Nutty Nielsen's

Beefy Bouquet-FATHER'S DAY

2011-06-02T07:00:00.002-06:00

I have been working on these for Father's Day. My ad goes out in the Home town Value magazine today. I'm kind of nervous because it goes into 30,000 homes. I hope it does well. I have these and more at www.sweettreatgifts.com if you want to see the others I have been working on.

Happy Father's Day to all you dads out there.

Hippity Hoppity Easter's On It's Way

2011-04-12T07:19:00.004-06:00

Easter is right around the corner and we have been busy making Easter baskets. There is a spring show coming up this weekend so we are trying to get enough made to sell. We still need to make more sunflowers and roses but this was the start. The colors make me excited for spring. Since it snowed here last weekend I can't wait for spring. Happy Easter to all. Check out the website for more ideas www.sweettreatgifts.com

Tanner Turns 14!

2011-03-11T07:43:00.004-07:00

Guess who's 14? It's my baby boy Tanner. Well he is really not much of a baby anymore. He is taller than I and smarter than I but that's because he is a teenager. So what do I know.
We are very proud of the way Tanner is growing up. He is a good student and a joy to be around (well most of the time). He recently passed his hunter safety test and can't wait to go hunting. In the picture below you will see he already got a squirrel. Well lets just say if you kill it you eat it and he did. GROSS!!! But what do I expect, I'm raising boys.

Tanner was born on a Tuesday very early at 3:05am weighting in at 8lbs 6oz, and has not stopped growing since. His last football cleat we bought was a size 10. He continues to get straight A's in school and asks a lot of questions that Wayne and I don't know the answers to. Our answers are usually "Ask Google".

Happy Happy Birthday Tan Man!!!!

My Makeover

2011-02-28T08:30:00.005-07:00

Don't laugh! This is what I look like. Or did, it looks a little better now. I recently had all 4 of my Wisdom teeth removed. They were not causing too much trouble just shifting my teeth crooked. The top were already in the the bottom were in the jaw so some bone had to be removed along with the teeth.
Let's just say it has not been pleasant. I will never, never, ever do anything like this again. Not only because I can't but because it has been the worse thing ever. I really would rather have a kidney stone or another baby that is how bad it has been.
It has only been 1 1/2 weeks, no infection but 1 dry socket. My cheeks are still swollen and I'm looking forward to see my double chin again someday. Also looking forward to eating food with a crunch.
Just thought you would like to see what I paid to have done to me!!! Have a great day!

Valentine Bouquet

2011-02-01T06:57:00.004-07:00

Well, here are some of the bouquets I have been working on for the upcoming holiday. I can't wait. This coming Saturday my business will be in the Cache Valley Magazine that goes to over 17000 homes. It's a chance to see if my business will take off from here or if I am just dreaming. It has taken over my Living room and the kids call it the candy room. It's hard to keep them out of there. This one is my favorite. It has all the best candy in it. From peanut butter hearts to butterfingers. Lots of Chocolate!!!

I'm nuts about you- is for the sweetheart that doesn't need a lot of candy but wants to know they are loved.

Beefy Bouquet. This is how I started out last year. It's loaded with beef jerky and nuts with some chocolate bars. A favorite with the guys.

Puppy love. For the young at heart.

The Valentine Medley- For those who are not sure which one to get just get a little of everything.

For these and more check out our website www.sweettreatgifts.com

Happy Valentines Day!!!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-07T08:02:00.004-07:00

Christmas morning is just as fun as it was years ago at the Nielsen home. The boys still get up early but instead of waking up mom and dad they watch SpongeBob and wait until the agree time to come and ponce upon us and tell us that it's time to open presents. This year was fun. We all met under the tree and opened gifts and admired each one. The years get harder as the boys get older. More thought has to go into the gift and a little more money. Needless to say I don't think they were disappointed. They both received new hiking backpacks for scouts and rip sticks. Wii games and clothes. Things that were needed and a few wanted. We also had the opportunity to teach them more about giving. Our community suffered the loss of 2 small boys and children who were going without. We tried to teach them that others had nothing and sometimes its the small things that matter. Like shoes or food. We don't need a lot of things to make us happy, we just need to be grateful for the things we do have. Tyler's new game. It's a fun memory game that you throw discs under in correct order.

Tanner gave mom new penguins slippers. They match the penguins pants.

Tanner got new goggles for snowboarding or 4-wheeling.

If you ever have a chance to come over, make sure you see us play this game. So fun and funny to watch.

Hope your holidays were filled with love and support from your families.

Babinsky Christmas Eve Party

2011-01-07T07:25:00.006-07:00

Wayne with Santa and Mrs. Claus

Tanner- Can't figure out how Santa knew so much about him.

Nephew- Little Easton- "Come on dude just give me the Candy Cane and gift and get me out of here".

Tyler- "I'm so embarrassed."

For as long as I can remember the "Babinksy Family" has always had a party and invited Santa. This year was no different except we went. I have not gone since Tanner was 1. It was so good to see all the family that was there. We had some yummy food and snacks and Santa was a big hit. All the kids had fun and because it was Christmas Eve they were so excited. A great time was had by all.

This is my Pap pap. He is truly the nicest man I have ever met.

My niece Katie. She doesn't look too sure about Santa.

Now Malakai, he walked right up to him, sat on his lap and got his candy cane and present. He was so cute. Couldn't get the sucky thing out of his mouth though.

Here is my brother Ryan, he just got his jaw wired shut from play Rugby. When will he ever learn?

Little Raiyah waiting for her turn to be called up to Santa.

And Wayne and I just taking it all in. Enjoying the holidays. Hope it was a Merry one to all.

The Tree and other Activities

2010-12-14T07:24:00.002-07:00

Ok, so no I not a Scrooge or a Grinch but I don't like decorating for the holidays. I love it when it's all done but during the time it really stresses me out. It just seems like life is in a mess, with boxes everywhere and everyone running many different places. This could go back to my childhood when my mom did the tree by herself, the lights the ornaments, everything. So I now let everyone do it and of course it's not my way so it can be a bit tense at times. But it is a lot of fun looking at all the ornaments, remembering when we got them and how old the boys were when they received them.
I also get them a ornament each year at this time. This year I did have a huge awaking from Tanner about this subject though. We went to do some shopping and I told him to pick out an ornament. He looked and looked, if fact we looked at several stores and couldn't find one he liked. I asked him why he couldn't just pick one and he tells me. "Mom every year you put some thought into our ornament that represents us that year. It's just not the same." Oh I felt horrible and he was right. This year I just wanted to hurry through it and I thought nobody would notice but I was WRONG. So the next week I went shopping again and even had to order one but it is done and they were happy. What a tradition I have started with our little family, things that I thought didn't matter really did. Thanks Tanner for reminding me. He we are decorating the tree. Yes, Tanner owns shirts but he is to cool to wear them in the winter.

Tanner and his ESPN Ornament.

Tyler and his Santa watching TV ornament.

I got 3 turtles. Of course I picked mine out. Otherwise I wouldn't get one.

Wayne's was a Yellow 4-wheeler made of clay, so cute.

Cornucopia

2010-11-16T07:13:00.004-07:00

This is my new latest idea. My business is really taking off this season. I have done one craft show last weekend and one more the day after Thanksgiving in Logan called Novemberfest. I can't wait. I am getting busy with the holiday orders and it has been fun. I have not blogged for a while. It seems as if I need 3 more hours in a day to get all the things done that I need to. But I will keep trying and keep you informed.
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Check out my website for other pictures. http://www.sweettreatgifts.com/

I am....

2010-07-13T08:46:00.005-06:00

I am a mom. I smell of my choice of perfume or burnt dinner. My toe polish is half worn. Nails are uneven. Two of them are broken. I pretend to be glamorous by walking in high heels although they kill my feet. My hair is several months behind on seeing a salon. My diet (if you want to call it that) consists of Mt. Dew, daily medication and anything carb. I do laundry once a week because that is all I can handle and I always lose socks. The dishes are clean but still in the dishwasher, because I have not reminded my children to do their chores. My clothes are built for scrubbing floors on my knees, kids to wipe their noses on, stained from last weeks spaghetti dinner, and a bleach spot or two from using Comet on the kitchen sink. My exercise routine is ... well it use to be better. I'm skilled at book reports and last minute projects. I know how it feels to lose a child and to be told you can have no more. I know how to work the sprinkler system. I pull weeds and mow the lawn, when my kids can't. Don't mess with this girl when she knows what she wants. I love football and helping out with MC Youth Football. I love Young Women's after spending 16 years in Primary. I work in a Pharmacy so I don't overdose my kids with medication. I am in constant battle for the computer with the family. I have many great memories of the kids but forgotten them because I haven't written them down. I could change a tire on a bike AND car, but never have. I put air in the car tires. I don't sew real well, but can cross stitch. I can't cook, but can do what Better Crocker does in a box. I would love to have a garden but not the work. I am never late to church but always to work. I pray for my kids daily. I get choked up as I drop them off on their first day of school... even though one is in 8Th grade. My kids are not dressed to perfection. They've gone to bed dirty from playing in the ditch and sweating from riding bikes. I know all of the Sesame Street characters. I can speak a foreign language... taught by Dora. I am a chauffeur and drive hundreds of miles a week. I love being a mom. Wouldn't it trade it for anything in the world.

I borrowed this from Sarah and added my own. Now write yours and see what you are to your kids.

June and July Birthdays

2010-07-13T08:18:00.005-06:00

I have fallen way behind on my blogging. Way to much going on this summer so I am trying to catch up a little. We celebrated Wayne, Venessa and my mom's birthday one Sunday in July. We were able to have all the grandchildren there for a picture. That is a first. We held a BBQ in the heat but what do you expect in July. It was nice to get together and rest from work and enjoy the company.
Raiyah and Easton enjoying the chocolate cake. Grand kids being silly.

Mikey and his family, missing Carter, but a good picture of all of them.

Rayiah was in trouble so her little brother came to comfort, it was not well received. They are so cute I love it.

Katie and Easton

Easton- he is growing into such a cute little guy.

Tyler and mom- he looks like he wants to get away from me.

Birthday crew- Don't they look thrilled on turning a year older?

Summer Days

2010-07-13T07:34:00.003-06:00

Nothing says summer like spending it with family, lighting fireworks and playing a little soccer to celebrate the World Cup. Here we are lighting snakes. Wow look how cool they are to the kids. When I was a kid they were cool like this. Also when I was a kid the flower fireworks lasted a long time, now if you blink you will miss them. Or that is just how things change with age. Things that seem big when you are small are not so when you become bigger. Here is Ryan being Ryan. What ever- Tanner says!

Christian and Alex are here from California visiting and it's nice to have them around to play a little ball with.

Tanner must have done something wrong because he looked at me and said "What I didn't do it" a famous saying from him latley.

Hope all of your

Fun With Magnets

2010-07-13T07:26:00.004-06:00

Tyler and Matthew playing with the camera.

These boys make me laugh, thinking they are so cool.

When it's summer time the boys seemed to get a little bored. They didn't want to go outside, so they ended up in Tyler's room with these cool magnets the boys have. They moved in my old mattress and started hanging them from the light on the celling. It did take them an hour or so just messing around with them and got them out of my hair for a bit.

Rockport 2010

2010-06-04T08:18:00.003-06:00

Oh how I love to go camping and enjoy the Memorial Weekend. It's the first sign of Summer. We had a blast this camping trip. We hiked, fished, biked and went for a drive. It was with our good friends the Binghams whom we love to go with. They love to wake up late just like us and stay up late playing games, well in my old age I was in bed by Midnight every night. Haha
The weather was good, we didn't not get rained on except at night but we didn't care. The dog had to sleep in the trailer because she was growling at every animal out there. We were next to the river and the Binghams said the birds kept making noise all night. I never heard it but that could have been what the dog was going nuts over.
We ended up fishing at Smith and Moorehouse just up the road a bit. I don't think there are fish in Rockport, maybe if you had a boat. So we went over to Smith and Moorhouse and caught about 25 fish in the few hours we were there. It could have been more because I lost tract and it seems like every cast there was a fish. The boys had a great time and said they can't wait to go back in September. Tanner caught the biggest fish and he also caught the smallest. It was so funny to see him pull in this 5 inch fish. We all had a great laugh. Here is one of Wayne's smallest fish, Hey he was just happy to be catching some after sitting at Rockport all weekend long.

Here is my fish, well not exactly, I just reeled it in and Wayne wanted a picture. WoW I look scary.

Here is Karsyn and her friend Ashley catching their fish. These girls remind me what it was like to be a young girl. It also reminded me that I love having BOYS! All I can say is wow.

Here is Tanner's small fish. He is still so proud of it, but yes we threw it back to grow up so we can catch it in September.

The kids on the hike. It was only a mile but the higher we got the more snow there was. We were not prepared with boots and stuff but it was fun to do something active.

Kelly, Monica, Wayne, Karsyn and Ashley on the trial.

Kelly falling down the trail. I thought it was so funny. The kids kept sliding down but not Kelly he was going to walk down. Well he tried.

Boys goofing off as usual.

I have to tell ya about this bird. I had just cleaned the back window of our trailer. It is a fairly large window, which I love because it lets in so much light. Anyway this bird kept trying to fly right through the window. It tried for 3 hours or so. We would just watch it do this over and over again. Maybe I should have left the window dirty! That's what I get for trying to clean.

Hope your Memorial Day was wonderful also. Looking forward to Summer.

Weston's Wedding

2010-05-27T09:00:00.003-06:00

When I downloaded my pictures I realized I didn't take very many. And the ones I did take did not turn out very well. So here are just a very few. It was a good day for Weston and Kristen Jones. Married in the SLC Temple May 20,2010. It was beautiful with all the colors and dresses and such. A lot of time went into this wedding and it showed. So now my baby brother is married, it seems like yesterday I was changing his diapers and rocking him to sleep. Now he is married and has a life of his own. Congrats to the happy couple. I really liked this picture of Mikey and Venessa in front of the Temple.

Announcing the new Mr and Mrs Jones'

I love to go the the SLC temple. Such a beautiful place.

Breakfast of Champions 2010

2010-05-27T08:42:00.004-06:00

Here we are again with Tanner. He received another 4.0 in the 2009-2010 school year so he was honored at the school with the Breakfast of Champion awards. He received a nice letter from one of his favorite teachers, a Wheaties box with his picture on it and a gold medal. Way to go Tanner. He received 8 in a row 4.0 at this school. Next year is South Cache for 8-9Th grades. They grow way to fast. The girl sitting right behind him is a cute girl who he seems to like but won't admit it to anyone. She is a doctors daughter and he told me no worries he wants to be a doctor down at Primary Children's Hospital when he grows up. Once again he gets his smarts from his Father. Love you tons Tanner.

Putting in the back Yard

2010-05-27T08:25:00.003-06:00

Well it is about time. Yes we have lived in this house for 6 years and have not put in the back yard as of yet. But we are doing it now. Wayne and the boys have mapped out the sprinkler system and are trenching the ground. I am so sick of the mud being tracked through the house. With all the rain we have been blessed with, it has taken a while to get the yard going. But I do see a end in site. The weeds are loving the rain and hopefully we can get some more when the seed is down. So welcome spring and soon a back yard!

Tyler had a hard time with the tractor. First he was going way to fast then way to slow. Couldn't find a steady pace but he did get his line trenched.

Tanner loves helping dad do yard stuff. He is the first one to ask when dad gets home if they can go work on the yard. It saves me from all that nagging. lol It's great to have kids that can help out.

Father's Day Bouquets

2010-05-19T07:10:00.004-06:00

Here are some of the Bouquets I have been working on for Father's Day. Some of them turned out pretty well I think. Let me know what you think. Above: Red and Black Tools. Below: Handy man Tools

These are the tools I found. They are so cute and yummy of course.

I had to do another Beef Jerky bouquet. I think I will change out the bottom and the purple nuts then I will like it a little more.

And for the fisherman who's fish that always gets away, I have included that also. With some bobbers. Which is your fav?

Check out my web site www.sweettreatgifts.com

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-11T17:27:00.003-06:00

This past Mother's Day was really great. We started off the day going to 8:30am church and I received a Carmel apple. Oh it was so good. I had to teach the lesson in YW on genealogy and I was worried that the girls would tune me right out, but they liked it and looked through all the books I have and pictures it turned out nice. I even gave them candy roses, since one day they will be Mother's also.
Then we went to visit my Mother and Wayne's. We had nice visits and the weather was wonderful. It was so nice to get together and make memories. So Happy Mother's Day to all you Mother's out there. My brothers trying to hold mom up.

The grand boys, well some of them.

Wayne, Roger, Weston, Ryan, Mom and Mikey such a good picture.

A picture of my mom and I. I think she may look younger than I.

Heather, Kristen, Me, Mom and Venessa posing for picture.

Big Blue

2010-05-05T08:14:00.003-06:00

By looking at the title you probably thought this entry had something to do with the Utah State Aggies. Even though I never attend the university we are big supporters of the school. Big Blue is the mascot in case you were wondering.
Anyway, this is the biggest basket I have made thus far. It was for Big Bob and I called it Big Blue. It had 27 pieces of candy in all sizes and weighted a ton. He loves basketball so hence the ball on the front. This was fun to do but lots of work, it paid off because he did like it or so he said. He wouldn't tell me if he didn't anyway.

Happy 33rd Birthday BoB!

Mother's Day Ideas

2010-05-03T08:27:00.003-06:00

Mother's Day is this weekend. My it comes up fast. Here is a bouquet I made for a good friend of the family. If candy is not the thing you want check out her web site. She makes great jewelry. http://petalsoftjewelry.blogspot.com/ Her name is Susan and if I remember right she did the flowers at my wedding and my brothers. Very talented women. We use to live in the same ward when I was growing up. I am so glad we can still stay in touch. Another good thing for FB!

Just When I Thought.....

2010-04-23T11:07:00.003-06:00

...I had put too much money in a Flex Spending Account it happened.
It's funny just the other day I was thinking, "Wow, it's almost May and we have not had any major problems yet."
This has got to be the longest we went without someone getting sick or hurt. Then it happened- My very obedient boys told me they were headed to the park to play baseball. I said it was fine, I was glad they didn't want to go down the street to the farmers field, trespass and climb trees in some abandoned fort. I told them I was going bowling with the Young Women and their Father would be home shortly.

When I was almost to Logan with the Young Women I received a phone call. It was my neighbor, Alisha, and she told me I needed to come home right now. I told her Wayne would be home shortly and she said no you need to come home. I asked why, and by this time I was panicking, Was my house on fire? The kids missing? Someone hurt? She informed me that my Tanner had fallen out of a tree in the farmers field and got a stick stuck in his leg and she was NOT going to pull it out. So I told my friend Kareen to turn around and to please take me back home.
When I walked into the house there sat Tanner on a chair with a stick in his knee. Well me being the strong mom that I am (not) looked for a chair because I was about to hit the floor. (I don't do well when my kids get hurt).
Any way he told me to take it out and I laughed and asked if it hurt. He said only if I walk. So I helped him into the car and to the instacare we go.
During this time his tell me that he saw on a episode of "Man vs. Wild" that if you pull a stick out of a artery you will bleed to death. I had to tell him to be quite. At instacare they got us right in and I thought they would take it out and we would go home. NO- the lovely Dr told me he had to see if it was in the joint, if it was he would require surgery. WHAT- oh here we go. After x-rays and Dad teasing him that he needed a wooden leg and an eye patch the Dr said it did not do that much damage. He numbed the area and pulled it out. It was really stuck in there so I am glad I didn't try. Now he is on Anti-biotic and all is well. He still has to wear bandages but it is healing nicely. BTW I didn't post pic of it. Thought the description would be enough. So I learned never to say out loud that we are lucky not to have something drastic happen to us lately.

Mother's Day Roses

2010-04-15T08:51:00.003-06:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner and I am making these roses in all colors. I should have my neighbor take the pictures, she does such a wonderful job. Anyway I did get my website up and running but I am not happy with it so I am shopping around for another. www.sweettreatgifts.com if you want to check it out.

New Web Address

2010-04-13T18:42:00.003-06:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop/sweetreatgifts

Well here it is. Um sort of. This is a temp address for my new business until a can get a real one up and running. So check it out when you can. I am working on roses for Mother's day if you want to order some for that day let me know soon. Thanks to everyone.

Our Family Has Another Angel

2010-04-12T07:16:00.004-06:00

On Saturday, April 10, 2010 at 7:37am, wrapped in his mommy & daddy's arms, Carter Miles-Adan Babinsky finished his mission with as much love as he did when he came here. He fought long and hard, and we pray that he will always be us in our hearts, and we look forward to seeing him again someday. Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers. He would not have made it this far without all of you.- Michael & Venessa Babinksy

I received the phone call on Saturday morning at 7:45am and my world stood still. I was taken back almost 7 years ago when I had to let my son go from this world to the next. This time my heart was aching for my brother and his wife. The story almost the exact same. My son born at 24 weeks and so was theirs. My son lived 10 days, theirs 13 days. The why's come into mind at this time. Why our family again, why now and why to them?

I have been thinking a lot about how our trials affect others. I wonder if I experienced this to help my family through this the best way I know how. I am no expert on advice but I do know what they are going through and it makes it that much harder. All I do know is that their little guy has touched more lives in his short time here on earth then most people do. He was a tough fighter and hung on for his parents. He is deeply loved by many and will be missed by the same.

Logo Is Here

2010-04-07T14:42:00.002-06:00

Well my logo is finally done and my web site should be up and running by next week. Let me know what you think.

We're Praying For A Different Outcome

2010-04-01T18:38:00.006-06:00

Carter Miles Babinsky born March 29, 2010 at 24 weeks. I received the phone text that said "Baby will be here in less than 1 hour". This statement sent me back almost 7 years ago and since then I feel like I have been reliving a nightmare but praying for a better outcome. My brothers wife's water broke and Carter arrived at 9:13pm weighing in at 1 lb 5 oz and measuring 11 inches long.
I made the drive to Murry on Tuesday morning to add my support to the family. I now know what it feels like to be on this side of things. It is really hard to sit and wait. I want to do so much but I know well enough that all I can do is pray. The hardest part was when I was able to visit baby Carter. It just took me back to that day my baby Jamieson was here with us. I recognized the machines and tubing inside the incubator. They are truly a miracle at this stage.
Carter has a hole in his heart that they are hoping to close with medication. He has some bruising on his head and on his joints and is getting blood transfusions. He means so much to me already. I text my brother many times a day trying to get updates and hoping I am not to much of a bother. So if everyone can keep this family in their prayers they will be very appreciated. I will try and keep you updated.

Carter is the youngest of 5 children he has 3 other brothers and 1 sister.

Rainbow of Colors

2010-03-23T19:17:00.002-06:00

This gift basket looks good enough to eat. When I delivered it, I had to tell her son to make sure he left it together until his mom at least saw it before he dove into and started eating it. I heard he made it until she walked through the door.

I received my logo today and I can't wait to post it.

Healthy Basket?

2010-03-23T19:00:00.004-06:00

I had my first challenge this week. My friend wanted a healthy basket! Wow I don't even eat healthy so I thought what am I going to make? He gave me the yummy cookie snack bar things and i found the rest. I also want to thank my talented neighbor Alisha for taking these pictures she does a wonderful job. Check out her website at http://www.oakstreamphotography.com/ for more pictures of what she does. Love ya girl.

Skittles and Hotwheels

2010-03-20T15:19:00.004-06:00

My handsome little neighbor turns 10 and he wanted a candy basket for his birthday. But I didn't just want to give him candy cause little boys like toys and every year we give him Hot Wheels so I put the two together and came up with this. He said he liked it and I even got a hug but his mom was right there and I am sure she told him to. LOL Love ya Matthew.

He's A TeEnAgEr!

2010-03-12T10:54:00.002-07:00

Well it's official, I am getting OLDER by the minute. Tanner has celebrated his 13th birthday on Thursday. I can't believe it. I find myself reflecting on the day he was born and all the things he did as a little boy. I can tell you I am so proud of what he has grown into. Such a good kid and I am not just saying that cause he is my boy. He had a way busy day. His school went skiing for the day. He was tired and sore when he came home. But no down time because I caved in and we went to the cell phone store. Yes Tanner has a cell phone now. I swore I wouldn't do it but when he says mom "6 4.0 GPA's in a row is pretty good." So yes he talked us into it. After he got his phone we had to hurry to his orchestra recital. He still plays the Viola and has been for going on 5 years. The whole group sounded great.

He is thinking in this picture "Hurray up and take the dang picture"

After the recital, he invited his friend Tyger and we went to Texas Roadhouse. Of course he ordered the Prime Rib and cheese fries with bacon. It's sounds bad just typing it on the computer. Anyway they make you sit on the saddle and give you a big Texas Yee-Haw for your birthday. It was funny. In this picture he is reaching for his ice cream before his dad can get a hold of it.

So now he is 13, loaded with a cell phone and running for class president. OK so now I am bragging but wouldn't you?

Happy Birthday Tanner! We love you and are so PROUD of you.

p.s. by the end of the night he had received 168 text's and only 6 people had his number. I think I am in for a shock.

Easter Bubbles

2010-03-10T08:25:00.003-07:00

I needed to add some toys to a order. So this basket has a large peanut butter filled bunny, bubbles, play dough, Skittles, Reese's Eggs, Coconut Eggs, Crunch Bars and Fun Dips! I am sorry the picture is so bad. My neighbor has agreed to start taking my pictures for me so they will look so much better.

MilkyWay Bunny's

2010-03-08T08:33:00.003-07:00

This is the Milky Way Bunny Bouquet! It has 12 Milky Ways and a Chocolate bunny in the middle filled with a pinwheel and Easter eggs and lots of ribbon. This one was a lot of fun because the whole family gave their input.

Now I am looking at Birthday's and Mother's Day Bouquets and will start a new blog so I can keep this blog for my family updates.

"Hippity, Hoppity...

2010-03-06T18:51:00.006-07:00

Easter's On It's Way"

Here are my latest baskets. They are for Easter and lots of fun. I noticed at all the stores all the Easter candy is in spring color, it makes me so excited for Spring!! Now all this candy in my house is driving my children crazy. They just want a taste or just one package. They can't wait for Easter.

Let me know what you think!!

Blue and Silver B-day Basket

2010-02-26T14:51:00.002-07:00

SWEET TREAT GIFTS~ So here it is, the business I have always wanted. My mind won't stop, I keep coming up with different ideas. This is a birthday basket for my brother-in-law. My son told his English teacher about it. I have some more birthday orders and some Easter orders coming in. It's so much fun. My family has been a huge help, they encourage me and help me along. Thanks to Wayne, Tanner and Tyler. Love you all so much!

New Business?

2010-02-20T13:32:00.003-07:00

After my last post a few people have asked if I have ever thought about starting a business. It's funny because I even bought books on gift baskets about 6 years ago and that was it. So I have been thinking and maybe I will go for it. This weekend we have 2 birthday parties to attend and my friends little boy was hospitalized so I wanted to make some gifts for all of them.

This is the ice cream Sunday I made for the cute little boy who spent a week in the hospital. I am happy to say he is back at home and on the road to recovery.

It's my little nephew's 1st birthday and I wanted to do something cute but knew he wouldn't care to much for the candy so this is my idea. The cars are suppose to be flowers but it didn't quite come out that way. But at least I wrapped it instead of just leaving it in the Wal-mart bag.

This is for our friend Kelly. I thought it turned out quite nice. Hope he likes it.

So here is the deal. If you can help me come up with a name I will send you a basket if I choose yours. So good luck.

What do you give...

2010-02-11T20:12:00.005-07:00

a diabetic for Valentines day?
Each year I face this problem. He is not a huge treat man anyway. So I try to be clever and come up with something cute. A couple of years ago I had the boys dress up like UPS man and deliver his package to the USPS, his work. It was so funny. We even put on their shirts "what can brown do for you?"
So this year I put together a jerky bouquet. Then I told others at work about it and they wanted one and it went from there. So I made extras and here are a few.
Let me know what you think. Sorry my camera didn't do such a great job.

I put little chocolates in some and big hunks in others. I wish I had papa jay's jerky. That is the best kind to have.

Your Rock!

2010-02-10T16:25:00.005-07:00

This is the first year we do not have to fill out Valentines cards, put them with candy and make a Valentines mail box. My children are finally old enough. Do I miss it? I will think on that and get back to you. Tyler still wants to give out a Valentine to a girl he knows, but, so it doesn't look obvious he wants some for his friends. I wanted to make some for the Young Women I am teaching on Sunday. I searched the Internet and came up with these.... The are suppose to be i-pods with a song list and ear buds included. Not super cute but they will do for now.

This is Tanner trying to make me mad, well it worked.

These are some samples of them. They are made with sweetheart boxes and Rollo's. Kind of fun.

I will wrap them in cellophane and put a card with them titled "You Rock".

Happy Valentines Day to all of you. I hope you feel loved this (non) holiday. (that is what Wayne says) Probably to get out of getting me something romantic.

When Dad Works....

2010-02-06T09:26:00.005-07:00

THE KIDS ARE AT PLAY. We woke up to a foot of snow Sunday morning. It always seems that when we have Stake Conference we get a big snow storm. The weather man said 2-3 inches and this is what Cache Valley received. It was a welcome storm, because our air quality has been horrible. This cleared the air for a few days and was a welcome site.

He had to use the snow blower because when he would use the 4-wheeler it would go up over the plow and make more work for him.

So here is Tanner showing off the latest apron I made. I don't think he thought I would put his picture on here or he would not have posed for me. He has to cook for school this semester so when the bacon grease splashed on his chest he reached for the apron. I told him a shirt would do the same thing but I am just the mom. What do I know?

I love it when some one else make breakfast. It makes things much nicer for me because I don't get to hear the "gross I am not eating that".

Tyler shot this video of his brother. I take it Tanner did not approve.

You Might Be a Redneck.....

2010-02-06T08:35:00.002-07:00

So I think I know what to get my husband for his birthday or Father's day. It's a composting barrel. What and why do you ask. Let me explain.
We have no back yard yet. (we are getting one this year) My husband hates when I throw out food or produce that has gone bad. He says we need to return it to the earth so we can have good soil. Now I can agree with this. My dad had a barrel when I was younger and he put everything in it and turned it every so often. After a while you put the soil in your flower beds or gardens and it is great fertilizer.
Well we don't have a barrel yet so my husband just throws it out in the back yard. I get a little mad cause I am thinking "yes we live next to a huge field but lets invite the mice over for a party." He calmly tells me it's for good dirt. Whatever he is so funny.

So you might be a redneck if you throw your food out the back door so you can have healthy soil. I can't wait for grass!!!!

"Top 10"

2010-02-05T12:16:00.003-07:00

So I have not been doing well at this blog thing lately. So I am going to to better. One thing is I always think I need to place pictures and then I realize I either don't have any or am looking to scary to get some taken so some of these could be picture less. I have thought about what to write about and it will be mostly about my kids and how life is. Sometimes I get so frustrated but when I tell others it's funny so I thought I would write it down and maybe will look back on it and laugh. So here it is for today!

"Top 10 Things I Learned" from my boys just this week-

I am not going to tell you which one did what because I would hate to EMBARRASS them. NOT! but all the same I will let you guess. By the way I am so dumb not to know this stuff.

10. "Did you know in Heaven Dad will have hair."

9. "Teeth do not have to be brushed with toothpaste every day, just when they need it."

8. Tattling-"We need to adjust the heater time, because someone can't seem to use their morning time accordingly and we are late for the bus every morning." (if your child sits on the heater in the morning you know what I mean.)

7. "Wrestling in the Dermatologist office on the waiting room floor is so cool." Even when grandma's and grandpa's give mom dirty looks.

6. "Shampoo in the hair is OPTIONAL."

5. "Snow gear should just be dropped on the ground by the door because you know we are just going to use it again later."

4. "CELL PHONES are a must and we will die if you do not buy us one soon."

3. "Algebra is not needed in life so why do we have to get a good grade."

2. When they have children they will be "fun parents."

And the favorite one of the week:

1. On the Renaissance test, "it is not considered cheating when my friend tells me the answer is Lady Gaga and I mark that answer and get it wrong!" Seriously!

I went wrong somewhere between 5 and 10 years old I think. I vote for a do over.

Starting 2010 Off Right?

2010-01-15T10:38:00.004-07:00

Can you guess how many Mt. Dew's this child has had? These children were able to stay up till 6am, went to sleep on the couch and got up at 9:30am. They were troopers.

He tried to stay up with the adults but once his head hit the pillow "He gone".

Tyler was so tired and just wanted to keep partying.

Karsyn, Tanner, and Matthew. They must have got a hold of my camera.

They were playing poker with candy. No wonder they could stay up all night.

She looks like I felt.

This picture is about 3am. When it was way past my bedtime. I could hear my pillow calling my name. But when you host the party you can't just leave. Even though my friends know I can fall asleep at the table playing games.

Here is the gang. Sorry about the pics. My new camera was not adjusted for indoor light. But you can see us all.

These guys are just crazy. What can you say. They are great friends of Wayne's and we love them.

This year for New Years, like every New Years, we had a party with our dear friends. We had plenty of food and Mt. Dew to last a few days and that really turned into a good thing. We started around 6:30 on the Eve playing games, rock band, guitar hero, card games, and board games. Of course the T.V. was on and there was some bowl games and basketball games on also. We had 8 adults and 6 children and we had a blast.

At midnight we lit firecrackers and ran outside yelling (sorry to the neighbors) and played more games. The Godfreys left around 12:30. I thought we could go to bed around 2 but they had other plans. This is were the peer pressure comes in I am sure. Everyone but I, decided to do an all nighter, even the kids. I have never been able to pull that off. I love my sleep, I need my beauty rest. So the games continued. At 3-4am I was losing it but they kept saying go till 5 and we will have breakfast then you can go to bed. At 6am we had biscuits and gravy. We all went to bed about 6:30am and we all got back up at 1pm and had eggs and bacon for the second breakfast. We watched bowl games and ate more food, had dinner and played games till midnight. We figured we were awake and playing games for 40hours. Wow I am way to old for that. It took me the whole weekend to recover and get some sleep back. All in all it was the best. I had so much fun with my friends as far as doing it again? They say I have a year to get ready for. I don't think I will fall to peer pressure again.

I hope all of your New Years was great. Here's to a HaPpY 2010!

Terry Nielsen

2009-12-31T07:50:00.004-07:00

Terryl Marc Nielsen
1978 - 2009
Terryl Marc “Smiley” Nielsen, passed away Friday, December 11, 2009. He was born June 10, 1978 in Provo, Utah to William Craig Nielsen and Aline Nielsen.
Terry was a talented enthusiast of the outdoors and loved fishing, hunting and four wheeling with his family and friends.
He was employed by Clinton City where he was raised and educated. He loved his job and was a hard worker. He was always willing to help anyone with anything and was a tremendous help to his family.
Terry will be dearly missed by his family, friends and loved ones.
Terry is survived by his wife, Shana, along with her children, Brooklynn, Dominick and Gabrielle; his children, Jade and Natosha; grandmother, Mell Neilsen; parents, William Craig Nielsen, West Point; Aline Neilsen, West Point; brothers, William Wayne, Nibley; Brent, Preston, ID; a sister, Michelle, West Point; and many nieces and nephews.

So, not the way I wanted to end my blog for the year but it is a chance to start over fresh. We love Terry so much and will miss him terribly. We have fond memories of him and will keep those in our minds and hearts. We have also grown from this experience. We know who are friends and family are, we know there are many who care about the family and how they are doing. We learn to put aside our differences and to come together and be stronger. My boys lost a great uncle and my husband and I lost a brother and we all lost a friend. See ya on the other side Terry.

Hare,Babinsky, and Jones Christmas Party

2009-12-24T09:31:00.003-07:00

Here are some pictures from my family Christmas party this year. It was fun and everyone did make it. Now it wouldn't be a party without something getting broken. So here are the pictures to prove it. Ryan and Weston were wrestling against this wall and look what happened. They trashed the wall. It was so funny. Roger didn't think so, I think he was pretty upset. Now they have to fix it but my brothers did feel pretty bad. Either the walls are really old or they pushed really hard.

Tanner got a microscope from his Uncle Mike.

Tyler received a remote control car.

Mikey got a volleyball with "Wilson" hand print on it.

My darling little nephew Malachi.

Tanner and Christian eating dinner at Grandma Hare's.

Alex and Tyler enjoying Ham.

Malachi getting his train.

Raiyah Turns 3

2009-12-24T09:08:00.003-07:00

Happy Birthday to my niece, Raiyah. She turned 3 in December and is growing so fast. There was a bad snow storm that day so the boys and I went down early and visited with her. She was so excited that she was turning 3. Since I don't know how to shop for girls, we bought her a princess Belle with changeable clothes. She seemed to like it so I think we did fine. We love visiting the Babinsky's.

The highlight of the day was when Malachi threw up on Tyler. He was mortified. He refuses to hold him even now.

I love Raiyah's face in this picture.

My little brother Ryan goofing off as usual.

Putting Up the Trains

2009-12-23T08:59:00.005-07:00

This is probably the hardest thing to put up at Christmas time. But now the boys are old enough to do it themselves. When I was a child my dad and his family made villages and mountains for the trains to run through. Well I have not gotten that far. We just put it on a board covered with fake snow. Not super cool but the boys love it. Their Grandpa and Grandma Babinksy bought them each a train on the year they were born. So I guess they are antiques now. Actually I still have mine back from 74. So this is a tradition we have each year. It takes some time to do but lots of fun once it's done.

Another thing we do each year is when we put the Christmas tree up everyone gets a new ornament. This year Tyler received a snowman making a funny face because the dog has just peed on him. He thought it was so funny.

Wayne received a 4-wheeler ornament because he got a new 4-wheeler this year.

Well this one is funny. Maybe not to Tanner but the rest of us. Tanner has been begging us for a cell phone. I just can't seem to get him one yet. Anyway I bought him a cell phone ornament. He didn't think it was to cool. Especially when he found out it was fake.

My Children are Normal! Right?

2009-12-23T07:44:00.004-07:00

Well my boys tried to convince me that it was not cold outside. So what did they do? Then ran outside and jumped into the snow. They said it was warm. Whatever! I think they were just being tough and didn't want to admit that their mother was right.

Finding Ways To Help

2009-12-05T18:27:00.004-07:00

Each year my work has a nice dinner with their spouses. But before that begins we have the opportunity to serve with our family. We have done this for 3 years now and my children look forward to it each year. This year we had to move the operation indoors because of the snow. We worked for 3 hours at the food pantry. It was the day of the Food Drive. People from all over the Valley donated goods to the pantry and we separate it and put it in boxes. This year there was an especially great need of food and the call was answered. It was as I call it "controlled chaos." It sure makes you realize how much food can help out a family. Some people donated an open bag of cereal and I did open a dirty diaper. I just hoped some Boy Scout picked it up by mistake. All in all a great day with the family. And a great way to serve and teach the boys about helping others. Wayne filling up the Can Box.

Tanner just happy to be there.

Everyone calls Tyler the peanut butter boy. He collects peanut butter from everyone and puts it in this box. The food pantry is always asking for Peanut butter. We were able to collect cases of it.

Here are all the volunteers. These tables got chuck full and the floor was covered also. It sure makes you happy to know how much everyone helps out.

Of course they give us hot chocolate and donuts to thank us for our help but they don't know it's them helping us this season.

Sledding- Nielsen Style

2009-12-05T18:15:00.003-07:00

The first real snow storm of the year fell today blanketing the ground with some slick powder. After the boys shoveled the driveway and stairs Wayne felt like going for a 4-wheeling ride. He had the boys get their snow gear on and they were off. Pulling everyone behind the 4-wheeler on sleds they stayed out side for an hour. Neighborhood kids jumped in on the fun and a good time was had by all. They came back in frozen like pop cycles and covered the floor with all their gear. Sometimes I wonder "Would I rather have them dirty or throw their wet clothes all over the floor". It's a toss up.

Some Teeth Pulled

2009-12-05T18:02:00.003-07:00

And so we begin our journey of the Braces era. Both Tanner and Tyler need them. Tyler's teeth seem to be all over the place taking after his mother. Tanner had to have 2 cuspids pulled and Tyler had all 4 cuspids pulled. Needless to say it was a long afternoon for Tyler. They both healed nicely and are back to normal. Check out the pictures for the swelling.

Happy 15th

2009-11-11T08:50:00.003-07:00

Today is the day Wayne and I celebrate 15 years together.

Happy Anniversary Wayne!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-02T17:34:00.003-07:00

Well, I don't know how it happened but it did. The boys dressed up in a theme together. They were Mario and Luigi. We had to make Tyler plump which is hard because he is so thin. The costumes were XL men sizes so we had to alter them. With Halloween being on Saturday they were ready to go at 5:30pm. About 9 boys and 2 girls all met at our home and they all left for the evening trick-or-treating. Tanner came home around 8 and I called Tyler who ended up at a girls house. They scored tons of candy and had lots of fun. I am so glad the weather turned out nice and warm for them. It will probably be their last year which makes me so sad. The grow up so fast.

Tyler, Matthew, Dakotah and Tanner. The neighbor boys and best friends.

Carving Pumpkins

2009-10-31T10:20:00.004-06:00

Last night we had the opportunity to have the Missionaries over for dinner. Since I am not the best cook, we had pulled pork sandwiches, salad, chips and pumpkin bread for desert.
So we thought it would be fun for Elder Scott and Elder Lunt to crave pumpkins with us since we have not gotten around to doing it yet. Elder Scott dug right in but Elder Lunt was a little nervous because this was his first time. I wish I would have taken a picture of his face when he had to put is hand in the pumpkin and scoop out the insides. He was grossed out totally! So funny. They couldn't stay to long so they didn't get around to carving but told me they would take them home and finish them. It was a good time for our family. We really enjoyed having them over.

So, I tried to get a good picture at night but it didn't take well. This is Tyler's, he made a helmet. It turned out so cool!

Mine was of course a Turtle, Wayne asked me what a turtle has to do with Halloween but I didn't care I thought it was cute.

Tanner made a Falcon Pumpkin, of course. He is so into football it's great. He made his own pattern and I thought he did a terrific job.

Every year I say "next year we do easy patterns" and every year they get harder. It is a lot of fun once we get around to doing it. But I am still glad we only do it once a year. My hands still are cramped up. HAPPY HALLOWEEN TO ALL!

He Must Have 9 Lives

2009-10-26T07:07:00.003-06:00

http://www.hjnews.com/photography/2009/10/22/houseexplosion/

Thursday October 22, 2009 was a day we won't forget anytime soon. It started out like any other day. Everybody got off to work and school without any problems. I was at work when I called Wayne about 11am. He had asked me if I had heard about the explosion in College Ward. I told him the fire trucks and ambulances from the hospital nearby were very active a little bit ago but I hadn't heard about an explosion. He seemed a little shock and I asked him what had happened.

At 10:23am a home had blown up due to some leak in propane. My husband had just delivered their mail. He was shaken and said if he would have been just running a few minutes behind or had a extra package he could have been right there. In the pictures at the link you can see the roof landed in the street and all over the fields and in the trees.

Now this makes me realize that someone was watching out for him. It was a miracle that the people inside did not die. It makes me see that life is so precious and things can change in a blink of an eye. And now I know that you should not put off things you can do today and wait for tomorrow. Because you never know what can happen.

I am so grateful that Wayne was not there at that time. He was just around the block and the sonic boom scared him. I never considered his job to be a hazard. This is the second close call at work. The other was when the women fell asleep in her car and almost ran him over on Highway 89/91. It really does make you grateful for the time you have on this earth with loved one.

I Thought This Happens When They Are 16!

2009-10-23T07:18:00.002-06:00

*Sorry still no pics- I will get better*

So last night Tanner had a recital at school. He plays the viola and has been for over 4 years. He was in the advanced group so they did not play till the end. Well, when we got there he found his friends and that was the last we saw of him until the performance.

When he got up to play he kept smiling. We thought it was because we were watching him and he was nervous, boy was I wrong. They all played quite well and I was impressed. He wants to quite next year but he is doing so well I really don't want him to give it up yet.

After the performance was over he split. We had to wander the school halls looking for him. Turns out he was talking to an 8Th grader who gave him a king size candy bar for doing so well tonight. He was giggling and talking funny, you know when you are flirting and act weird. Well that was him. It was so weird to watch and he didn't even care we were standing right there. So when he smiles during a performance it's not cause everyone is watching it's cause girls are watching. I think it going to be long teenage years in this home. Wish us luck.

Such a Bummer Day

2009-10-14T07:32:00.011-06:00

Have you missed us lately? The whole 3 of you that actually read this blog! Well I have so sad news. The reason I have not posted in a month or so was I did the unthinkable. Let me start at the beginning. I had the chance to babysit my niece and nephew last month and I took them to a football game of Tanners. Well my little niece loves the camera and she played with it, so when I finally got it away from her I put it in my jacket pocket to hide it. And forgot about it. A few day later I was doing laundry and yup you guess it, I found it at the bottom of the washer. My heart sunk, I can't believe I did that. I tried all the tricks, freezer, blow dryer, letting it sit for days, nothing works. So I know what Wayne is buying me for Christmas. Lucky for me my camcorder also takes still pics so all is not lost. I just have to remember to charge it. So until then I will keep you posted. Thanks for checking my blog. Love ~U~

Are You Ready For Some Football?

2009-10-09T07:02:00.004-06:00

Here he is! My handsome QB, receiver/ what ever the coach needed to be played, Tanner. Yes football is over and he wishes his team did better but what fun we had this year. He did so good, I am going to toot my own horn for a minute if I could. He received 4 touchdowns 1 interception, many carries and blocks. He only sat out like 5 plays. He was also so tired after a game and only once was he injured in his ribs. He did awesome and grew so much this year. We are so proud of you Tanner! Keep up the good work.
We traveled all over this year and played some tough teams. Some close games. Tanner is #5 his new favorite number.

His Coach, Coach Rigby, used him to call all the plays in, luckily he had them on his arm band.

This was taken one day when all the family came to see his game. Thanks for the support.

All in all a great year. The weather was so great and with me being team mom we all were really involved, it made it that more enjoyable. Can't wait till next year. Go Mustangs!

Happy Birthday Katie

2009-09-16T07:28:00.005-06:00

This is the birthday girl, trying to make the monkey smoke. This game was very entertaining. We hope you enjoyed your birthday Katie! I need one of these boxes at home to keep my caged animals in. aka(children).

Tanner the ape!

Roger and Tanner playing Ski-ball. Actually I don't remember what it's called. My mom smoked every one's score. These two were just trying to outdo each other.

This looked like a good workout machine. Its a jump rope. Every time the lite come around you jump it. It was a hit with lots of children. Tyler did a fantastic job.

Easton is so cute playing Wac-a-mole. He thought they were so funny popping up all over the place.

Happy birthday to my Niece Katie! She just turned 9 years old. We had a great time with her at Chuck-E-Cheese. It's been a very long time since I have been there. It sure has changed. The boys had fun and I think Katie and Easton did also. I did get the bonus on Wac-a-mole, my favorite game. I received 125 tickets for a great score. My mom was even impressed. Katie got the bonus on a game of 250 tickets, she is awesome. Thanks Mike and Venessa for a great afternoon.

Millville 4-Wheeling

2009-09-16T07:17:00.004-06:00

We are so blessed to be living where we do. We are just minutes from the bottom of Millville Canyon. It used to be a very rough canyon until they have fixed it up and made at least the bottom half real nice. We took advantage of a nice Saturday afternoon and went for a long ride as a family. It's nice to get away and end up where there is nobody else around. You get to see such beautiful places that God has created. We even got to try out Wayne's new 4-wheeler. And compared to the old red one (which I drove) he said it was like being in heaven. I will have to take his word for it because he does not like to share.

At least I can't lose Tyler in this color.

Tanner striking a pose.

Don't we look so cute in our helmets?

It was a great afternoon. It's nice to enjoy this time with the boys now that they are getting older. Now they just want to drive us around on the 4-wheelers. But we think they need a little more practice before taking on these trails.

Demolition Derby

2009-09-14T07:22:00.005-06:00

Every August we head to Preston (to fit in I'm sure) for the Demolition Derby. It is so much fun. Wayne's brother Brent gets us tickets and we see a great show. Not just the cars but the people with mullets and different clothing options. It could be called culture night. Anyway we have been going for several years now and Tyler really looks forward to it because they have a dancing contest that he is always involved in. It so funny to watch. Here are Brighton, Brooke and Tyler dancing at half time!

Tyler has his groove on.

Tyler and his mom posing in the stands before the action is to begin.

Tanner just happy to be there. He had his favorite Falcon Jersey on. He wears that everywhere now.

This is so funny. Tyler has his dad's moves. At least he has the guts to get out there and strut his stuff. He keeps me laughing all the time. I love you Tyler! Until next year......

Middle School Here We Come

2009-08-20T07:27:00.003-06:00

First day of School 2009-2010 year. Tanner is in the 7th grade and Tyler is in 6th grade. Here in Cache Valley they go to 4 different schools in their youth. The boys are attending 6-7 middle school this year together. They both have 7 classes and lockers just like Jr. High when I was growing up. I am so glad that Tyler has his big brother to show him around this year and take care of him.
Since every year in Elementary school I like to take their picture next to their class room, I thought I better take this picture in the front yard. Oh, I tried to take them to school and take their picture there but they wouldn't let me do that. So this will have to do. Did I cry? Well I cry every year on the first day of school. I just realize they are getting bigger and older and need me less and less. I really love my boys and hope and pray that this day will be a great one. It's a new experience when you enter Middle school. As Tyler would say- No more Recesses! I don't think either of them got any sleep last night. They were both up at 6am so they could catch the bus by 6:45. It's going to be a long year getting up that early every day.

And here they are walking to the bus stop. I am blessed to have such great kids.

Happy 11th Birthday Tyler

2009-08-15T06:52:00.008-06:00

WARNING LOTS OF PICTURES
These pictures were taken by my 2 year old niece, Raiyah. She actually took 167 but I went through them so. Some were of grass and trees and sidewalks, with the occasional wall and chair. But it made me stop and think how the little things are great in my life. She did a great job and even ran out the battery but no one could have captured the party better than she did. Love you Raiyah!!!!!

Tyler was born on August 9Th 1998 in Ogden Utah at McKay Dee Hospital (the old one) he was born on a Sunday at 4:28pm. He weighted 7lbs 5oz. He has blessed our life with so much joy since that day. Tyler starts Middle School next week and is so excited and a bit nervous. He recently earned his arrow of light (the highest rank in Cub Scouts) and loves video games. He is his mom's cuddle although he will never admit to that. He loves the Denver Broncos and wishes to see a game in person one day. Happy Birthday Tyler. We love you.

My brothers, Mike and Ryan Babinsky.

My brother Weston and niece Kaitlyn

Here are Raiyah's feet. Do you have a picture of your feet at 2 years old?

This is Raiyah's brother Malakai. He is so cute and fun.

My mom Elaine and Step Father Roger Hare.

It wouldn't be a party if we didn't have some friendly competition of Volleyball going on. I am sure the whole neighborhood heard us.

This is Raiyah's mom Heather, with baby brother.

My niece Brooklyn.

We had PINK cupcakes and PINK candles. It's a inside family joke about the PINK. My brother Ryan always gave my boys girl stuff when they were younger and wrapped it in pink or purple. My boys now except it on their birthdays. Don't worry they always get him back on his. He even got a barbie doll once.

It was a great party and we wanted to thank everyone who came and wished Tyler well.

Swimming Lessons

2009-08-15T06:39:00.004-06:00

This summer was so crazy this year, but we were able to throw in 2 weeks of swimming lessons. My boys can swim but I wanted them to fill confident in the water. Tyler did well and improved a lot. Tanner was able to pass on to the next level. Way to go boys. With school starting next week I am so glad they go to play around for a little bit before going back. Here is Tyler doing the backstroke, Chicken-airplane-solider, is how he told me the movements go. Whatever helps you remember!

Tyler's class, him with his hands up. Sorry the pics are not closer, they would not let the parents near the pool. Which is great so we don't interfere with the teaching going on.

Tanner and his class, learning the dolphin kick.

The boys said they had a good time and we plan on continuing on in the lessons. Who knows maybe they are built for swimming.

Camping Vacation (Fishing)

2009-08-05T07:18:00.002-06:00

While on our camping vacation at Hoop Lake we camped near a stream. It was a fun stream for everyone. It had small fish in it. You could just set you hook down in the water and wait a minute, if that long, and you would have a fish. It was fun to watch everyone fish. The only bad part was the bugs loved it there also. But if you could stand them it was worth it. This is Tanner's fish. He caught a few this day and the next. He said he liked fishing the stream better than the lake. I think it's cause he didn't catch any at the lake.

Tyler holding up his catch. We did keep many of them, just the ones that swallowed the hook. Wayne's brother Terry cooked them up on the grill and they were delicious.

On our way to the second reunion we passed Flaming Gorge. It was pretty there. Such a nice place to go and visit.

Check out Wayne's brother, Brent's, big catch. We had a good laugh about this little guy.

Here is Uncle Terry, he about went in the river. It's not deep but very rocky and we are far from a hospital. All in all a great trip and fun for everyone. Now it's back to life and the craziness it brings.

Camping Vacation (4-Wheeling)

2009-08-04T07:08:00.006-06:00

Our family vacation this year consisted of 10 days of camping at Hoop Lake and Currant Creek. I love to camp but 10 days seemed to be a little much for me. I was so ready to come home and sleep in my own bed and get some clean clothes on. We all had a blast though. We 4-wheeled and fished and most importantly ate real well. We went with Wayne's family the first week then ended up with his extended family at a reunion the last part. There was lots to do but sometimes you just wanted to sit and enjoy the fact that there was no phones, TVs or computers. It was nice a cool and quite. It was nice to all get together with family and enjoy one another company. This is my sister-in-law Shanna climbing a rock on her 4-wheeler.

My nieces Ariel and Brighton with Tanner-showing me how dirty it can git camping if you just let the kids play.

Tyler had a great time 4-wheeling. I couldn't help but think back to my childhood growing up on 4-wheelers. I was about his age when I learned to drive. It was fun teaching him and I think he love having all the control of the machine. Wayne would not let him drive his just the little 250 but Tyler was thrilled with that.

This seemed to be the only picture of me and of course I am dirty. We went on a long ride and I followed to close behind cause I ate too much dust.

Grandma Nielsen- Ready to Roll on her Ride

This is what Wayne was packing. A 357 he said it was for bears, we never saw any. I think it was for cows he seemed to be afraid of them the most.

This is my niece Brooklyn she is giving me the peace sign right before a trail ride.

My nephew Dominic on his little sisters 110cc. It is such a cute little bike.

Brighton and Ariel with their matching helmets on. They are great little riders. Always ready to go.

Wayne and Tanner on Wayne's new 4-wheeler he got for his birthday. He really loves this bike because it does not give him back aches like our 250cc. He never traded me bikes so my back hurt just a little. I didn't mind cause mine had gears and I like to shift going up and down hills.

Here is Tanner on the 110cc.

All the kids at camp posing on my bike. It's old but the same size I grew up on so it works for me. It is also perfect for the kids to ride.

This was a fun trip, I think the kids had so much fun hanging out together can't wait til next year when we can do it again. I just don't think it will be for 10 days though.

Arrow Of Light

2009-07-23T07:00:00.004-06:00

Tyler and Craig- Good friends.

Everyone clapping for Tyler- he is really happy I promise!

Tyler getting all of his awards.

The Arrow of Light- which is the highest rank you can earn as a cub scout was presented to Tyler on July 22, 2009. He earned it, with a little help from his mother, by working real hard and accomplishing many tasks. His father and I told him many times how proud we are of him and all that he has done. He also earned his Webelo badge, religious knot and compass with arrow points.

He earned it with a good friend of his, Craig Jessop. When in school these two are joined at the hip. They even look like each other with a big freckle on opposite cheeks on their faces. His scout leaders are Norman Hansen (pictured above) and Kasey King( who loves to tease him). Now he moves on to Boy Scouts and I wash my hands of scouts and told Wayne it's his turn. Wayne just got a new calling to be the 11 year old scout leader. Because I am the primary president I may had a little something to do with his new calling. But anyway he will work with the boys to help them now earn their Eagle, the highest rank in the Boy Scouts. But for now GOOD JOB Tyler we are so proud.

Oquirrh Mountain Open House

2009-07-20T07:16:00.004-06:00

On July 17, 2009 we received an opportunity to take our family to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Open House. We thought it was a great way to teach the boys about the temple and show them the special rooms in the temple. It was quite a drive for us to get there but well worth it. When we came around the corner it sat up on a hill and it was beautiful.

We asked the boys what their favorite part of the temple was when we were done. Tanner said the Celestial room, which had a beautiful chandelier. Tyler said the baptismal font carried by the 12 oxen. But he also said the cookies they served afterwards. Of course cause he loves SUGAR.

Look how cute the boys are. I love it so much when the get along. Do you wonder what I had to promise them to get them to hug each other?

It was a great day and I really enjoyed sharing it with my family.

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-20T07:06:00.003-06:00

We had a great 4Th of July Week. We always love to attend the fireworks that USU puts on in Logan. It is a huge display and is set to music. This year we just watched from our car up in River Heights and drove home in 5 minutes. Usually we watch in North Logan and get home in 45 minutes. I think we found our new favorite way to watch them. The next day we went to West Point to visit our friends the Bingham's at their city fair. It was Karsyn's birthday the day before and we missed it so we wanted to see her. At the fair they had a huge snake, it gave me the willies just looking at it. They had a tractor display so I told the boys to pick their favorites and I would take a picture. That is when I found out my battery was dead and I only got I picture of Tanner. We later went to a BBQ and swimming. All in all a great day filled with tons of fun and family time.

5K Who Calls IT A FUN RUN???

2009-06-23T13:53:00.008-06:00

On June 20, 2009 my family did a 5k fun run. It was for Nibley Heritage days. It started at 7:45am which made the weather cool and easy to run it. There was a huge crowd and we were all just trying to do our best. My brother Ryan walked away with a 3rd place ribbon in his age class and a gift card to Peterson's country store. My brother Weston won a gift card to Papa Murphy's take and bake pizza. Everyone else was just happy to be there. Tanner came in 1st of the family at 24 minutes.

Weston came in second with 25 minutes!
Not very far behind Weston was Ryan at 25 minutes

Heather did awesome. She told me she has only ran twice since her baby was born and she came it at 32 minutes!

Tyler did great as always at 36 minutes.

Christian and Alex came in at the same time but the camera didn't take both pictures. They came in at 39 minutes!

I came in at 40 minutes.

Mikey came in at 49 minutes!

Katie started off really fast and got burned out. She finished with her dad at 49 minutes.

We love our soldiers who shot of the cannon to announce the start of the race.

Here are the crazy boys. Tyler still has not washed his face since the children's play the night before.

This is Tanner and his good buddies Jaxon and Tyger. They are great kids.

Raiyah and I posing for the camera after the race. She has her numbers on and is ready to go race again.

This is all of us after the race. It was a lot of fun to do it together. When you come across the finish line and everybody is cheering for you it feels wonderful! Thanks to everyone who came.

Nibley's Children's Play

2009-06-23T13:39:00.005-06:00

It's great to belong to a small city. Nibley has it's annual heritage days in June. This year Tyler decided to be in the children's play, or more likely his mom talked him into it. The play was called the Goose Girl, I was unfamiliar with this fairy tale but it turned out to be a great play. Tyler played a guard and a drummer. He did quite well and we are very proud of him. He performed the play twice, once in the church because of the rain, and the other outside. The second performance outside was by far the best. Way to go Tyler!

Happy 6th Birthday "Jamieson"

2009-06-16T08:18:00.002-06:00

Saturday June 13,2009 was Jamieson's 6th birthday. It has gone by quickly. Since we were camping just up the canyon we just came down for a visit.
The day before Tyler and I went shopping for a few toys. Tyler picked the hot wheels and I picked the turtle squirt gun. We decorated the headstone before heading back up to camp. I will not lie this day was hard for me. Usually I keep this day very busy with things to do, but when you are just sitting around camping my mind seemed to think back to my precious little angel. I am so thankful to have a wonderful supporting husband who has helped me through all this. I could not have made it through without him. We miss our little guy and he is always in our thoughts.

"Happy Birthday Jamieson"

Camping and 4Wheeling in the Mud

2009-06-16T07:25:00.004-06:00

Sometimes you just need to get away from it all. Well, we didn't really get away but it was nice to go somewhere. We are so blessed to live right next to the mountains and 15 minutes away was our camping sight. We went camping with Wayne's brothers, sister and mom and we got rained on. I don't mind because it just gives us time to relax in the trailer. But it sure makes a mess when the kids ride the 4-wheelers in the mud. Tanner and Tyler had so much fun. We could hardly get them to take a break. Tyler was the only one with an accident, minor, but a few scrapes. But it could not keep him down.

Here is Brighton and Ariel trying to feed our dog. She looks thrilled.
Tanner with all the mud on his face. This was after the 3rd time he washed it.

I wondered what I would have done if I would have had girls? Would they have been this dirty?

Tyler and his new found freedom. I just noticed the helmet is not very tight. What kind of parents are we?

This is a short video of the girls feeding the dog. I love how Ariel yells at Sprinkles while she is standing right over here.

Civil War by the Nibley 5th graders

2009-06-16T07:16:00.004-06:00

The Civil War was performed by the 5th graders at Nibley elementary in a very fun and educational way. The classes were divided into two sides, North and South. Tyler ended up on the South side. The day before he came home and said, "I need to fill 100 water balloons and take them to school in a cooler for tomorrow". So after sore fingers we accomplished the task. Tyler was in 3 battles and if you were hit with a balloon you must fall to the ground until a medic comes and helps you back to your camp. I enjoyed watching this battle, but it also taught me more about people who sacrifice their lives for our country.

Let the battle begin.

After the War they had made head stones and recited the Gettysburg address. It was an awesome site.

Here is a very short small clip of the address!

5Th Grade Graduation

2009-06-16T07:09:00.003-06:00

Well he made it, bring on Middle School. On June 2, 2009 Tyler graduated from the 5th grade. He did well this year in math, he loves math and is very good at it. He had Mr. Torrey for a teacher. Good job Tyler we are so proud of you!

This is Tyler and his teacher Mr. Torrey. He really liked this teacher.

Grandma Hare, Christian and Alex came to his graduation. His cousins we don't see very often because they live in California so we were happy to see them this day.

LAGOON "It's What Fun Is?"

2009-06-02T07:08:00.005-06:00

On May 30Th the Binghams invited us to go to Lagoon with them. It has been a couple of years since we have gone so it seems like fun. Maybe I should have thought that through a little more. Let me just say this. I think I am just a little old for Lagoon. There I said it. It's sad to admit because I use to love it there but the rides are jerky and I think I popped every bone in my body. The kids had a blast and we hit just about every single ride. And wicked, well, that is a great name for that ride. This was one of Tyler's last ride because a storm was blowing in. It started blowing stuff in the air you had to cover your eyes and then you could not stop sneezing. I think Tyler loves this ride, he rode it 3 times!

This is cliffhanger, as you can tell by Karsyn and her friend we had already rode this a time before. Tanner rode this ride 3 times also.

Here is Kelly being a good sport on the old white(now brown) roller coaster. Did you know this thing was built in 1921. I wish I would have read this after I got off this ride instead of just before.

I don't even know what this ride is called. I just know there is no way I could have gone on it. I hate tube ride. No enclosed spaces for me.

Wayne and Tanner riding the Samurai. This thing looks crazy. All the spins is enough to make you sick. But they loved every 45 seconds of it.

Bumper cars: What can you say about these except what a pain. If you don't understand how to operate them it can't be quite frustrating as Tanner found out. He moved about 1 foot from where he started. He got so mad he got back in line and had to try again. This time he just went backwards. It was quite funny to watch.

Tyler-he just loved playing bumpers with the curb. It wasn't another car but it still had the same affect. This boy could laugh at anything. He just loves life. I need to take some lessons from him.

You know this day they didn't even fight they actually got along and talked nicely to each other. Well, until we got to the car to go home. I enjoyed it while it lasted.

This is me after cliffhanger. I got so wet and cold and I never dried off. It was a fun trip to be had by all. Thanks to the Binghams for inviting us.

Breakfast of Champions

2009-05-28T15:04:00.003-06:00

The end of school is always kind of crazy. There are many things to attend. Tanner had a viola recital that my camera battery died on so I have no pictures of that. But he dressed as a hillbilly and played fiddle songs. It was at a park in Hyrum. It was a lot of fun.
This morning at 6:30 Tanner was invited to a Breakfast of Champions. It is for all students who received a 4.0 during the year. I will brag a little and say he had a 4.0 each term. He gets those brains from his father. He received a medal, a Wheaties box with his picture on it, a letter written by his English teacher, a big "Honor roll and milk. They had a little program. I am so blessed to have great children. This picture is funny because I took it when all the other students were getting off the bus in front of the school and he was embarrassed. So he made this funny face and I snapped the picture.
GOOD JOB Tanner. I love ya

My Hero by Tyler

2009-05-28T14:58:00.003-06:00

Wednesday this week, Tyler had to write a letter to his hero. He decided to write to his father. I thought he did a great job and I was very proud of him. There was a dinner of lasagna, salad and cookies and the kids in the class read the letter in front of everyone. Then the hero came up to the front and got their letter. It was very touching. This is what he wrote:

"My Hero
Have you ever met someone that can fix a mail jeep as fast as my dad can?
My dads name is Wayne Nielsen. He was born June 26,1971 in Provo, Utah. He married my mom, Utonya, November 11, 1994 in Clinton, Utah. He has black hair, hazel eye (like mine) and is 6 feet tall. He loves to tickle me and wrestle with me.
My dad always goes to work for my family. He watches me play flag football, goes to my soccer games, school activities and we watch movies together. He takes me camping, bowling, to play mini golf and my favorite to the demolition derby.
My dad is my hero cause he is my dad and I want to grow up and be just like him.
I want to thank my dad for all the things he does for me."

So sweet!

Memorial Day Camping

2009-05-28T07:32:00.006-06:00

This year for Memorial Day we went camping up Currant Creek, its down by Strawberry. It takes a while to get there but it is so worth it. We went with great friends the Binghams and Ekstroms and had a BLAST. There were also 6 children. It rained each afternoon but no worries we played tons of games in the trailer and the kids even watched movies. We ate way to much food and junk. All in all a good time was had by all. And I am happy to report no body got hurt which is a concern when the Nielsen's go camping. Here we are having breakfast. Karsyn, Ashley, Matthew and Dakota.

Mike and Kelly were the ultimate fisherman. They caught a lot of fish. Mike cooked them up and we ate them.

Kelly, Monica and Tanner. Tanner wants me to delete this pic but I don't have any other pic of him so it stays. Sorry Tanner!

The Wellsville Mile

2009-05-19T13:44:00.006-06:00

Tyler and his good friend Rodolfo.

Here is Tyler racing with the Mt. Crest track team.

Yeah, Tyler crossing the finish line. Way to go Ty.

Up here in Cache Valley the elementary schools do this Wellsville mile activity. It is for all 4Th and 5Th graders. They start running in school about February and time themselves for the mile. Each time they try to get better and better until May when all the schools at the south end of the valley, I think there are 8 of them, get together and race. It starts around 10 am and runs till noon-thirty. When it's hot it is a very long day. This is my third and final time of attending this event. Tanner did it the last two years and today was Tyler's last time. Lucky for us the clouds came out and it was nice and overcast.

Well, poor Tyler has been running his little heart out. His best time in school is 7:20. WAY better than I could ever dream. They put these kids in heats and Tyler was with all the fastest boys from all the schools. So I don't know what happened, if it was his nerves or what but he had a hard time. His final time was 9:45. Still WAY better than I could ever dream. He was pretty upset but I want you to know how very proud of him I am. He worked so hard and he and I both know what he is capable of doing. So way to go Tyler keep up the hard work and lets run the 5k next month for the Nibley days.

The 80's Have Returned

2009-04-28T07:18:00.004-06:00

We all attended the Ward party last week of the 80's night. It was complete with games of speak n spell, Simon and uno. They also had video games for the kids of Dig Doug and Pac Man. For treats we had Tab Floats and my kids really like Tab how scary is that.

So Wayne and I dressed up. I tried to get my hair as high as it could go and Wayne was dressed as a rocker from the 80's. He actually won 2nd place and received a Rubic Cube which took me two days to solve .

This is Kenny Allen and he the Bishopric Counselor I work with in Primary. I went to school with him also. I love the mullet. Classic 80's

Tanner being Superman!

Tyler and Dakotah messing around.

Watch the video of Wayne break dancing. He actually didn't know how to do it but he tried. It was the funniest thing. I have never seen Wayne do anything like this if front of people.

It was a great night and we had a lot of fun!

Pinewood Derby

2009-04-28T07:10:00.004-06:00

Yes, it was our last pinewood derby as cub scouts. It was a huge turn out and lots of fun. Tyler made a train and Tanner is in the picture below with all the bolts on top (red and black). And we soon found out that we are not engineers. We let the boys make the cars and although they did not come in last it was not first. But they did a great job and we are proud.

Mr. Allemans Race Day

2009-04-20T07:17:00.005-06:00

On your Mark get set GO! This was a special race to raise money for the family who lost their husband and father 2 months back while fighting in Iraq. He was also Tanner's 5th grade teacher. Tyler ran the 1 mile and Tanner ran the 5K. I wanted to run with them but I was stuck in class all day for work. They did a real good job and I am very proud of them.

Here is Tyler running so fast the camera didn't keep up with him. "Run like the wind"

Tyler just passed the finish line at 8:06 way better than I ever could. Good job Tyler.

Here comes Tanner. Tanner has been fighting bronchitis for the past 2 weeks and I was not even sure he could do this race but he did. He said it was real hard around the half way point.

Here he is passing the finish line. You have to take 2 minutes off because they started this race 2 minutes after the mile. So he completed the 3.1 miles in 26:50, not bad since he was sick. I hope a lot of money was raised for this special family. Tyler won some Top of Utah marathon socks and Tanner won some historic books that he saw Mr. Alleman reading in class.

Night at the Museum

2009-04-15T20:19:00.003-06:00

Moms can relate- You know when your child comes home from school and tells you he needs a huge project done by tomorrow? Well that happened to me this week. Tyler came home from school on Tuesday and told me he needed a costume, and big poster and a 30 second spill on Meriwether Lewis from Lewis and Clark done by Wednesday! So after I freaked out and did my little lecture on why you need to tell me this weeks ago and he tells me he did we get right to work. Of course my printer is out of colored ink and I have no poster board so off to town I go after he gets dropped off at scouts. By the time we get home it's 7pm. I loaded the ink in the printer and it is giving me problems-of course it is. After threatening to throw it out the window my husband takes over and gets it to at least print here and there. We finish the poster about 8:30. The costume is what we have left over from a Thomas Jefferson from 2 years back. It will have to do I tell him. I copy a 30 second spill off the Internet and tell him to start memorizing it.

Then what do- I send my child to school with a plastic GUN. Am I out of my mind-Don't answer. I did wrap it in a garbage sack cause in the back of my mind I could see him swinging it around and some mom driving by and getting the wrong idea. Well the school has a no gun policy. Imagine that. If I was not given a project the night before I could have thought that through. But I am the mom that was not thinking.
So tonight we all went to the school saw all the 5th graders and their costumes, posters and 30 seconds spills. Now I just want to rest. School is only in for 1 1/2 more months. I think I can make it.

Meriwether Lewis

George Washington- In my Ward Primary

Craig- In my Ward Primary and Tyler's friend Boston Massacre

Alexander Bell- Sid. I work with his Dad

Malakai and The Utah Jazz

2009-04-15T20:06:00.004-06:00

Last Saturday was a great day for me. I was able to attend 2 baptisms during the day and Wayne and the boys surprised me by cleaning out the garage when I got home. It was such a happy time for me. My car really does fit nicely in the garage who knew.
Earlier in the week Wayne was able to receive free Jazz tickets in SLC so we were going to the game. We have never been to a game together in all of the 14 years we have been together. It was so much fun to have a date night with Wayne. We dropped off the children at my brothers house, Ryan, and we were off. The Jazz played real bad but I had a great time. The picture above is my attempt at taking our picture while holding the camera.

This was the first time Tyler has been able to see Malakai since he as been born. He is 2 months old and has doubled his birth weight. He is so stinking cute!

Wayne mentioned to me that I always seem really happy when I have this little guy around.

Rayiah is my darling little niece. She is 2 and loves her little brother. She is so smart and sweet.

Camping and Conference

2009-04-09T14:18:00.006-06:00

I love General Conference. It's a time for me to relax with the family and listen to church on the radio. We usually always go camping somewhere and we can always get it on the radio. This year we went to Antelope Island. I know some of you think that it's not fun to camp there, but it really is. The weather was cool on Saturday and Sunday was beautiful. The kids must have climbed the mountain 4 times and ran to the beach 10 times. We went with the neighbors, the Ekstroms, and our friends, the Binghams, came to visit on Saturday. We had so much fun playing games and eating snacks and dinner. It's nice to get away and relax with family and friends.

This is what we look like with no make up and over sized shirts and being lazy bums down by the beach. This time of year it does not stink and the bugs are not out.

Tyler climbed on a huge rock and yelled "MOM, take my picture".

On Sunday the weather was so nice. The water was clear as glass. This is us looking toward Kaysville and Salt Lake City.

Here are the boys and man do they need a shower. From left to right- Tanner, Matthew, Tyler and Dakotah.

Wayne is trying to make the dog stay. The dog insists on drinking the salt water and it was making her very sick. We are so mean. All she did was whine cause he wouldn't let her move.

Tanner said the sun was bright and his eyes were watering so he went and got the ski goggles and put them on. Doesn't he look COOL?

Here are the Troublemakers

My neighbor Alisha is a photographer and she says when you walk away from the camera it tells a story. The only story my husband says this picture tells is that you are seeing his best side!

When all the parents were playing games we put all the kids in my bedroom on my bed in front of the t.v. they watched movies and fell asleep. The kids kind of look worn out in this picture. Except for Matthew is the middle.

Getting ready to play games. Left to right-Michael, Wayne, Monica and Kelly.

Wayne was tyring to get a picture of a buffalo in this picture. He was even getting close to it. The sun got in his eyes. I thought the picture turned out well. Another man was taking a picture and got to close. The buffalo charged him. I started screaming. The man ran and the buffalo stopped and the man still got his picture. It was pretty scary for a few minutes. Wayne decided he was close enough and came back to camp.

The Priesthood and Party

2009-03-17T07:23:00.004-06:00

March 15, 2009 was the Sunday when Wayne gave Tanner the Priesthood. It happened right after church and lots of family members and friends attended and wanted to show their support. The boys all looked handsome in their church clothes.

Weston and his girlfriend Chelsey helped me all day Saturday get ready for the party because I was a little under the weather. So thanks to them for lending a helping hand.

Tanner blowing out his candles and asking his dad if he really had to make a wish or if that was for "little" kids.

So Uncle Brent started a food fight. He tried to smear Tanner in the face with a cupcake but Tanner was to fast and got away. The cupcake hit the floor. Well, little did anybody know that Tyler was getting a cupcake and came up behind Tanner and got him good right in the face. So Tanner wiped frosting in Tyler's hair. It was a mess. So THANK YOU BRENT!!!

Tanner received ties, money, itunes gift cards, books and a special CTR ring.

He also received DC shirts, DC hat and wallet from his aunt and Grandma Hare.

We just wanted to thank everyone for coming and supporting Tanner on this very special day. It meant so much to us that you would drive the long distance to show your love for him and us. We really appreciate our family and our good friends. Thanks for always being there for us when we need you.

Tanner Makes It To 12!

2009-03-11T07:32:00.004-06:00

Happy Birthday to Tanner today, March 11th. Tanner was born at 3:05am after 17 hours of labor. He was born in Ogden Utah. He weighted in at 8lbs 4oz and was 20 inches long. It was on a Tuesday. These are some pictures of him growing up. He is so cute and I can say that cause I am the mom. Family picture in 2002.

Karsyn, Tanner and Tyler were part of a singing group. They were in the parade.

This was in Yellowstone.

Tanner loves to go 4-wheeling. He took his first ride at 8 months old.

When Tanner was little he loved the Telletubbies. I loved these slippers.

Such a handsome DUDE!

School Still Open.....Bummer

2009-03-10T15:27:00.005-06:00

When we went to bed Sunday March 8th there was no snow anywhere and this is what we woke up to. By 11am there was 11 inches of snow and it snowed 1 inch an hour till 3pm. I started snow blowing and it took me 2 hours to clear my drive way and the side walks. Since I am not a good with the snow blower as Wayne is, it takes me longer. I wanted to clear the snow for him cause he had been out it the snow all day. The final snow total for day was 20 inches. Man that is plenty enough for me. I just took some pics of the boys playing and the dog even had a hard time getting around.

This is Sprinkles our dog. She couldn't walk through the snow. She just hops like a deer. It is the funniest thing to see.

This is Tanner, Matthew, Dakota, and Tyler in the back yard. We have 1/2 acre and they were way in the back so I had to get close to them to get this picture. I had to go in the house after this cause I was COLD!!!!!

Here is the mail boxes. If this is what Wayne had to deal with all day then I am sorry. His gloves only cover his hands he still needs to use his fingers to sort through the mail.

K, well the only reason I took a picture of our home is cause now I know I am not crazy. Look I still have some, not all, but some of my Christmas decoration up. Just the garland. So now it feels like Christmas again. Wayne has been telling me to take them down for a while and I will before the birthday party on Sunday but I may just plug in the lights to be festive for a day or so.

Here is the trailer and the car. I tell you what, I thought it was never going to end.

When I got home from work I could not make it up the drive way. You can see it goes up to Tanner's thighs. I had to park in the street and start clearing the driveway cause there was no way my little car was going to make it to the garage. The good thing about this snow storm was that it was powder so it was very light. But it's MARCH let's bring on the Sunshine. I know I live in Cache Valley and we get snow until June but I am ready for Spring. I just couldn't believe they still had SCHOOL!!!!!! I guess I just wanted to stay home from work with the kids.

Goodbye To A Real Hero

2009-03-07T11:42:00.003-07:00

Wednesday March 5Th, 2009 1pm was the funeral for Micheal Boyd Alleman who died February 23, 2009 in Balad, Iraq. Who was so bravely serving our country to protect our freedom. By far the saddest thing I have ever experienced in my life so far. The day started out with Tanner going to school and I picked him up at 11:30am right after lunch. I told him I think the procession was coming because main street was being blocked off by police cars. Somehow we managed to get right ahead of it. We pulled over and watched as police escorts and bikers drove down the rode followed by the Mr. Alleman and the family. We had attended the viewing the night before and met Amy Alleman. Micheal's wife. She waved at Tanner and I standing on the side of the road. We got back into the car, went home and got dressed and went to the church 1 hour early. The church filled up quickly with family, friends, loved ones and others just to pay their respect to our Hero. It was a beautiful service. A couple of piano solos and Micheal's mom speaking. Then Amy spoke. She was very inspiring. She has tremendous faith. She mentioned that her and her husband never spoke an ill word to each other. Always love. Such an example and I couldn't help but think of my own marriage. I know I take my husband for granted sometimes. I know I need to be better. I need to cherish the time I have with my husband and children. You never know when something may happen and you never get the chance to make things better. Micheal leaves behind 2 good looking sons. I pray that the Lord will bless them and continue to watch over them. I think about them so much. My prayers are with them. This was 2 firetrucks at the entrance to the cemetery holding up this huge flag.

Nibley's 3200 S. street was lined with hundreds of flags on the day of the service. So touching

Amy and her son Kai receiving their flags.

Tanner's friends made this banner for Mr. Alleman

At Nibley elementary all the 5Th grades lined the street with hands over their hearts standing so quietly. They sent a great message.

Tanner

I am sorry you had to experience this. Your teacher was a brave man and a hero to me as well as others. You were strong this day and I knew how hard it was for you. Always remember Mr. Alleman and the things he taught you. Be proud of your country, he gave his life protecting our freedom. I will always be grateful to him and others who protect this great land. I love you son.

Mom

Tanner's Tribute

2009-02-26T07:12:00.002-07:00

Today is a new day. Yesterday was kind of tough. Maybe a little tougher for me. Tanner did call from school but not to have me pick him up, he need permission for KSL News television and the Herold Journal to interview him. Last night he was on the news and the link is below. This morning his article was in the paper and that link is below also. Tanner told me after school that he wanted to write Mrs. Alleman a letter to let her know how much he appreciated her husband. It was so sweet and I told him it was a great idea. We found out that they are having a 5k race in April to raise money for the family so please anyone who wants to run this with Tanner, Tyler and I let us know it will be for a great cause.

http://hjnews.townnews.com/articles/2009/02/26/news/news01-02-26-09.txt

http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=5696795

Mr. Alleman

2009-02-25T07:00:00.002-07:00

Today is a sad day in the Nielsen household. Last night on the news they talked about a teacher from Cache Valley, who joined the Army last year, was killed in Iraq this week. Well that was Tanner's favorite 5Th grade teacher Mr. Alleman. I tossed and turned all night trying to figure out how I was going to tell him about this. I didn't want him to go to school and find out from others. So I got up early and went in his room when he woke up. I told him who it was and he took it pretty hard. It was hard for me as a mother to deliver the news to him. He really looked up to this teacher and loved him too. Tanner has had to deal with death at such a early age and he takes it OK. I am so glad he understands the Lords plan for us and that he will see Mr. Alleman and his brother Jamieson again. I sent him to school but told him to call me if he needed me to come and get him. My heart is breaking. I don't like seeing him like this. I know he is strong but the mother in me just wants to make everything better. As for Mr. Alleman I am truly grateful for his service for my country. I enjoy my freedom and I owe it to all those who fight for it. I am grateful for the opportunity to live on this great land!

Baby Malakai

2009-02-16T13:47:00.003-07:00

This was my favorite day of this week. It was Friday the 13 of February, two days after my new nephew was born. I got up early and drove 1 & 1/2 hours to SLC and visited with my brother, Ryan, his wife, Heather, and my new little nephew, Malakai. It was great weather. I arrived at 10:30am and did not leave until 7pm. I am sure I over stayed my welcome but it was so peaceful there. He is such a beautiful baby. He has a ton of hair and boy is it thick. He looks just like his dad but, he has long arms and legs like his mom.

Another reason I feel really special with this little guy is his special spirit. See my son Jamieson was born on a Friday the 13Th. And my brother and his wife named their precious little boy after my son. Malakai Jamieson Babinsky. I feel very honored that they would choose a name like that for their little one. This day was a good healing day for me. I felt very close to my son this day. When I left the hospital to go home I stopped at my favorite store Kohl's in Centerville. A mother with a young child was behind me in line. Her boy was staring at the tiles on the floor. His mother said "Jamieson, how many tiles are on the floor?" The little boy was no more than 4 and he thought about counting them. But I turned around and smiled. It seems like my little boy was with me that day.

This is proud dad and Malakai! Thanks for sharing the day with me. I will always cherish it.

Valentines Locker

2009-02-12T16:40:00.004-07:00

Do you remember Valentines as a little kid? I sure do. We would have to bring a shoe box from home and then we would spend the day at school decorating it. Putting little pink and red hearts all over it that said "I love you" or "be mine". Well now that my children have grown this was the last year to do the valentines box. Of course the teacher had them make them at home so it fell on the moms. I knew that Tyler would not have the cute little hearts or puppy dogs or hey I would have settled for just a plain mailbox kind of like pretending he was his dad for the day. But no it had to be something not cute but way cool. So this is what I found.

We made a locker. Covered a box with silver paper used buttons for the lock and made a school flag with of course footballs. I thought it turned out pretty cute or should I say cool. But I least I have the memories of the last valentines day with Tyler. Next year in Middle school they do no such thing. So I am enjoying it one last time. They grow up way to fast.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!!!!

Primary Breakfast

2009-02-11T07:16:00.003-07:00

Last Saturday was our Teacher meet and greet primary breakfast. It was very well attended. We had 13o people and ran out of food.

After breakfast we divided into classes and played M&M games and Bingo. Then back to the Gym where there was a dance off. After a few songs everyone really got into it.

This little boy did not want to join

us for breakfast but did join us for

the games. The reason I have

this picture is because he reminds

me of my little brother Ryan when

he was little.

My brother Weston and his girlfriend Chelsey was there to lend a helping hand. I could not have done it without them. The boys really like her. She is a keeper!

This is our Presidency. Erin, Nikki, Richelle and I. These guys are awesome. This activity was fantastic because of them.

SuperBowl Sunday

2009-02-02T07:37:00.003-07:00

What a great Superbowl game!!!! We had a great time. We did not have a party but we had enough food for one. I thought we were all cheering for the same team until late in the 3rd quarter when the Cardinals pulled ahead and Wayne started cheering. We could not believe what a traitor he was. He says he just wanted to see a good game but I think he was cheering for the underdog. Now you all know I am a Eagles fan and since the Cardinals beat us I have to cheer for the Steelers and they are from PA. so there you go.

Now one things that surprised me was at church when someone told me they could not believe I came. Our church was at 1 and went till 4 and she said I thought you would have got a sub. Well I had sharing time so I needed to be there. Although my husband who claims had a headache did leave church 20 minutes early. But the kick off was at 4:15 and the game did not really get going until the 3rd quarter. It was such a good game and I loved it. Now I am so sad cause football is over until August and I don't really watch basketball or baseball so I will have to get another hobby. Any suggestions?

We Almost Made It.....

2009-02-02T07:25:00.003-07:00

One of our family goal this year was to not use our medical insurance until February and we almost made it. Let me explain. Last year was not our year. Well not Wayne's year. Last March he had his shoulder redone and that took 6 weeks of staying home watching March madness. We spent a week in the hospital because he does not do well with narcotics and needed to be on oxygen. It was very scary for me at the time. Later in the year at a family reunion we were on a hike and Wayne fell down the mountain and broke his leg and ankle in two places. He had to be carried down the mountain. He ended up having surgery and getting plates and screws places. He was out of work for 8 weeks. Still he did not do well and had to be on oxygen for a few weeks. So our medical bills were crazy. So that is why we tried to make it to February.

We almost made it. We got to January 30Th. Tanner went to the ENT and had to have is nose cauterized. And Tyler will be spotting some new shades this week. I will post pics when I get them. So lets hope this is a better year for us and we all stay well. Good luck to you all also.

One of my Baby Brothers

2009-01-23T17:44:00.003-07:00

OK so I received a complaint on face book from my brother that he was no where on my blog. So I dedicate this entry to him. My little brother Ryan is so special to me. He has a place in my heart that hardly no one has been to. He is my hero, he has fought in Iraq for my freedom. He is a great uncle and a good example for my boys to become missionaries. Everyone has their mountain to climb and Ryan is no exception but he does face his challenges head on. He has a way cute family. I love his wife Heather, his little girl and his will have a son next month. He is truly blessed. So here's to you Ryan. So sad the Eagles didn't make it to the Superbowl but we will still cheer them on through the thick and thin. Keep climbing those mountains your doing AWESOME!! LOVE YA ETERNALLY!!! your big sis

Nobody Got Sick?

2009-01-12T14:46:00.003-07:00

Ok, so anybody who know me know that I can't cook very well. Well that is an understatement. I don't like to cook. I don't enjoy it either. But Sunday I have no choice it has to be some kind of home cooked meal. Usually nothing frozen, like TV dinner or a pizza. My skills are pretty slim pickins. I have tried different recipes and some turned out OK but most do not. I am a stranger to spices so I try whatever and that is usually my mistake. I also don't enjoy cooking because I have picky eaters in my home. My husband and son Tanner will eat or try just about anything. My son Tyler is a whole different child. When I cook something he usually asks what is it? What is in it? I try and say stuff he likes like cheese or bread or chicken. But if it's not a chicken nugget I get the ewww or that's sick or I am not eating that. So it ends up being a fight. So imagine my surprise when I made dinner on Sunday and it was a new recipe and it had stuff that everyone like and everyone wanted seconds. I fell as if I have in some small way been DOMESTICATED. I am sure it's not even a real word but I fell like I have finally done something right that a women is suppose to do. Well my glory will be short lived cause tonight is pork chops and not everyone likes those especially the veggies. So I am giving out the recipe and want you all to try it and see what you think. Let me know if it works out for you.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
2 cups cooked cubed chicken

2 cups cooked cubed ham

2 cups instant rice

2 cups sour cream

2 cups grated cheddar cheese

2 cans cream of chicken soup

Croutons

1 tsp. onion Salt

1 cup milk

Mix everything but croutons and onion salt and put in a 9x13 baking dish. Crush croutons and sprinkle on top then sprinkle on the onion salt. Bake at 350 for about 45 min to 1 hr.

Don't cook covered it makes the casserole soggy.

Ringing In the New Year with Rock Band and Friends

2009-01-09T11:48:00.005-07:00

I love New Years and the days leading up to it and the next few days after it. I love the few days before cause I get to take down all of my Christmas stuff and clean the house like new cause we always have a party. It always looks so nice when I am done and right before the party. The days following New Years we had the Ekstroms (next door neighbors) over and played games both nights untill 1-2 in the morning. We ate way to much food and drank way to much Mt. Dew. But it was fun to enjoy friends and family.

This year I made 1 resolution. My usual goal it to lose weight or get into shape. Well I have finally decided to accept that I am in a perfect pear shape and I need to love it. My goal is to have a better attitude. I want to be more positive and have a better outlook on life. So far it is going pretty well. Check back with me on January 31st that is usually when I give up. So until further notice.......... Happy New Years to You!!!

Merry Christmas To All

2009-01-05T19:56:00.002-07:00

Well our Christmas was not what we had planned it to be. There was a huge storm headed our way and if we wanted to be able to get through the canyon to see our families on Christmas day we had to head out on Christmas eve. But we did not figure this out until 2pm. And since I waited until the very last minute to wrap my Christmas it was very easy to pack up in totes. When Wayne returned home from work we loaded up the truck and headed to my mothers in Centerville. The children loved playing the PlayStation and Wii with uncle Weston. We had to bring both of them cause Santa was bringing games for both the PS2 and the Wii. So I stayed up most of the night wrapping, like I always do, (learned that from my mother) and got to bed very late. Woke up and guess what no snow. You mean I could have stayed home in my own bed and rested well. Oh well, we got out of bed and opened gifts from Santa. Tanner got more DC stuff.

Roger got sweet smelling Cologne.

Tyler got Mario Party 8. He has only been asking for that for 3 months.

And of course that both got rock band. Now I wish someone would have told me the drums will drive me crazy. But they love it and it is real fun to sing.

After that we were off the see Wayne's parents. Where Grandpa bought the kids a Wii fit and that game is so much fun. I don't think we have ever laughed so hard at each other. We decided to drive back home cause there was still no snow. Well we hit Brigham City and we were hit hard. The road was covered. We started up the canyon and Wayne said he would take it real slow. Tanner said we should pray and he prayed for our safety. It took us 2 hours to get home that night and we made it. It took a while to dig out the next day. It was a big storm. And it was defiantly a white Christmas.