess clips in Grampa's hair. Ash LOVES anything princess. Doesn't he look so handsome? Ash and T are such a team.

2009-02-18T16:44:00.000-08:00

Taidan is Ash's assistant and loves to help her.

2009-02-18T16:31:00.000-08:00

Brynlee distracts Grampa while Ash puts on the finishing touches.

GOT MILK?

2009-02-18T15:22:00.000-08:00

In my quest to rid my body of its extra organs (tonsils and adnoids when I was 8; ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus and cervix, May, 2005; and gall bladder, December, 2007), I had my thyroid removed on Monday, February 9th, 2009. I have had a hypothyroid disease called Hashimoto's for about the last 10 years, which is when your body treats your thyroid as a foreign object and it attacks it. My thyroid was basically dead and didn't do what it was supposed to be doing and it was quite large and caused me problems with swallowing. Like Oprah, I also like to blame it for my less than bathing suit ready figure...ha, ha.

Anyway, true to form, the results were not what was expected. I was in the hospital for two days and when I was released my calcium level had dropped below normal but I guess they expect that for a little while and usually calcium supplements remedy it. So, I go home and the next day I wake up and I have severe tingling in my arms and legs and my face, hands and feet are cramping. It was the weirdest feeling. Imagine having a charie horse in your face!!

Luckily, my private nurse Ric was home with me and he started taking my vitals and making notes about what was happening. He told me I was fine and that he would just call the surgeon for a precaution. Sweet thing at least tried to act casual but soon I heard him calling the surgeon's office and saying that he was bringing me in this minute and I could kind of hear a little bit of panic in his voice. Ric is always so calm that hearing that panic in his voice totally freaked me out.

All the way to the surgeon's office he assured me everthing was fine and he just wanted the dr. to take a look at me. Well, the dr. also acted a little too casually and sent me immediately over to the iv clinic, and they drew my blood I was given two bags of calcium through an iv. M calcium level was severely low. The next day Ric told me that since the crisis was over that it had been a serious situation and he had been truly worried for me. I told him he didn't hide it as well as he thought he did, but I appreciated that he tried. :)

Since that day I go every day to the iv clinic and spend five to six hours getting calcium through an iv. My levels had continued to stay low, but yesterday it finally went up a little even though it was still not enough. It's finally progress though...YAY!!!! Hopefully, when they draw my blood and test it tomorrow my calcium will have at least stayed the same and hopefully, gone up a little bit. At least I finally see a small light at the end of the tunnel. Spending my days hooked to an iv is not my idea of fun!

So...who knew that calcium was such a big deal. I didn't, that's for sure. If I heard someone was low on clacium I would tell them to go get a glass of milk...ha, ha. I am grateful to my Heavenly Father for watching over me this last week and blessing me with a loving, kind husband who has taken such great care of me and who honors his priesthood and was able to give me blessings when I needed them. Things could have turned out much worse, but I have been truly blessed. Thanks to my family and everyone else who has expressed their concern. Thanks mom and dad for the flowers and Kim and Syd for the yummy dinner and visit at the hospital. I am on my way to getting better. I just like to take the long road. Drink your milk everyone, ha, ha!

I AM SO, SO FRUSTRATED!!!!!

2009-01-19T12:04:00.000-08:00

Don't give me a weapon 'cuz I might go postal on somebody. I AM SO SICK OF DR.'S AND THEIR STUPID TESTS THAT ONLY COST ME MONEY AND DON'T DO ANYTHING FOR ME!!!!!!!!!! I just got back from having an EEG (whatever that means). The tech said it's like an EKG for your brain. Anyway...I could only have two hours of sleep last night, no caffiene, no sugar, no nothing. So I get there and they plug 24 wires to my head, make me lay down on a steel hard table with a hard pillow, and I am supposed to lay down and go to sleep. ARE THEY KIDDING ME??? I can't sleep in my dark, quiet bedroom. How am I supposed to sleep with two people sitting there, about a foot away from me, waiting for me to fall asleep, 24 wires coming out of my head, strobe lights trying to cause me to have a seizure and all of the noise of a busy working hospital outside my door??? I mean, COME ON. That's why I am having the stinkin' test. I CAN'T SLEEP!!!!!!! So, after a couple hours of this (plus I had to hyperventilate myself by breathing in and out as fast as I could for 3 straight minutes. I thought I was going to puke.) I AM STILL NOT ASLEEP. They finally give up and tell me that because I never went to sleep the test is basically a wash. "So do I have to pay for it still?" I ask. And of course we all know the answer to this. I was supposed to have an MRI this afternoon, but I might just murder all of the technicians so I cancelled it. Why can't some doctor somewhere help me???? ARRRGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHH!!! Thanks for listening. I feel better (but still tired). :)

WE ARE FAMILY...I GOT ALL MY SISTERS WITH ME!

2009-01-18T13:27:00.001-08:00

My sisters and my mom. From left to right is Kim; my mom; me; Leah; Brooke; and Mary Beth. My brother Rhett is in the next picture. This picture was taken at my Dad's 10th year anniversay dinner for the Huntsman Senior Games. It's his dream job and he loves it.

For those of you who don't know I'm the oldest, then Rhett, Kim, Mary Beth, Leah and then our baby sis, Brooke. We all basically look alike and would be by each other's side in a minute. I'm so grateful for the wonderful family I have.

P.S. We actually won a talent show by dressing up as a singing group and singing the song "We Are Family." We rocked it out. LOL

2009-01-18T13:17:00.000-08:00

My brother Rhett (yes, he's named after Rhett Butler from Gone With the Wind) has suffered (ha, ha) his whole life with five sisters who are filled with estrogen. Luckily, he is my mom and dad's favorite. :) This is Rhett with with our nephew (Kim's), Jared. Don't Rhett and Jared look alike?

2009-01-18T13:13:00.000-08:00

Some women can't look as hot as us when they are cooking Thanksgiving dinner, but oh yeah, us Barney girls know how to do it!!

I COME FROM THESE LOINS...Explains A Lot, HUH??

2009-01-16T16:15:00.000-08:00

These are my silly but wonderful parents. My mom Melinda is a juvenile probation officer and my dad is the sports director for the Huntsman World Sentior Games, which are the olympics for 50 and over. They are awesome parents and I think this picture (taken at my mom's birthday picture) is showing what they think about their six kids...ha, ha!

2009-01-16T16:12:00.000-08:00

This picture was taken at my mom's birthday party. These two become more and more alike the longer they are married...LOL.

What Old People Do For Fun

2009-01-16T14:31:00.001-08:00

Ric and I were accidently locked out of Amber's house so while we were waiting for her to get home we layed on the grass and took pictures of ourselves. We were laughing so hard and the neighbors were probably ready to call the police, but thankfully Amber arrived quickly. I would hate to imagine what we would have done if she had taken a long time. LOL

Amber and Jake's Adorable Family

2009-01-16T13:36:00.000-08:00

From l to r...Weston, my first grandson; Jake, the best husband I could have asked for for Amber; Leila, my second granddaughter; and Amber, my beautiful daughter. I love you guys all so much and you are all much more than just good looking. :) You are all loving, smart and funny. Jake, you are such a hard worker. You're a FANTASTIC cook. And, you are hilarious. Thanks for taking such good care of my daughter and grandkids. I love you. Amber, you too are very smart, a wonderful daughter, and a generous person. You are also a great mom. I love you. Thanks for giving me two of the best grandkids a grandma could ask for. Weston and Leila, you are the light of my life!!!!! Gramma loves you soooooooo much!!

I have to give credit to my personal photographer and adopted daughter :), Emily Clark. My family are of course cute, cute subjects, but Emily is so talented too. I love you Emily. Thanks for taking all of these beautiful pictures that my family and I will have forever. You are the best!! Be sure to look on Emily's website and blog at www.winkfotos.com. She's the best photographer EVER!!

2009-01-16T13:20:00.000-08:00

This is my newest favorite picture of Weston and Leila. I hope they always love each other and get along as much as they do now. Sweet, sweet, sweet.

2009-01-16T13:16:00.000-08:00

This picture was taken at my school. I think it's such a GREAT picture.

2009-01-16T13:08:00.000-08:00

Weston is one of the two sweetest boys EVER (Taidan is pretty sweet too. I can't be biased when it comes to the grandkids)!! He is such a great big brother. He gives the best hugs. And he loves any word if you put the word "ball" after it. He giggles like crazy. :)

2009-01-16T13:03:00.000-08:00

My sweet Leila Bug. I adore her and her cute little legs especially.

2009-01-16T12:59:00.000-08:00

I think this picture is soooo cute. Still in love after all of these years...ha, ha.

My wacky neice, Sydney

2009-01-06T16:26:00.000-08:00

Sydney is introducing the new shoulder dance. It's what all the kids are doing these days...LOL!!

My Wonder Woman

2009-01-04T18:32:00.000-08:00

This is my beautiful sister-in-law, Brenda Martin. In this precious picture she is pregnant with her sixth child, Ammon. Sweet Ammon was afflicted with trisomy 18, a disease that affects the 18th chromosome. These babies don't often make it to full-term and if they do they usually don't live long after (there was a baby boy that was featured on Oprah who lived 99 days after he was born, which is very uncommon). Even though Ammon's life was short he definately served his mission before he went back to his Heavenly Father. He has two loving parents, Kevin and Brenda; three brothers, Kohl, Ben and Luke; and two sisters, Michaela and Alexandra.

Ammon almost made it to full-term. He went back to his Father in Heaven a a little more than a week before his due date. Brenda delivered him on Saturday, December 20, 2008. He was a sweet, beautiful baby boy who looked like his other brothers and sisters. He had a beautiful "farewell" on Saturday December 27, 2008.

Ammon's mission was to bring people back to our Heavenly Father. This tiny missionary did so much for so many, including his mom, dad, brothers, and sisters, and extended family. And even people we may not know about about yet. The local paper did several articles on Ammon's condition and the family's faith and knowledge that they will see him again, that families are forever, and that even through our trials Heavenly Father is there blessing us. The articles were so amazing and I'm sure that many who read them were spiritually strengthened, especially the reporter who wrote them. The family, including the kids, had many people asking them about Ammon and their beliefs after the articles were written.

The family was so strong, especially Brenda. Brenda wrote Ammon's story down and wrote a tribute to Ammon that she recorded and was played at his farewell. It was so sweet and loving. Brenda really knows how to write things down and express her feelings. I wish I had her gift. I want Brenda to know how much strength she gave me. How her example of faith, instead of bitterness amazed me and how her love of our Heavenly Father grew instead of faltered. There were many time when we would talk on the phone or be together that she was the one comforting me. She is an amazing woman and I want to thank her for strengthening my testimony and showing me what a true wonder woman is. I love and adore you Brenda and I can't wait until we are back together with Ammon forever.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-01-02T15:11:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to wish you ll a very, very happy New Year. You all mean so much to me and I feel so blessed for this last year and the time I spent with my family and friends. I have received many tender mercies and I know my Father in Heaven watches over me every second of every day and he hears and answers my prayers. I am so grateful for my husband, my children, my grandkids, and my extended family and friends. You all play a very special role in my life and I wish you the happiest, most properous and safe New Year!!! I'm looking forward to 2009 and I'm hoping I get to spend more time with all of you. Love you!!!

TWILIGHT TWEENERS and some creeper women who love vampires!

2009-01-02T14:50:00.000-08:00

Like almost everyone else, I love the Twilight book series. I read the first three books in three days (it took me a little longer to finish Breaking Dawn...not sure why). I had mixed feelings about the movie, but of course I was going to see it. I just decided I would go see it and let it stand on its own and not compare it to the book (movies always let me down when compared to the book). So, me; mysister, Kim; niece, Sydney; niece, Allie; neice, BreeAnn (my brother's daughter); and my cousin-in-law Heather (Dave Barney's wife) went the day after it opened. We had our shirts and our goodie bags and we all really enjoyed it. I felt a little bit like a creeper when I thought Edward was cute, but oh well. Did you guys know Eric was Asian? Weird huh? :)

2009-01-02T14:31:00.000-08:00

My beautiful sister, Kim, and her daughters, Sydney and Allie. If you look close you can see Eward and Bella in the back of them in the poster.

2009-01-02T14:24:00.000-08:00

I made me and friends and family some Twilight t-shirts to wear to the movie. All of the shirts were pro Edward, except for my sweet little friend, Emily Clark (Allie also likes Jacob, but she had to settle for an Edward shirt...sorry Al." Emily Clark's said, "Jacob Groupie" on the front and "I Run with Wolves" on the back and the rest of ours said, "Edward Groupie" on the front (with a heart and blood dripping off of the heart) and "Bite Me" on the back. Am I pathetic or what?

BOYS ARE FUNNY :)

2009-01-02T14:06:00.000-08:00

These are three of my SILLY but adorable nephews. Somehow, they got the crazy idea to put underwear (I'm pretty sure they were clean) on their heads and be superheros (they called themselves the "Super Underwear Men)." Their mission is to save people who wear anything other than superhero underwear...LOL. They thought they were very funny and the more we all laughed the more they did it. L to R is Luke, Jared and Spencer.

Luke and Jared reveal their identities...ha, ha.

The Old and the New

2009-01-02T13:21:00.001-08:00

I take soooo many pictures and I can't seem to keep up, so I will be posting both old and new events and pics. Hopefully, it doesn't confuse people (it confuses me, but that's nothing new LOL).

UGH!!!!

2009-01-02T11:17:00.000-08:00

Don't you just HATE it when you can't find something you need (the fact that I walked in the other room to get it and actually remembered that's what I was looking for is a feat in its self!!) and you CAN'T FIND IT??? Drives me crazy. I got the cd of Amber's family's new pictures and I can't find them right now so I can add them to my blog. My sweet, dear husband cleaned up the office yesterday and now I don't know where they are. BUMMER!!!!! I will post them as soon as I find them (don't worry Amber, I love you just as much as your sister...ha, ha). They are all really cute and thank you everyone for indulging me by looking at all my pictures ('course I really don't know if anyone is looking at them...LOL).

Emily and Brian's sweet family...I have to admit I ADORE my sweet, little grandkids (Emily and Brian too)

2008-12-23T17:14:00.000-08:00

More pictures that my wonderful, adoptive daughter Emily Clark took in September '08. I can't believe Emily is so grownup and has such a beautiful family. Thanks Emily and Brian for some of my amazing grandbabies!

2008-12-23T17:01:00.000-08:00

Our first grandaughter, Ashlynn Paige. She is our light and our joy and the best part is she adores her gramma and grampa. She even sleeps with the most of the time when she comes to visit us. We love you sweet pea!!!

2008-12-23T16:37:00.000-08:00

My sweet, little Taidan Tater Tot. He is such a good brother to his sisters and a good son and grandson. I'm so blessed that all of my grandkids are so sweet and that Taidan and Weston, the only boys are just as sweet (maybe even more) than the girls. I love you Taters!

2008-12-23T16:31:00.000-08:00

Sweet, sweet Brynlee Marie at 2 months.

Intoducing my psuedo grandson!

2008-12-23T15:31:00.001-08:00

This is me and Keaton. I took this picture myself so obviuosly I got more of me than him (i really didn't do it on purpose). Keaton is the little boy I babysit and he makes me happy and we have fun together. He's a wonderful baby and I have adopted him as one of my grandsons. Anyway, he helps me be sane and to miss my other grandkids a little less. He's my little buddy. His birthday is March 31, 2009 and he will be a whole year old. Love you Keaton!!!

2008-12-23T15:22:00.000-08:00

Sweet Keaton trying to learn how to play the piano. He is such a great kid!!

Winner of the Cutest Legs in the Universe!! :)

2008-11-21T22:57:00.000-08:00

When are cute, chubby legs no longer cute??

2008-11-21T22:55:00.000-08:00

Don't you just want to pinch her little cheeks and legs? So CUTE!

2008-11-21T22:46:00.000-08:00

Okay, this is what I look like naked. How come she looks so much cuter??

One of the Cutest Boys Ever!!!!

2008-11-21T22:24:00.000-08:00

Dress ups are not just for little girls. Weston loves to dig in Gramma's dress up box and dress in all the costumes. He likes to wear the fire hat and policeman hat, but he also enjoys the pretty, cute stuff. Real men wear wings.

2008-11-21T22:19:00.000-08:00

He's so gangsta...ha, ha. Weston, you look good in anything!!! Gramma loves you so much.

I'm a Little Teapot...

2008-11-21T21:53:00.000-08:00

I forgot to put this picture with the other's for Ash's 3rd birthday. This is the tea set Gramma Kiki and Grampa Ric bought for her. Ashlynn (Taidan too) LOVES tea sets and having tea parties. I love and collect tea pots and tea sets and I'm thrilled that Ash loves them too (and Taidan). Having tea parties will be something special that I will do with all my granddaughters and I'm hoping Leila and Brynlee will love them as much as me and Ash. Of course any of the grandsons are invited too. Tea parties aren't just for girls anymore!

This is Thriller...

2008-11-18T15:53:00.000-08:00

Leah and me at Thriller. We are SO COOL!!!!! Obviously, Leah is a witch (no, she doesn't usually wear that red lipstick, ha, ha) and my costume was my fake eye lashes. I go all out!

2008-11-18T15:47:00.000-08:00

On Halloween my mom, my sister, Kim (1st on the right), sisters, Leah and Brooke, my neices, Allie (2nd from the right) and Sydney, my neice BreeAnn (Rhett's) (3rd from the right), BreeAnn's then boyfriend and me all went to Thriller at Tuachan. It was soooooo good.

2008-11-18T15:44:00.001-08:00

Sydney as Alice in Wonderland and her friend Fantasia...no not the Fantasia who won Amberican Idol...DUH!!

2008-11-18T15:42:00.000-08:00

Brooke and my mom. Brooke, you are SO SCAREY!!!!

2008-11-18T15:40:00.001-08:00

My sisters, Brooke (Medusa) and Leah (a happy witch). They are SO into Halloween.

2008-11-18T15:36:00.001-08:00

My sister, Leah, and my cute neice, Sydney. Oh yeah, that scarey guy in back of them is my dad. :)

2008-11-18T15:33:00.001-08:00

Summer (Brooke's) is one unhappy princess. She was getting mad at all of us 'cuz we were taking too long and she wanted to go trick or treating.

Now That's a Bruise I Can Be Proud Of!

2008-11-18T14:25:00.000-08:00

Last month I got the great idea to wrestle with my sister, Brooke, who is 16 years younger than me, and I obviously lost. I was doing pretty well and then Brooke got a burst of energy and picked me up and slammed me on the couch, but I fell on the edge where the wood frame is. Everyone kept yelling for me to stop wrestling 'cuz I was going to get hurt, but that hurt my pride so I kept going, and then when I got hurt I had to pretend it didn't happen 'cuz I didn't want everyone else to be right. When I got home and saw what it looked like I freaked and I showed Ric and he was mad at me for wrestling in the first place and he said I needed to go to the doctor 'cuz it could turn into a blood clot and kill me...that was comforting. The doctor said it was the worst hematoma he had ever seen on someone who hadn't been in a terrible car accident. It wasn't just bruised, it had knots all in it too. Anyway, I'm pretty proud of this hematoma 'cuz I definately earned it!!! Getting old SUCKS though!!!

OK...WHO ARE THE PEOPLE VOTING AGAINST RIC'S BEARD??? SHOW YOURSELVES...

2008-11-18T14:05:00.000-08:00

For the first 15 years of our marriage Ric wanted to grow a beard and I wouldn't let him (wouldn't is a strong word). Then he grew one about four years ago and I LOVED it. I thought he looked so SEXY!! Now he won't grow one back 'cuz he thinks he should be clean shaven for his patients. WHO IS MORE IMPORTANT?...That's ME!!!! ;)

Ashlynn's Fairy Princess 3rd Birthday Party

2008-11-17T20:50:00.001-08:00

Part of the activities that were at Ash's party was face painting. All the kids got their face's painted and looked so cute.

2008-11-17T20:46:00.000-08:00

Ashlynn's birthday is on Halloween, but Emily always has a birthday party for her before, and it usually has a different theme than Halloween. Ashlynn looks so beautiful as she dances around among the balloons in her pretty fairy princess costume. Emily always does such cute stuff for her kids parties and goes all out. She is a great mom. I love you Ash (and your mommy too)!! You're still my little sweet pea.

2008-11-17T20:39:00.000-08:00

This is my favorite picture of Brynlee EVER!! She looks so adorable in her fairy princess costume for Ash's birthday. Hugs and kisses Brynlee.

Lovely Leila Bug and Beautiful Brynlee Boo on Their Blessing Day - September 7, 2008

2008-11-17T10:46:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to watch these two grow up together. They are going to be such good friends and cousins. I love them sooooooo much.

2008-11-17T10:42:00.001-08:00

Proud Gramma and Grampa with Weston and Leila.

2008-11-17T10:38:00.000-08:00

Look how happy all the Pierces look. I'm so proud of my beautiful daughter, Amber; her husband, Jake; and of course my wonderful Weston and Leila. I love you guys!

*I'm not sure why I didn't get a picture of Emily and family...sorry honey!! I'm proud of you guys too.

2008-11-17T10:34:00.000-08:00

Grandma LiAnn made the girls' beautiful dresses.