Our Balanced Life...Sort of

Kamryn's Baptism

2011-06-22T14:56:00.001-07:00

Kamryn was actually suppose to be baptized last Saturday, but with Jesse's accident we had to postpone it. My mom was leaving for the summer and we weren't going to be able to do it until August. Kamryn was pretty sad about it, so we quickly arranged for it to happen Thursday June 16th.

It is funny how when our children turn eight we suddenly start to panic... DO they understand the gospel? Are they going to have the right answers when they meet with the Bishop?

I have been in the Primary presidency for the last 3 years and have attended just about every baptism, and I just have to say this was my favorite. No one could have prepared me for how cool this was going to feel and be for me. I had Valerie Broyles do her hair in braids up on her head, it looked like a crown, and I made her dress (I love to sew now and can't wait to do more) She was beautiful with her funny teeth and all :)

The minute she stepped into the font I started to cry, she was just so sweet and small. And I will never forget her expressions, you could tell she trusted her daddy with all her heart, she wasn't scared, she was excited, but calm. It was nice to have Kim there beside me acknowledging my tears and letting me know..Yes, this is pretty cool :) But the best part was getting her dressed, she was just so cute. I just kept crying and hugging her. I told her about when my mom helped me I remember her having a hair dryer. Then when we were done she says, wait I just want one last look, she opens the door looks at the font for just a moment and then says, ok, and then we walk in the other way. The music was so beautiful thanks to Jessica Hart, and I just sat there close to my beautiful daughter holding her hand.

The whole night she just seemed so grown up, I feel like it was the happiest moment of my life. I can't wait to take her to the Temple. I can't begin to imagine what that will feel like.

...So today at church was our ward conference, and our Bishop talked about how recently he had woken up to gout in both of his feet, he was in so much pain he couldn't even walk. On this particular day, he had a lot going on and didn't know how he was going to be able. He talked about how he prayed to Heavenly Father and that he had Faith that if he did all he could do then Heavenly Father would make it possible for him to do what was needed of him. It was Kamryn's Baptism that he needed to go to. I am so grateful for our Bishop for his example and his support that he was able to be there. I had no idea what a sacrifice it was for him to be there. He use to be the 2nd Counselor in our Bishopric, so he has worked very closely to Jesse with the YM and with me in the Primary, so he means a great deal to both of us, we are so grateful that Heavenly Father blessed us in allowing him to make it, especially since we had had to postpone it and we made him attend ANOTHER Baptism making it three in one week.

It's not so soft afterall

2011-06-22T14:55:00.002-07:00

Since we have lived in Casa Grande Jesse has always been on a softball team for the city league. I t use to be a lot of fun, a nice family venture, but as of late I just haven't been able to go with a new baby and what not. But on this particular game I was actually going to go but just for the 2nd game. About 10 minutes before I am going to head over I get a call from Tim Chapman, he says,"You need to come get your husband, he is going to need stitches, and we just don't think he should drive himself." So I think ok no big deal just here in Casa Grande. Thank goodness my parents are close, I drop off the kids and head to the fields. On my way I get a call that says, Drive all the way in, they know you are doing so. Now I begin to think this is a bigger deal then was let on... I drive up to his field, and his whole team comes to the car, and my friend Rebecca says, "Ok, he is going to have a bunch of fractures, he will need surgery, and you can't go to Casa Grande, we've already given him a blessing, so you just need to hurry."

What?

No warning on the phone call huh? I would have at least packed a sweatshirt and a phone charger, (especially since both of ours died within the next hour)

We check in at Chandler and then they transported him to Good Sam, where they specialize in plastic surgery.

So what happened right? Well it was 6:30pm and they were facing the sun. He was playing deep in right center, sprinted for a short pop up and somehow lost it in the sun and it hit him in the face. He had 4-5 fractures, that pretty much just dislodged his cheekbone from his face. Gross I know. They had to put in three plates to set it back in place.

Thank goodness it was just a bone right? He could have gone blind, he could have shattered his jaw having to be wired shut, or broken some teeth, brain damage? so much worse could have happened, and for once he was actually covered on our insurance.

To do the surgery they went through his eye and mouth, and the only reason why he has stitches on his cheek was actually from the ball. They did have to cut his eyelid to repair the bone just outside the eye.
This happened on a Tuesday and he finally got to come home on Friday. They wouldn't let me stay with him, so everyday I had to commute an hour to be with him. And thanks to my wonderful mom and sister that took my kids everyday, even the baby. It was nice to have some alone time but I can think of better things to do then being stuck in a hospital for 3 days. Kamryn was suppose to get baptized that Saturday so we had to postpone it. We were all a little heart broken.

We love our Jesse so much and are just so glad he is ok. And thank goodness I didn't marry him for his face right? Haha, he actually will look normal soon, everyday it is better and better, but still 3 weeks later and he still has some swelling, his eye is bloody inside from a blood vessel, and still has no feeling on the right side of his face, which may never come back. And he is done with softball, which is a little bitter sweet. But can't wait to get back playing basketball, that he won't give up :)

Happy Birthday Kiddos

2011-06-22T14:55:00.001-07:00

Alyssa is 4 years old. She is still the sweetest thing ever. My favorite thing about her is that she never fails to give me a hug first thing in the morning and tells me she loves me. If I ever wake up grumpy she sure puts a smile on my face :)
Aaron is now 6 years old. He is still full of so much energy I swear his little body can't contain it. I love his willingness to help out. I call him my super cleaner. And I love that you can give him a pencil, some paper, and a pair of scissors and he has a mind of his own. He makes his own toys and games, it is really amazing.
Kamryn is now 8 years old. I always knew this was going to be very exciting but I was pretty emotional this year. I still remember being terrified when they handed me this little baby, I just thought, Please don't cry... because I won't know what to do with you... And she didn't, she was the easiest baby ever. I love that I can rely on her and trust her.
And thanks to my wonderful sister that made all their cakes, it is just not my thing :)

Baby Lucy

2011-06-22T14:54:00.002-07:00

Addie White Photography. I love Addie!!!!! she is so good, I can't wait to take family pictures after I lose the baby weight :)

Lucy Robyn Mae Bradshaw

2011-06-22T14:54:00.001-07:00

After thinking I was going to have this baby any day for three weeks, I finally thought I might just get to my due date. I always assumed I would have this baby in February since my due date was March 6th, for sure it would be February. So on the very last day of the month February 28th at 5:15pm We were loading up our car full of garage sale items to take to the YW sale, and then all of a sudden my water broke. I hadn't been having any contractions, so we called his parents and told them to take their time getting here to pick up the kids. So we quickly fed the kids, tidied up the house, and packed our bags. Then I started to notice that I was actually in a LOT of pain. So we arrived to the hospital about 7:15, and finally got to triage and confirmed that yes my water was broken. I was about a 4-5. I warned them nicely that I usually go fast and that I wanted an epidural right away :) Apparently I should not have been nice about it... They took us to a room that was not stocked, so all the nurses were all over the place getting this or that? And I kept just asking...How about that epidural? I guess here in Casa Grande they have to do blood work before you can get an epidural, and fluids. The nurse taking my blood seemed to be the only one hurrying for my benefit, everyone else seemed to think I was just fine. After 3 tries they finally got my iv in, I didn't even notice because I was in so much pain. Jesse says that I'd start a contraction and I would just start to whimper, and then another one would start on top of it and I'd start freaking out. So those classes I took before Kamryn, hmmm like I remember any of that, I JUST WANTED AN EPIDURAL. So I finally start to feel really weird and I just know something is happening, so they finally check me and I'm a 9, and I still say, "Can I still get that epidural," "umm NO... you are having this baby right now," the nurse says. My doctor didn't even make it, so they had to call up the er Doctor. She looked terrified.

My throat was sore from screamimg, I was humiliated, and I think Jesse and I were just in shock. But through all that we delivered a perfect little baby girl which was a surprise to us :) Baby Girl Bradshaw 7 lbs. 5 oz 18 1/2 inches born at 8:30pm.

We still hadn't come to any agreement on a girl name... I wanted Lucy Mae (Mae after Jesse's mom) But...Since my mom was in San Antonio we were feeling really bad for her and decided she was the perfect person to name our daughter after. I don't really know it seems to all be a blur I remember me, Jesse and Jen...Some laughing and I don't know what, but the poor little thing has 4 names. Lucy Robyn Mae Bradshaw, she is very lucky to be named after both of her grandma's, which are the two most amazing people I know.

I guess I can now brag about being in the tough club of going all natural with no epidural, but I am now just terrified to have another. It was so fast, I shouldn't even complain, I was just not prepared for that.

Silly Alyssa

2010-08-26T21:15:00.001-07:00

One night on our way up to bed this picture is what we stumble upon. Our screen saver is a slidshow of our pictures, so apparently Alyssa got out of bed and sat down and eventually fell asleep looking at the pictures. I thought I had heard the computer chair making noise. I sure love this spoiled little girl :)

First Day of School

2010-08-26T21:03:00.001-07:00

I can't believe Kamryn is a 2nd Grader, and most of all I can't believe Aaron is in kindergarten :) He is only in half day since full day was cut in Casa Grande, and actually goes in the afternoon. Which has ended up being a huge blessing, I love, and I know Alyssa loves having him home in the morning, otherwise who would Alyssa play with, and who would clean up the playroom? Yes, tha's right Aaron really is the bomb diggity. When I went to take him to school the 2nd day he replied... "Again?" Yep buddy you go everyday, he wasn't too thrilled about that, but he comes home everyday so excited to show me what he's done.

Aaron is my thumb sucker, but he has to have his smelly to do so, don't look too closely this sad blanket is about the grossest thing ever. He had to get his last moments in before leaving, I wonder how he does at school?

Alyssa has been so sweet to have at home, I feel so spoiled to only have one at home, well at least in the afternoon, we actually both get to take naps. Yay:)

Summer Vacations 2010

2010-08-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

We were very lucky to get away for 31/2 weeks this summer. We first went to new mexico to attend LDS week at Philmont Scout training center, and then from there went straight to the cabin up by Greer here in Arizona, and then from there straight to Calgary, AB, Cananda. I should really calculate the total hours of driving. Our kids were great, and I think we made some memories that our kids will always remember. Posts for each below :)

Canada 1+1=112 Melchin Family Reunion

2010-08-26T20:27:00.000-07:00

We went to Calgary for a Melchin family reunion. It was amazing to be a part of such a wonderful family, I am so grateful for my heritage and hope that I can live up to the standards my grandparents have set for me. I am grateful for the many cousins I got to know as adults, isn't it nice how we grow up?

Cabin Trip 2010

2010-08-26T20:12:00.000-07:00

The Aaron and Donna Bradshaw Family 2010, with three on the way.

Philmont

2010-07-22T12:12:00.000-07:00

Our family was very blessed in receiving an invitation to go to LDS week at Philmont this summer. Philmont is a traing center for the Boy Scouts. But what is so special about LDS week is that it is ran by the General Young mens presidency and also the General Primary President. It is by invitation, which usually means Stake Presidencies and their families.
Jesse was called to be on the High Council over the young mens in our stake about 5 months ago, which has already been a huge blessing in our families life and a story in and of its self. So that is why we were so lucky to attend. But we know we were even luckier because our stake brought 6 men with them this year. Since our Stake Presidency was just sustained recently our Stake President , and one of his councelors came, the high councilor over ym, scouting, and Primary, and then our Stake ym President.
It was so much fun having people with us, it felt like we were a family, and we stayed up late almost everynight playing games. The Michel's had 3 kids too, and they were the other young family there. I loved Wendy so much it was like I had known her my whole life. And everytime Alyssa got upset i would say "Do you want to go see grandma?" she would nod, and I would take her to Sister Dick, who I would adopt as my mother if mine wasn't so close by. I loved getting to know people in our stake that i honestly feel very intimadated around, I mean who doesn't around the Stake President and his wife, it was just great to laugh out loud and have a blast.

This was our Family Flag, it was about all my brain could fathom, I couldn't believe how amazing some families flags were, but still I loved ours and spent about all the time i had on it anyway :) And this is what the tents look like that we slept in, we were given two, so our 3 kids shared one and then Jesse and I in the other, it actually worked out great, I love how much i can depend on Kamryn :)

Each day I took my kids to their classes where they had fun activities planned for them, hiking, pony rides, crafts, and games. Jesse spent most of his time in classes being taught by the General Young Mens board. And then I had many classes to take either spiritual or fun activities. Since I am in our wards primary presidency I did attend all the classes by Sister Wixom the General Primary President, it was amazing to find yourself and everyone around you in tears. I had no idea I was attending EFY for adults. I don't know if I have ever felt so spiritually uplifted in my life. The whole place felt like the City of Enoch being surrounded by people that sacrafice so much to serve their Heavenly Father and these are the leaders of the church from all around the states.

In our first meeting with Sister Wixom she told us about her experience meeting with President Monson and receiving her call just a couple months ago since she was just sustained this past conference, and she was asked, "What is the tap root that will keep the children anchored in the wind?" I feel like in her search for this answer it really became the theme for our week.

A couple weeks before attending I received a letter from Presiden Beck the YM General President extending a call to me to teach Primary on our Sunday there. I was pretty happy since it is where I belong anyway, but I was terrified since it was a Valiant teacher, Joshua Leads Isreal, I mean don't they know I do so much better on the CTR level? It was amazing, and I feel so blessed that my name was chosen to teach, out of the 150 ladies I was lucky to be part of something amazing. Picture teaching children that don't know each other (so they don't have someone to talk to) and most of these are children of Stake Presidents. I was blown away by how wonderful they were, and when they told us how many siblings they had they had 4 brothers and 3 sisters, not all of them but it sure felt like it. I just learned to have so much respect for these amazing families that truly serve the Lord and their lives are built upon the Lord's will and not their own. I am so greateful for the things I learned and hope that I will never forget the feelings and promptings that I felt.

The ladies got to do COPE courses but since LDS week brings so many ladies they don't do high cope, which I was way bummed about, but decided to be a little pushy since the afternoon cope was during Pres. Beck's talk to the women, so I succeeded since only 7 of us came, and they let us do the Zip line.

I thought it looked like a piece of cake...and then.... seriously I was terrified and what was I thinking, as i got closer to the top, my arms were just stretched around the pole terrified that they woudn't hang on, and then at the top I figured you just hung on to something and away you went...No you hung on to a rope that had a LOT of slack, so first you would free fall and then zip along the wire, Why did I go first? So I actually had to sit on the stand at the top and there was still slack and I just screamed as loud as I could after i counted to 3 and away i went, it was so much fun, it felt like a huge accomplishment, I swear that stuff use to be so easy a long time ago.

One evening they had a band and Wendy forced me into being part of it, I felt like an idiot because I didn't know any of the songs and so I just winged it the whole time, I chose to sit down when I saw the Wixom's and Beck's sit down. Jesse and I actually got to sit by the Wixom's this night, and it was amazing to see how wonderful they are. I expected not to have any association with these people but they were so out going and were a part of our community. I hope to be just like the Wixom's they are such a cute couple and you can just feel the love they have for one another.

Sister Wixom the General Primary President and her charming husband swing dancing. I love them.

Western night is to pretend to celebrate the 4th of July, they have a parade for the children, and so they have this room with supplies to make costumes. I thought i was going to die, like I know how to make things out of paper. So this is the best we could do, Jesse actually made Aaron and Alyssa's because kamryn's took forever.

Kamryn the Sunflower, she was not too happy that the wind was going crazy, thank goodness she smiled through the parade.

Aaron the bucket head Zombie. Don't ask it is all he talks about from the game Plants vs. Zombies.

And Alyssa the ladybug :)

Our last night they had each age group get up and do something, this is Aaron deciding to not say the Pledge of Alegience with the rest of his group. He is pulling down his eyelids. Yay I am so glad he is mine :) Stinker little boy

Each night Jesse and I would just be overjoyed with what we were experiencing and how lucky we were to be here. We would say, "I can't believe we are here, this is just way too cool"

Kamryn's 7th Birthday

2010-07-22T09:29:00.000-07:00

I can't believe she is already 7. Kamryn is so special to me as I am sure every child is. But she is just so much help already for me, she does her best to set a good example for her two younger siblings, she does such a good job at keeping them happy which keeps me happy.

Of course I did not decorate the cake, definately not in my list of qualities. Jennifer did it, oh my amazing sister.

We decorated my house like pixie hallow, and put sparkles in the girls hair and on their nails as they arrived, and then we made garlands and wands. I thought it turned out great for deciding to do the party just days before it. It really was fun, but I was very grateful to send them on their way home :)

Mommy the Super Cage Fighter

2010-05-26T14:25:00.001-07:00

So usually you just post pictures where you look your best right? Well I decided to post this since it is my journal and hopefully I will find this funny.....someday right? We just took this picture yesturday so if you haven't seen me then this is what I look like right now. Soooooooo depressing I know. And this may be ugly, but I didn't want to show just how ugly I am right now, so this is as good a picture as I will show. I definately look like a batered wife, so thank goodness Jesse doesn't have a mean bone in his body and also that he has witnesses to playing basketball at the time of the incident :) So I do a lot of interval training on my treadmil, so I was starting a new regimen, and decided to do 400's, instead of a timed exertion. I set my treadmil on incline of 5, which I do plenty higher than that usually but for like 30 seconds, and a 400 at the 10 speed is a lot longer than that. Any way so it is hurting and I am starting the 4th time doing this and realize I am not going to make it the full distance, and I think instead of kicking my butt to get to the handrails to jump to the sides I will just jump off the back (which when I was doing my long runs on the treadmil I had jumped off before because sometimes it was a 2 hour run, and would get water or even pee, that's another story, that you don't need to hear so...) Alright so I don't really know what really took place all I know is that jumping off the back of a treadmil at the highest speed is NOT a good decision, I pretty much smashed my face on the running belt, I thought i had shattered my cheekbone, and of course I don't wear the safety turn off key, because who does right? So yes the belt just burned my face. This happened on Monday so this picture is just the next night, and surprisingly the burns are already looking much better. I was histarical when it happened, I mean this is my FACE we are talking about, MY FACE. And it is destroyed, I cried for about two hours and then on and off all day long. Jesse even had to give me a blessing to help calm me down, how I love my man. I am actually still very emotional about it, since I know I have a good two weeks of treating the burns before I can start treating my face like nothing happened, so no make up, hello I wear makeup just to see my husband get home for work:)
Injuries in all a burn on my cheekbone, burn on my chin not shown well in picture, burn on one shoulder, and burn on right hand bandaged in picture, big fat cut, bruised lip, that just looks like a cold sore (like that is any better) and a massive swollen black eye, which nice that the swelling has gone down a lot, but dang eye, it will eventually turn black, blue, green, and then yellow, I bet it lasts a month. Last of the injuries a hurt pride. I am a busy person and have things to do and places to go. That very morning I had to cancel breakfast with friends and then everywhere I have gone since I have kept sunglasses on indoors, especially at pack meeting, I didn't want to scare the poor kids away. And people keep saying it's not that bad, WHAT?????????????????? IT IS MY FACE. I would have rather broken a bone. But really I could have the whole side of my faced burned right?
If anyone saw my facebook status this was what the cause of it was...
Dear Mommy, I hope you "fill" better so you don't look funny anymore. I love You From:Kamryn
So whenever you have a low moment look back at my picture and you should feel much better because at least you don't look like me :)

Kamryn loses her FIRST tooth

2010-05-26T14:15:00.000-07:00

Kamryn has had her first loose tooth for the last couple months, it actually was very exciting for us, since she was getting pretty old for not loosing any yet, (even though they really are cuter the longer they stay away from those awkward big teeth). So tonight I was looking at her tooth and realized I could see the bottom of the tooth and had her show me how far it went both ways, I can't believe it was even really attatched to anything in her mouth anyway, but she wouldn't let me touch it, so i decided not to push her on the first so she would always think it was easy instead of tramatic. I told her she was probably going to swallow and choke on it that night, but whatever she still wouldn't let me grab it. But then of course just 5 minutes after putting her to bed she starts screaming that her tooth came out. She was so happy and very relieved that it didn't even hurt. She read her tooth fairy book and I let her stay up to wait for daddy (at some meeting of course) to show him. She was so happy to get a dollar from the tooth fairy! And already we see her tooth growing in, I can't believe she just let it hang there that long. I just love her:)

Gila Valley Temple

2010-05-26T14:06:00.000-07:00

Jesse arrived home early from work one day and said let's go, so since we usually make some pretty poor choices decided to pack up the kids, get Kamryn out of school and head to the Temple Open house. It took 3 hours to get there and our kids were AWFUL, and then they just didn't understand how we kept them in a car for the last 3 hours and then expected them to be reverent and on their best behavior. The Temple was so beautiful, I am so glad I got to see it, but the entire time I was just stressing out about my kids, no one else seemed to be having the same problem, (they probably didn't drive 3 hours to get there, or let them play at a park before entering) We then ate dinner and then drove back home, I thought I was going to die, I was so tired and couldn't believe we thought this was a good idea. I am sure we will enjoy the Gilbert Temple experience so much more. Thank goodness for redbox, because we were able to keep them pretty entertained for the drive home.

What the "HILL" is this?

2010-05-04T14:55:00.001-07:00

On May 1st Jesse and I ran in the Whiskey Row half Marathon. Our first run ever. I decided to train for this marathon in hopes of getting in really good shape, so that when I got pregnant next I would be able to run during the pregnancy instead of just walking, and in hopes of staying thin. Well turns out in the whole 10 weeks of training I ended up putting on over 10 pounds, so annoiying, yes, but all I know is I ate all the time a lot. So I think I am done with long distance training, and any desire to run a full marathon after this.....Heck no, are you kidding those people are crazy, I think running for two hours is crazy, why would I want to run for 4 hours? But who knows, we really are already plannning on doing this one again next year, which is crazy because this marathon in prescott is one of the toughest in the country, why youask, because the first half is seriously all up hill. How do people train for that, its not like I have an incline of 20 on my tredmill:) Jesse and I had hoped that we could finish in 2 hours, when I would do my long runs I ran them at a 10 min. mile and it was easy peasy, so we thought this would be practical, well when we got going, I didn't think I could keep hopping up those hills, and it was hard to know how hard to push yourself, I really was just wanting to finish. So I had to walk quite a bit, but everyone around us was too, apparently it was pretty normal for this run. And I thought for sure it was going to take over 2 1/2 hours, but when you get to the top you turn around and run back the way you came, so seriously we pretty much sprinted the whole way down catching us up on our time, which was 2 hours and 3 minutes. I placed 7th in my age division, and if I would have just been 3 minutes faster I would have been 3rd and received a medal. How funny that 4 of us came in right around each other. It was a nice accomplishment, I never missed a run in the 10 weeks of training and it did end up being worth it. I am glad Jesse ran with me, even though he didn't break a sweat, and was always a head of me, and I had to keep yelling at him to slow down, he hardly ran any of the training, it is not fair how good of shape he is in, just from basketball and softball.
There were signs all along the race, one said "this is where whatever you do, DOn't Look up" Oh really, if I swore that would have been when I would have. And then "What the HILL is this?" And "It is all downhill from here" I liked that one!
We really had a good time, shea and Phil Emmett also ran and Dawn Kinnard ran the 10k, so their families were there, and we had a little group to hang out and eat with. I just hope now I can get motivated to lose the 10 pounds so I can fit in my bathing suit...dang it! I hate summer time:)

Happy Birthday Aaron

2010-05-03T12:24:00.001-07:00

Aaron is 5 years old. It seems so wierd to me, this must be the hardest age since it is when they will be going to Kindergarten. Seriously can't wait, but on the other hand, he seems way too young to be going. That poor teacher:) Aaron is so full of energy as I am sure most little boys are, he is always making noise, I don't know how boys do it, but sound effects just come with the territory I guess. He is obsessed right now with a computer game called plants verses Zombies, thankfully we no longer have it on our computer as it would be all he would do. But it is still all he does, when he is jumping on the tramp, he continually tells me how the Zombies ate his brains, or how he just got a cold shooter and killed the zombies, and in fact lately he puts a bucket over his head and tells Alyssa to hit him and slowly he is killed in attempting to eat her brains, and then there are times he will draw for an hour, pictures of the game, pretending he is playing. And since the game is at my mom's house, every day he wakes up and immediately asks if he can go to Mama's house, and everyday I tell him sure, as soon as that playroom, or, bedroom...is clean, and walah, it is clean.
He really is a sweatheart, he is my thumb sucker (how to get them to stop, um....now I know when they are newborns stuff a pacifier in their mouth!) But when they are teeny tiny it is just so cute, I still think it is so cute, that is when he is cudly. At church he always wants his back tickled, he is just like his daddy. He is very protective of Alyssa, and is always looking out for her, in fact if she isn't walking fast enough and falls behind the rest of us, he will literally cry about it.

Happy Birthday Alyssa!!!

2010-03-16T15:58:00.000-07:00

Alyssa is 3 years old, I can't believe it. Except for the fact thast she acts every second of three years old. Why they call them the terrible twos, I have no idea, because it is age 3 that drives me Crazy.
We sure love this little one, and she has still held on to her blond hair, which is a whole year longer than the others. So we are crossing our fingers still.
I happened to find this pink tutu at a garage sale, and had her wear it over her jeans for the day, problem is she won't take it off, it is all she will wear now, I am going to have to hide it.

To support out Boy scout troop we went to the Chili cookoff to get lunch with the kiddos, and of course the kids wanted to ride the teacups, which ended up being a $9 ride, no kidding, ouch! Alyssa wanted the yellow one of course being her favorite, but the other kiddos didn't, so she happily went by herself, and apparently the other kids didn't deserve a picture:) oops!

We celebrated with my family that night, and then had Jesse's family over for Sunday dinner so they could finally see our new house since June, sad huh?

Alyssa is so sweet, she loves babies, dress up, dresses and anything girly. She loves to jump on the tramp and watch barbie movies (lucky me). She is so lovable, but definately has to have things her way, and sometimes I really feel like I have to walk on egg shells (especially around nap time) because she WILL take a nap.

I can't believe my baby is 3, she's not even a baby, but I am glad we have taken this time to let our kids grow up a bit, before adding another addition.

Pursuit of Excellence...Goal #...

2010-03-16T15:52:00.000-07:00

So for Pursuit of Excellence I was encouraged to learn a new skill, and decided it was time to dry can all the dry food storage we had accumulated from both Jesse's and my parents. Jesse and I have a blast doing things together, we filled up around 30 cans and now my food storage closet looks pretty cool, I love showing it off. And by the way it was soooo super easy, and the lady from our stake is in my neighborhood to rent the canner from, so everyone in Casa Grande, you need to do it:)

Family Night in the SNOW

2010-03-16T15:41:00.000-07:00

So out of no where jesse says, let's go find some snow. It was right after a bunch of storms, so we packed up the kids after school, got some snow clothes from the Cole's (saved our lives, thanks so much) and headed off for Mount Lemon. I think it took us 2 hours? and then we only played in the snow for 30 min. before it was just way too dark. Kamryn had forgotten her jacket, so she wore my sweatshirt, and then we were short one pair of gloves, so I went without. I didn't last in the freezing ice. We found a small hill to sled down, make a few snow angels, and then pack the kids back up and head back home.
Seriously the things we do... It was a lot of fun, and it probably wasn't worth all the effort, but knowing us, we will probably do it again.

Kamryn and Alyssa loved sleding, where as surprise surprise, Aaron didn't like it so much. What a stinker he is.

Christmas

2010-03-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I am the world's worst blogger, and have lost all my followers:D And I would have just skipped Christmas all together, but since this is the closest thing I have to a journal, and a scrapbook, I had to get some pictures in...

It was great to have Jon and Becky in town this year, since moving to San Antonio, it was great to get to know my little Nephew Jackson, what a hoot that little boy is. Yes, that is Aaron, can you believe he can apparently be so sweet too!

All the Creason Grandkids, in their traditional Christmas Jammies.

I love this picture, I don't really know why, I just rmember the night decorating, Kamryn was acting just as she looks in the picture, and she was getting on my nerves, I mean it was fun time right? Well next thing we know she throws up all over the floor, and for those that know Kamryn, she has never really experienced that feeling, so when I yelled at her for not running to the bathroom, she just says, I didn't know I was going to. Poor baby! But I guess it explained the sour face all night:D

Ostrich Farm

2010-03-16T14:04:00.000-07:00

For Aaron's preschool we went on a fieldtrip to the Ostrich Farm. I am so glad that I brought Alyssa along with us since Aaron decided he was afraid and was being a whimp, but when he saw his LITTLE sister walk right up to the animals to feed them, he realized, if she can do it, then I can to. The Ostrich's are sooo mean, I didn't like them at all, but the deer, and goats are so much fun for the kids. We really had fun, and thank goodness for tough little sisters.

Addie White Photography

2009-09-03T23:55:00.000-07:00

Cabin Trip 2009

2009-08-14T17:31:00.001-07:00

This is the outhouse that we have to use when we go to the cabin, and if you notice the little red flag hanging on the side, it is a flag that says "i'm in d outie" that way you know when it is occupied! The kids actually do alright with it, except my wierd kids were afraid of a poster with a monkey on it that was hanging up, "Thanks mom for finally taking it down"

And this is the tank that if it rains it fills up with water so we can shower, so what that means is...No Rain...No shower. This year there was...NO RAIN!!! Thankfully Jesse's parents had gone up earlier this summer to open the cabin and get the tank full, so when we arrived it was full, but after a week and half, yep you guessed it, we had to boil water and bathe out of a bucket.

The men spent many hours making bullets, and then they took the kids out shooting, this is the branch that Kamryn shot off a tree, poor tree, but she was pretty excited about it!

Alyssa loves that nose!

For the first time we actually went into Greer and went to the river there, it was beautiful and a new thing for us to do!

The Hammock though, is always my favorite even though I spent maybe an hour in it the entire trip. I miss it already.

I am almost positive Aaron had just taken a bath, he is just so gross, when will I get a child that hates gettting dirty, I know there are some out there.

Throwing rocks of course.

They are so cute in their AB SHAW shirts. I can't believe how tall Kamryn is, her cousin Abbie on the right is only a month youner.

All 10 grandkids, there is one on the way, (and no it is not mine)

We love going to the cabin, we are so lucky that every year we know we can at least come here, to get away from the world and all its cares. It is a place where you can just read all day, and then we play games until 2 in the morning. It was actually pretty warm this year, but I know that means it was really hot here in the valley. And as long as you are in the shade then it is so beautiful! I am so lucky to be part of a family that we can spend this long in one cabin together without getting sick of one another. Well at least I don't think we do.

4th of July 2009

2009-08-14T17:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July, um like over 2 months ago:) This year we went up to Heber for the fireworks, which means we were wearing sweatshirts while we watched the fireworks. Jealous? Yes, I know you are. We went with jesse's siblings. It is always the best show because it is up in the mountains so the sky is pitch black, (none of that orange night stuff) so the fireworks end up being almost too bright because it will be so dark and then BAM, woah too bright! And it has mountains surrounding the school so they are very loud, and it literally feels like they are going to fall on you, my stomach dropped a couple times, yes I know I was probably the only one! It was a blast my kids love it, and Alyssa ended up falling asleep. And out of no where we ran into the Winders which is funny because neither one knew the other was coming!!!! I know this is not the most exciting post but hey this is my journal right?

Rebecca's Wedding

2009-08-14T17:29:00.001-07:00

Mr. and Mrs. Mike and Rebecca Brady! I can't believe I am just posting this! I am the world's worst blogger, I am sure I don't have any followers anymore:(
Jesse's baby sister got married on May 30th. Which is actually Kamryn's Birthday, and luckily she was young enough that she thought she was so special, but I know what that really means is that her aunt and uncle won't ever come to a birthday party!!!! And I know that from my own self, Jesse and I got married the day after our nephews birthday, and after 7 blissful years I am yet to be at a birthday party.
Alright, Alright now to the point...

It was a great day, she was beautiful, he was beautiful, the children were (with the exception of my wonderful Aaron) Great! Jesse's mom made these gorgeous dresses for all the nieces and vests and bowties for the boys. They were smashing!

The only reason why we even got Aaron to look at the camera in this picture is because of my wonderful and most talented friend Jen gave him the remote and told him, that he could take the picture, which no of course he didn't, but don't tell him that:)

Jesse's Family...I am so lucky to be part of this family, they honestly are the best!

I wish I would have gotten some of the pictures Jen Reynolds took for this post because they are amazing.

Rebecca and Mike, we love you and are so excited for you. May you be blessed with the same happiness that we have, that you may love your choice always, because the more you love them, the more they love you, and always Kneel to Thank your Father in Heaven for one another! We are so sad to see your journey lead you to Cali, but are looking forward to great vacations.

Happy Birthday Kamryn

2009-06-12T18:42:00.000-07:00

Kamryn is 6 years old, and has been since May 3oth, yes I already admitted to being a bad blogger. I can't believe how old she already is. Jesse's sister actually got married on her birthday, so thank goodness for Sierra, whose birthday was just 3 days before, and we had a combined birthday party! And thanks again Suzi for doing everything. We were in the start of fixing up our new house and moving, so I am so grateful to have such a good friend! It was actually a lot of fun to entertain a bunch of little girls!
I did feel pretty bad for her actual birthday since I was stressed out at first trying to get the whole family ready for an entire day up in the valley and to be ready for the reception that night. But after the wedding we went and saw Up, she loved it, I, on the other hand was so tired, it was cute but I found myself pretty bored wishing I could be sleeping instead!
Kamryn is such a good girl, I rely on her so much, and it is fun to see how grown up she is, but of course they are always our little ones. She has honestly been almost too easy. I love nap time when I can just spend time with her!

Happy Birthday Aaron

2009-06-12T18:40:00.000-07:00

Aaron is now 4 years old. His birthday was April 30th and I am now finally posting! Yes, I already know I am a bad blogger!!!! My parents went to El Paso to help my brother move and they actually took Aaron with him, and it just happened to be over his birthday, so I wasn't even with him on his actual birthday! And I hate to admit what a great week it was to just have one at home with Kamryn gone at school, this would be my explanation to why I am still not expecting another baby and why I won't for a while longer!! I am waiting for Aaron to be a little older, because he is just the sweetest best little guy ever, but he is also the loudest, wildest bunch of who knows what!
So when he got back we made him a cake and celebrated, he doesn't know the difference, and he got his cool big boy bike! I sure love my little guy!

No more Training Wheels!

2009-04-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

So out of the blue I asked Kamryn if she wanted to learn to ride her bike without training wheels, and she said Yes, so we jumped on the opportunity. My mom was out of town at the time, and so we kind of bribed her when she started to chicken out that she would be able to call Mama when she rode her bike all by herself.
She did such a good job, and it was actually a very fun experience. Now just two weeks later we have already been all the way around our subdivision for a family bike ride. It is amazing how fast these kids learn, everytime we go out she gets better and better.

HAWAI'I

2009-04-05T23:06:00.000-07:00

A long time ago Jesse promised he would take me to Hawaii if I reached my goal weight. Thanks to my friends in my biggest losers group I reached it in May 07! And almost a year later we finally went!

This is our view from our resort and then below is a picture of the resort from the beach. It was amazing. It had four beach lagoons that actually made the beach like a swimming pool, which I loved because honestly I am not into the whole ocean thing! But you can't go to Hawaii and swim in the pool right?

We went to Pearl Harbor to see the USS Arizona Memorial. I always knew it had sunk and was still there, but I didn't realize it was only in 8 feet of water so it literally is right there. Part of the ship is seen above water, and still today is a gravesite for 1100 soldiers. The whole thing is just so sad, not being able to rescue the people in this ship when it is just right there. The memorial is beautiful and very peaceful as there is no talking aloud.

This is the actual anchor from the Arizona.
We went to the Swap Meet. Oh yes we did and we loved it. Jesse even had fun, I am so lucky! Everything was cheaper than at the International Marketplace so we were so glad we went.

On Sunday March 29th was our 7th anniversary! So to have your anniversary on a Sunday, better spent out of town right? We did make it to a Sacrament meeting, and then got to take a tour of the temple grounds and visitor's center. It was actually very sad to see the Temple since it is closed for renovations, the building wasn't even white anymore, so we were bummed we didn't get to do a session since I am sure we won't ever get to go back. It was a nice relief to be around members of the church, we loved this side of the island it was beautiful and not so touristy and wordly! Lucky us the Visitor's center had the traveling tour of Reflections of Christ which we never did make it to see in Mesa, so that was really neat.

On the North Shore you will pass Shrimp shacks all lined up along the side of the road, so we had to stop at Macky's Shrimp Shack, it was really good, but later after thinking about it, it is pretty disgusting. They are little trailers that they cook out of, the more I think about it the more I want to puke! Shrimp anyone?

We had a blast at the Dole Plantation. And had the best pineapple icecream! Did you know that if you took the stem off a pineapple and planted it to grow another it would take 2 years? I have a hard time waiting for 4 months 2 years, um yah right.

We did do the world's Largest maze, you had to find 6 different stations, I just walked and turned when jesse told me to, except the times he tried to ditch me, punk! (Good thing he has nice arms)!

That night we watched the sunset on Sunset Beach, but of course it was cloudy, and I have to admit living in Arizona we really do have beautiful Sunsets.

Did you know that the concierge can tell you what time the sun will rise and set each day, well we found that out one day too late, we planned to hike up Diamond Head to see the Sunrise, we were 20 min. late for that, so we pretty much ran the whole hike, in fact when we got to the top I thought, wow, did we really just do that, I don't remember looking around at all.

So we took Bring it pictures for P90X because we did it so fast.This is the beautiful view of Honolulu and Waikiki.

Jealous? You are now huh? I like guys with short hair I always have and always will, Jesse is growing out his hair because you know he turns 30 this year and probably won't ever be able to again. I just smile (and laugh inside) But he is just so cute to me, thank goodness huh? Especially when he wore his white hat backwards.

This is the sunset from our resort, why we left and stayed busy everyday? I don't know because this was Heaven.

One of my favorite movies is 50 First Dates, so we of course had to eat at the Hukilau Cafe, no it is not the real Cafe, the movie paid them to use their name, but that is just me, I still HAD to go there. We loved it, it was just one girl that takes care of all the customers, if you get water, you take your cup and fill it at the cooler, very laid back, and very cheap too!

Did you know that wearing a flower on the right side says you are available? I did know that but with how I part my hair it didn't look right on the Left. I was wondering why everyone kept hitting on me! Just kidding!

We went to one of those vacation owner presentation things and for it we got tickets to the Polonisian Cultural Center that would have cost $300, and only had to pay $30. This place is amazing, but it doesn't open until noon, so there is not enough time to see it all, before the Luau. We got front row to the stage and got to actually dance on stage for having an anniversary in March! I tried raw fish for the first time. And drank a smoothy from a hollowed pineapple.

It rained on and off the whole day at the PCC, and I had my hair down, if you know me well, you will know about the frizz on my head, well I definately was not very cute this day.

Manoa Falls, this was so beautiful! Still a ton of tourists, I was starting to get tired of everything you do there, there are tons of others with you all doing the same stuff! But after this hike to the Falls there are many other trails to follow, and since we love hiking we continued and for once we were doing something that no one else was.

It was like the jungle, it was so cool. It rained a lot while we were hiking so I kept a poncho on, and eventually every step we took was a big pudle of mud, our feet were soaked. After another mile and half, and the rain wasn't letting up we decided that the next four hours wasn't going to be much fun, so we turned back around.

Crouching Tiger? It was so neat to one minute see bamboo everywhere and then the next the scenery is totally different.
This was the sign at the end of the trail we finished that said, WARNING Hunters with Dogs on this trail on Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday, um yah it was Wednesday, it said wear bright colors, I am sure they wouldn't miss me.

We had so much fun away, and it was nice to really miss my kids, I think we need to miss them sometimes, so we want to just love on them! Every day it was go, go, go, so finally our last day we slept in and went to the beach at our resort and read a book, all day, I loved every minute of it! It feels like now all we did on this trip was drive, and eat, I looked good in my bathing suit the first day, and not so good the last day!

How I like to start a vacation off...

2009-03-26T20:47:00.000-07:00

So this last week has been very busy preparing to go to Hawaii. One more day and I am there. Today was going to be the busiest of them all since it just wasn't going to end, because I have been taking a Love and Logic Parenting class out in Mesa on Thursday nights so I wasn't going to get home until 10:30pm. It takes about an hour to get there, and I am stopped at a red light on Broadway and 24th one mile away from my destination, and here it comes LOUD screeching tires and then...BANG, yep you guessed it, totally rear-ended. I still can't believe it happened and I don't remember feeling it happen, but every minute my body is already telling me that it did. My sister, her husband and I are all just fine, the car that hit us is not fine, it bent my back bumber, so now the back door will not latch, and then I was pushed to the car in front of me, which was an Expedition, totally gonna get me one of those, because he didn't even have a scratch, but totally put a hole in my front bumper as well. So I hope I don't get sore or stiff for my once in a lifetime vacation. DOn't recommend starting your vacation this way...
I did take pictures with my phone but Jess is not home at the moment and like I want to figure that out right now. Will post later!

Happy Birthday Alyssa

2009-03-12T13:10:00.001-07:00

Alyssa is 2 years old. I can't believe how fast it flew by. I also can't believe she is still my baby and I am not even expecting another baby at this time. I am just really enjoying my wonderful three kids. Alyssa is so much fun, she has finally decided to talk, but I don't know who's been teaching her, but they don't speak English. I love it, it is the best stage when they have so much to tell you in their own little language, you just have to smile and say really? I could just gobble her up. All of my kids have been born with light hair but by the time they are two they are brown, but Alyssa has held on to her blonde, with a tiny hint of strawberry, we will see... She is my first child to have BROWN eyes (surprisingly my other two have blue) I just love deep brown eyes they are the best. Alyssa is my cuddly child when you pick her up she is always willing to squeeze hold and lay her head down, I hope she never stops. Sometimes she thinks that "uh uh" is talking I wish she would catch on that there are other words. She has the best laugh and the cutest personality. She is my baby doll child, sometimes she has up to 6 baby dolls in her crib. I do my best to keep it at three. She loves them, and could play all day with them. She is such a joy to our family, and it is soo fun to see how much Kamryn and Aaron love her.

El Paso

2009-03-12T12:53:00.001-07:00

My brother James and his wife Karin and their daughter Sami are living in El Paso, TX. They are in the Army so this is great to have them so close. So for President's Day we drove there for the weekend. I don't think I realized that a 6 hour drive is not that close, but like I would drive to Georgia, so we were happy to do it, but maybe should have gone over spring break. It was a lot of fun to spend time with them. To see what their life is really like.

We went to the Museum in El Paso to see the Dinosaurs. Kamryn was terrified (I guess I wasn't too surprised) My Nennie (grandma) that passed away 2 years ago always took us to the museum in Mesa to see the Dinosaurs, so it was a lot of fun for me! I can still remember running past the T-Rex to hurry and get out of there.

We spent a lot of time in the Science area, I didn't try too many games since I don't like looking stupid, here Jesse is trying one that he never could figure out. We spent most of our time just relaxing watching movies and eating cookies. (lots of them) I learned how to make Karin's famous salsa, and have actually already made it again since being home! Thanks James and Karin for having us! We can't wait to come again!!!!

My Sweatheart

2009-02-12T12:37:00.001-08:00

So I have been sweetheart tagged. And since Valentine's Day was coming up then there was no better time. Here it goes...

What is your husband's name? Jesse Green Bradshaw (isn't that the coolest middle name)

How old is he? 28 (my sister has now informed me that he is 29...oops!)

Who is taller? Like I would marry him if he wasn't (I always said 5'11 was the perfect height for me, I think I married him for his height...His forearms...and those veins (I was taking an IV class when we met)

Who can sing best? Usually me, but if it is classic rock, he rocks hard!!!

Who is smarter? he may not appreciate this answer because he was in all honors classes, but I have to say me, because sometimes he just doesn't get it! And I was in honors too babe! LOL. Ok, ok, so he is book smarter, but I am street smarter.

Who does laundry?I do, but about a month ago we had a very bad bountifulbaskets day and he was more than the best thing on earth for doing all the laundry, except for my shirts (because we all know what happeneds to them if they wash them)

Who pays bills?He use to, and then I did, and then we decided it was his turn, which decided to be a bad idea, so now I do.

Who mows the lawn? Apparently no one! LOL. I am waiting for a letter for my backyard!

Who cooks dinner? Me

How long did you date? 4 1/2 months then engaged for 4 1/2 months

Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? I actually have no idea how to answer this question.

Who kissed who first? He tried to kiss me on our first single date, and I totally turned the cheek. He didn't know I was waiting for a missionary.

Who wears the pants? The pants are mine!

Tucson Zoo

2009-02-04T14:54:00.000-08:00

I love the Tucson Zoo!!! Word of advice...Do not go on Monday holidays!!!

We decided to take advantage of no school and went to the Zoo, but of course everyone else was doing the same thing. Obviously the Phoenix Zoo is amazing, but when you got little ones, this is the place to go. Everything is right there, and in two hours you have seen everything!

I can't believe these are the only pictures we took. It was actually very hot outside, and all the animals were pretty lazy.

Happy New Year

2009-02-04T14:47:00.001-08:00

Is that not just the cutest thing you have ever seen!!!

Every year since we got engaged we have spent New Years Eve with jesse's family. And let me tell you we are crazy, we have stayed up til 5:00, or at least try to pull all nighters with a Lord of the Rings Marathon starting at 5:00am, I don't think anyone makes it.

Now that we are a responsible parents of three, we made the decision to head home pretty soon after midnight. it was sad to leave so early, (because the real fun just begins) but that next day is always the worst day of the year!

We got there early enough that we forced the kids to run, run, and run some more. Hoping that if we wore them out enough they would last with watching movies the rest of the night. I would say it went better then expected. We love to play games and have a blast doing so!!!

Goals for the New Year...

Get organized with Primary stuff...

Look great in Hawaii

Love everything about my life

Christmas 2008

2009-02-04T14:23:00.000-08:00

Every year since living in Casa Grande we start the season off with the Light Parade. We love it. We sit on the side of the street, eat Fry Bread and get lots of broken candy canes passed out to us!!!
We were very lucky this year to have the Brinton's find us and were able to join in on the fun! We love having them here!!! This is Kamryn with her best friend Sierra.Good luck finding her, but this is a picture of Kamryn's Christmas Concert. It was my first of course and one of the funniest things I have ever seen. They had the music with words playing and had actions for every sentence, they were moving so fast I couldn't help but laugh. I love those moments you see your child growing up. She is playing the drums in this picture. And the poor thing will not let me put her hair back to get it out of her face!

Every Christmas Eve we get together with the Bradshaw's. We have our traditional Gumbo. It took me some years of getting used to. The first year when we were engaged not a big fan, the next I was pregnant I thought I wasn't going to make it, and now I love it. Wierd huh?

We always dress the kids up which takes us a 1/2 hour and then the actual story takes about 5 minutes! Why we do it? I don't know, but we love it! I think there was bribery involved with Aaron, you gotta do what you gotta do!
Merry Christmas!!!!!
Every year growing up Jess's family would take a picture of them in a line, and because my husband is actually very good about traditions we take a picture at the top of the stairs every year!!! Never the greatest look, but oh well!

I was so excited to get a real wallet, I have been using a pocket sized piece of something since I was 18 years old. I had no idea what a useful one would be like!!!
The kids got their fleece blankets and we got a lot of food storage, it was a great day, like it always is. I just love the season of giving! And it is so nice to have family so close to spend the day with!

As good as it gets

2008-12-12T08:09:00.000-08:00

We went and took family pictures as guinea pigs for Jen. She did a great job, especially since my kids thought it was play time, and not pose and smile for Jen time!!! Alyssa thought she was so funny even just moving one foot away from where we wanted her. What a pill she was! And Aaron couldn't put the sticks down. Needless to say, I am glad we got to see how are kids really would do... Awful is what they were! I am glad I actually saw humor in it.

Addie, I still want my kids at your house!

Mommy never Babysits

2008-12-09T17:21:00.000-08:00

So while I am away at scouts this is a text message I receive from Jesse...

Kamryn is sad that mommy NEVER "babysits" us. I told her we will plan a time and she said worrying, "Are you sure?"

I wonder what she thinks I am doing at all the times I am home...I guess it isn't babysitting!!!

Ramblings

2008-12-09T14:50:00.000-08:00

I seriously just heard Aaron my 3 year old tell his older sister "I took Toby (a stuffed doggy) nananana boo boo!"
At first I was just in shock, when was the last time I had heard that...then I thought am I suppose to be mad and tell him that is bad?
I kind of just thought it was hillarious, I mean where did he learn that one!!!

I am very lucky to have great neighbors, and not just my parents all of my neighbors, but on the right side of us, is those neighbors you just don't see, like seriously, they don't really exist. They have been there since the day we moved in, (31/2 years) we have taken them cinnamon rolls and the whole bit, but after time of just not seeing one another you just don't get a friendship right? So I get a knock on my door, and it is totally the girl next door, and she just out of nowhere wanted to be nice and bring me some fruit. I am not sure where she is from but she is Asian, and so the fruit is Longan fruit. My dad tried one with me and we both just about hurled right there. I don't know what to do.. Obviously she likes them so do I take them back, and say thanks but No Thanks!!! I can't do that. All I know is that I can smell them in my kitchen and it is making me sick!!!! I look forward to doing something nice in return!

Today I tried on a pair of jeans size 7 in the jr.s dep. at kohl's, I thought they were pretty dang cute, and I was thrilled to not have to get a bigger size. I tend to buy my jeans too big since they seem to fit fine in the store and then you wear them for an hour and they are loose. So I notice the waist is big and the legs are just fine, and out of crazy crazy crazyness I decide I am going to try on a size 5 just for fun!!!! What? Like that is ever fun. Anyway, they were perfect!!! Am I a size 5. Heck no there is no way, but if I can find a brand that will let me think I am, then totally sign me up!!! I think the last time I wore a size 5 was freshmen, maybe sophmore year of highschool. So if anyone wants to know the most wonderful brand that lets you be smaller than you are...Rewind jeans!! Love em. It was a nice reward for 2 sessions of boot camp!!!!

I guess that is all for my ramblings today!!!

With this ring, I thee wed

2008-12-09T14:30:00.000-08:00

I have a very bad phobia of wearing my wedding ring when I do dishes. In fact I hate washing my hands with my ring on, (that one does happen at times) I can't sleep with it on. And of course heck no do I wear it in the shower. So when the time comes to get ready and I am going somewhere, I have a couple places to search for my ring......Awful I know. I have had plenty of scares before. But...this last Saturday I couldn't find it anywhere, my kitchen spotless, no where, my bathroom, not so spotless, just not where I usually put it. I then remember that I did dishes at the church just the night before, Oh great, wouldn't I know it was a bad idea to take it off and warning flashes would go off, yes, I think so, so I really couldn't believe I would do something so STUPID! Right? Anyway, It definately got me thinking, well I don't expect a new one, I would just take those huge fake diamond rings for $10 at wal-mart. So Monday night I am blowdrying Kamryn's hair and she tends to play with everything in her reach like they are her babies and she is the mommy, she then screams, Mommy your ring!!!!!!! I knew I couldn't have lost it I just needed to look a little harder. I used to have plans for my ring in my head, like a big huge diamond, and then diamonds everywhere, which is so funny because I designed my ring, and purposely wanted it plain. Now I know that I love my ring and I like it just the way it is, how cool to wear something everyday from that special ceremony so long ago.

Sorry to bore anybody this is my journal though... Right?

Halloween

2008-11-24T18:18:00.000-08:00

Alyssa the Princess...I guess that is what she is suppose to be!!!!!!

Kamryn the cutest Minnie Mouse...She told me a long time ago she wanted to be Minnie Mouse, but of course just 3 days before she comes home crying from school saying she doesn't want to be minnie anymore... Are you kidding me........Too Bad!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Super Aaron!!!!!! I never told him what he was going to be, and no I did not ask him what he wanted to be, it was all about saving money this year. So as I am getting Kamryn ready he says he wants to be Mickey Mouse...Well...of course he does, and when he threw a fit when I told him he was Super Man, I said, "Do you want to go trick or treating?" Then you can be Super Man!!!

Jesse the Scarecrow, where he came up with this idea, I don't know, but it was pretty creative.

I was FORCED into being the farmer's daughter by Nina, she was my twin that night. I felt pretty stupid in my tight wrangler jeans, I don't know how anyone can breath in them.

We had a great time at our Ward trunk or treat, why we didn't win the chili cook off??????

Still holding a grudge. We did take the kids around our block, and they were definately done. It was great.

Phone Call from the School Nurse

2008-11-16T19:25:00.000-08:00

So Friday I get a phone call about one hour before kamryn gets home from school, and it is from the nurse at her Elementary School. I wasn't too alarmed but then she starts talking very seriously about how my daughter has been there to see her. She then tells me that kamryn got an ERASER STUCK UP HER NOSE! I don't think I would have been worried but the way the nurse was talking I thought I should say Please tell me you have called 911 and I am on my way!!! But then she explains that Mrs. Carner brought her personally to her and in 15 years this is the first she has ever seen this. I guess she gave them all the dramatics, (I'm sure if I was Kamryn I would have been freaking out too!) I guess they got her calm and she was able to finally blow it out after quite some time. It was so high she could barely see it. I would expect this story to be Aaron's but no it is Kamryn's!!! And when she got home I was so excited to hear the story of what really happened and she wouldn't tell me, she said she didn't want me to be mad, I told her that I was laughing and not mad, then she almost cried and said "Don't laugh at me" So she was probably laughed at, how sad huh? She was probably dared to, or I have no idea, I am just glad she is ok, and since she really is...We really did get a good laugh!

Kamryn Date Night

2008-11-10T21:09:00.000-08:00

Kamryn showed respect at school, and was awarded with a free child's meal at Chili's!!! So date night with Kamryn!!! We had a blast, it felt like Jesse and I still got our date night but were able to spend good quality time with Kamryn. Kamryn put on a skirt, church shoes, and doubled up her shirt? Why? I don't know! She just kept asking if she was fancy like me? Fancy? Am I fancy? I guess Kamryn thinks so!

After dinner we went to Fry's to buy some icecream, and it just happened to have those cheesy parking lot fairs there, so of course we go. She got to ride 1 ride and play 1 game, and somehow a lot of time passed by. And of course it was the week of food storage stock up and I couldn't help myself. Needless to say Kamryn was asking to go to bed because she was so tired. And only she would say she missed Aaron and was sad for him that he didn't get to do the fun things she did.

Student of the month

2008-11-10T21:05:00.000-08:00

Kamryn was STUDENT of the MONTH for October, I like to tell myself that this means she is her teachers 2nd favorite student!!! UMmmmmm...I think I'll take it! Sure no big deal right? Are you kidding me, this was so much fun. We had to go to a PTSO meeting to receive her award, (wierd I know, but it does get more people to their meetings). The principle read why they were chosen, shook their hands, and gave them a Desert Willow sports cup!!! Yes!!!

Now on the serious side here... This is what her teacher had to say about my little miss Kamryn...

"I have several reasons for nominating Kamryn. She brings a smile on her face and in her heart each and every day. Kamryn demonstrates understanding of doing her personal best. She completes every assignment without hesitation or distractions. Kamryn has also proven herself to be trustworthy. If I need someone to assist in tasks outside the classroom, Kamryn is my GO TO GIRL!! I know that I can send her on an errand and she will return without delay. Kamryn is that special kind of student that teachers love to have in their class! Congratulations Kamryn on a job well done. Keep up the wonderful work." Mrs. Carner

Kamryn's teacher has been teaching for 15 years, and it meant a lot to me for her to say these things. I am so grateful for this experience because it opened my own eyes to see how fabulous my Kamryn really is. I love her so much but I tend to worry about the dramatics a little, and I tend to talk about my childrens flaws maybe too much but really only so people don't know how close to perfect they are!! I miss Kamryn at schoold for so many reasons, but it is so much fun to see her grow up and try her best! I hope that she continues to make the right choices.

Fall Break

2008-10-17T20:12:00.000-07:00

I was not too excited for Fall Break since Jesse was going to be working in Tucson, which ment looooong days. But then I get a call from him around 10:00am Tuesday morning and he says you want to go camping? We had been trying to go for a while now... Um? Let me think... OF COURSE! So we just packed up and went. This was actually our first time camping in a tent as a family! We arrived to our destination just in time to get the tent set up, and the fire going and our dinner on the coals, when we finished eating it was already dark, so any later would have been too late. Then we spent the next hour roasting marshmallows and eating smores. I love it. Then the kids said they wanted to go to bed. Can you believe it? I think they were just so excited to sleep in the tent. It was a very windy night and I thought we'd never get to sleep, it didn't seem to bother the kids. And Alyssa drove us insane, I had no idea how much she moved. I swear she new she was tormenting us, she either was on top of me sprawling or on jesse and every time I had to laugh I swear she did too. What a little stink. And I was so paranoid about the kids freezing that that didn't help the sleeping issue either. When the sun came up we made egg and sausage burritos, and hot chocolate. And then packed up and went home.

So after the huge effort of packing up, setting up camp, cleaning up camp, and un packing, it seems we went through all that to just eat, sleep and then eat. Then I ended up with piles and piles of laundry because everything smells like camp fire. So was it worth it? Of course it was. I loved being away and I would go tommorrow if we could.

On our way

Welcome Gilbert High Class of 1998

2008-10-17T20:01:00.000-07:00

It has been 10 years since Jesse roamed the halls of Gilbert High! And I must say babe, you look great! You've got your hair and you can finally grow a beard! Amazing! Any way So we went to his reunion. And to our surprise they only had 8 tables set up, (that means maybe 80 poeple) it was so sad. At least him and like 5 others planned to be there, but you know those people that you would never see otherwise, well they weren't there. So was it worth $90 a person, definately not! Was it worth the stress of what to wear, and do I look ok? Most definately not. But it was a lot of fun to see his friends and their too cute wives.

Jaron if you read this..."Were you even there?" LOL! We have to get together soon!

LOCKS of LOVE

2008-10-15T21:10:00.000-07:00

Kamryn has been blessed with beautiful thick hair. In fact she has had very long hair since she was 2. It is always such a big deal to brush it out, in fact she only liked me to do it, since I have mastered the art of brushing Kamryn's hair! She told me a long time ago she wanted to cut it short, so... I finally did it! We donated 10 inches of her beautiful hair to Locks of Love. It was so fun and I didn't even cry. She looks so old, and like a totally different child. Even the color is darker. She loves it and so do I. I of course have before and after pics!

I also got my hair done. So I thought I would show off my new do also! Thank you to my fabulous cousin Cynthia!

I LOVE HOME

2008-10-15T20:59:00.000-07:00

One morning Kamryn comes in a little earlier than normal. She had just had some sort of bad dream. So I comforted her and tried to make her happy, she was very emotional and kept crying I was actually pretty shocked. She then tells me that she was far away with Mama (my mom) and that she missed me. Kamryn is my mom's little girl, so this was news to me, that she actually missed me, I wanted to cry I was so happy. So aparently this was a big deal to her, because when she came home from school she asked me how to spell some words and the next thing I know is that she has written I LOVE HOME, and she says "I made this sign to put on our front door, because I love home and I was sad because I was far away and missed you." If only we could have these moments every day!

18 Months Old

2008-09-20T16:14:00.000-07:00

Alyssa is 18 months old. And for the LDS population, that is a big day. A day we all start counting down for. She is in nursery now! I was actually a little worried, since so far with our other two kids, it has been a process to get them happily in nursery. But... not for Alyssa she walks right in, and is just fine. It is amazing! I have to admit, I was already spoiled, Jesse was actually the one that had to take care of her, even during teaching his lessons to the deacons quorum. Actually he was a little spoiled too, if my mom was actually in our ward and not off on Stake duties, she had Alyssa, and sometimes my dad too. Alyssa is so much fun, I can tell she has some sass to her, but she is just the stubiest bunch of fun! We love having her in our family, and are so excited that she is ready to take on the world!

Kamryn the Kindergartener

2008-08-29T19:33:00.000-07:00

No one ever told me how much fun school shopping would be...I might have planned it out a little better. Once we got to the school supply area she could not contain herself. Kamryn told everyone she could that she was going to school. It was fun to see her so excited! Looking at backpacks, I knew what she would want, so I sneakily took her to the end of the isle where I found a couple that I liked, she chose one and I thought, yes I got away with it, but of course I felt a little guilty and decided why do I care what her backpack looks like, it is hers right? So I then showed her the whole isle and she was in heaven. As expected she chose the most girly frilly little princess thing ever, and I didn't have a better luck with the lunchbox, I had to show a picture, I mean even the side has designs all over it. That would be my Kamryn, but of course she loves them. Did anyone ever notice how the 24 ct. box of crayons was only 22 cents, but Kamryn's list only wanted a 12ct box of crayons, that were like a dollar. Let me guess I am the only stupid one to buy exactly what I am told...I guess I will learn!I had to take a picture of her sleeping, the night before school, this is the first time she wasn't almost about how I left her. She is sideways and her head is on her baby blanket? And her pillow is by her feet? I can't imagine what was going on in that little head of hers! Kamryn's first day of school was Aug. 6th, I actually had to set my alarm to get us all up in time to get her off to school. This has been a real life changer! We live around the corner from the school, about the point that if I drove her to school I would be embarrassed if anyone saw me, but seriously it is so hot right now, I still can't believe I don't have some sort of tan! Anyway, my parents came with me and the kids as we walked to school, we had a video camera the works, hey, she is the first grandchild, what do you expect, with grandma and grandpa two doors down. I was very emotional, until I took her to say goodbye to grandma, so I could take her to her class, she started freaking out and crying that she didn't want to leave grandma. Whatever, is exactly what I was thinking as I grabbed her and took her to class. I was so nervous about the all-day kindergarten thing, she has done very well, and I keep waiting for her to not want to go. I guess when they are ready, they are ready! I miss her terribly, but I love bringing her home and the other two are still napping, and she shows me everything she did that day. I have found that she is extremely sensitive right now, I assume she is tired, I don't know, just hoping it goes away soon!

This is purple bear, she goes everywhere kamryn does, I was expecting a Christopher Robin and Winnie the Pooh seperation, but no. this is where purple bear was discarded when leaving for school! I didn't move her the whole day! I actually felt bad for the silly bear! Wierd I know!

Tagged

2008-08-21T10:42:00.000-07:00

I got tagged by Rebecca
How to play this game. Post these rules on your blog; List 3 joys, 3 fears, 3 goals, 3 current obsessions/collections, 3 random surprising facts about yourself. Tag 5-6 people at the end of your post by leaving their names.

Joys
1. My Family and Friends
2.Chocolate and chick flicks
3.Having a yummy dinner!

Fears
1. Losing my husband
2.Scorpions
3.Gaining Weight

Goals
1. Lose the weight I just gained back and keeping it off!
2.Scripture study with the kids
3.Getting rid of that one messy counter

Obsessions
1. Lose weight
2. Twilight
3. James McAvoy (this is a new one for me, and at least for now)

Random facts
1.I'd rather eat ice cream for breakfast.
2. I LOVE being in Primary
3. I pace around when I talk on the phone

I tag Jen, Carrie, Kristy, Amanda, and Brooke!

Blast from the Past

2008-08-20T21:15:00.000-07:00

This is me, and my best friends, my cousin Candace and Mareen on the last day of our senior year. Mareen has been my best friend since the 8th grade. I still remember how it all began, in Volleyball try-outs in the 7th grade and her wondering why this girl had this odd chunk of hair that didn't stay in her poneytail, and why she didn't keep it back. (Long story, and there was nothing I could do about my hair, it isn't fair that I have been cursed with my frizz) Any way, she has been such a blessing in my life, and I have had such wonderful times because of her. My cousin Candace was the first girl that just fit so perfectly with us.

I have been married over 6 years now, and we hardly talk. We just got together the other day, so we took a now picture. It is nice to have friends, that even when you don't hear from them, when you get together, for some reason, it is as if you have always talked. We had a blast and actually found that we all still have a lot in common today!

Breaking Dawn

2008-08-20T20:17:00.000-07:00

I feel like I was counting down the days for the release of Breaking Dawn, (the last book of the Twilight series written by Stephenie Meyer) since I joined the bandwagon one year ago with the release of Eclipse. So the day of, or should I say at MIDNIGHT some of my friends and I went out to eat at IHop and then waited in line at good old Walmart to buy the book. There was like 10 of us. And probably 40 people or so that had come for the very same reason. I live in Casa Grande, so that was more than I was expecting! We are not crazy fanatics, just very fun people that took advantage of an opportunity to create some very memorable times. We had a blast and laughed at how silly the idea was. The guy at Walmart just before handing them out had a little fun too. He pretended to start reading the last page out loud to us all, we gave him the response he was looking for. Seriously it was so much fun. I am so grateful that I have friends that I can be myself around, and that we can still be fun, and silly, and sometimes not be the most responsible. Thank you to all you girls for being so much fun! It will always bring a smile to my face!

Jocey's Opinion... If you have not read them, spoilers ahead, obviously!

I loved Twilight. I loved how I would just giggle (and I mean giggle) throughout the whole book. It was so fun to go back to those days of crushes, and who doesn't love that crush to just be madly in love with you also! Hello, what more can I say.

I hated and loved New Moon. I was so depressed reading this book, I seriously couldn't be around people. October...November...December...January...AHHHHHHHH! I was grateful when it was over. But, it is part of the story and yes I like Jacob! I was actually somehow OK with her just about to kiss Jacob when the phone rings and it is of course Edward, but, of course I had to run after him too!

Eclipse was great...I was so annoyed with Edward being so overly protective at the beginning, and I actually liked how immature Jacob was. I don't know how she did it but she totally suckered me in, and I was totally in love with both. Of course I choose Edward, but I bawled at the end of the book, especially when she tells Jacob the worst part is how she saw her life with him, the kids, life, all of it. Of course that was very hard to give up. It took me about a day and a half to get over the emotions of that book, every time I talked to Jesse or anyone I would start crying. When I was done with that book, I even told Jesse that I felt like we had just taken that trip to the post office and mailed my letter to my high school sweetheart telling him I was getting married. I cried so much that night, I bet Jesse didn't think we would get married after that. Just like Bella and how unsure Edward was the next day. Stephenie Meyer must have had a missionary, and thought it would be fun to put us all through the torture of it. I was sure she was going to have Jacob die to save Edward or something like that, or else I wasn't going to be OK with it all!

Breaking Dawn...I wasn't actually too excited about the whole turning vampire thing (sorry) so I was glad that she wrote it so it had to be for her survival. And I liked that it wasn't all that hard for her, she had to get on with the story right? I love the Bella and Edward story, it is just so fun! She didn't kill off Jacob obviously, so I guess the only thing to do was have him imprint, so that I could be OK about it. Yes, it is weird that it was with Bella's child, but, you knew it was coming, right? I loved that she got to keep Charlie in her life, be a mother, have her Edward, and keep Jacob. There had to be an ending, and that is basically what this book was, the end, how to tie the rest up and help us all move on...right? That is about all I can think about for the moment.

The Cabin

2008-07-29T14:29:00.000-07:00

Every year we spend a week at the cabin. When I first became a Bradshaw I was thinking (yah, he totally married the wrong girl) This is the kind of cabin you use an outhouse, and you can only shower if it rains. Not really my kind of thing...I used to be so ready to go home by 5 days. This year we only had 6 days and I was so sad to leave. All we do is sit around, read, play horseshoes (if it doesn't rain), play games and relax. What more can I say? And the kids have cousins to entertain them. It is great! I am so lucky to have such a wonderful family, that we can all be together days at a time, and enjoy every minute of it.

Jesse and Alyssa

Happy Birthday Abbie

Kamryn

The Best Part is the Hammock (come to think of it, I didn't get in it once this trip, sad)

Jesse, Aaron and Kamryn

Alyssa

On the roof (Jesse doesn't think Kristi was to happy about this development) When that tank is full we can have running water for hands and showers. Thank you rain!

Alyssa was like a big marshmallow! (when else could she ever wear that jacket?)

This is actually my brother in Law Stefan, but I am going to pretend that it is Jesse! Since, on this trip Kristi and I decided that even though Jesse and Stefan look nothing alike, they look exactly alike.

Grandpa Bradshaw and the you know I won't even try to spell it.

Kamryn and Abbie Schusters Spring

Jesse and Alyssa

My nephew Garrett is just so cute with his glasses!

Strawberry!

Why I always have a family picture taken when we look like this? I don't know!

Kamryn, Aaron, and Alyssa

On top of what we call Sound of Music mountain! (This is Jesse. If you ask me, I say only weird people call it that, and it's a dumb name....I also do not currently have a better idea.) Riley, Kamryn, Aaron, Keslie, Carson, and Garrett

On Sunday they had a little lesson on the Pioneers. All the grandkids except for baby Lydia.

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-07T22:43:00.000-07:00

We love the 4th of July! ...Jesse and I fell in love on the 4th of July, Stefan and Kristi fell in love on the 4th of July, Owens and Rebecca spent this 4th of July with someone special, we better have two weddings this year!
We had a BBQ at the Greer's home! The kids got to play on a slip in slide. Remember what a big deal that was back when we were kids! Then of course we went to the Ballpark in fabulous Casa Grande, AZ and enjoyed the fireworks! Happy Birthday to my niece Keslie, lucky girl has all of America celebrating her birthday with fireworks. Alyssa in her 4th of July suit

Kamryn, and Aaron with Miriam Greer

Aaron Jesse

2008-07-07T22:30:00.000-07:00

Aaron's new thing is he gets this huge frown on his face, folds his arms all big like and says "I'm mad" I can't help myself but to do it right back. He can hardly contain himself, he can't keep from smiling! He is trying so hard to be mad! He turned 3 in April. The other day he was counting his marshmallows, I was impressed he got most of the numbers up to 20, but he had more, the next thing I know is he says, "20, 19, 20 , 19, 20,19, 20, 19, 20!" I thought that was pretty clever!

Kamryn Day

2008-07-07T22:16:00.000-07:00

Kamryn is 5 years old. I can't believe how old she is. She will be starting Kindergarten this Fall. We went to Jeepers Amuzement park, and then had pizza and cake at Grandma Bradshaw's house. She got her big girl bike just in time for the weather to get hot!!! It sits pretty in our Garage!

Alyssa Rose

2008-07-07T22:07:00.000-07:00

FINALLY she is walking! And now she is driving me crazy! Between 15-16 months, she took her first step and a week later realized she could run! My older two were the same way! I guess I am lucky, but whatever, can't I have one that will walk at a year like everyone else! About the picture, I tried to tell her to be patient and that her time would come. I died laughing when I found her!

Cub Scout Safari Day Camp

2008-07-07T21:53:00.000-07:00

For the last 3 years I have been involved in different ways in our Cub Scout program. Now I am the 2nd Counselor in the Primary Presidency, but over cubs, so I am attatched. I think I have found what I was created for. I love being silly and having a blast with these boys. I worked really hard the last couple months organizing a group of 30 boys to go to camp. I went all three long days to camp, and held my own in the water wars. I am just glad it is finally over! And that we finally have all our leaders called, so I can finally stop doing more than one calling! This is our boys, not including our 8 Webelos!

2008-06-18T12:47:00.000-07:00

So on my 26th Birthday my sister finally got me to start my blog!!!!!!! Yeah for me!