Harris Family

Futuristic

2012-01-30T03:15:00.001-08:00

This is soooo worth watching. Click all the links. ( I'm a lazy blogger).

We love watching old movies that portray the future because they are so crazy in hindsight. The cool part about these clips is that they are REAL!! Amazing!!! The future is NOW and realistic!

Glass is the future!! our Iphones are only the beginning

I want this on my window!

No Electricity Bill someday SOON

Really Intelligent Guys

Which leads to questions like:

I might never have an energy bill??
Why did I just buy blinds for my windows?
Maybe I can really rearrange my living room differently with six large windows?
Do I want that much information at the tip of my fingers?
What bad/good could come of having this lifestyle??
Should I invest in glass company's????

Enjoy the viewing!!

Catch Up 2011

2011-12-04T16:35:00.001-08:00

Photo Catch up and Brief Synopsis of 2011

January:
Play time at Library and Disney on Ice

February:
Visiting Kim in Carlsbad CA with Lizza and Kids
Valentines Decorations Homemade!

March:
Playing Outside
Going to Multiple SUNS Basketball Games - Leather seats and Buffet!! (Free tickets courtesy of Pet Smart)

Spring Training GIANTS Game- 2!! Courtesy Tickets from Work and Free Yummy treats!

Going to Wild Life Zoo for Preschool

Max and James in Swim lessons! (Success that James can swim unassisted and I only have to mange 2 kids now!)

April:
Prescott, AZ chalk drawing festival
Mesa Temple Easter Pageant- moms due date!
Ward Easter Egg Hunt

May:
Benny Born and Mothers Day!
Father and Sons

June:
Packing to Move to new house
The Weather reached 118 degrees so we tried to fry an egg
Family Trip to Sedona- We love you Sedona!!

July:
Spending the month in Utah to beat the heat!
24th of July
Lots of Hiking

Visiting friends in Tuba City

August:
Max starts Joy school in our neighborhood
Movie in Surprise Stadium with fmaily

September:

Bennys Baby blessing

Mom and Dad came to visit and get sprinklers working in yard!

October:
James Birthday- Turning 5!

His Birthday Party at Verrtuchio Farms in Mesa
He brought 3 friends!

Halloween!! I think I wore 5 different costumes through out the different events- so fun!
All my skeletons were so cute

November:
Family Pictures!

December:
Decorating the Tree and getting ready for Christmas- we love Christmas around here!

Hope the New Year we will be more organized!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Years all of you!

2011-11-29T10:20:00.001-08:00

Our Thanksgiving Table

We hosted Thanksgiving this year for Roberts family. All of his brothers and Sister and Mom came down to Arizona for the event. Every body cooked lots!! All I made was the turkey and the rolls. Some great cooks are in his family. Favorite: Peppermint Chocolate Log Roll. Yum!

First event was swimming and Hotdogs and Marshmallows. Love Arizona's warm weather!

(Max was eventually banned from using a skewer. )

All of Robs family roasting marshmallows at our club house

Cousin Lucy

Dane, Sam, and James at the Lego store

James and Sam pulled out a small tree and got my pumpkins off the porch to make a 'tree stand' then they decorated the tree with lights and legos.
We found them making their pretend christmas. They were embarrassed and told us to go away. I loved seeing them pretend together and using their creativity.

ben and cousin kaleb soon to be besties...

grapefruit from the temple

Robs bro. Ken and wife Kamie

Lots of Park time
Hannah, Max, James

Temple Lights are always beautiful and even better with out the cold.

Christmas is even better with out the cold

- Believe it-

Hot Chocolate tastes even better and hoodies are lovely!

My niece Cassady is a BEAUTIFUL girl who loves Photography.

I stole these images from her Facebook.

I Love this shot of Robert with Vance amd kids.

We are both kids at heart and like to play

as much as our kids do.

Events undocumented:

Bingo Game with prizes and lottery tickets

- a Cassady Family tradition from when rob was a kid-

and so fun. Kamie won $20!!

Talent Show

Dance Party

Lots to be grateful for and a fun start to the Holiday Season.

green is my favorite color

2011-10-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

Green Grass lives in AZ

We fixed sprinklers, planted seed and watch out!! Look at the field of green!

And here is a five month old after eating an oreo!! whoops!

This is so funny!!

2011-10-24T14:58:00.000-07:00

Watch if you want a good laugh!!

Why haven't I heard of these series yet?? so funny!! I like the Healthy Food the best because I would be the mom with the green spinach! So funny! Another reason to love being Mormon!

Just when you think your settled

2011-09-30T22:50:00.000-07:00

Benny 4 months

Max 3 years

Moose in Utah at Cascade Springs

james reading to benny!

max's first haircut where he didnt cry and his first Dbacks game!

Adorable!!

We are starting to feel more settled...we will have blinds soon on the house...that means we can run around naked and not have a million dollar electric bill.

We have callings but then the Ward SPLIT!!- the whole stake was rearranged. So cool though- that the church is growing.

Getting to know neighbors, weather cooling down, benny sleeping better, halloween on its way. My words are short my thoughts are full...

So excited for General Conference in the morning!!

I need help decorating!!!

2011-08-24T17:14:00.000-07:00

I love Good music-- but don't always know how to make it

i love Good food-- but dont always know how to make it

I love Good Design-- but just cant quite figure it out!

So-- I made a design board on Pinterest to get some help!! Im feeling a bit overwhelmed with decorating and unpacking. Please click the link below and help me out. I would love your suggestions because I know I have talented friends!!

My Overall Desire for the house:: RELAXING and CLEAN and SIMPLE!!

MY DESIGN BOARD

{Thanks in advance!}

Blahhh

2011-08-17T00:17:00.000-07:00

My life feels busy right now. Too busy. No time to pluck my eyebrows busy. I need to get organized and I need some cheering up. How do YOU go about doing both those things??

summer in Utah

2011-07-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

We've been in Utah for almost 3 weeks getting out of the AZ heat

and avoiding living in a construction zone with house remodel stuff

Driving to Utah without a husband to help was not so fun but we made it!

We are getting ready to go back and I found some pics that my dad took on his computer.

Benny is so big! At 2 months he was 15.3 lbs today he is 17lbs even-- 5 days shy of 3 months!

Definitely my biggest baby so far! He is a little man in a babies body!

Pioneer Day in Scera Park

Me and Alison made tons of water balloons and the kids went crazy- boys against girls!

Lily getting James in the face!

Celebrated an early 3rd birthday for Max with cousin Britney!

All he wanted was a remote control car with a flashlight!

James is always the funny guy.

My dad tried to take some pics of the boys, of course James didn't want to hold still

24th

2011-06-24T09:43:00.000-07:00

{ this is us! }

This morning I woke up at 4:30 am to feed the baby.

Being wide awake in bed I typically start playing with my iphone to see whats new for the day. I ran across the term "Mormon Bachlorette" and was intrigued so I kept reading and clicking! (Google it for yourself if you'd like- pretty interesting.)

Anyway, the corresponding links led me to wedding blogs and of course wedding flowers which I love. ( I start a business at least once a week inside my head.) I loved looking at all the new couples and their shiny outfits and smiles. A wedding dream world I can easily get caught up in!

Then Rob rolled over in bed - by this time I was on full blown internet searches on the computer in our room. " Guess what day it is today?" ha said,

"Hmmm?"

"It's our anniversary today!"

"What?! your right....."

My thoughts led me in all different directions. We were supposed to be driving to California tonight for a week and a half of family friends and SanFrancisco Anniversary fun while family watched kids at "Grandma Camp." But due to Grandpa Claude being really ill, Myrna's Dad being ill, and our House closing getting pushed further and further back we had to put our plans on hold. I had been so busy with the paperwork and decisions on this house that I FORGOT.

I was then overwhelmed by the fact at how normal our family felt after looking at all the fancy blogs. Good Normal though. The kind of Normal I wanted to aspire to 6 years earlier, the kind that brought peace deep inside. Ironic I was searching weddings on our wedding day 6 years ago. Looking at new couples, then seeing the contrast all around me of toast crust, dirty diapers, and toys all over the floor. I pulled out my wedding album to show the kids pictures. But the fancy photography almost seemed dull compared with the beauty in the room - happy children around me, a life that we have CREATED!

We have been full blown- BUSY since our new baby- with no time for thinking about "me" or sometimes even "we."But IT FEELS GOOD! The kind of busy that is fun and never dull. What precious Gems I have been blessed with since we have been married.

I looked at our beautiful kids- being greeted by a smile and coo from Benny- Max being locked into his chair at the kitchen table because he cant be trusted with food and fast legs- James smiling and curled up on the couch. These kids are beautiful and amazing- always having something interesting to say- and they make me smile and laugh a lot.

My friend Amber had written down inspiring words at our temple ceremony. I had kept the paper in the back of my wedding book with a temple handout the sealer gives everyone- generic council.

As I read the words I realized that I had forgotten some council and maybe could do better in some areas. As a family and as a couple though I know that we have been doing our best but made a resolve to do even better--- and that felt good- no shame, just excitement to think of things differently, do it, and then wait to see what blessings come our way.

Instead of a big trip, or a fun blog post with all my shiny wedding pictures, I wanted to share those words of council below. I think they were ment for us-- but also ment for ALL COUPLES!!

We have had our fair share of fights, disagreements, and struggles in our short 6 yrs but we have also had great fun too. When the negative seems to out weight the positive, I know that it is our commitment to commitment that has made all the difference. Commitment means some difficult things like forgiveness, compassion, team work, and swallowing our pride.

As long as we stay committed to commitment then there will be many more years to come. Lots more shiny Gems and great memories to be made.

So no trip this year

Maybe not even dinner out

Lots of diapers and naps today

but, a spiritual uplift that our family will benefit from for a long time!

More Pictures

2011-06-22T14:15:00.000-07:00

As promised more House Pictures!

We were supposed to close tomorrow but now another extension has been filed.

Arghhh

Anyway it should be ours before July 1st.

It is a HUD home so there is a lot of extra paperwork.

It needs to be fixed up with new carpet paint fixtures etc...

So consider these the BEFORE pictures......

Happy Packing to us!

Benny

2011-06-05T22:36:00.000-07:00

One Month Stats:

12 pounds

24 inches

Q-T-Pie!!

He is my real life little doll.

Cant get enough of him.

Rob's Mom Janness with the boys

We've had lots of help - a whole month of it between my Mom, Janness, and Rob's works PTO.

I've been on my own for a week now! I was super nervous but every day gets better.

The casualties this week while I've been asleep (destroyed by the 2 yr old): Fridge Lock broken, DVD cord cut up with kitchen shears, drape panel with same shears, box of strawberries, couch pillow pink from strawberries, chocolate syrup bottle (thank goodness it was on the kitchen table), multiple bags of crackers smashed on the floor and scattered everywhere.

Luckily no body parts have been involved!!

We are also adding this addition to our family!

Darling Craftsman with a reading nook in the stairwell!

My favorite part of the house by far!

We are supposed to close in a few weeks. I know--so much for NOT buying a house and planting ourselves here but I guess we are! Wish us luck!!

Fresh Out of the Oven

2011-05-19T04:33:00.000-07:00

Benjamin Robert

May 2, 2011

4:04 am

A few days before our little guy came

Fresh out of the oven!!

9lbs 4 oz. 21 inches

Benny gets to meet Blue Doggy

Food! even hospital food--- give it to me!!

On our way home

Ive been meaning to post some pics of the Baby but we have camera cord problems so I have finally caved in and am just putting MOBILE pics on here!

We love little Ben he is so healthy and strong- a miracle!! He was weighed yesterday and was 10 lbs 7 oz already! I feel like I have a 2 month old compared to my other kids! I FINALLY have my dark haired baby too! I hope he stays dark that is!....

(Yes-- I am typing this while feeding at 4 am!)

I wanted to do a natural birth- no induction and no pain meeds!! So with some meditation, hypo birthing playing in my ears, lamaze 101 (and anything else I could read for that matter) tucked away in my little brain, I drank my orange juice castor oil concoction at 41 wks and I was on my way into labor!!! It was so quick and fast!! I fell asleep at 11:00 pm the night before thinking I might be feeling regular contractions. I woke up at 1:30 am when my 2 year old had to pee. The contractions were regular! I was still having them! At 2:30 I woke up robert and called my sis-in-law! Arrived at hospital by 3:30 and baby arrived a half hour later!! It was awesome!

With all the preparation for Birth, I neglected a bit the preparation for postpartum- lets just say that things are wild over here and my emotions are unstable! Pray all three of my children will be live to see the light of each new day! Ha just kidding, kind of...... . What a great experience having three ACTIVE BOYS is too- it is WILD but it is LIFE and I am happy to be busy living it!

Funny

2011-03-01T12:01:00.000-08:00

Today James was watching Qubo ( a ghetto version of PBS filled with lots of infomercials between cartoons-- we don't have cable right now!) and saw an infomercial with the Fonz.

James said, "I know who that is- that is Henry Winkley- he was our old prophet that died a long time ago before President Monson!"

It took a second to register-- and then I had to explain that it was President Hinckley and that Henry Winkler was a TV star. Pretty funny!!! But that is a lot for a four year old to remember- i can't believe he even remembered President Hinckley was before Monson.

I AM A FAN!!

2011-02-06T17:40:00.000-08:00

Im in Love with Jessica Seinfeld and her food website! I think cause I was a fan of Jerry's first. Who isn't right? that man is a genius! So of course she has to be too (lots of major celebrity assumptions!) It is fun to get a glimpse into her amazing kitchen and see her family a bit. Real People. I told Robert tonight that if Jerry Seinfeld can eat out of a crock pot than he can too- haha!!

We have had some yummy meals lately, courtesy of doitdelicious.com, Jessica Seinfeld's blog. She is an AMAZING cook that puts thing in SIMPLE terms. I loved trying some recipes from her cook book "Deceptively Delicious" a few years ago. Robert still doesn't get off my back about putting Spinach in Brownies but they are good!!

Anyway, I became her fan on Facebook and found out about her amazing website. She has a bunch of video tutorials that show in simple terms how to make some great, quick dinners.

I have tried the

Sweet Cherry Tomato Pasta   It is so good I have made it twice and I used whole wheat gnocchi instead of spaghetti noodles--AMAZING! Planning on making it again and again and again!

Freaky Greek Pasta  This is delcious- please use all the feta and even put in more!!- it sounds like a lot but it isn't- sooo good and light and filling too. (I know Im prego and soft cheese aren't good- just turn a blind eye to my choices....

Perfect Halibut over Spinach  I used Tilapia instead of Halibut because it is cheaper. So good still and I made a rice pilaf with parmesan cheese and asparagus that was the perfect side dish.

And of course the Slow Cooker Lasagna listed below- it was that good!!!! I made it today and started it before I left for church and when we got home it was perfect. I'm not a huge fan of crock pot cooking but this was delicious. So much flavor and the noodles were perfectly tender and the cheese was so good. I only happened to have one ricotta cheese in my fridge so I substituted a container of cottage cheese instead and it was great. I included the tutorial for the lasagna below so you can see how simple and easy her videos are.

I hope sharing her website can help your family cook fast and healthy meals-- also no four legged animals are involved- and all whole foods!! Love it!!

SLOW COOKER LASAGNA

Prep time: 20 minutes
Total time: 3 hours and 50 minutes
Serves 6-8

This slow cooker lasagna couldn't be more simple (you don't have to pre-boil the noodles!) Just assemble and walk away. But before you do, watch Jess and Ali show you, step-by-step, how to do it.

READY TO LEARN? JUST HIT PLAY.

ingredients

2 28-ounce cans: crushed tomatoes

4 cloves: garlic, finely chopped

2 tablespoons: dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon: kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon: red pepper flakes

1/4 teaspoon: freshly ground black pepper

2 15-ounce containers: fresh ricotta

2 cups: grated mozzarella (8 ounces)

1/4 cup: grated Parmesan

16: lasagna noodles (about 3/4 of a 1-pound box)

5 ounces: baby spinach (about 6 cups packed)

directions

In a medium bowl, combine the tomatoes, garlic, oregano, salt, red pepper and black pepper (12 turns on pepper mill). In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta, 1 cup of the mozzarella and the Parmesan.

In the bottom of a 5 to 6-quart slow cooker, spread a thin layer of the sauce. Top with 4 of the noodles (breaking to fit as necessary.) Spread 1 1/2 cups of the sauce over the noodles and layer with 2 cups of the spinach and 1 1/2 cups of the cheese mixture. Repeat twice more with the noodles, sauce, spinach and cheese mixture. Top with the remaining 4 noodles, sauce and 1 cup mozzarella.

Cook on low, covered, until the noodles are tender—especially in the center of the lasagna, 3 to 3 1/2 hours.

Faith as a grain.....

2011-01-26T12:56:00.000-08:00

I have to admit I haven't bee stellar at Personal Prayer for a long time. I think that happens when things don't turn out the way that YOU have planned, then through bad choices you limit the feelings of the
Spirit and your Faith weakens and then Prayer seems to go away too.

I think I wanted what I wanted so badly that I didn't want to know what the Lord wanted me to do I didn't even care. I had felt like he had let me down. But then it feels like Rock Bottom because you are alone, the Spirit leaves, and it is so easy for anger and Satan to entice you.

There have been other times in my life when I experienced this- I remember living in Hawaii having made a lot of bad choices, being on my own for the first time and wanting to do what ever I wanted. I remember feeling Rock Bottom again. I had called my Dad and he asked me when was the last time that I had asked the Lord for help in Prayer. I felt how much my Dad cared and I was reminded how much the Savior cared and wanted to talk to me. The feelings were so strong that remembering it 13 years later still brings all of those feelings back. As soon as I turned to daily Personal Prayer my life took a turn in a better direction. I felt the Saviors warning and promptings and I chose Faith- faith to follow what He was saying.

The Move out to Arizona took some prayer and faith and LISTENING. Just finding the right renters- knowing when it was time to leave our house (Robs company was sooo flexible- he had been telecommuting for over 6 months when we chose to leave and they would have given us longer,) and where to live when we came here.

When I first saw the house that Robert has chosen I was in Disgust. (Pic below of the dirt and my bleach/soapy rag that had cleaned the white line!) I said no and for 2 weeks looked every day for a new place to rent with no success. One day in a prayer of desperation, Heavenly Father told me that the yucky house was to be where we would live and that I could handle it! I was in shock and I asked again but got the same answer. (The second picture is the white wall that I cleaned and then painted! I was so happy!) It took 3 solid days of cleaning and scrubbing to make the place livable. But it fit all of our things and was sooooo cheap. Literally half the price of everything else on the market. I was still trying to have Faith in my Prayer when I went to church for the first time later that week and met so many amazing people. The Spirit confirmed again that we were in the right place.

I cant even tell you what that Decision has done for our marriage and our finances. We were able to get a much needed computer, do tons of repairs on our cars, pay off our moving expenses, save money, save money for our Rental house in Midvale, AND Rob and I didn't need a second job in the evening to be able to have extra money. We've had sooooo much time as a family to do EVERYTHING! We have tried all kinds of fun activities and had more dates and good times with the kids. Our family is soo much stronger.

Over and over again I have been reminded about that ONE choice and I have been filled with Gratitude towards God. I have turned to him for Prayer again on a regular basis.

Some other examples lately include:

Not wanting to get out of bed being sick of my KIDS, sick of being Pregnant, and tired of the monotony of taking care of a family. I literally had the covers over my face saying a prayer that I could just get out of bed and function for the day. My friend Nancy texted me that she had extra tickets for Disney on Ice that day and that I would need to leave in an hour to get there on time. I was going to write back No Thanks when then Spirit told me that this was the answer to my prayer. I got out of bed and started the shower and within the hour we left. I was trying to be hopeful- not wanting to go do this- but when I saw how happy my kids were my attitude changed. The Day ended up being soooo fun. The tickets started a chain of events and we didn't get home until 9 PM that night. it was such a fun day.

how many other days did I forget to ask the Lord for help?? And If I did ask-- did I have the faith to listen to the answer??

also lately:

Me and Rob got in a big fight. It was about the Sabbath Day and how to observe it. I know stupid right?? Some how it seemed worth it at the time. It is something we have fought a lot about too. I was so heated that I decided to walk to church. This is no small task seeing that I live 5 miles from church and being pregnant in sandals walking over dirt roads and train tracks- it took an hour and a half. I wanted to turn around a gazillion times, not to go apologize but just to go home and go back to bed. I wanted to stop at Wendy's and grub on some bacon! I wanted to stop at the nail salon I passed by and rest and get a pedicure! But the spirit told me I needed to be at church. I was too stubborn to get a ride form anyone and kept on walking. I sat in the back careful to not sit by Rob. The speaker started and low and behold started talking about ways to create peace in her home. She talked about her and her spouse having arguments over the Sabbath day. She talked about how a fool is quick to anger and how it is just not worth it to fight over such a small thing. I felt rebuked and repented!!!!!! I was so grateful that I had gone to church instead of staying in bed. What a great lesson I have learned that will stick with my for life and have change the dynamics of my marriage. There were a lot of key things I had heard that day that will stick with me for a long time.

another:

Praying for more faith in our Government. Then seeing tax laws renewed in the final hours of 2010! The tax laws have helped us greatly reduce the loss on our rental! A miracle. Trying to be more optimistic about God taking care of me and enjoying the day, the moment, knowing that his ways are true and just and perfect-- so what do I have to worry about??!!! Nothing! He is the ultimate protector and provider.

Reading the latest talk on Faith- Richard G. Edgley from last General Conference- "Faith the Choice is yours" he says that he has not seen Faith move an actual mountain but he has seen Faith move a mountain of despair and doubt and replace it with hope and optimism. I have personally felt this this past year. My marriage that was crumbling has become strong. Our personal Finances have received a boost, My whole Paradigm has changed. My view on life is drastically different.

This has all happened from FAITH. Faith leading me to Personal Prayer, then listening to the Spirits answers after I have prayed and doing what was asked of me even though I didn't know how it would turn out. I have found so much joy in the simple things life brings. I have found joy in listening to the Spirits guidance. It seemed there are a gazillion examples of blessings in my life as a result from faith but this is getting lengthy already so I will spare you!!

I know that no matter how infinite your circumstances seem, your eyes will be opened and you will be led out of your despair and into a better place.

I'm not sure why I wrote all of this but I felt like I should so I did!!!! I hope that it benefits someone out there reading it.

Love April

For the Picky Eater

2011-01-18T05:29:00.000-08:00

James is such a picky eater!! He wont even eat my smoothies most of the time. So on my quest to stay healthy I'm always looking for good recipes. James has always been little for his size being a preemie baby so I've always worried about bulking him up! He makes me want to stock my pantry with processed food(which he loves, fruit snacks, boxed anything, chips, etc...) just so he will eat and get bigger!! But I can't give in!!

Anyway I've talked about my friend Liza's Blog, Greener Eating, before but I'm including a link to her Apple Bars. (and I stole her picture!) They were sooooo EASY and FAST to make and very good! You do need a Food Processor so go and buy one if you haven't because you will need it for a lot of things, but Blenders work relatively well too.

After they cooled and I cut them, James at 3 pieces!!! Little did he know that I put Prunes, Walnuts, Shredded Wheat and Flax in them. Robert even thought the prunes and apples tasted like cranberries or cherries. Anyway, they have a Chocolate Cherry version on the blog and a Chocolate Walnut I'm going to make both today. They were easy to cut and store in a container in the fridge.

Best of all they were made with all simple WHOLE ingredients straight from the earth!

I going to post more recipes to come of some fun things we have tried in the last few months!

Good luck to all you moms with picky eaters!!!

( I modified my recipe with what I had: instead of egg replacer powder I used Flax Seed ground up, and instead of Dates I used Prunes. On the Chocolate Bars I'm going to substitute Raisins for the Dates too. Watch your oven because mine only took 15 minutes instead of 20.)

Apple Cinnamon Snack Bars (Link)

Do any of you have Picky Eaters and have recipes to pass on?? I'd love to know..

Playing Outside

2011-01-12T02:41:00.000-08:00

I love reading everyones new year posts. It is always good to start a new year and get a fresh start feeling to everything. We've been cleaning out the house, organizing and dejunking, and cleaning out our bodies.

I realized that the little baby is coming in 3 months! I haven't even attempted much in the area of preparation. This will keep me busy the next few months. Also trying to enjoy the outdoors until due date will fill the rest of our time!!

Since it is our "summer" right now Im booking beds for your vacation enjoyment!

-- 2 Full-sized beds a night, first come first serve!

Merry Christmas!!!

2010-12-23T07:57:00.000-08:00

Cousin Lucy, Max, James, Uncle John, and Robert are the stars of the show

Max was supposed to be an angel but he took off his outfit and turned his halo into a gun!

We hope that Christ is the center of your Christmas!

Glendale Glitters

2010-12-21T08:38:00.000-08:00

the city of Glendale has a light display in one of their parks in old town Glendale. I loves the palm trees with lights. Lots of activities and lots of people!

I have to confess that I love the warm december nights! Yes you can still get into the Christmas spirit with Palm Trees and Sunshine.

In fact there are no icy, snowy, car packed roads to fight with-- that is best of all!

Bouncy House

Pizza after in old town.

This was the BEST REAL PIZZA!! Im still craving it. We pigged out on soda and pizza and had a fun time being out side with street vendors and little folk bands playing their music.

I loved the music, and the dark ally, and the christmas lights.

Most of all I loved being with my sweet family.

Dear Santa...

2010-12-19T23:10:00.000-08:00

When Santa came to our church party James was very sick! He didn't get to make it.

He was so sad and had written a letter so we made it a point to go to the "Mall Santa"so he could meet him.

Santa wanted to charge $33 smackaroos for a pic!! I know Santa and I know he doesn't play that way

Anyway- Rob was positioned in place and managed to snap a few with out getting caught....

Here is the best one below

When it came time to tell santa what he wanted he asked for an Etch- A-Sketch!!

I was so surprised because he has a serious Mario/Nintendo obsession. That is a switch I can live with!!

(Dear Santa from James)

(Max and James and Blue Doggy, his fav. stuffed animal, want a dog movie)

Cheesy Christmas Letter and Picture

2010-12-17T18:39:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas,

to all who read this blog!!

If you didn't get a letter it is

because I was too cheap to buy more stamps,

we love you still the same

Here is a little cheesiness Harris style...

(picture taken by my dad with a green screen- fun right?!!)

Are you ready for a bazillion posts and pictures??

2010-12-16T21:15:00.000-08:00

Since I last posted this is what I've done....

My sister Andrea her hubby Ryan and Ava came from Idaho bringing a truck full of potatoes!

We went on walks tot he park, golf for the boys, baseball and lunch at the Surprise Stadium, Shopping and lunch for the girls in scottsdale. I made her teach me her never-fail chocolate chip cookie recipe-- which by the way I've puled off twice now! I feel like I can finally make good cookies! I think a good time was had by all. I loved being a hostess and cooking good food.. Little cutie Ava was a doll. Max still says, "where'd that go Aba?"

haha!

Next- three days later- my parents and sister sarah came for T-day!! It was so fun to have them and host again. I think I wore my mom out!! If you didn't know my family you would wonder where my dark hair came from because so many people have red. Some day I'll post pics of my dark haired family people. We went the the train park in scottsdale, down to some shopping, and lastly to the mesa temple!

Cutie Sarah! It was fun to "happen upon" the lights! I wanted to just show them the temple and surprise the lights were on! pretty cool. Then home to back my pies!! On Thanksgiving morning my dad took Max and James fishing with robert at surprise pond/lake. James had been begging for Grandpa to do this with him since he sees all the other grandpas out there. My dad has AMAZING patience!!

After all my planning and creating - this is what I created below-- much more simpler than I originally thought- but hey my table is SMALL!! I bought the wine glasses at Goodwill- the turkey platter my mom gave to me she bought in the 70's for $1!!! I made the table cloth, napkins, and runner out of linen. It was a good day with lots of yum from scratch-- After 5 pints of whipping cream and 4 lbs of butter I think we were satisfied!

The day they left I was exhausted but I was so excited for christmas that I had to put my tree up-- that night!! and all my decor for that matter. But I still have 5 of my 9 plastic bins full of stuff I didn't use because our place is smaller- it is nice to have a simpler look.

I loooooovvvvveee making bows- I love ribbon. I have two bins full of ribbon.

Somethings wrong with me...

Free Christmas Tree! From John and Myrna- their garage is like a goodwill!

can I beg you any more to grow indoor bulbs. They are fabulous!

Of course this plate was fuller at one point, and of course it was gone at least a week ago...

James rearranged the nativities he could reach so everyone was making a circle around baby Jesus. So adorable. In the process he broke one of the Marys. I still haven't glued her head back on- I think of how Jesus would have missed her so much. He needed a great mother to be the king of the world!!

Also--- in lieu of all my visitors I started unpacking a few boxes and hanging up pictures. I FINALLY printed off pics that my friend Liz took a year ago. They look gorgeous and vibrant in their frames!!

Thanks again Liz for the beautiful pictures.

The day my parents left My dad took some pics of our family-- he is an aspiring Photographer!!

He says he will gracefully roll from Musician to Photographer as he retires!!

Here is a sample...

And of course- last but not least.... I went to the Dr's The day before Thanksgiving.....

and found out we are having

A Boy!!!

three boys!!

Im going to take a belly shot someday.

And in the next few days my goal is to post something that happened in the month of December...... haha

Design

2010-11-12T10:04:00.000-08:00

We find out what the baby is in less than 2 weeks. I would love a boy or a girl (secretly a boy would be easy to throw in the mix) so I have been looking at nurseries for ideas. I can't help my self! I loved both of these rooms. I think the 2nd picture could be used for a boy or a girl. I love design but never have money to go crazy so everything is on a budget- But with sewing and paint anything is possible- so I have big plans!

My sister and her husband are coming to visit next week and so I've been cleaning out the 3rd bedroom we have used as storage. I couldn't believe I cleared it out with everything fitting into closets I needed to reorganize. We received a free bed from Roberts brother and then I went to town! With our baby dresser, an old nightstand, and random linens and pillows from around the house our guest room came alive!! So now anyone can come and stay!!!

(Photos taken with my phone)

Gratitude

2010-11-11T13:42:00.000-08:00

After My Post yesterday I need to write about Gratitude.

I needed to vent my feelings of frustration and where better then my blog?! But after reading my post again I sound ungrateful especially during this time of year. We are so very blessed in a million ways that I am grateful for all the time, really I am.

Even though things don't turn out how I imagine they should, God always makes up the difference and then some. He has carried us through things that we didn't think we could bear and continues to show us over and over again how he knows who we are. He knows our thought and desires. He knows our concerns and regrets. He LOVES US so much despite our short comings.

"All we, like sheep have gone astray and every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquities of us all."

For this I am grateful for the Atonement of Christ over and over again in my life.

I am also grateful for:

1. Healthy Children
2. a New Life who will join our family!
3. A great hardworking, loving Partner
4. a roof over our heads that is sufficient for our needs and so much more.
5. A Job!
6. My Education
7. a gazillion answers to prayers
8. To live in America
9. For really good parents that have taught me great things
10. The energy and strength to live a very full life
11. Lots of great great great friends!!

So even though life can be frustrating there are even more wonderful things to Love about this world then we can even write!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Sigh...

2010-11-10T08:48:00.000-08:00

Yuck Yuck and Yuck

I try to ignore the crap that goes on in the world because the crap is endless!!! (Why ignore it?- maybe feeling like Im too little to change it,)

Why dwell on the negative right? But when the crap hits you full force in the face it is hard to ignore it.

This year our premiums went through the roof. We also lost our 90/10 health plan that we have been paying for in lieu of new baby coming.

What are we left with??!

A High Deductible Plan!! Now our baby is going to cost us $5000 instead of $1500!!!!

This is because OBAMA recognized that companies that can afford to pay premiums for good health plans should have those dollars taxed. Well most companies cant afford the tax and are doing away with the 90/10 and 80/20 plans. great OBAMA care for the middle class.

What is your open enrollment telling you??

What else is killing us financially???

A little history:

Our Mortgage!!!! We bought a home with a conventional 30 year mortgage with a payment that was mostly affordable we paid CASH for closing costs we paid CASH for money down - a very high 5 figure #. This was unusual! The Brokers didn't even know how to deal with cash at closing they didn't even know how to deal with our loan that should have been a sign of corruption!!!! We did everything we could to be conservative and honest with our loan.

Our home value has dropped over $50,000 well whats new? everyone has lost value.( but we moved for a better job opportunity like lots of people have had to do too (and luckily found a great renter!!!! Yeah!))

We are still losing over $300 a month - when we pay for a repair like this month we lose $400.

OBAMA has put a ton of little laws and clauses in the mortgage world to help people refinance but do you think any of them apply to the middle class???? NO!!!

The only way we can refinance our loan to take advantage of the low rates and minimize our monthly loss is to miss payments!!!

Wow! so does that sound logical or honest? Don't get me wrong we'd love to miss a payment- but we are:

1) Honest!!! We told someone that we would pay them and we will do it. We'd rather starve then miss a payment- which we have done!

2) Rob works in insurance and finance his credit score is a huge part of being marketable - he needs to show that he can deal with money.

How are we suppossed to carry this loss for 10 years until the market bounces back? or the other option-- how are we suppossed to come up with 20-30 grand to cover our homes negative value?

Where is our Joe the Plumber relief? Believe me-- we are in the middle of the middle class--I am seeing my Wealth distributed to those who have less and more- making our family suffer. I see:

1) High Medical Premiums -each year they go up like crazy and this year is the worst.

2) The Home Market collapsing- it is still in a downward spiral in Utah and AZ and who knows where else. Where is the BAIL OUT for the housing market?

3) Property taxes continue to rise and as our income bracket grows so does our taxes along with now not being able to write off student loan interest next year.

4) I especially see: Our net income is stagnant!! With every raise or promotion there is a fee or tax or premium that offsets the new money. We are essentially making the same money 4 years ago when we had James- but now we have a mortgage under our belt and 1 1/2 more kids.

5) I see my money being given to others that haven't worked for it.

6) I see the rich getting government relief in the form of Bail Outs.

Do I sound a little angry?

This is getting a little long but I do want to say I don't believe in Bail outs-- I believe little government intervention is essential. BUT if you are going to take my tax dollars and relieve the RICH and the POOR then you better relieve the MIDDLE CLASS too!!!

I don't believe in Democrat or Republican or Tea Party I just believe in Honesty. I don't hate Obama but when I hear that people LOVE LOVE LOVE Obama who are in college or who have young families and they haven't experienced life yet-- I want you to think about people that are suffering with real issues. We have been sooooo blessed compared to others who have lost everything so I couldn't imagine their frustration!!!

Someone please help our country. I'm ready to move to Switzerland.....

Things you need to do TODAY!!

2010-11-09T13:17:00.000-08:00

If you haven't tried indoor bulbs before you MUST MUST MUST!

It is so easy- go buy an amarylis bulb or paperwhite bulbs at your local nursery or walmart-- plant very shallow in dirt, rocks, coconut fiber, or both!!! They are so easy to grow and are so beautiful for the holidays.

You must start them today!!! Because they take 5-6 weeks to bloom. The blooms could last 3 weeks if you are lucky!!

I planted mine in river rock and soil mixture then added a little green moss on top- not necessary!! Just keep moist--do not over water or they will get moldy- do not cover bulb with water either. I love planting them in glass container but this year I did an old cookie tin because I thought the red container with the green stems and white flowers would be gorgeous. You dont have to choose a container with drainage on the bottom (ie holes) so anything funky could work! Good Luck!

On the Christmas note-- (I know already right?!-) Order your Christmas Cards or Christmas Photo Cards TODAY. Costco and other online options already have their templates ready! Can you imagine having them out of the way?! Do I sound like a magazine calendar? Well I ordered mine in attempts to try and stay ahead-- get stamps too!!

Thrifting,

you also need to go thrifting today!! There are so many good finds! If you are hosting thanksgiving there are tons of fun decorations. I found this old silver bowl for $2.00 at Goodwill. It is tarnished but I love it for a rustic fall look. I think I will clean it up for christmas and make it shiny!!

And last of all- I am Hosting Thanksgiving!!!! ( for my mom and dad and one sister) Some of you know we are in a small nasty rental house for right now blahh. but I cant miss the chance to decorate. I found this leaf idea in an old Martha Stewart magazine I had-- green scrapbook paper with real twigs hot glued or twisty twine for a twig. Im going to the craft store today to buy the paper. I imagine persimmions, eucalyptus branches (Im going to steal from my neighbors tree) and some gords or fruit.

I'll post the final picture when Im done!!

Good luck with all your holiday preparation!!

Halloween in Brief

2010-11-09T13:09:00.001-08:00

Here is a brief Halloween update:

Murder Mystery Dinner, Neighbor Halloween Party, Trunk or Treat, Chili/FirePit Trick-or-Treating= a fun month!!!!!

Here are a few pics from my phone because Im too lazy to download from my camera!

Our 1 pumpkin we carved!! Good enough!!

Our attempts at spooky lights-- graves and skeletons to the left

Decorating outside -- it was 78 degrees so it was the perfect chance to wear a hoodie??!!

Costumes this year...

Kid-Neighbor halloween party there were probably a 100 kids- so fun.

hot dogs crafts

We love you Halloween!!

Us Last Halloween!

2010-10-29T18:44:00.001-07:00

This was us last year at this time...

have you ever seen a giraffe drive a van or a man wear a headband for that matter??

you are adorable!!!

I actually padded my butt!! I dont think I probably needed to...

What a Ham. I started thinking how did Robert let me talk him into this?

Then I remembered that he has a flair for the theatrics.

He would have been mad if I hadn't made him a giraffe costume.

Yup-- we were Madagascar--Hippo, Giraffe, Marty the Zebra, and Alex the Lion. What a grand time we had.

and yes, we have 3 trick or treat bags--!!!!

Did no one notice???!!

Score on the chocolate bars for us.

We found fall in Sedona!!!

2010-10-26T02:23:00.000-07:00

We found Sedona, AZ ,

to me it was the most beautiful place.

After record temperatures feeling the 80's was

spectacular!

I made James wear a long sleeved shirt because it was "cool" weather!

There were so many breath taking views and stunning artistic buildings.

We've only scratched the surface there I cant wait to go back!!

I had no idea how popular it was to go to Sedona- we left with about a half hour of thought and planning so when we arrived all the hotels were full!!! Wow! After doing some great searching we found what felt like the last room available! Thank goodness!

Robert couldn't come because of obligations so it was just me and the kids. It was a great relaxing weekend!

a small hike

Look at this view we had at lunch!

The only yellow leaf we could reach! we took it- sorry nature but I was a little fall crazy!!

Gorgeous!

Good Times!

2010-10-26T02:16:00.000-07:00

Our Friends the Blodgetts are moving away next week and James is sad

to not be close to Jacob. We have gone with them this last month to

the Zoo- 3-- maybe 4-- times!! What a blast!

We will miss you!

All the kids saying "cheese"

Precious!

James Friend Party

2010-10-26T02:04:00.000-07:00

James received $4 in a card from his friend Zina in Utah this is how he used

his money.....

This ride was repeated over and over and over again....

JAMES also had his first friend party!!

Here are some of the Super Heros in attendance!

(Notice the large pile of Cheetos by James, can you share?!

Cheetos is a Birthday and Christmas Tradition in our family)

Cake by Aunt Myrna!!

James is Four!

2010-10-06T18:08:00.000-07:00

James' Favorite Toy from Grandma Smith

Before the Chaos!

Birthday Bowling with friends Gina, Bert, and Anthony

Max carried his own ball everytime!

Birthday boy with the tall socks

Yummy Pizza

Preschool time. Rob went to school with him

all day and brought the snack of the day-- of course cupcakes!

James' Aunt Myrna made these cupcakes for his preschool.

What kid gets Fondant Basketballs??

Thanks Myrn!

More to post of the friend party that will be this weekend.

Love you James!

First Field Trip

2010-10-06T18:04:00.001-07:00

James' first field trip was to the fire station. Max and Cousin Lucy tagged

along. The kids of course were in awe the whole time!

Beating the Heat

2010-10-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

Playing at Splash Pads still-- trying to combat the 100 + degree weather

Playing in our garage during the day is the only way for us to play outside.

It only last about 15 min. before the kids are too sweaty,

(They are also breaking all of Roberts tools.)

Some Clarification

2010-09-30T10:12:00.000-07:00

Just so you know-- Arizona is hot!!! I am sure it will be nice in the Winter but I miss fall and canning and jackets. It is still 108 degrees today. So when the winter comes and you feel jealous- DON'T BE! There are almost 6 months of 100 degree weather here. I'm no better off then those who live in snow-- trust me!!!

Also, I am not going vegan. I hope that was clear. We do eat too much meat and too much saturated fat/cholesterol. I do want to do more substitutes with plant based food. I want to feel that my body is clean. I do want to buy grass fed animal products too. (I have seen Food Inc. I wanted to cry!) But Grass Fed is expensive. So when I can't afford it- I'll eat beans and veggies.

Also, I never share my opinions I just put pictures of kids up!! So it is great to see what kind of response I got. I love all your thoughts. With all the people in the world who eat junk- it looks like I do have a great circle of people who are thoughtful about what they eat. I love what I can learn from you. Pass on your recipes and I will pass on mine!

Also, the real estate here is cheap. Every one is prodding us to buy something. We looked, we got excited. We can buy a lot of a house- with the works! ( Ive always wanted a pool!) But now that it is here and I have had the option to have what I want, I realize it is not what I want. I would rather choose a shack by the beach. I miss my old and charming house in midvale. We wont be buying anything any time soon. So just for the clarification- the grass is not always greener on the other side.

Thanks for listening to my ramblings. Now back to posting pictures of kids!!

Thought from around here...

2010-09-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

It was so fun to see an old friend from the neighborhood this last week. She grew up vegetarian and now is full vegan. Her whole family- meaning her whole extended family- is too!! She is so inspiring. I thought I was eating healthy but just in an hour of conversation I realized I need to make some changes. Am I ready to give up meat??!! I don't think so yet- considering the bacon cheeseburger I had last night in a moment of weakness!! Do I want to use less cheese, milk products in general, more plant based everything, and yes- probably cut out red meat??!!(Im not sure!) More like all Saturated fat. I eat too much butter. I eat too much cheese. Oh my Sour Cream! Even my beloved Dr. Oz says "no saturated fat!!" and I haven't been able to follow that rule.

Don't I care about my Heart? Longevity? Cancer?

Yes- this is why I cut out all that processed crap years ago- HFCS, Hyd Oils, anything with a chemical name too long to prounounce. Most sugar. We eat oatmeal. we eat Fruit - not pretend fruit snacks- I make homemade- lots of things- most everything. But did I use 2 sticks of butter in my homemade pot pie last week- yes!! Do I use it in my breads and rolls- yes!- well there is a higher way and I tasted it. I've made bread before with oil and yuck- but I had Elizas and yum! She only uses drops of oil compared to what I've used.

You need to check out her blog- there are tons of recipes. http://www.greenereating.com/

I tasted the homemade cheese- so good! (Sesame, Miso stuff like that!) Im going to the store today and Im going to make it. Im also going to buy enough Spinach to fill my whole fridge. I have made spinach smoothies before- actually pretty regularly. But Im going to eat Spinach for breakfast lunch and dinner!!!

I also just watched a documentary "SURFWISE" via netflix. (You can judge me if you want!! The language is terrible!!!! But the story was thought provoking! Robert made me watch it!! I really do have stringent rules about what I watch! I obviously have some guilt about listening to the vulgar language the family uses)

It was about clean living and clean eating- I was so inspired. It is about a family who lived in a camper and surfed everywhere. There are lots of weird quirky things I might not agree with.... But I did get some insight out of the movie-- live your life with passion!!!

One of the great quotes of the movie was:

"If you are living a life of excess (excess pounds, money, things) then you are taking from others who will end up with less. Americans push forward to gain and take and have excess. Are we becoming anti-human by taking as much as we can in the shortest time that we can? In the past people used to fight to not be hungry. We fight everyday to be hungry. We are dying from over eating. It is a struggle. We have to think every time we put something in our mouths, we have to be proactive. We cant eat without thought. Do we just take the steak and start the hummer?!"

Do we want to have a superior state of well being? Be Clean, Eat Clean, Respect our bodies. I know I do.

Now I'm recharged again.

We will officially be out numbered

2010-09-22T08:23:00.001-07:00

Guess its time to let out the news....

We are only 9 weeks! This is the earliest I have

ever announced it but I am feeling good and

the ultra sound looks good....

And Yes we will definitely be finding out if it is a boy or not!

Im a school bus driver!!

2010-09-19T18:37:00.000-07:00

James started Pre-School two weeks ago!! I get to drive him three days a week. He loves it. He goes to Small Fry Pre-School with Mrs. Barb. Max is sad and always wants to go. I love it because Max falls asleep on the way home- can we say Free Time??!! Wow. I've mostly been doing absolutely nothing!!

(Look at the killer Arizona landscaping--sarcastic)

We are proud of you James- keep up the good work!

Max- you can keep sleeping!

A few things....

2010-09-10T18:30:00.000-07:00

Finally I am able to download pics because we finally have a working computer!!! So you finally get to see a little bit of what we have been doing!!

The BIG Disclaimer is that in moving we lost our camera cord so all our photos come from our phones!!! The quality is not so great!! Hope you enjoy any way. Seriously something is better than nothing?!

In backward fashion:

We are enjoying AZ!! In all the chaos we have managed to do this:

Illegal Fireworks on Labor Day with our smores

Enjoying the children's museum--of course with the thumb...

Learning about splash pads and getting cooled off. They are everywhere

The Drive in to see Nanny McPhee and Toy Story 3. Yes they stayed

up the whole time. And Yes it was 103 degrees even at midnight!!

Maxies 2nd Birthday--Mickey inspired!!

Exploring White Tank Mountain National Park

Robert likes working where people bring these to work

(no hes not ours!)

Playing at Tortilla Flats (not the cali restaurant)

Just in time to meet new cousin baby Ezra

Before we got to arizona we spent sometime with this guy

at the most magical place on earth

Hanging out with California family

Our first family hike at Pluto's Cave in Mount Shasta

The kids were so brave and more adventurous than me.

We stayed at Grandma Janness's House in Nor Cal for almost a month

Anniversary trip in Santa Cruz

Robert with friends hiking Quintet

Before Cali came Circus Circus in Reno

Now a Harris Family White Trash Tradition (2nd Annual)

Traveling in a car almost three months ago!! Crazy how time flies!

So there is our backward time line. Basic and short! We love and miss all of you-- Really!!

You all have a place down here whenever you want to visit- especially those who have to go through long cold winters.

We'll be in touch more

Love:us

so we made it...kind of

2010-06-26T10:07:00.000-07:00

For the update, We found a great renter!! It is so amazing how the Lord works in our lives to give us just what we want and therefore bring us the most happiness. I have had some hard lessons in not listening to the Spirit but I knew that renting our house out needed to be a process and choice that was heavily dependant upon the Lord. We kept finding people that seemed amazing but my gut deep down inside didn't feel right. It took a lot of faith to say no and keep looking. Then of course we found the perfect person for our home! How am I amazed everytime that the Spirit is right??!! I always think of it like exercise. It has always made us feel good so why dont we want to do it??!! The Same is with the Spirit- why is it that I tend to not want to follow it and do what I want to do. This has been a good lesson for me and for our family of being Patient and making Good Choices.

Anyway, How is that for a Sunday school lesson??!!

We packed up our things in a week!! We drove out to Cali and had U-Box (Like the PODS) deliver our stuff to Phoenix. We dropped off our kids for Grandkid camp, celebrated Kamie's B-day, and then we were off to Santa Cruz for a week of kid free relaxation and anniversary celebrating. I dont think I have had such a relaxing vacation since I have had kids. I was actually able to let-go in my mind and just enjoy the week.

We still haven't picked the kids up yet. We are going to drive up this next week to Rob's Moms and visit with her and her parents for a week. Then Rob will fly out to Salt Lake and drive his car down to Phoenix and start work there the 6th of July. I will stay in Cali until the 19th of July or so and Janness (Robs Mom) will drive down to Phoenix with me just in time for Myrna (Sis-in-law) to deliver her baby. It will be a fun summer but I can sense I will be anxious to find a place of my own.

What an adventure. When we lived in Sacramento before Rob always wanted to live in Phoenix- I thought it would be too hot. Now we are going and I am so excited. I think I could live in Sac too. being back here feels like home- there are so many good people here and I love the weather... but for now-- I do not want to move again!! It is terrible- the packing the cleaning it is endless. We will miss all our Utah neighbors and family- of course. But there are no goodbyes- only -"I'll see you later!!!"

We are alive

2010-05-29T10:04:00.000-07:00

Every time I run into someone or give them a way too over due phone call back they say-- "Wow are you alive??!!"

So I thought I'd post to let you know that we are still here in Utah! We are trying to muddle through all the moving stuff-- We've had our house for sale for 5 months. 1 1/2 months For Sale By Owner and then with a realtor. We have showed it A TON and had 1 broken contract.

So now we are trying to rent it out and have had good response. We jsut are so Naive about the process we feel a little stressed. We want to make sure we are taking the right steps and covering everything we need to.

So we were ready to sign a contract today and I get an email from a girl who says her credit is excellent and her and her husband are looking to rent it for 4 years while they are in school. What??!! So now I want to hold out. We have only had the house listed for 4 days as a rental so maybe we should just slow down a bit and wait....

Also I cant believe how many renters have bankruptcies!! Maybe I shouldn't be suprised in this economy-you never know what obstacles you will face. I am just glad for the Gospel that teaches us to live frugally and save save save- live within your means. The Prophet truely is a seer that can see our day.

Anyway, our goal is to make a decision by the end of summer and finally get to AZ.

We won't know what to talk about after all this is settled- all we talk about is the HOUSE!! ARghh.

Robert loves his new position- he is doing in-house workers-comp insurance for Corporate Pet'sMart with the same company he is at now. They have been extremely patient with him and we are so grateful to his boss and Pet'sMart for being so cool.

We will post pics someday and get back to normal blogging and living, but as for now....

Its all about the house!

Good bye Beautiful Utah, Hello Gorgeous Red Rock Arizona

2010-01-27T13:51:00.000-08:00

We are Moving and Selling our Home!

2010-01-27T10:55:00.001-08:00

Moving!

Home For Sale!

The cutest darn house on the block

(and spacious!)

Tell all your friends and family to come see!

your probably saying-What??!!!

Rob has accepted a promotion/transfer with his same company in Phoenix. He starts training next week but can tele-commute from his Salt Lake office until we sell our house. We are proud of him and excited for this new challenge and adventure, but...

.....Now we need to sell.....

I'm going to start a new Blog for our house but for now I'm going to list some specs below:

Midvale Rambler

$215,000, willing to negotiate

3 Bedroom, 3 Bath, Huge open floor plan, 1880 squ. feet, attached 2 car garage, fully landscaped and fenced yard. Built 1962, red brick, sooooooocharmmming!

All new windows and blinds, updated bathrooms and bedrooms, crown molding, awesome marble fireplace. Wood floor, new carpet, tile.

Mid-Century, Mid-Century, Mid-century!!!

Alarm System, surround sound, keyless entry for garage, outdoor lighting in front and backyard, new thermostat, R-52 insulation in attic, crawl space, ceiling fans in the bedrooms, 3/4 Master Bathroom, large bedrooms, all appliances stay with the home, washroom/mud room, wheelchair accessible, great storage closets, cable and phone jacks in every room, cement patio, shed, grapevines, great neighbors, walking distance to schools and church.

For now these pictures will have to do, but more will come...

Side Yard in the Summer

Entry way

Hallway

Living Room
and

Family Room

Hallway Bath

Bedroom

Master Bedroom

Large Master Closet

Master Shower

Spacious Kitchen

MudRoom/Laundry Room/Garage Entrance
1/2 Bath off Kitchen and Wash Room

Herb Garden in the Summer

Ohhh!!! Hostas under my red-leafed Maple tree
Presidential Rose Garden/Side Yard

Share this page with your friends and wish us good luck!!!

We will miss all our awesome Utah neighbors!

Love, the Harris'

Blog Worthy

2010-01-16T08:13:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged for a long time so this must be super important to me... hehe

Pass it along!

The Amazing Ray Smith

2009-06-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday my Dad spoke at the BYU Devotional. I was so proud of him!! I have heard some of the things he has said before but was inspired to be better and more devoted to Christ. If you have some free time I recommend clicking the link and checking his talk out! Love you Dad.

http://www.byub.org/talks/Talk.aspx?id=3692#

Free Paint Can

2009-06-26T22:11:00.000-07:00

I ordered! it is Frrreeeeee- I got Robin Egg Blue for my half bath!!!:)

Look below at offer- I think it ends July 2nd

FREE Quart of Glidden Paint The Glidden National Paint Giveaway Starting June 25 - Paint The Date! It's as easy as it sounds: This summer, pick out your favorite paint color and we will send you a free quart. Then, start coloring your world. Follow the link below for an order form and complete details.

FREE PAINT LINK https://www.glidden.com/promotions/free-paint-giveaway.do

On another note...

I totally stink at bloggin lately- oh well- I have so much in my head for myself to enjoy-I'd share if I could download pics to my crappio computer.

There is so much beauty during summer it is palpable. Hope you are all enjoying life too-enjoying your gardens, taking walks, and breathing in fresh air!

7 Things you didn't know about me

2009-05-23T06:58:00.000-07:00

I think I had this post back when I first started blogging a few years ago and everyone seemed to know most of my items that they weren't suppossed to know! So I have been thinking about it again lately and some things in my life might suprise most of you:

1. My computer is from 1998 and it will probably take me 45 minutes just to create this post. I don't have a cell phone, and my TV remote only works from 4 feet away, I have an old school MP3 player, etc.... Lets just call it "Technologically Apathetic"

2. I had a Capital "L" shaped #2 today. Enough said.

3. I have grey hair. lots of it.

4. I make all my own bread(since christmas) and only make my own waffles, pancakes, tortillas, pizza crust, breadsticks, rolls, anything "Bread like" for the last four years. I use lots of wheat. I also only make my own salad dressings and marinades, pizza and pasta sauces. I dont buy cold cereal. I hate processed food but will eat Ramen. I love whole fresh food but will also get a Wendy's Jr. Bacon frequently.

5. We have survived on one car for the last 2 months while we are trying to find the right van

6. Last year we were billed(and paid) almost $6500 in medical bills. It nearly broke us but it feels good to have it behind us and to be better insured now. I want to live in France now- Chloe can I come live??!!- Free Health Care and the government does your laundry after you have a baby(so Micheal Moore informs us.)

7. I love Robert and my babies more than I ever knew I would. I suprise myself. I feel lucky. I am sure all of you out there feel that same way about your family too. For some reason I thought this kind of happiness was reachable when I would be 82 or so but it has only been four years of marriage!! Wow- and it only gets better.

What are somethings I dont know about you??!!

All Things California

2009-05-20T13:06:00.000-07:00

Artichokes, Homemade Granola, Romance...

Okay, Maybe all things Northern California....

So I feel like I am ready to go back all the time. I cant watch food network talk about sonoma or look at old friends blogs that are from cali. I do get jealous! And with the house prices now...

I really am trying to plant myself here in Midvale (quite litterally too, if anyone has seen my garden(s) lately:))

But then Grandma Janness came, and Ken and the kids,

...and they brought sunshine, and a big bag of Artichokes, Homemade Granola, lots of love, and a hand-me-down little scooter for James. She said that she had to bring the most California things she could think of- Artichokes! (and she left some yummy homemade granola I need the recipe for and cute little fourth of july packages.)

So for dinner last night I made some yummy artichokes and Robert made dipping sauces. Janness called today to see how it went. When I told her that the Artichoke is a high maintenance vegetable she told me I had eaten them wrong!!

"You are suppossed to feed it Robert one leaf at a time and he is suppossed to feed it to you." She asked if I had more to cook and I told her there were still more in the bag. She told me to cook more and try the new techinique and maybe a little Romance would come out of it (Romance is the sensor word for all children reading this blog.)

Good old Janness with her California attitude..... Love it!!!!

Tribute To the best Mother in the world,

2009-05-09T20:30:00.000-07:00

JANNESS!!
Happy Mother's Day! I am using this blog platform to tell the whole world how incredible you are as a mother. We also think you are a pretty incredible Mother-in-law and Grandmother. You never forget a birthday or holiday or special occasion. Even more importantly you don't let opportunities go by just to say simple things like: "I love you," or "I'm thinking about you." Thanks for always caring so much. Remember all the times you were there for me as a child? I sure do!!!

Your impact in my life as an adult is great too. I am so glad my children have you as their grandmother. Since you were here last, we haven't had a day where we haven't done Pony Boy!! Let's be honest though, it is like riding the carousel in front of Kmart (on my knee) compared to riding Grandma's Real Pony Boy.

Enjoy the Video Below!! We love you Mom!! Happy Mother's Day!

Recap of Arizona Trip

2009-04-19T15:05:00.000-07:00

Finally we were able to get out of Town as a family! We went over Conference Weekend.

We had a great time visiting Rob's Brother John and Sis-in-law Myrna in Arizona.

We hadn't seen Lucy for a year! She was so cute and big. James loved her.

James and Lucy in the Play Room watching a movie

Me and Myrna at the Mesa Temple

Our Fam enjoying the warm AZ night

John and Myrna

All the Kiddos: Lucy, Max and James

Visiting Long Lost Friends:

We visited with friends Ryan and Emily in Las Vegas.

They have the cutest boys, Maclaren and Rowan. We stayed there fora night.

Thanks for hosting us Emily and Ryan!

We also visited friends Candice and Steve in AZ.

The last time we had seen them was at our wedding almost 4 years ago.

It was fun to see them.

Funny how we didn't get pics of them or Ryan and Emily but we did get pics of the kids.

This is a pic of Jaycee (Candice's little girl) and James playing int he yard. Jaycee liked pushing James in the little car. We watched General Conference at their home and saw horses.

James and Lucy playing outside. So cute Lucy!

Sidewalk chalk was a big hit.

James has been potty trained for 6 months. So when he saw little Lucy's Potty he was reminiscant of his old little potty. Lucy's potty was cooler- it sings when you potty. James only wanted to use the little potty, he was in love. Whenever I heard the music go off I knew where he was. He brought it out in front of the TV because he loved it soo much!!!! So funny to us. Lucy wanted to use the Potty more too. Needless to say when we got home James wanted the little potty out again but it has lost its novelty now and he is back peeing like Dad.

Am I too bold to post this??!! I dont care!:)

The coolest part of the trip though was when we all crammed into the old station wagon to drive into town for Mexican Food and a night at the temple. If you can picture- John and Myrna in front, the three car seats in the middle, and me and Rob in the back seat facing backwards. We kept making out and being goofy. It was soooo fun. Myrna knew how to give the little car gas! It had a V6 so we were sailing. I tried to take a picture to document the night but it turned out a bit blurry.

Thanks John and Myrna for hosting us! We love you guys!

Easter Weekend

2009-04-17T18:38:00.000-07:00

Eating the Easter Bunny

Dying Eggs

Finding Candy!!

Being with Family

We hope that you were able to rejoice in the reality of the Savior's Ressurrection this past Easter Weekend.

We know our Savior lives and because He does, we also will live again.

YADA YADA

2009-03-07T21:13:00.000-08:00

Time has passed. Believe me, I am tired of myself too: not updating blog, being too busy with too many things, being lazy, reading blogs instead of updating. YADA YADA YADA....

Well you are just going to have to sit through this update-

what have we been up to?

BOWLING, SEWING, RSV, WEDDINGS, BABIES, TESTS, EAR ACHES, SWIMMING, WALKS, PUKE, FOOD,

Do I have your atention yet...?!

James and Max (with Cousin Meghann) at Staci's Wedding

JAMES

He saw Curious George Bowling and asked lots of questions. Then one day I couldn't find him so I went too look in the garage and this is what I found....

Note: small plastic wrench and chair, he was fixing his bike!

And Bowling Pins!

He found Roberts old Bowling Pins.

He has them set up all in a row, but when I came back with the camera, he had put them all away.

Bowling with ZINA

James also was sick with a double ear infection.

I put a small TV in his room so he could rest and not be bored.

When I came to check on him this is what he had done!

Do you need to be any closer??? Looks like he's not so sick after all!

MAX

Max had RSV:( (recovered quickly:))

He cut a tooth!

He can sit up, eat solids, give big smiles.

He is getting big too fast. I've wanted to hold him and capture every second.

5 months

6 months

I pulled out my new sewing machine and tried to get warmed up for R.S. QUILT BINDING!!!( A women in my ward came over to show me how because I had no clue.)

I think it has been since my mission that I have sewn.

Anyway- While trying to hang pictures and paint a wall, I also got inspired to make throw pillows.

Now I have a little more personality in the house.

I am pretty proud of my litle pillows but dont look too close at the seams!!

I had cut up an old blanket for the backing and for the small white pillow. I used the fringe from the same blanket for this pillow!

I know... you don't have to tell me how resourceful I am:) hehe

Robbie/Bert/Rob/Robert/Bob

Rob has dropped the dentist thing??!!! ( Im not sure myself) but is now interested in becoming a Risk Manager for his insurance company and is looking into getting a Masters in Risk Management through Boston University. He took his first test last night toward his Associates in Risk Managment and he just got his Associate in Claims Managment. His work gives him incentives to do these things too- yeah for us!!!

(Anyone remeber Ben Stiller in along came polly?- the nerdy Risk manager?-

Fits robert well enough I guess he is a self proclaimed nerd!!) heehee.

Asleep Saturday at 6:00 PM- what a HARD WORKER!!

Have you enjoyed the read?? We love looking at all your blogs even if we dont comment.

Glad to have such good friends and many blessings

Professional Pics

2009-01-14T20:11:00.000-08:00

Way over due!!! 2 months ago I had our friend and fabulous photographer, JAMES STRAYER take pics of the boys at our house.

Go to his website: www.jamesstrayer.com or click his name above to see the pictures. He made a small gallery called 'Children II' where you can see some of them. He has great prices and some specials/discounts posted on the web.

James has taken a break (permanently?) from his professional savy computer job to start his own photography business. His has amazing talent and we wish him the best. His wife Susan will be having their first baby any day now too! Good luck guys.

Give him a call! (I have to put in the plug:))

Happy New Year With Homemade Popcorn

2009-01-02T19:13:00.000-08:00

Sneaky Advertisers made me think that you needed a fancy popcorn machine to make your own homemade popcorn! Therefore by default you should purchase the microwave stuff in the bags. Well not anymore!!! (Good by Preservatives!)

You can actually make the best popcorn in your own skillet on your stove top.

What you need:

Skillet
Stove
Oil (preferrably Olive)
Maybe Butter and Salt depending on your tastes
Popcorn Kernels

What to do:

Thinly coat the bottom of a cold skillet(maybe 10") with the oil. Place a single kernel in the middle of the pan and cover with a lid. Turn heat to medium high. When you hear the first kernel 'pop' then take off the lid and add about a 1/4c worth of popcorn. Cover the skillet with the lid and then gently move the pan over the heat. Remove from heat when you hear the popping slow down(approx. 1 min.) Voila! You have great tasting popcorn. I do like to add a tiny bit of butter and salt but it doesn't need much!

What a great way to start out the new year whether you are watching tons of football or movies, wanting to eat healthier, or looking for great tasting fresh food!

I have to give credit to my sis-in-law Kamie Harris for such a fabulous treat. I had it at her house and was in love. I was a little scared to make it because I thought it would burn but I made two batches tonight and it is as easy as turning on the stove!! (just don't get antsy and take off the lid... explosion!)

Let me know if you made it and what you think...

Kareoke Rob

2008-12-29T19:00:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have been asking and waiting.... click this link to hear Robbie singing on our cruise ship. You can't see him very well but you sure can hear him loud and clear!!

Okay I guess I am not so smart...

2008-12-24T21:32:00.000-08:00

Monocots!!

Well for those of you who left a guess- you were all right!!! Maybe it wasn't so difficult after all, but I will still let myself feel smart for that moment. Sorry Sacramento-Whitney about the candy cane, but for Amanda and Darci- A little peppermint package shaped as a cane will end up at your door sometime in the next few days!!

I'm smart!!!!

2008-12-23T10:09:00.000-08:00

I don't really ever say this about myself... but I feel like I should say it today!! Robert called me from work to ask a question. He was playing are you smarter than a fifth grader at work ( thanks for earning the big bucks honey) and called me for his life line and million dollar question!! ( I think that is a combo of a few different game shows) The question he asked was: What type of plant are Lilies, Orchids, and Grasses? Well I got it right and he won and felt smart in front of his coworkers- as did I (while I was stirring mac and cheese and wiping snotty noses.) Granted I was a Horticulture major but still - I graduated almost five years ago so I have forgotten a lot of useless information.

Do any of you know the answer???

If you get it right I will personally come to your house and give you a candy cane..if you live in Utah that is.

Good luck!

the top ten Free Things to do at Christmas( in no particular order)

2008-12-18T14:37:00.000-08:00

Give love to your Old Man

Sit and Cry with Santa at Fashion Place Mall

and you 'get' to use your digital camera

to take a picture of your kids-- for free

( the last mall that will let you do it for free!!! Ba Humbug)

Make yummy sugar cookies

Don't forget the great Symbol of christmas... the Stegasaurous.

4.

Eat icing, (any yummy sugar treat for that matter) like its going out of style

5. Shovel the walk and freeze to death then come in and drink yummy hot chocolate

make peppermint marshmallows for your Hot Chocolate

by smashing up candycanes,

dipping marshmallows in powdered sugar/water glaze

and then rolling in the peppermint.

7. Watch free Movies on TV or from the Library: ie. Charlie Brown Christmas, Testaments, Disney Ice Princess, Christmas Carol, The Christmas Story.

Lighting and hanging the tree with your family while you sing crazy Christmas songs

9. Go to Temple Square to see the Nativity or act out the Nativity with your own family.

10.Dream of escaping the snow and wearing a speedo on a warm, sandy beach
Merry Christmas!!!!

Some pics and recap from our Mexican Vacation:

We brought home a mexican wrestler named SanTiagito (Little James in spanish)

Hot Sauce and Coconuts- yummy

fun friends in Ensenada

Hot Short Shorts on our Catamaran in Cabo

View of our ship off Lovers Beach

So no red ligh heels and slutty bikinis but it was a lot of fun and a lot of sleep- very relaxing- just in time for all the snow we are getting. I can't complain now....:) The highlight of the trip for me was Rob singing kareoke to Boys to Men -- I'll make love to you. I signed him up so he was suprised when they called his name. He went up to sing even though he was bright red. I don't think I have laughed so hard in a long time.

Cabo Arch

Embarking on the cruise.

Taggings

2008-11-25T18:12:00.000-08:00

I dont normally do taggings-I owe a lot of people a tag- but I haven't posted for awhile and I am too lazy to download any pictures so I will respond to my lovely sweet friend Merediths tag- hopefully you all get to know me better and I become your new BFF:)!!

Tag Your ItRules:Post rules on your blog.Answer the six "8" items.Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving them a comment.

8 Things I Did Yesterday:
Went tanning for our Mexico vacation- it had been approx. five yrs since I have been and the tanning technology has totally changed. I was scard of my bed- it felt like a space ship.
Fed Max, took shower, filled out sub for santa needs with a neighbor- for her not us!, talked to my sister steph on the phone about her buying a bull dog, took a nap, cleaned my kitchen floor, did 2 loads of laundry.

8 Things I Look Forward to: Paying off med bills, our trip to mexico, finding out if Rob got the insurance auditor job with his same company he interviewed today, james potty trained at night, max to be a year old to be done with breast feeding, for spring to come, to turn 30- yes I will embrace it- a month from today!! Christmas Caroling.

8 things I am grateful for ( i changed from 'wish', I need good karma): health, my kids health, future health, the sun shine, a home, robs job, working cars, good music

8 Restaurants I Like: Panda, Pei Wei, Demae, Plutos(sacramento), Kneaders, Wendys, Ruth Chris(mmm... crab cake crusted rib eye), Chipotle

8 Favorite TV Shows: Oprahhhh!!( i love Dr oz), Office, SNL, any news channel, sesame street( love it), 20/20, Brady Bunch, Conan Obrien.

8 People I Tag: (Your It!)Steph H., Kim McEvoy, Whitney L, Darci, Cita, Kaci O, Tara, Kim S.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

What is better than....??

2008-11-07T10:13:00.001-08:00

One week in the making. Keep up the good work Buddy!

Ode to Kraft Dinner

2008-11-06T11:19:00.000-08:00

Kraft Dinner my friend, you are a bowl of emotional peace. Especially when James is screaming loud: "Hot Macaroni and Cheese!!" "Please!" I race to the stove to see what I can do and there you are in your blue box begging for a hot bath, you melt all my wrath.

Whether it is with:

brocolli and ham

hotdogs and peas

taco bell sauce

tomatoes

celery salt

seasoning salt, ketchup, BBQ sauce, dill, or ranch you make my belly warm.

How many dinners can you make? I can't count the ways. In weather cold and hot you hit the spot. All I need now is: "Where is the remote and the cable tv, blankie??!"

How do you like your Mac & Cheese?

Brothers

2008-11-03T21:23:00.001-08:00

It's been such a long, long time...

2008-10-31T13:35:00.001-07:00

Pumpkins all from our Garden

I stink at blogging.... but we wont go there... again. I think I change my blog template as often as I post!! It is so fun to do though. I am now returning to the original colors we had when we first started blogging. Fabulous ehh?! Our lives are so hectic but wonderful. The beautiful bowl of Brownie delight was given to us by our friends Liz and Nash. They were very thoughtful after they found out the baby had pneumonia and brought over a treat to cheer us up. It worked! This was way back in September. Since then Max has been doing great! He is already 14 lbs!

Yummy!!

Happy Baby, Happy Mom. Thanks Liz!!!!

The Professor -- 6 weeks

Also,
James Turned 2!! We had a small party with some of the cousins and aunts and uncles. It was a good time. James likes saying that he is two.

IS that enough pictures??!!:)

also...

James my big boy is potty training.. trained??!! I figure if he tells me once a day that he needs to go and then he sits down himself and dumps and flushes then he is trained!!!! Sorry if this is too graphic!

Canning these grapes from our yard was so fun. My mom first helped me, then Robert helped finish. Together we canned a total of 52 grape juice quarts. We also canned tomatoes and salsa and dehydrated grapes and apples. Dehydrated grapes?! not a good idea. Raisins right? Wrong! Burn little grapes is what we got. I later learned at the Murray Cannery that if it doesn't "snap" then it doesn't preserve. Nice try I guess- but no raisins.

Sept. Food Storage

2008-09-21T09:27:00.000-07:00

Family Starter Kit: (Includes 2 Gallom Cans on Hard Winter Wheat, 2 Gallon Cans of White Rice, 1 Gallon Can of Pinto Beans and 1 Gallon Can of Quick Oats) $23.70

Black Beans: 1 Gallon Can $4.25/ can

White Beans: 1 Gallon Can $4.15/can

5 Gallon Water Jugs: $4.76/jug

97%

2008-09-21T09:24:00.000-07:00

Good Job Rob on your first Biology Test Score!!

Life changes

2008-09-16T14:16:00.000-07:00

Those who said that 2 children were easy are gifted parents! It has been a fun but rough past month. I realized today-- Max's 1 month birthday -- that we have taken maybe 2 pictures of him since we came home from the Hospital. Wow. Sorry kid. Today I took some but they aren't artistic in any way. I need to get some professional pictures done as soon as I can take charge of my schedule again. I had to have a neighbor come over while they were napping just so I could run to the grocery store for 15 minutes.

Max 1 month stats:

Holding head up for a short time.

Rold over last night for the first time!

Weight 10lbs. 11 oz.

Down to one night feeding at the most.

Despite the extra work- Max is soo cute, and James has become cute to me again ( he was a little devil for awhile and therefore not in any way cute.) When they can play together I know they will have so much fun.

For those of you who said that I "looked good" after labor- thanks for your comments- but it was all planned. I looked like Death after James so I was determined to get cleaned up before this Labor. I was also induced so I had it all scheduled. The labor was less then 2 hours and I pushed through 3 contractions. Can it get any easier?? Healthy baby, Heathly mom, I left the hospital after 24 hours and haven't looked back. It was a total miracle birth and we feel soo blessed.

Life has totally flipped itself upside down though!! Here are some reasons why:

#1 Reason: Baby Max

#2 Reason: My husband has declared himself as a Biology major (Even though he already has a Finance degree.) Rob is now an aspiring dentist!! Can anyway say: "I am almost 30, I hate my job, what am I going to do for the rest of my life Crisis"?? Good luck- I am behind you a 100%, but am now a single mom 85% of the week.

#3 Ken & Kamie (robs brother) are moving back to SacTown! Ken is taking a job with Neillo Jaquar and their Mapelton house is for sale! I am soo sad to see them go- but I am so happy for them too. I will join you soon. The thought of this winter approaching makes me ill so I will visit for the whole months of January and February if that is okay!

#4 James is now a defiant Toddler with mischevious faces and the ability to say: "No way Mom!" and run away while I am helplessly feeding baby. A guy at a store the other day told me to buy a leash because it will decrease the running after him and yelling factor. What a jerk.

#5 I cant go to the gym with the little guy until he is 3 months old so I am feeling the effects of a saggy, atrophied body and miss the endorphine effect on my brain.

#6 Rob bought a cruise to Mexico in Nov/Dec. We are going with friends Lizza and Jared. You'd think this would be a good thing right??!! But you dont have a breast feeding 3 1/2 month old you need to leave behind. I will be running to the nearest fig tree to hide while I pump my milk. Sounds stressful mentally to leave my babe. Thanks for the suprise trip.

On The Bright Side:

#1 I have 2 CUTE, healthy kids

#2 I have a permanent residence in Cali at K & K's house.

#3 My husband could be a Dentist and get us all free dental work.

#4 I have my whole life to explore and travel- so what If I have to be a home body for 3 months while baby is little.

#5 I bought a Zooper double stroller that will save my life. It is coming in the mail tomarrow- equipped with inflatable tires, and full sun shade for each kid and it fits the infant car seat. Can we say:"Mobile again!!"

Eating Tomatoes from our Garden

#6 I am going on a cruise. Beach!! and a good excuse to buy some fun red sassy heels and a slutty bikini.

#7 I have learned I need to chill out. I use to be super laid back. I have turned me into a scheduling, organized perfectionist fanatic. I want to be fun again. 2 kids have taught me that cleaning is the last thing that is important and that having fun each day and showing love to each other is the most important thing. I decided to live for my own expectations, not others.

#8 Costco

#9 My Good Friend Lizza who had baby Elsie at the same time who is also leaving her baby to go on the cruise.

I have a lot to be grateful for!! If I sound sarcastic and ungrateful it really is the post partem!!! At night when I can lay down to sleep I am happy and grateful. I really want to be a good mom and create a happy, loving home. Please remind me of this if you see me and my face is haggard and I am yelling at my toddler. Thanks for reading my post. We will try and be better with pics.

Maxwell Raymond Harris has arrived!!

2008-08-20T17:11:00.000-07:00

Max arrived on August 16th 4:55pm

Weight 8lbs 2 oz., 21 inches long

Mom and baby are doing great!

August Post

2008-08-13T15:31:00.000-07:00

NO BABY YET!

Yes-- No Baby yet. My induction didn't work out because the hospital was really full all weekend. So when they did have room I just cancelled it because I was tired of the waiting game and felt like a number. Now I am in a whole new waiting game!! Trying anything I can do to induce labor!!!

I went to the Dr.'s yesturday and I am still dialated to a 3 1/2. I haven't changed for 2 weeks now so I am a little frustrated. My Dr. said they can induce me on the 16th- the day after my due date-but I am not sure what to do. I REALLY am ready to meet this baby and so is Robert and James. We are going a little crazy waiting. James and I have been going on a million walks just to get out of the house.

Lizza, my good friend, is due two weeks after me and we took pregnancy pics together. We are excited to have kids the same age.

PREGNANCY PICTURES

ZOO FUN

Here are some cute pics of James with his friend Nash. Liz, Nash's Mom, invited us to the zoo with them. When we showed up the boys were wearing the same shirt!! We didn't even know we owned the same shirt. Pretty funny! They had a good time playing together, especially the little alligator toys.

JAMES WRITING A CARD FOR HIS

GREAT-AUNT BETTY

Fourth of July Picture at Grandpa Smith's Firework Show

Food Storage for July

2008-07-07T15:23:00.000-07:00

Ther is a new order form for July! This month has fun stuff on it. I was wrong about when the money has to be in -- it is the last sunday of each month -- not the last day of the month.

You are welcome to call or email with your order or questions! Just total up your order and let me know the dollar amount.

Oats, Regular (not quick) #10 can $2.20 per can 30 year shelf life
Hot Cocoa Mix #10 can $6.35 per can 2 year shelf life
Fruit Drink Mix #10 can $5.65 per can 2 year shelf life

Summer Pictures of James

2008-06-30T13:33:00.001-07:00

Here are some fun pictures of James in the backyard trying to throw water at me and Robert. Today we had a D.I./ Dollar Tree day where I let him pick out whatever he wanted. I think he felt special, but now he wont take a nap. He has been my little sweetheart until a week or so ago and now he barely remembers what it is like to be obedient - right in time for the new baby to come. I think I will have my hands full with 2 "Babies," thank goodness Robert gets some time off to help out. My Dr. says she will induce me the 8th of August if there isn't a reason to go sooner-- 8/8/08??!! Hope you are all having a fun summer!

Happy 3rd Anniversary

2008-06-25T15:17:00.000-07:00

Yesturday was our 3rd anniversary. It seems like we have accomplished a lot in three years- moving twice, James's birth, and a new baby on the way in 6 weeks!! Usually we have done a small trip for our celebration but this year we did Lunch and Dinner and Robert bought me some flowers at the nursery for the front yard. It was fun to be together and remember our pre-wedding life and talk about post-wedding life too. I have such a good husband who works so hard for us and tries his best at everything. Thanks Rob we love you!! You are a good dad and husband!! Happy Aniversary!!

Food Storage

2008-06-18T14:11:00.000-07:00

So I have been meaning to put this on my blog for awhile!! For those of you who don't know- our great ward up here in Midvale has a food staorage program. All the cute retired folks go to the cannery to fill orders for anyone who wants to order. They put out new order forms each month with 3-4 different items to purchase. Each month is different. Then they deliver it to your door the first Saturday of each month. Could it get any easier than that????

We have liked this program because it has allowed us to slowly build our food storage each month and to get a variety of items. Also, we have never had to step foot in the cannery-so it is really time saving too.

For those of you who want to order, I will put the order information online each month. You can make a check out to Darrell Saunders and then we can deliver it to you- or you pickup whatever. We want to share this resource with every body because it has been such a service to us.

June's Order:
#10 can of Spaghetti $4.02 per unit
#10 can of Dry Milk $13.30 per unit
Case of Potato Pearls $39.90 per case

Specify the amount per item you would like and then total up your money. All money is due by the last day of each month. You are welcome to mail me a check. Email, call or comment with questions.

"We ask that you be wise as you store food and water and build your savings. Do not go to extremes; it is not prudent, for example, to go into debt to establish your food storage all at once. With careful planning, you can, over time, establish a home storage supply and a financial reserve."—The First Presidency

Summer Reading

2008-06-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

I just finished Anna Karenina yesturday. What an amazing book! I have spent almost all my spare time over the last month reading these pages!! For an 815 pg. book it is a page turner! Now that I am done reading this book I really miss the characters and their lives, but I have been able to do a lot of gardening today, Update my blog, make two flowers arrangements, and actually start cleaning the house (which has been really neglected lately.)

I LOVE this book! I recommend it to all of you for summer reading. How tasteful Tolstoy writes. Anna Karenina is filled with passion, a longing for happiness, and a quest to understand the purpose of life. There is tragedy, betrayal, love, life and death.

My favorite character is Levin. He is the books moral compass for the reader and yet struggles with the meaning of life. He is always honest and hardworking although he goes through depression bouts because his understanding of the plan of life is lacking. He fails to find a meaning for his work day in and day out. Although the life of Anna Karenina is the main story in the book, the characters weave together intricately to clarify what Tolstoy percieves as the meaning of life and the way to achieve happiness. At the end of the book, through he eyes of Levin, Tolstoy sums up life's definition as man being in control of his own destiny and therefore being able to choose good and peace each day. In essence, no one is a victim of life. We all must each make our happiness and do all our works for God.

Love it!!! You should all read it! Let me know if any of you have read it already. I would be interested to know your thoughts on the book. I want to start War and Peace too- any readers?

Update on Honey Bees

2008-06-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

Well just so happens that some people who were picking up our free planter canoe were Bee Keepers!! They removed it successfully and feel they got the Queen Bee. There were about 50 or so bees that stayed behind flying in the yard but within a few hours they should be gone too. The other bee keeper happened to call back when they were removing the swarm. Quick solution!!!

Bees are so good for our yard but they were right on the sidewalk in a residential area so we had to take them out. We are totally morally oppossed to killing the Honey Bees considering the Honey Bee Shortage. But when I found out that the Wasps in the backyard are coniverous and eat the Honey Bees- those Wasps will be gone tonight!!!

Honey BeeHive in My Yard!!!!!

2008-06-14T06:56:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! Our friends called and said they saw bees in our yard and wanted to know if we were okay. I couldn't figure out what they were talking about. They had left a frantic message on our machine. Strange I thought. Maybe the bees that have nested in our backyard fence? Is this what they were talking about?? Maybe the bees that were in the nasty free BBQ Robert brought home from the side of the road??

So I called a beekeeper and he said they were very likely wasps. No biggy right- just go and get some wasp spray and call it good. I can handle that.

Well... This morning at 6 am I was out watering the yard and was admiring my plants when all of the sudden I looked up and saw the biggest beehive ( and the only beehive) that I have ever seen--- right in our tree!!!!!!! My stomach sunk low and I thought I was going to throw up. All I could think about was Macaulay Culkin in the movie "My Girl" getting stung by a hive and dying. I ran as fast as I could to save me and my unborn child. I slammed the door behind me with my heart pounding and slowly looked to see if any bees followed me.

With my stomach still in knots, my curiosity began to grow. I decided I had to take a picture of this- of course our camera sucks so I couldn't zoom in too far and get a good pic. I am posting it anyway!! How funny I thought that I just called a beekeeper last night. Now I am anxiously waiting for an appropriate morning hour to call the guy on a saturday.

I went back to his website and found a picture of a hive that looked like ours for an example. I also read that this could or couldn't be the permanent nesting place for the bees. If it is not the permanent nesting place then the bees will have relocated within 24 hours- we are getting close considering the forst spotting was 5 pm yesturday. I dont want them to relocate to my old cinderblock fence full of holes or to the side of my house as the website suggests!!!! Help- has anyone delt with this before????

Lagoon and James

2008-06-10T15:47:00.000-07:00

Cousin Rachel and James

Rachel was so sweet to go on rides with James. She was a good friend and made him feel safe. Even though James is our little dare devil he cried when the rides went too fast and high. With Rachel though he was calm and happy. Thanks Rachel!!

Nap Time

This was right before James fell asleep. He had been crying in the stroller and so I laid him back and with in seconds he was asleep. This was the smile he gave me right before lights out. I thought it was a cute smile saying: "thanks for finally giving me the nap I need."

Over all our day was fun but a bit chilly. Robert went on lots of big rides and Mom rode Puff the Magic Dragon with James. It was fun to be with all our family and cousins.

James and Grandma Smith with Dad

James first haircut!

2008-06-02T08:46:00.000-07:00

This happened a week ago right before church. Robert got inspired to shave the kids head so we went for it and loved it! James didn't cry and I think felt like a big boy. Right after he started to flaunt this new attitude of being big and independent and we couldn't get him to calm down all day. He really like touching his hair and rubbing his head for the first few days.

Before Picture

After Picture

He also likes to help me open the fridge in the morning to pick his breakfast - which is usually cottage cheese. He can say two sentances so far: "Mommy No!" and "Daddy Wow." We sit him on the potty sometimes so see if he gets it. He never has done the deed but he likes to practice wiping! Yesturday at church he got a wipe from the diaper bag and started scrubbing over his shorts- a little embarrassing but pretty funny. Hope you are all well!

James and Nash Feeding Ducks

2008-05-24T21:07:00.000-07:00

I stole this picture off my friend lizzy's blog! I thought it was so cute. We fed the ducks at Liberty Park about 10 days ago and I am just posting this. It was a fun day. The boys were squeeling and laughing at the ducks. It was really fun to watch. James came home with shoes caked with duck and goose poop!! We need to go again because the ducks were not bashful, they were taking bread right out of nash's hands!!

Top 10 reasons to live in Midvale

2008-05-07T07:50:00.000-07:00

You might wonder why we need to do a top 10 for Midvale. The name itself says it all right?! Well this post is for all of you who might need a little more convincing ...

10. They are redoing all the sidewalk corner curbing so wheelchairs and strollers can more easily glide off.

9. You can pay your water and sewer bill online now.

8. Mid-vale need I say more?? We are totally in the Middle of everything! 15 min to SLC or Lehi and 30 minutes to Bountiful or Provo/Orem area.

7. I heard they are building a Winco grovery store down the street!! This is huge because Winco rocked in Cali for prices. It originated in Idaho and they have the best pizza ever.

6. Location, Location, Location. We are close to a lot of cool places:

--Living Planet Aquarium, me and james just got a season pass for $15 a year. http://www.thelivingplanet.com/

--Lifetime fitness which I love- there isn't a better gym in Utah. http://www.lifetimefitness.com/

--TiaPan Trading, Gardners Village, Fashion Place and South Towne Mall, Steve and Barrys clothing store, Schniders Meat Market (where Robert gets pig intestine to stuff his own sausage), Cy's Market (carries fresh and organic produce at killer prices and sells bags of fresh Basil for $4!!), Jordan Temple, Jordan Commons, Real Soccer Stadium.

--I-15 and I-215 access in minutes.

-- TRAX close by - 7200 S stop, 7720 S stop, 9000 S stop.

-- Jordan River Walk/Bike Path access close by.

5. Little old ladies who know everthing live close by. I am taking a crochet class right now.:)

4. Free bingo and BBQ hamburgers in Midvale City park during the summer. James won $5 in the raffle.

3. The Midvale Mayor told us they are going to expand State Street in Midvale by 2015. Property values will sky rocket!!

2. At Christmas they give you a beautification award for having lights up and throughout the summer they give beautification awards for cool yards.

1. The two houses on either side of us are for sale-- so you can be a Midvale resident too--Because lets face it, Midvale is the new Sugarhouse.

I suck at Blogging

2008-05-05T18:38:00.000-07:00

The title is an obvious thought that I am sure you have all had about me- every three months doesn't really cut it for blogging but at least there is a minimal update!! This is exactly how I am with journal writing and scrapbooking. I do blame it on having the crappiest camera ever, so when I want to take cute pics and post-- the pics don't turn out-- and I get sour on blogging. That happened today too- but I did get a few that I will post.

Our economic stimulus check- thanks Bush- should cover James's RSV bill just right but I think that I am going to go crazy and get a new camera and computer!!! Any thoughts on that? Should I pamper myself or pay the bill .... Our computer is literally from 1998. How do you keep working?? I cant download video and I am maxed out on pics and I only have two USB ports. I guess I shouldn't be complaining that I have a working computer:)

James is sooo cute and big lately. I have some pics of him in the backyard playing. He is a happy puppy when he can roll in the dirt for a few hours and then hit the bath. Boys are so easy- just give them a shovel and set them loose. We also got this great slide/toy thing at a yard sale for $5. It was worth every penny!!

More James updates include: getting a big boy bed in preparation for new baby (I painted the table and chairs to match his bed!!), loosing his pacifier and now cries all the time but I am sure he will get over it in the next three months, he has a full set of teeth, and he can eat with a spoon with great precision. His Grandma Janness gave him so littel garden tools that he loves to work in the yard with. We are proud of him and he is growing so fast. He gets taller every day.

NEW BABY!

So about this new baby!!! I never announced it but it is a BOY!!!! We are excited!! Three months to go. James will now have a permanent buddy. Names?????? It is difficult to decide but right now it is Maxwell Raymond Harris (Max for short of course.) Blog and tell me your thoughts!!! Other names we like include:

Montgomery (Monte)
Chase
Charles (Charlie- after my dad?)
Teddy ( Maybe Theodore?? but call him Teddy)
Benjamin (Harris Family name)

Other then that we are nameless and clueless. So vote and tell me your favorite name and/or any good names that you can think of. I am envisioning a dark hair, dark eyed little boy.... :)
Here is some carpet we just got in our Master Bedroom! We love it and feel like we are in luxury after living on floor boards for 10 months. Well this is the update for today! Look forward to hearing from you!