The Cabin

One of my favorite places to escape the world is my family's cabin in Moab. It's nestled above the town of Moab in the La Salle mountains. The cabin is away from everything and everyone. The views are the best of both worlds--far out on the horizon is the red-cliffs and ledges--close-up are the tall greens and pines.

We met up with my parents and went four-wheeling, fishing and rested. (And of course worked on cabin projects....That seems to be never-ending). The cabin is my version of camping, but with a bed and a shower. My kids still get down and dirty, and there are lots of bugs, but I love it! Fishing topped Carsen's list and he was very into it. He caught 3 fish, 2 of which he [we] threw back and 1 he kept and ate! (Anything fried in grease tastes delicious, right?)

We left Monday morning to come back to reality, but Carsen stayed up on the mountain spending some quality time with the grandparents. I didn't think when it came to say good-bye that he would stay...but he wanted too. He was in his element, and wanted more time to look for deer and ride the four-wheelers. He's all boy. I love him for that.

Carsen Withdrawals

We went to Moab this past weekend (details and pictures to come) and we left Carsen at the cabin with my parents. I have been without him since Monday morning, and I am feeling serious Carsen-withdrawals. Of course I have always known what a huge part of my life my children are to me, but Carsen being gone for these past couple of days has made me realize how much I NEED my kids. I am missing the simple, day-to-day things that Carsen and I do together.....

He is having the time of his life with his Pa and Gigi. He has seen a bear, 3 skunks, and has made friends with a chipmunk named 'Henry.' Oh, and he's also knocked himself in the head with a hammer, and gotten a sliver. (I'm sure there's much more, but my parents have been kind enough not to bother me with the minor details [and injuries].)

Little Fishies

Myka enjoying her string cheese before Carsen takes to the water.

Carsen's favorite part of the lesson is the goggles! His ears stick out (and they have got to be so uncomfortable) but he is so adamant about wearing them the entire time.

Carsen and Parker drying off after yet another vigorous 30 minute swimming lesson.

I convinced my cousin Jill to enroll her son Parker (who is Carsen's age) into semi-private swimming lessons 2X a week. What a great little duo! They have had so much fun and have learned so much. Their teacher knows how to treat 3-year-old boys and plays constant games with them. I am impressed with advancements they have both made.

Myka joins Jill and me on the sidelines and waddles back and forth strutting her cute little stuff. Our most recent name for her is our "pot-bellied princess."

Ragnar Relay Wasatch Back!

What a weekend! Here it is Sunday mid-morning and I am thinking to myself, "Where did my weekend go, and why do I feel so exhausted?" I'll tell you where it went, from Logan to Park City (178 miles) with 12 runners each running 3 different legs in a relay over a 2-day span. Yup. That's right. I spent my weekend running through the countryside of Utah with a team named Chupacabra.

This past February I get an e-mail from my friend Allison wondering if I wanted to run in the Ragnar Relay. The what? I figured, why not....it's not till June and that seems forever away. Here it is June and so Friday morning we loaded up the Powells suburban (Andy and Kate who are the most thoughtful married couple I have ever met. They were my 'mom and dad' figure for the weekend, because they took such great care of us 'kids.') Along with the Powells were the Strangs (Allison and Chad). All I can say is what a riot. These two are so fun to be around and kept us constantly laughing (and wiping the tears from laughing). In the back was me and Lou Lou (Leslie Myers) one of my most favorite people in the whole world. I have known Leslie since the first day I moved here and we have been running buds (and 'Lifetime' buds) ever since. Leslie is the quirkiest (in the most admirable way) person I know. She is so fun to be around because she is down-t0-earth and not afraid to let her true side show. (Every body's true sides were shown on this 2-day escapade).

There was another suburban with 6 other people who were running the first leg of the relay. We met up with them and took over the relay in Eden Valley. My first run was at about 2:00 pm (blazing sun shining upon me). It was only a 3.5 mile run, and because I was so pumped to be doing what I was doing it wasn't so bad.

After we all ran our first legs we were at the top of Snow Basin. (Yes, the top. That means our two guys had to finish the first leg by running up the mountainside.) We ate dinner and enjoyed the fact that we were one leg down. (And stinky, sweaty and smelly but oh well).

Allison's dad lives in Morgan, which just so happened to be the place where our next leg was going to begin. Our team went there for a quick face wash and teeth brush'n before our night run began. My night run was at 2:00 a.m. It was actually my most fun run of the relay, because I wore a headlamp and reflector vest and the weather was perfect (41 degrees.) That leg was 6.4 miles, but it felt good because everything about it was something new. (Maybe it was due to the fact that I was running at 2 a.m., which isn't something I do everyday!)

After we all finished our second leg (about 4:00 a.m.) we drove from Kamas to Heber City (which is where our final leg was going to begin the following morning). We went to the middle school which was an 'exchange post' and threw our sleeping bags out on the front lawn of the school and caught about 2.5 hours of sleep. When I woke up I looked around me and saw bodies buried in sleeping bags everywhere...I was surrounded by complete strangers. (I had been so exhausted when I went to sleep that I didn't really care who I was next to). I located my team and we ate some Cheerios and waited for our next leg to begin. The final leg, and the one I had been dreading just a tiny bit.

It was comforting to be in Heber City, where things looked familiar. But, the familiarity wasn't in my favor, because I knew what run I was going to be doing next--the dirt road above the Wasatch State Park Golf Course which climbs up to the top of the mountain and then drops down the other side into Park City.

The morning was perfect weather and I was hoping the temps would stay a bit low for my high-noon run. Unfortunately, they kept creeping up, but it could've been worse. My final leg was on a dirt road pretty much straight up hill for 4 miles. I put on my GPS to track my pace (and to see how much further I had to endure this HELL) and of course my Ipod to fill my ears with music to motivate my legs. It was an interesting trek (and one I am not ready to repeat anytime soon), and boy was I was glad to see the finish line. My team would stop every so often so Lou Lou could come and water me down and quench my thirst. All I can say is what a thrill!

Our team did awesome! Every person in our vehicle ran their hearts out and were so motivating to everybody else. We were all in it for each other, and each person wanted to see everyone else do well. The race as a whole was so organized and just an amazing experience. There were over 600 teams (and probably close to 5500 runners)! How cool that so many people join together to simply run.

By the time our last runner crossed the finish line we were spent. We were tired, sweaty, dirty and aching. I was ready to go home and see my family (Chad had a fun little weekend with the kids!)

Alright...who' in for next years Ragnar?

Preschool Summer Camp

Carsen made it through his first session of Summer Camp! He did awesome (much to my surprise, I must admit.) I thought for sure we were going to have to come up with some pretty fabulous bribes....but none were needed. This weeks camp was "Kids in the Kitchen" and he came home every day with new treats to share with us that he had 'cooked up.'

The first day I dropped him off I had a more difficult time than he did. (I didn't let it show, but I was certainly feeling it on the inside.) I couldn't believe I was dropping my little buddy off at Preschool! (I felt choked up and sad that my little man was big enough to be going to preschool, and it seemed he didn't need me anymore!) However, after returning home with just one kid (and putting that little monkey down for a nap) I was very excited about the time I had to myself! (Which I didn't put to good use...unless you call catching up on the "Bachelorette" good use of time!)

On Father's Day Carsen was adamant that he help us cook dinner....so we let "Chef Carsen" handle the buttering of the bread.

7 Years Ago....

Seven years ago was the big day. The day that changed our life forever....and continues to change it everyday. Seven years has brought a lot of change to our 'little' family. Looking back to my wedding day I never would have imagined what seven years could bring us:

• Have 2 kids
• Live in 4 states
• Enjoy millions of kisses and laughs!

The best part was eating at the Cheesecake Factory without any kids! Just the two of us....like it was seven years ago.

New Do's, Bribes and Water Balloons

NEW DO'S....


Myka's hair was becoming a bit unruly once again. And since she still pulls out her clips (with a big smile on her face while doing so); I decided it was time for another chop.

And chop we did. I think it might be border-line too short, but I figure it will grow. The cute gal who cut her hair showed me how to put in a little "pull-through" ponytail which is impossible for her to pull out. (Oh, she tries. Anytime I say, "Ohh, pretty hair" her hand instantly goes up to her little ponytail and she starts pulling on it.) Hopefully this will get her used to having a little something in her hair and before long she won't even notice i's there. (That's about the time I will start 'sneaking' her clips back in).

Oh Myka! She is one-of-a-kind. She is full of personality and knows what she wants and knows how to get it. We have been going to the park quite a bit lately because of the warm weather. I used to love the park. It was a time to chat with my friends and let the kids play. Those days are long gone. Now I am active at the park. I am climbing all over the jungle gym, going down slides, slithering under tunnels...all in attempt to chase down Myka. Of course we will still go to the park, but I won't anticipate it as much as I used too.


BRIBES....Carsen earned his remote control Jeep by FINALLY going to Nursery. It had to be his idea, and he did it. (Now we'll see what happens next Sunday)....


AND WATER BALLOONS.....



I live in the best neighborhood in the world. No arguing please, it's useless....I really do have the best neighbors, friends and little kids. There is always someone out to talk with, and everyone is always willing to do anything for anyone. I can't bring myself to move, because I know there will NEVER ever be another neighborhood like this one. So, I must enjoy the time I have here, because good things never last forever.

Monday evening we all went outside and had a little FHE activity with water-balloons. The kids loved throwing the balloons and playing little games with Mindy (my amazing neighbor who has more patience, talent and ideas than anyone I know.) The weather wasn't the best (it sprinkled a bit), but the kids were oblivious. I think we adults had just as much fun as the kiddos being outside chatting. I love summertime!

Weekend at the Zermatt

As the Memorial Day weekend was approaching we thought about going to the cabin in Moab...It sounded appealing to take the 4-wheelers and spend the weekend away in the mountains. After trying to convince my parents to come with us (they really do make it more fun. Plus, not only do they cook, clean and watch after the kids...but my Dad knows all the 'hidden' trails in Moab.) We couldn't convince them to make the trip over from Vegas....so we decided to make alternate plans.

My friend Rachel had told me about this deal that the Zermatt Resort in Midway has. We called and found out about it, made reservations and left Saturday mid-morning. It was nice to only have to drive a little over an hour (and of course make a quick stop at the Park City Outlets on the way through). We were even more glad coming home that we only had an hour drive!

I love Heber. I miss Heber. Every time I go there I become a bit nostalgic and reminisce about the 'good ole days.' I loved growing up in Heber, and wish ( a lot more lately) that my parents still lived there. We were especially wishing they were still there this past weekend (to take the kids so we could enjoy the delicious buffet without Myka throwing everything, arching her back to be taken out of her chair, and squealing her famous high-pitched scream.)

What a beautiful time of year to be staying in Midway. It was green and lush. We took advantage of the beautiful weather and spent almost the entire weekend in the great outdoors. We took the kids on a long bike ride through Midway (where we stumbled upon the most quaint little housing development. We both fell in love. We have talked a lot lately about raising our kids in Heber/Midway......Although, the winters there are so brutal!) I wonder what it would be like to live there being married and having a family? My Heber memories are of growing up, so it would be interesting to live there with kids (and somewhat of an adult). Every time we go to Heber we always drive by my old house, and it's fun to see the changes the new owner has made. She has completely remodeled the outside, and I am waiting for the day when we get to see the changes she has made on the inside! Everything about the Heber Valley seems to have changed so much, yet so much of it is still the same....It's always fun to run into old acquaintances while we're there (Which always happens)!

The kids ready for our long bike ride.

Me and the kids after our ride.

Myka's cute pigtails....which she wouldn't leave in. (No surprise there).

The pool was freezing cold, but Carsen still wanted to swim forever. The resort had a little putting green where Carsen and Chad were able to brush up on their golfing skills (all the while Myka and I perfected our napping skills!) The carousel was a huge hit with both Myka and Carsen, and I was the biggest fan of the Brunch Buffet where I think I single-handedly ate my weight in crab legs and shrimp! (YUM!) Chad kept driving by the golf course wishing he could be out there golfing....but knowing that wouldn't go over too well with the little wife! (We decided next time we do this we are leaving the kids behind. Then he can golf all he wants.)

Chad and the kids in the hot tub.

Carsen was [of course] riding the "Buck" on the carousel.

Myka wasn't sure what she thought about the carousel. At times she would be smiling, and then she would have a frightened look on her face.

The nights weren't too fun. Myka is usually a wonderful sleeper--but that's because she's tucked away in her own room with her own bed. It was tricky to get her to fall asleep in her pack-and-play. We all had to sit there in the dark and not make a sound...and of course that didn't work well with a 3-year-old. Needless to say, we were ready to be home in our own beds!

Of course, a trip to Heber wouldn't be complete without a stop at the Dairy Keen. (Although, I was disappointed to find out they no longer carry yogurt shakes....I felt that if I was getting yogurt at least I was being a tiny bit smart in my eating.) Oh well, the ice cream tasted delicious and the french fries were even better!

It was great to be back in the Heber Valley and surrounded by such beauty! I love Heber! Who knows....maybe someday we will call it home (again). For now....it can be our little get-away.

Playing Nice

The older Myka gets, the more she and Carsen 'play.' Carsen tends to be a bit of a bossy older brother. (However, he is also very sweet with her. The other day I heard him say to her, "Are you okay sweetheart" when she had fallen down.) But when he's being bossy, he will tell Myka not to eat the dirt and scold her for doing so. (Let's be honest, she eats dirt and bark....I can't stop her and I figure it can't hurt her too much. She'll learn.) Because she is not walking yet (she has taken 6 consecutive steps....and everyday she walks more and more...so I am hoping it is just a matter of days) everything is right at eye level...so it goes straight to the mouth. In the meantime, she has worn through several pairs of pants.

The other day the sun was shining and it was hot (not today...the rain is here for now). I put the kids in their swimsuits so they could run (or crawl) through the sprinklers. Myka wasn't too excited about the cold water, but Carsen was ecstatic! After playing for a bit they shared a Popsicle, which was mostly consumed by Carsen with Myka squealing for more licks.

Tired T-Ball & Yard Sale Mania

Myka and Mommy being good little spectators.

For Carsen's Friday night t-ball game he had an out-of-town audience......Pa and Gigi were there along with Kye, Kelly and the kiddies. Everyone traveled many hours to come and watch Carsen in action. The picked a bad game to attend. (obviously they did not drive all the way here just to watch t-ball...but Carsen thinks so).

For starters, Carsen is a napper. I have no idea where he gets this from:) He still takes a nap everyday...and as far as I'm concerned still loves it! (He's a non-stop little man, so a nap is necessary to refresh him). Well, since Kye was in town with Katelin and KC they didn't want to have a dull moment. Kye is the world's #1 uncle, so he came and picked up Carsen and took all the kids to the Lehi pool. (Along with Pa's help.) After swimming and playing all day Carsen went to his t-ball game, without a nap. I have never seen him look so lethargic (especially playing t-ball). Usually he is the one running after every ball, and so enthused about batting. Not at this game. He was exhausted, and wanted to leave before the game was over.

This just solidified (yet again) that napping is necessary. (Not that I would change a thing anyways!)

JUNK FOR SALE!

My friends Marcy, Natalie, Kristen and I pooled all our "treasures" together and set up a neighborhood Yard Sale. It consumed our entire Saturday morning and we had quite the display of items. We had a fairly decent turn-out (considering we were competing with a huge yard sale over in Daybreak...which we didn't know about). I had done a bit of 'spring cleaning' and wanted to get rid of some no longer-being-used items...but wasn't really feeling in the 'giving spirit.' (selfish, I know).

The best part of the event for me was eating the delicious sugar cookies Kristen had for sale! (I think she made more money selling the cookies than I did selling all my junk! It's amazing that someone will buy a cookie for 50 cents [no questions asked]...but they bargain with me over a $5 color television! Seriously people!) All in all, it was a fun event, and I was able to get rid of some junk! (I mean treasures!)

Carsen loved the yard sale, because he was able to hang with his "idol" Cooper. Cooper set up a little candy sale, and he probably made more than me too! (I think Carsen was his best customer.)