Mike & Cody

Frozen Fruit Cocktail

2010-09-23T20:29:00.000-07:00

OK you guys!! Here it is and it is yummy!!

3 cups fresh peaches (sliced)
3 cups pears (diced)
1 20oz can cubed pineapple
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup frozen orange juice (Make it as directed and then measure out)
3 1/2 Tablespoons lemon juice
1 bottle marchino cherries (8 to 16 oz bottle, depending on how well you like them.
2 tsp fruit fresh
Optional: 1 large can mandarin oranges
2-3 bananas sliced

Mix orange juice, lemon juice, sugar and fruit fresh together in large bowl. Add fruit and stir. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Put in freezer bags or containers.

* I usually triple this recipe. How do I prepare my fruit? I just wash the peaches and put them in hot water for a couple of seconds, then put them in cold water. This makes it so that the skins just peel off. I just peel my pears. The best thing about this is that the pears do not have to be totally ripe to use them. I am not sure how everybody else prepares their fruit but this is the only way I know how. Any suggestions are welcome.

Happy Canning.

Frozen Peaches!!!

2010-09-05T20:01:00.000-07:00

These are really good to use in smoothies or just eat right as they start to defrost. My kids won't eat bottled peaches but love these.

FROZEN PEACHES

12 oz orange juice, thawed
1/4 cup lemon juice
7 cup sugar
Mix together. Sugar may vary from 5-8 cups depending on the sweetness of the peached.

Blanch and skin your peached. Slice peaches and add to the juice mixture. Let them sit in the mixture for a few minutes just to absorb some of the juice. This will keep them from turning brown. You can use the juice over and over until your peaches and liquid are gone. This will make a large batch. Pour into freezer bags and push the air out of the bags. Lay in freezer flat so they don't take up as much room. Let me know if you have any questions. THese are our favorite.

Bottled Salsa

2010-09-05T19:49:00.000-07:00

60 tomatos, blanched and peeled
2 bell peppers, chopped
3 garlic cloves, crushed
2 onions, chopped
6 jalapenos, diced
8 Anaheim chili peppers, diced
1/2 cup vinegar
1 sprig cilatro (I use a little more)
2 TBSP oregano
3 TBSP salt
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp basil

I like to use fresh spices, but you do not have to.
Bring to a boil. Continue boiling until reaches desired thickness. ( I put in my big roaster and cook all night at about 200 degrees. Put in jars and water bath for about 20-25 minutes for pint jars.

Fresh Peach Dessert

2010-09-05T15:47:00.001-07:00

I made this today and everyone loved it. The peaches were so sweet and it really hit the spot.

FRESH PEACH DESSERT
1 3/4 cup water
1 cup sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch

Boil until thick and then add:
1-3oz pkg peach jello

Add:
4-6cups sliced peaches (fresh with the skins removed)

Set in fridge to cool off just while you are making the rest of the dessert.

Mix:
2 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
1 cube butter, melted
2 tsp sugar

Press into a 9x13 inch pan.

Mix:
1-8oz pkg cream cheese
12 oz cool whip
4 tbsp powdered sugar

Spread over crust and then pour jello mixture on top. Cool and enjoy.

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T20:40:00.003-07:00

Today was such a fun day. We went with my side of the family to Amese Valley, out on the west desert, and rode the rhino, 4 wheelers and ranger around. We had a great picnic and it was a perfect beautiful day.

Mike found us a fixer up with some furniture. We may have to buy a new mattress but other than that I think we can remodel it to fit our family!!! The price is right too!!LOL

Garrett at Prom

2010-04-17T21:02:00.000-07:00

It was fun to go to Promanade at Spanish Fork High School for Prom. Garrett looked so nice and handsome in his get-up. His date is Jordan Kramer and she is a triplet that he even went to grade school with. His friend Jessie and thier dates doubled. Garrett surprised me when he gave Jordan a little spin on the stage. I didn't expect that. Anyway they looked real cute. Can't believe we have reached this point and one of my good friends mentioned that next year I would have both him and Mont at Prom. That is enought to make a mother sick to her stomach.

Another great recipe.

2010-03-31T03:43:00.000-07:00

Last night Mont cooked the best Mahi Mahi I have had in a long time. Here is the recipe!! I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did.
Prep Time:
5 MinCook Time:
12 MinReady In:
37 Min
Servings (Help)
US Metric Calculate
Original Recipe Yield 4 servings
Ingredients
3 tablespoons honey 3 tablespoons soy sauce 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger root 1 clove garlic, crushed or to taste 2 teaspoons olive oil 4 (6 ounce) mahi mahi fillets salt and pepper to taste 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Directions
In a shallow glass dish, stir together the honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, ginger, garlic and olive oil. Season fish fillets with salt and pepper, and place them into the dish. If the fillets have skin on them, place them skin side down. Cover, and refrigerate for 20 minutes to marinate.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove fish from the dish, and reserve marinade. Fry fish for 4 to 6 minutes on each side, turning only once, until fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove fillets to a serving platter and keep warm.
Pour reserved marinade into the skillet, and heat over medium heat until the mixture reduces to a glaze consistently. Spoon glaze over fish, and serve immediately.

Dilly Bread

2010-02-02T20:20:00.000-08:00

This is one of the best recipes you will ever make. To make the ultimate sandwich, toast this bread, add a little butter, mayo, a tomato, avacodo and a piece of cheese. You will never taste anything better than this!!!!
Family favorite. (the joke is that my dad didn't realize that it was dill bread and made French Toast out of it. I am not so sure that this is a good mix)

Dilly Bread

4 TBLS yeast
1 cup warm water
4 cups buttermilk
8 TBSP minced onion
4 TBSP butter
8 tsp dill seed or 8 TBSP dill weed
1 tsp baking soda
4 eggs (beaten)
dash salt
9-10 cups flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Dissolve yeast in water. Add to buttermilk. Add butter, onion, dill, baking soda, salt and eggs. Mix well. Add flour 1 cup at a time until dough is not sticky. Knead. Let rest for about 10 minutes. Divide into 4 loaves and let rise until double in size. Bake for 40 minutes.

Christmas Candy

2009-12-10T19:42:00.001-08:00

Today I spent the day with Helen, AKA Merriweather, making Christmas Candy and treats. It is always such a fun tradition to make treats at Christmas and there are a few of the things I only make at Christmas. Apple Cranberry Muffins and Coconut Bread are a couple of these things. Her favorite was the Apple Cranberry Muffins. Here is the recipe for all of you. I hope your Holidays are filled with great memories and family traditions.
APPLE - CRANBERRY MUFFINS

1 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 c. quick oats
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. salt
1 lg. egg
3/4 c. dark brown sugar, packed
1/4 c. butter, melted
1 tsp. vanilla extract
3/4 c. unpeeled tart apples, diced
3/4 c. fresh or frozen cranberries
1/4 c. raisins

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease muffin cups, or use foil cups. Mix flours, baking powder, cinnamon and salt in a large bowl. Break egg into another bowl. Add sugar and whisk until smooth. Whisk in melted butter and vanilla. Stir in apple, cranberries and raisins. Fold in just until dry ingredients are moistened. Scoop batter into muffin cups. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until browned and firm to the touch. Turn out onto a rack. Let cool. Store 1 to 2 days in a plastic bag or airtight container before reheating and serving. Do not freeze. Yield: 12 regular muffins

Garret's Eagle Scout Court of Honor

2009-03-15T18:37:00.000-07:00

Garrett did it!! He finished his Eagle Scout Project thanks to the support of many of you our friends and family. We had a great Court of Honor on February 15,2009 in the Spanish Fork 17th Ward. The program was amazing. Our Bishop put together a slide show for opening ceremony, Events in Garrett's Life, and then the closing. It was so patriotic and touched my heart. You can't help but get emotional when your kids do something that is just one step closer to becoming the kind of person you want them to be. So many of our friend and family where here to support him in this. He recieved his eagle pin, then gave one to both Mike and me, then he had chosen someone that has been a mentor to him in his life. He chose his Grandpa Clayton, "because he always is there to teach him about the right things and always is a great example of what a man should be." He also said," Grandpa always tells me how special I am to him and how happy he is to have me as his grandson." I thought that this was so awesome and I don't think that Dad has taken his mentor pin off since that night. Congratulations Garrett!!

Out with the "OLD", In with the "NEW"

2009-03-08T15:05:00.000-07:00

I haven't updated my blog in such a long time, but I've been way to out-of-control to take care of the "important" things.
We've sold out old house!! I have had mixed emotions about this whole thing. Every time I would walk into the house, see all the improvements that we had made and the memories that we've shared, I would get emotional. This is the only place that our children have ever known as home. We bought the house and moved in the week before we got married. We closed on Monday, I moved in on Tuesday and Wednesday (then left for Delta) Mike moved in on Thursday and came to Delta to get married. We have fond memories of our 1st home that we were going to live in for 5 years that ended up being 15 years. I wanted to move many times and Mike never had the same desire. To my surprise, I went on the market November 6, 2008 and was sold by the first of February 2009. We didn't have any idea of where to move but we were in quite the hurry!!

Thanks to my sweet husband and wonderful parents, they found us this house. We love it and feel like we were meant to be here. The kids love the house, neighbors and most importantly, the Ward. It is nice to be able to move around and have the room for lots of friends to visit. It just calls out our name when you look at it.

I am so happy that my kids love it here because I really don't care where I live as long as they are happy!! I am so grateful for my husband and parents who pulled me through a terrible state of mind and forgive me for my imppatience and fit-throwing personality. I love it here and hope we never move again. (If we do we are many truck loads lighter than this time.

This really does describe me!! Should I be embarrassed?

2009-01-25T20:41:00.000-08:00

I'm a Ferrari 360 Modena!

You've got it all. Power, passion, precision, and style. You're sensuous, exotic, and temperamental. Sure, you're expensive and high-maintenance, but you're worth it.

"Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.

Finally!!! I've added Recipes

2008-12-28T17:23:00.000-08:00

I have promised that I would add a recipe link to my blog. I am surprised that some of you wanted my recipes and hope that you are not dissappointed. I am sure that most of you cook better than me but I always feel that new recipes are always welcome at our family, so here it goes. You can check it out by linking from my page at Harris Family Recipes.

How we Met!! (Tagged by Casey & She's fired!)

2008-12-14T18:44:00.000-08:00

1. Where did you meet? Blind Date! (scary huh?)
2. What was the first thought that went through your head when you met? He is such a nerd. He was so nice that I knew there had to be something wrong with him and man, was he ever shy.
3. Do you remember what he/she was wearing? Nope, but I am sure that it was a clean white tee shirt and a pair of wranglers and boots. (That was his idea of dressing up)
4. Where was the first time you kissed this person? He tried to kiss me on our 1st date! Can you believe it? It was in my apartment and I remember moving away from him. I think he almost kissed my wall.
5. Where did you go for your first date? Family Resturant in Santiquin, then driving around and "sparking" at Utah Lake.
6. How long did you know this person before you became a couple? About 2 days.
7. How did he/she ask you out? He called me on the phone. One of his friends' sisters gave him my phone number. Pretty crazy for a shy person!
8. How did he propose to you? We used to play a game that would make us have great conversations. It was that whenever one of us was quiet, the other one would asked"What are you thinking right now?" Then you would have to answer. After we had been dating for about 3 weeks, we were watching a movie at his moms house. He was a little to quiet, so I asked the question. He said that he couldn't tell me, but I was persistant. He finally said, "I was just wondering what you would say if I asked you to marry me?" I told him he better get it done. It took 3 more weeks to make it official and then it was a night of roses, dinnner, and out to Payson park where he proposed in front of the dumpster! I ruined his plan because my grandpa was at the Payson Hospital and my family was there visiting him. I told Mike that I couldn't go in to see them without my ring. He gave in and told me to open the glove compartment. There was my ring. How romantic!
9.Do you and this person have kids together? Yes! Five! Isn't that enough?
10. Have you ever broken the law with this person? Yes. (And don't ask what it is.)
11. When was the first time you realized that you liked this person? Actually, there was something about him that I liked immediately and couldn't help myself like him right off the bat.
12. Do you trust this person? Absolutely
13. Do you see her/him as your partner in your future? Eternity
14. What is the best gift she/he gave you? I love anything that he gives me. He always makes sure to find all the things I love. I think maybe its the time we get to spend together. No wait, my favorite was our anniversary that he planned in Snowbird, just us and the fall and the snow and everything else!
15. What is one thing He/She does that gets on your nerves? When he pulls the covers off me and makes me cold. I also hate it when he tries to help me make the bed and he pulls the covers to far on his side.
16. Where do you see each other 15 years from now? Our kids raised. Just the two of us and hopefully grandkids by then. That is almost scary!
17. What causes the most arguments? I plead the 5th. Can't tell the whole world. Money probably comes in 2nd.
18. How long have you been together? We got married on Oct. 2, 1993. Started dating in May of 1993, so together for 15 1/2 years. (Minus a few weeks of hunting)
19. Are you Married? Yes
20. Who Do you Tag? LeAnn, Chanda, Jackie, Jen

New Family Pictures

2008-12-04T23:04:00.001-08:00

So my friend Christy takes great pictures. She came over one Sunday afternoon and we decided at 5:00 pm that we would do family pictures at 6:00. I quickly threw the kids and Mike something to wear, then the problem began. I had a closet full of nothing to wear. So I randomly picked out one of the oldest outfits that I have and never wear, but it matched the others so oh well...What the hell! We went to Salem Pond to have these done and to tell you the truth, I think they turned out great. She is starting up her own photo business and really knows what she is doing. She is also very cheap, hence her name....Cheapshots. Check out her website at http://cheapshotsllc.blogspot.com.
You can also link from my blog to Christy and Kendrick, then to her website. You should all try her.

Thanksgiving & Christmas Tree Cutting

2008-11-29T20:33:00.000-08:00

Kids looking for the perfect tree!
Cody and Porche trying to make them have fun!
Aunt Phene always enjoys being with the kids.
We went to Delta this year for Thanksgiving. Mom was up here on Tuesday and took the girls home with her. They didn't have school on Wednesday so it was perfect. When we got there Wednesday night, we had a party and dinner at Portia's. Then we all played Bunco. Sunny was so funny! She would say "Ready, Go" and then yell "Bunco". She doesn't want to miss out on anything. Thursday morning we all got up and went to Dry Creek up Oak City Canyon. We scoped out the perfect tree and cut it down. It is really hard to pick the right one when there are at least 7 opinions on it. Besides that they all look really small when you are on the mountain and when you get it home, it is way to big. We'll have to do some prunning to get it to fit in our house, maybe even cut a hole in the roof. Then mom saw her tree she said that it would fit better in the city park than in her house. Our kids haven't got to do this for many years. In fact, I'm not even sure that they even remember when we used to do it. It was alot of fun for us. We ate Thanksgiving dinner at the Willoughby's and I ate enough for the next month. Unfortunaltey, I felt like I needed more leftovers so Mike will be cooking turkey dinner tommorrow. One of these next days I'll have to get back on that life long diet and do better. I am very thankful for my family and all the help, support and love that they show me. There is nothing more important to me than my family and their happiness. Hope all of your Holidays are great.

House For Sale!!!

2008-11-18T21:12:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it but Mike has had enough! We put our house up for sale 10 days ago and have had a few people look at it. We have more scheduled this week. I am so amazed that he has finally had enough and I am very scared about what we are going to do. He has no plans on where we will go but doesn't seem to worried about it. The kids were not OK with it at first but as he explained the situation with them, they are supporting us in this decision. They have been the little troopers trying to help keep the house clean and pitching in for last minute showings. The same week we put the house up for sale, I started a new job! Could things be any more crazy? I am working at a new clothing store by KMART in Spanish Fork. It is called EDYN and they carry nice clothes for juniors, misses and women sizes. Mike thinks it would be like him taking a job at Cabelas. I don't understand his reasoning???Clothes are alot cheaper than guns and ammo! Anyway, Please pray for us that first, we can sell our house, and second, that we can find somewhere else to live. It all gives me anxiety.

Tagged by Chanda

2008-10-28T11:34:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Chanda for tagging me! I am supposed to post my fourth picture in my 4th folder. Now that takes me back a few!! My old computer died with all my files and I was able to have a friend take off all my pictures off that computer. I really contemplated on what picture to use but this one always touches my heart, and since it was my cute cousin that tagged me, I thought that we could all reminisce about our Grandparents. I have a real hard time doing this but wanted to write about one of the greatest people I ever knew and miss everyday. In fact, after all this time that she has been gone, I still cry at the very thought of her and miss her more than I can stand. There is no one that can mention her name that I don't get teary. I miss her especially this time of year and it's not the same without her here. Granny was the strongest, sweetest, and wonderful women ever. She always had us (her kids and grand kids) in her thoughts. She always worried about us, helped us and made sure that we had everything we needed, and sometimes things we didn't need. Porche wrote the cutest story about Granny in a pop-up book. Someday I hope we can all have a copy of it because it tells what kind of Granny she was.
This picture is of her and Grandpa's anniversary the June before she died. What a great picture of the both of them. Even though neither one of them felt the best, they smiled, had a great time, and let us spend a very important time with them. I hope that as we think about Grandpa Hoot and Grandma Holler, we can laugh and cry joys of tears for the wonderful heritage that we came from. I love all of you guys and send this to you with tears running down my face!! Your the best Grandparents any kid should ever have!! I tag Anne, Christy, Rhonda, Tiffany and mostly Aunt LeAnn!!

Honoring A Scouting Friend

2008-10-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I got an email from one of Mont's Scoutmasters from his Timberline Leadership Scout Camp. It was to tell the boys of a tragedy of losing one of their friends that they had there. I felt so bad and Mont was on a scout trip to Moab so I couldn't tell him about it. I worried the whole weekend about Mont and about this sad event. I couldn't even think about it or talk about it without crying (not to mention the anxiety). His friend Calvin Hansen had been killed in a car accident while traveling out of town with his family. His father was injured badly and the rest of the family was sent to the hospital with injuries. Anyway, last night was his viewing. Mont wanted to go and so he and I went. The wait was long. There was so many people there. The hardest thing for me was watching the pain and sorrow of my 13 year old son and the other kids that were there. I truely hope I never have to have this kind of tragedy in my family. There can't be anything worse than loosing a child. My prayers have been with this family and I don't even know them. The Scoutmaster had put the email out to all the scouts and wanted them to be at the cemetery with their uniforms on, holding flags, and saluting the family as they drove there. This was such a thoughtful thing and the time the Scoutmaster has spent in teaching our boys about love, kindness, charity, and brotherhood is amazing to me. I truly appreciate him. These are a couple of the pictures he sent to me and with respect to this cute family I want to show you what kind of tribute it was to them. Amazing to me!!! It sends cold chills down me and brings tears to my eyes. Look at this wonderful site!!

Garrett's and TaNeils Deer Hunt

2008-10-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

The night before Mike and Uncle Neil took Garrett out to practice shooting on sticks. We were a little worried that he would get so excited when he saw the deer that "Buck Fever" would set in and he would miss. (Kind of like his mom does). He was shooting pretty good with a dead rest, but no so good on the sticks. I murmmered and hoped that it would not be a waste of time for Uncle Neil. Garrett was disappointed that Grandpa Clayton was not going to be able to go but the morning of the hunt, Grandpa woke Garrett and Mike up and said Neil and TaNeil were ready, they better get going. Off they went and when I hadn't heard from them by 8:00am I thought all the negative things a mother could. I went to the car and Mike had forgotten the camera. Off course, I thought, since he forgot the camera, Garrett will probably shoot one. This was the first year that Garrett and TaNeil had drawn out for a deer tag. They were so excited. At 9:oo am, Grandpa called and said that Garrett had just shot the front shoulder off of a nice 4 pointer and it was running. I said that I would be right there with the camera!! He said not to come yet that TaNeil was shooting at another nice 4 point. Minutes later he called and off we went to see the trophies...with the camera of course. We went to TaNeils deer and it was great. As Neil and Mike were dragging through the brush to the truck, the horn that Neil was pulling on came right off. We were laughing so hard and TaNeil just wanted to know if someone had some super glue to fix it. She was such a good sport and we continued laughing. Then the girls went to Neil and Toddy's to get the rhino so that we could get to Garretts deer. The guys kept looking for it. It had ran right towards Grandpa and then turned and he couldn't see it but knew what direction it had gone. Grandpa, Mike and Garrett had gotten to about 10 ft from it when it jumped up and started to run again. That is when Garrett shot at it a second time. Just as we pulled up in the Rhino, we heard the second shot and off the deer went, with both lungs hanging out the bullet hole, a broken front shoulder, and determined not to die. Neil shot to make sure it would go down and it did. We went to where it was and it was almost identical to TaNeils deer. How fun for these two kids. We took so many dang pictures that the only way you can see how much fun they had is to see most of it yourself. They were both so happy and it seemed like the best day these two kids, their dads, and grandpa could ever have. It was one of those memories that will never be forgotten.... The two big 4 points those great kids shot with their heroes right the side of them. Thanks to Uncle Neil, TaNeil and Grandpa for letting us be with you on such fun times. We appreciate the time and efforts that you give for our family. We love you!!
P.S. Uncle Neil shot a 5 point later that night!! What a hunt!

I've Been Tagged!! Thanks Aunt LeAnn

2008-10-05T19:07:00.000-07:00

4 things I love about my husband:

1. He has a testimony of the Church
2. He is a great dad
3. Now that we all know he can talk, he is quite funny!
4. He loves me no matter what kind of snot I am!!

4 Movies I would watch more than once:

1. The Notebook
2. Waterboy
3. Mamma Mia
4. Anger Management

4 TV shows I watch more than once:

1. Channel 2 News ,Channel 4 News, Channel 5 News,
2. Deal or No Deal
3. Don't Forget the Lyrics
4. Good Things Utah

4 Places I have been:

1. Hawaii
2. Alaska
3. Florida
4. Boston, MA.

4 People who email me regularly

1. Portia
2. John & Julie
3. Nikki
4. Misty

4 Favorite Foods

1. Fried Shrimp
2. Prime Rib
3. Chicken
4. Cheesecake

Places I would like to visit

1. Hawaii, again. This time with my husband
2. Cancun, Mexico
3. Alaska, again. This time inland
4. Italy

4 Things I am looking forward to this coming year

1. Pedicure
2. Going to St. George to see those 2 new babies
3. Paying off some bills
4. Learning what to do at my new job!

4 People I would like to tag

1. Jodi
2. Nikki
3. Jen
4. Lerin

Anniversary at Snowbird

2008-10-05T18:04:00.000-07:00

Mike and my sister Penny Jo planned us a getaway to Snowbird for the weekend. It was fabulous. The weekend started by dropping off the kids with her for the weekend and she greeted us with this edible arrangement!!Then we headed up Little Cottonwood Canyon and on our way up we saw a cow moose and a bull moose. We were only about 30 yards from this bull moose!!We had the cutest room with a fireplace and kitchen and beautiful look at the mountain.

We walked around the Octoberfest, rode the tram to the top of the snowy mountain, and enjoyed the colors of the trees.

It rained, it snowed, and the mist was so pretty over the mountains. I wish I could show all the pictures but I took to many!

We dressed up in our best clothes and went to the city for dinner at one of my favorite places...Red Lobster. The weekend was the best and I love Mike more today than yesterday. I hope our relationship continues to be better each day and many years of happiness to come. Thanks for the incredible weekend!! I love you!!

Violin or Cello?

2008-10-05T17:59:00.001-07:00

So Chloe and Morgan are taking orchestra in school. Chloe is learning to play the violin and Morgan the cello. One night when they were practicing, I decided to see if I could play them. The girls thought it was quite amusing for me to try and they told me which strings were which notes. Then I took the test. Low and behold, I could play the silly things, not to say that I will ever remember the notes. We all laughed and they took pictures for proof.

Sighting in the Muzzleloaders

2008-10-05T17:46:00.000-07:00

Mont and Garrett had a muzzle loader tag for deer and Mont had an antlerless tag. We went up Ty Fork in Spanish Fork Canyon to sight in their muzzle loaders.
The leaves were so beautiful and we picked chokecherries and made jam and syrup that was to die for. In fact it was so good we had to make a couple of more trips to get more berries. Then came the big day of adventure to find those darn deer. The problem wasn't finding them, but shooting them was another story! Mont shot his first deer the first night they went out. Then we headed for Delta to get his antlerless. He succeeded! Unfortunately, Garrett was unsuccessful and will have another chance on the Rifle hunt. The most important thing is that they had a great time. Once that hunting is in the blood, seems like it goes forever.

15 Years of "What"?

2008-10-02T22:12:00.000-07:00

Today is our 15th Wedding Anniversary. I thought it was supposed to be "Total Bliss". Someone obviously forgot to tell us that there would be a few "Intermissions" along with "Family Fued", "Let's Make a Deal", and "Funniest Family Videos". If we knew then what we know now, would we still have taken the plunge? Of course we would have! We have definately had our trials but over all it has been a pretty great 15 years. I once had a friend that would say she and her husband had a pretty good fight last night. I never understood what that ment and hope I never feel that our fights and disagreements are "GOOD". Nothing comes out of them that makes you feel better. I want my dear husband to know that I love him very much and through the good times and the bad times, he has always been there to pick me up, apologize, and make things right. I couldn't have asked for a better husband, although I probably should have followed muy moms advise about "Marrying more in a minute than you could make in a lifetime." Love is blind and it is a good thing. We got married in the County Barn in Delta and my dad drove me to my wedding in his Model T Ford. I will never forget it although my dad had a heart attack the day before the wedding. He his my hero and I hope that I can learn from his example and advise on makeing marriages work. MIKE...... I love you and hope that we can continue to work out our differences. You are amazing and I am so thankful for you becoming active in the Church and guiding our family. You are a wondeful man and I LOVE YOU!!!

The Big Black Bag!!

2008-09-18T17:22:00.000-07:00

So, I was told that I expect to much of my kids and that they have to many chores. Needless to say, I let Mike take over as the "chore master". The kids don't take him very seriously, and today they had all gone to play with friends....That was after they had done their chores. One was supposed to clean the bathroom, one to clean out the Fridge (better known as the Science Project), one fold clothes, and one vacuum the living room and family room. I opened the fridge to get a drink and there were still projects growing that would have for sure earned a "A". None of the other chores were done either. I of course blew a gasket and didn't hold my temper very well, or should I say at all. I started cleaning like a mad woman and before I was finished, everyone was pouting and bawling their cute little heads off. The best part of it was when the "BIG BLACK GARBAGE" appeared and everything that was not put away ended up in the bag. it only took 4 super big contractor bags, one which was so full it ripped. Let me remind you of how strong these bags are. They are something like 6 mil or something. You can throw everything from a construction site in them, but don't under estimate the power of a mad woman. I really did rip a couple of them. Everything in them is now mine and if they don't tick me off anymore, maybe they can earn some things back. Mike did remind them that they were lucky that I had done it this way, he threw everything on the front lawn last time he cleaned their rooms. If any of you need me to come and bring the big black bags over and show you how fun it is, let me know. I am a pro!!! By the way, I may have some super deals for a yard sell. Maybe I could buy some more bags with the profits!!!

Kite Fest

2008-09-14T08:24:00.000-07:00

So Oaklee had colored a picture for the Spanish Fork Kite Fest at school and had been telling me that she was going to win the contest> I didn't want to get her hopes up to high, so I kind of blew it off!!(No punt intended). I was at the orthodontist with Mont and she called to tell me that she had won and we needed to go up to the Fest to get her prize. I had Portia's kids and thought that we would just run up, get the prize, and come home. When we got there, it was wonderful.
She had won a kite, along with other kids from different schools and grades. I decided to browse the fest and see what other things they had. I didn't have a stroller for Sunny so was a bit hesitant, but we rode the golf cart to the top of the hill and walked down.
The kids played on the playground, had slushes, made kites, and we watched the kites. We spent 3 hours there and had a very relaxing. Congratulations to Oaklee. My kids are so lucky that they got their artistic talent from their dad. Everyone knows that their mother has none!!! Anyway, we had a great time and suggest that if they do it next year, everyone goes to see it.

Living Planet

2008-09-13T20:08:00.000-07:00

We decided to do something fun for Labor Day. Since it was raining, we took them to the Living Planet Aquarium in Sandy. It was alot of fun and priced very reasonable. They have lots of different fish to see, touch and feel, a movie and even a restaurant. I think the kids had a great time. Here are a few pictures.

I almost forgot School!!

2008-09-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot to take pictures of my kids on the first day of school. Truth is, I did until last minute when I ended up taking 3 of the 5 pictures. It is to bad because it is Garretts first year at High School, and Chloe and Morgans first year in Junior High. Here are the three pictures I did get!!

Garrett has joined the swim team (Thank you Michael Phelps) and taking classes that are over my head. No way can I help him. He also is taking a Social Dance Class. He is actually enjoying despite the wishes of his dad. I think it's the cute girls. Mont is also taking very hard classes for the 8th grade. Good thing they got Mikes brain. Morgan is taking orchestra and learning to play the cello and Chloe is also but learning to play the violin. (Thanks to the Warnicks for loaning us a violin) Oaklee is busy chasing boys and giggling. I have to fight with her to do her homework and read. It is frustrating to me because my other kids have great study habits. Guess that is part of being the youngest. I am to old and tired to care. Lucky her.

Let's Start in Park City

2008-09-08T08:01:00.000-07:00

So I haven't updated for a while. I will start with our week vacation with Granny and the cousins in Park CityIt was such the blast. It was the first time that I actually got to take the whole week and be with all of them. We went swimming shopping, play guitar hero championships
karaoke rock band, b-b-ques, and of course our favorite... The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Then we went to Snowbird where Phene entertained us with the Zip Line
, Rock Climbling, Bungee Jumping, The Alpine Slide, Mechanical Bull, and ATV and Ranger Tours. It is so beautiful up there in the back country of Snowbird. All of you should take a tour with her to see the beauty. It's amazing. The week was so much fun and I thank my mom for taking all of us up there every year without fail. It is certainlya traditin worth keeping.

Garrett's Eagle Scout project!!

2008-07-27T13:49:00.000-07:00

Garrett is working on his Eagle Scout project. This is another "Scouting" experience that me, as a non-scouting mother, is amazed my boys choose to participate in. It is fun to see them set these goals and work towards acheiving them. This is the letter that he has sent out to our neighborhood. A similar one will be going out to businesses, hospitals, etc. Anyone wanting to help would be great!! (This is quite overwhelming for me as his mom!)I think that it is a great idea and he came up with it. No help from me.
EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT!
for Garrett Harris
I am doing a three part safety project for my eagle scout.
Part 1: How keeping your outside lights on during the night reduces crime in our neighborhood. (More information to come on this)
Part 2: 72 hour basic First Aid Kits for our Ward. I will be putting together 106 first aid kits for our ward. I would appreciate any donations of supplies or money to accomplish this. Basic items for 1st Aid Kits may include the following as suggestions:bandaids, alcohol wipes, neosporin, burn free, triangular bandages, thermomoters, tweezers. scissors, matches, etc. I will need these donations by August 7,2008. If you choose to donate money, please make checks payable to me. I thank you in advance for this and will deliver the kits by no later than Sept. 30,2008.
Part 3: It is important to have our addresses on our mailbox in case of an emergency. I think that it would cut the time it takes for police, ambulance, etc, to find our homes. I am offering to put your address on it with your choice of white or black vinyl. Please let me know if you are interested in this, the color you want and your address by August 7, 2008. Thank you for helping me achieve my goal in becoming an Eagle Scout.
Sincerely,
Garrett Harris

Coming Soon!!

2008-07-27T03:25:00.000-07:00

I have been asked for several recipes, so I will be adding a link to them soon. I just need to get them all together. Hang in there and it will be ready soon!!

Week Long Backpacking Hike

2008-07-27T02:13:00.000-07:00

Monts scout troop has been on several overnight scout backpacking hike to prepare for the "Big One" . This weekend they went on a week long backpacking hike up to Tye Fork in Spanish Fork Canyon. They hiked to Strawberry, then around, and down to Diamond Fork. I think this was a brilliant idea. Sleeping quarters were less than desirable to me. Not my idea of the Marriott.We didn't have to ship them out of State with gas as high as it is, they were close enough that we didn't really have to worry, and the families were invited up the last night for dutch oven dinner that was wonderful.
We had B-B-Que boneless pork ribs, dutch oven potatoes, and cobbler.Talk about pigs. They did skits for us and told jokes. I was so fun. I can't even stand how dirty they were. They were so happy to see their families. The first day Mont cut his finger bad enough that he should have had stitches, but they just wrapped it (I'm sure with toilet paper) to stop the bleeding, put a bandaid on it and repeated these things when it started to bleed again. Welcome to the mans world of fixing cuts. I am surprised that the Duct Tape didn't come out. This is definatly not what I call fun, but the boys have loved it. I can't believe that someone who has such an attitude towards scouts, lets her child be so active in the program.

Heber Creeper Train Ride

2008-07-22T07:10:00.000-07:00

One tradition that my parents started 11 years ago is that when ever one of the kids are potty trained, they take all the kids on the Heber Creeper. It is so fun for the kids and they look forward to it.
It has really helped to potty train all 11 grandchildren. This year Sunny, who is Portias youngest, was potty trained so we spent Friday on the Train. Portia and I hadn't been there for along time so we decided to go this time.We really enjoyed out ride. The kids had a great time and Grandma and Grandpa Clayton spoiled them. They had me trying to hold on to a pole and lift my legs to a 90 degree angle. I am a little out of shape for that but I gave it a try.Garrett was so funny and would walk behind the gate making it look like he was going down the stairs. We laughed so hard at him. It was nice to see him let his hair down a little and have some fun. The sites were beautiful and the bigger kids really want to float down the Provo River next. It was so hot it sounded good to me.Cute little Sunny would say, "All aboard!! Choo- Choo."She is at a very fun age. Then we went to Delta to celebrate Sadies 16th birthday. Portia had a surprise party for her.There were about 43 kids there and Toddy and I made hamburgers and hotdogs. Her cake was to cute.It looked like a drivers license. There were a couple of boys that could really play the paino. I have never heard such music from these boys. One of them was playing the theme from "Charlie Brown" and we set Sadie and her friend Mary on the piano.We laughed so hard at them. We also spent some time at the "Res". It was so hot that we had to cool off. We had a great weekend and are greatful for the days we can spend in Delta.

Where's Waldo? (aka Mike)

2008-07-14T19:09:00.000-07:00

Mike has worked very hard on his garden this year. I told him to farm all he wanted to that I had plenty of it growing up. Also, our neighbors have had a snake or 13 in their yard and any of you that know how I feel about snakes know that that is the real reason that I am not getting out there. NO WAY! Anyway, his tomatoes are so big that you can hardly see him!!

His peas did good and we ate squash tonight. His peppers are also doing great!! Hopefully we will know what to do with all 38ish tomato plants and 60ish peppers. Any ideas, let us know!

Memory Tag!!

2008-07-12T22:47:00.000-07:00

My friend Lerin sent this to me and I thought it was fun. Here is how it goes: 1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember! 2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. If you don't want to play on your blog, or if you don't have a blog, I'll leave my memory of you in my comments.

Happy Anniversary to Mom & Dad

2008-06-29T07:33:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to tell my parents Happy Anniversary. They are celebrating their 45th year as Mr. & Mrs. Howard Clayton. I am the luckiest girl in the world to be born as one of their children and I am sure that my siblings agree. I realize that it hasn't been all bliss, but at this point in their lives, they enjoy spending time together doing the important things such as spending 2 days a week at the Manti Temple as workers, spending time with their 11 grandchildren, spending time with their friends in the old cars and 4 wheeling trips. I am grateful that I can call them everyday to talk to at least one of them, sometimes both, and share my thoughts, get advise and hear a comforting voice on the other end. They are great and I hope that this day is wonderful to them. I love you both!

We're engaged!!

2008-06-29T02:37:00.000-07:00

It was 15 years ago yesterday that Mike asked me to marry him. When he came to my apartment to pick me up for our date, there was another "Preppy" boy there to see me. I had already let the "Prep" know that I was going to marry the "Country Boy" and he thought I had lost my mind. Mike shows up with a dozen red roses and I quickly tore them apart looking for a ring. No ring... Then we went to "Olive Garden" and I hardly eat my food for fear that there was a ring inside of it. No Ring....The check came and still No Ring.... My grandpa was in the hospital in Payson so we went down to see him. I finally told Mike I was not going into the Hospital without my ring, so he took me to Payson Park, parked in front of the garbage can, and opened his glove box. There the ring was and it had been there the whole night. He asked me to marry him and I obviously said yes. This has definitely been a great 15 years and I am glad my answer was yes. We went to dinner last night and had time to reminisce about the past 15 years. It was great and I want Mike to know that I love him. He is the best husband for me and I am happy that he found me. (He is pretty lucky too)

Morgan & Chloes Birthday

2008-06-20T21:44:00.000-07:00

I know that I am a little late with this, but things like this happen when you deliver "TWINS". I remember when I found out that I was pregnant and Mont was just 6 months old, Garrett was barely 2 years old. Then I found out that there were twins. What in the world could anyone ever do with 2 babies when you already had 2 babies. I was completely overwhelmed. And just how far could a body possibly stretch to be big enough for 2 babies. Well let me tell you!! I was due in July and Portia told me that she had the perfect outfit for me to wear on the 4th of July. I would look just like Maceys Flag. That was no comfort to me and since I was on bedrest with preterm labor with Mont for 2 months, I knew that I would automatically be on bedrest with these twins. I was-for 4 months. Just long enough to crochet their blessing dresses. I prayed that I would just be able to tell them apart. When they were born, we were so excited and I could definately tell them apart. One was so dark and the other one so light. Kind of like "Salt & Pepper". There would be enough babies for EVERYONE to hold. The funnest part of having twins was dressing them, for sleep was not something that we got very much of. They just turned 12 years old on June 18th and we had a surprise party for them. They are the cutest, sweetest and most helpful girls I could ever ask for. Morgan is a clean freak, likes to write and is taking a creative writing class this summer. Chloe likes to sew and is working on a rag quilt.
They both are so great and I am glad that I had all these babies so close together. I can still tell them apart since Morgan is still dark and Chloe is still light. Good thing that prayer was answered

Fathers Day

2008-06-20T21:13:00.000-07:00

I am married to the best man ever. He is the perfect mate for me, although I thought he died in the war in Heaven and that I would never find him in this life. He puts up with me and ALL my weeknesses (and as you all know there are many). He is a great father and the love of my life. I always wanted to marry a man like my dad. Even though when I married Mike he was not exactly what my dad was, as time goes by, they are so simalar and such good friends that they are both what I need in my life. Such good examples and servants of the Lord. The testimonies of the Church and the knowledge of the gospel is more than I deserve. Boy, am I glad I married someone much better than I deserve.
We spent Fathers Day in Delta with the whole family. Grandpa Van, Uncle Jim, Uncle Jay, Neil (my brother), John (brother in law sleeping) and cousins were there. It was so fun.

I am so blessed to be surrounded by incredible men. Thanks to them!!!

Great Thoughts For The Day!!

2008-06-03T06:29:00.000-07:00

This was sent to me from a friend and I loved it. They also say that "A dog is man's best friend." To Mont and Cocoa this is true and I thought that I would share these with all of you!!

Read Each One Carefully and Think About It a Second or Two
1. I love you not because of who you are, but because of who I am when I am with you..
2. No man or woman is worth your tears, and the one who is, won't make you cry.
3. Just because someone doesn't love you the way you want them to, doesn't mean they don't love you with all they have.
4. A true friend is someone who reaches for your hand and touches your heart.
5. The worst way to miss someone is to be sitting right beside them knowing you can't have them.
6. Never frown, even when you are sad, because you never know who is falling in love with your smile.
7. To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world.
8. Don't waste your time on a man / woman, who isn't willing to waste their time on you.
9. Maybe God wants us to meet a few wrong people before meeting the right one, so that when we finally meet the person, we will know how to be grateful.
10 Don 't cry because it is over, smile because it happened
11. There's always going to be people that hurt you so what you have to do is keep on trusting and just be more careful about who you trust next time around.
12. Make yourself a better person and know who you are before you try and know someone else and expect them to know you.
13. Don't try so hard, the best things come when you least expect them to.
REMEMBER: WHATEVER HAPPENS, HAPPENS FOR A REASON.
True friends: How many people actually have 8 true friends?
Hardly anyone I know! But some of us have all right friends and good friends!!!

3 Kids Gone? Too Quiet

2008-06-02T19:41:00.000-07:00

Saturday when the family was here for Oaklee's Baptism, the twins and cousins decided that they would go to Delta for a few days!! At least till Thursday. That was quiet. Then I took Mont to Mt Pleasant for the Timberline leadership camp this morning. He will be gone until Saturday when we will go back down to pick him up. Even more quiet! Oaklee goes to a birthday party tonight and has been gone for dinner. Only 4 of us to feed? Too weird!! What will I do when they all grow up and leave? I am sure I will have a reality check as soon as Saturday night when they are all home.

Oaklee Marye's Baptism

2008-06-01T20:32:00.000-07:00

Oaklee turned 8 years old on May 11. I remember the day I found out that I was pregnant with her. I have to admit that I wasn't so excited. I already had 4 kids and thought that our family was complete. The news finally sank in and I began to get excited. With a few problems and throwing up every day it seemed like she would never get here. She was the cutest baby ever and I enjoyed her more than any of my other children. I loved getting up with her at night because no one else bugged me about holding her. I took her to work with me everyday and we became best buddies. She was hooked to my hip and I enjoyed that. She was such a pleasant baby and still to this day, makes our life so exciting. She is so funny and cute. She says the funnest things and can make any of my worst days turn into a great day. She is so sweet and I want her to know that she has saved my life many times. She has brought me out of the deepest depressions, most upsetting situations, and even embarresed me so bad that I had to just laugh. She was baptized yesterday by her daddy and all of her grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles and friends were there to spend the day with her. I was a great day and I just want her to know how much I love her. She is the sweetest daughter and makes my day. I am glad she was sent to our home.

Garrett's birthday and Lehmans Cave

2008-05-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

Garrett turned 15 on May 26. We were in Delta for the weekend and my cousins John & Julie were there from Florida visiting. We all went to Baker Nevada to see Lehmans Cave. Mike has wanted to go there since we first got married and we have never taken the time. I hadn't been there for many years and neither had Porche. The kids had a great time and was the perfect day. We had a picnic and cupcakes for Garrett's birthday. My nephew Jack said it was the best day of his life. There were 19 of us there. What a troop. Our tour guide also did the detective program for the kids. It was so fun to watch them be involved and so excited. Here are a few pictures of the day.

Boy, How time flies!!

2008-05-20T14:29:00.000-07:00

I haven't had even a moment to update this for quite sometime. Life has been a little crazy. Everyone is doing great and kids are growing fast. Here is the latest for them. Garrett thinks life is about money!! He works whenever possible. He won $250 at the SFW banquet and thought it was great. The other four kids have a job doing yard work at Liberty Safe and think it is also great to have extra cash. Mont won a 12gauge shotgun and pheasants at the SFW banquet. He loves basketball and plays way hard.Good boys!! Morgan is sweet, kind and a great worker. Chloe is boy crazy and a good cook. Both like to babysit.Oaklee is just cute. She turned 8 years old and had a flip flop partyThirteen girls and 1 boy came to it. She will be baptized on May 31st. She is so excited.

.Our life is great although a bit crazy. I will update the happenings of recent times in the next few.

Kyani Convention

2008-01-21T11:23:00.000-08:00

Portia, Penny Jo and I went to the Kyani Convention over the weekend. Penny Jo started drinking this Alaskan Bluebarry Juice mixture when her blood was so low that she was experiencing organ shutdown. She had to have a blood transfusion and the doctors wanted to do some other things to her. She was introduced to this juice and her blood count went up, her organs started to function and she feels better than she has felt for years. She has got us drinking it and Mikes gout has improved, my mood swings and energy have improved and it tastes really quite good. She has also started us on these omega 3 gel caps for our hearts.(She thinks with our family history of heart problems, she can save us) To learn more about the Kyani product go to http://kyani.net/index.php. Anyway, we had a great time spending the night in a motel as sisters and laughing. I have come to realize that the best people to do things with are definetly our families. We are so lucky to have each other and this adds to my grateful list.

"Snow" phone

2008-01-10T20:55:00.000-08:00

So yesterday I was up early to sign the girls up for 4-H. It was snowing and I thought that I would shovel a little snow before I drove over it and it turned to ice. My great kids all came out and said they would shovel it for me and I loved that idea. Needless to say my OCD came out and I had to finish it my way, and somehow lost my cell phone in the snow. We have all shoveled more snow, raked the snow and searched for the stupid phone. I am really upset and all the important phones numbers that I have in it are gone. I did not want a new phone at this time, although I really do not have a choice. So any of you that have my number, please call me after Monday so that I can save you on my new phone that I will be getting. I do love the snow and last Saturday when it was snowing we made homemade donuts. Yesterday we made Cinnamon rolls. Hope it doesn't continue real often or I may look more like the Pillsbury dough boy.

Happy Holidays

2007-12-28T20:48:00.000-08:00

This month has been great! Business was booming and Christmas was coming. I was ill prepared for it all. I went to Delta one day to make candy with Mom and Porche. It was a great success and hopefully a new tradition. We spent the weekend before Christmas at mom and dad's in Delta. Church in Delta was incredible with music you couldn't believe. There are some super voices from the young people there. Portia and I worked in the wood shop with dad doing last minute crafts while Neil, Mike and the boys went duck hunting.
They were only gone a short time when they returned with a whole lot of ducks, carrying a whole lot of ducks. Then the "Clayton Family Party" began with the traditional movie, dinner, story, and presents. The weather was real stormy when Mike and I headed back home so that Santa could find the kids at their own house. We made it slowly but safely. Oaklee had the time of her life with 2 gift certificates from "Build a Bear Workshop". She said she had waited her whole life for such a prize.( All 7 years). The boys received muzzle loader guns, girls cameras and scrap booking and Mike and I were as happy as punch to have it over. I am always amazed at the stress we as parents go through to have a successful event. Seems a little crazy to me. May we all remember the true meaning of Christmas, have love and peace in our hearts, and most of all love for the Savior.

Time Flies

2007-11-29T22:28:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy lately with Christmas Crafts, gifts, etc, that I have not updated my blog. Boy do I feel bad. Thanksgiving was great! My family was here and we had a full house. My microwave started on fire in October and we hadn't replaced it because I wanted one that goes over my stove. i really did need the counter space, but on Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and after being made fun of because I was like Laura Ingills (you know- The Little House on the Prairie) Mike came home from work early and we got a new microwave. He installed it before the rush of making Thanksgiving Dinner. Mom, Portia, and Penny Jo came down early to help cook and make their food assignments. Chloe had made name tags for the tables and it was set beautifully. Food was especially good and plenty of it. Then was time for our annual shopping all night adventure. Last year I didn't get to go and had a real hard time getting in the spirit. This year I was determined!! The girls left at about 8:00 pm Thursday night and stayed out and awake until Friday at about 5:30pm. Portia and I almost feel asleep eating our lunch at 3:00 pm Friday. The things we do for fun. We have to stand in line all night to make sure that we are the first ones in the door at the store. It isn't as fun if you aren't first. Then the race is on. This year Penny Jo and Portia were in and out of JCPenneys in 11 minutes with arms full of loot!! Can you just imagine them running through the store grabbing the things they want? It is a fun tradition for us and the men think we have all lost our minds. Pictures will be posted as soon as I get 5 seconds!! I have been super busy with my vinyl stuff so everthing else has had to be put on hold.

November Traditions

2007-11-04T18:26:00.000-08:00

November begins and it's time to start planning on Thanksgiving Dinner, Shopping with the girls, lots of Holiday Boutiques and decorating. This year we will be having Thanksgiving Dinner at our house.
I sent out these invitations on Friday and everyone will soon be getting them with there food assignment on them. This week I have a boutique for Christmas stuff. When I quit my job, I bought a vinyl machine and now enjoy my spare time crafting. It seems like I sell alot during the Holidays and I am very grateful for that. If you see anything you like here, email me. I would love to help you with your shopping!! Today at church the youth had a combined speaker. She did a great job and talked on Gratitude. She gave all of them gratitude journals and encouraged them to write down things that they are grateful for. It has been proven that people who write down things in their life that has made them happy, touched their hearts, or grateful for, they are in general a happier people. She read a couple of stories and it was just what I needed today. I think she was speaking to me personally. I am going to challenge everyone that reads this to do the same thing. Then set 3 goals that you can do this week to help make someone else happy. This is my favorite time of the year!!!

Trunk or Treat

2007-11-04T06:01:00.000-08:00

Our Ward had Trunk or Treat for Halloween. Usually everyone just sits by their trunk and hands out candy. We decided that if we were going to do it, we would do it up good. We made a curtain out of old black material, the kids had cute it to make it look ripped, hung it at the back of my Yukon and turned on scarry sounds. Mont then was behind the curtain with dracula type hands and the kids would have to ask "The Hand" for candy. Mike was dracula, I was a witch (It didn't take much for me to get ready) and we had dry ice bubbling were the kids would get their candy. It was so much fun. The best part was the ones that were to scared to get the candy. All the kids love Mont and he would say to them, "Come here buddy. It's just me Mont". At that point, they would keep coming back. My friend Malesa and her family were right by us and she was the "Mad Scientist". She made them feel yucky stuff, like the inside of a pumpkin, spaghetti noodles, etc, before they could get their candy. We think that it would be great if everyone would do the trunk or treat with a little more fun themes. I usually do not let my kids trick or treat, but this year they definetly got plenty. Oaklee was a fairy, Morgan and Chloe were Salt and Pepper, and the rest of us were something different at each party. This was with no doubt the most fun Halloween we have ever had.

Halloween Family Night Party

2007-10-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

Our Halloween Family Night Party went so great. Our guests each brought a Halloween Creepy dish and dinner was great with Cattails, Fingers dipped in Ear Wax, Spiderweb dip, Brains & Dem Bones Breadsticks, Eyeballs, Witches Brew & Kitty Litter Dessert. Costumes were recommended!! Most were good sports but a few were "Party Poopers". We had scary stories, sounds, and of course Pumpkin Carving. I really do not like Halloween and carving pumpkins is way to messy for me! Not so fun but I tried my hardest to be a good sport. I think everyone had fun and I have the pictures of the year. Mark this one on the calendar, even Mike dressed up. His mother has a neighbor who suffers from "Shell Shock". We are always amazed at his dress. Sometimes he has his front stuffed, a wig on, and even a dress on occasion. Mike is now known as "Duane".

Girls Weekend Out

2007-10-21T17:59:00.000-07:00

The Clayton girls had the weekend to share with each other. We had decided to surprise Mom by taking her to "Good Things Utah" TV show. She loves the show and doesn't like to miss it ever. She always tell us about cute crafts they do and recipes they have on there. She was so surprised when we showed up at ABC4. It was not until then she realized that we were going to be on TV. We had a blast! Pictures were taken with the girls from the show and with Mike McKay, food was eaten and the weekend progressed. We had lunch, went shopping, shopping, shopping, and then onto Gardners Village for Witches Night Out. I have never seen so many adult women dressed up. We then went to Tepanyaki for dinner. We learned how to say "I love you in Japanese! It is "Eye-shetemasu". Of course Portia had to make a smart comment that made us all laugh and we have shared with all. It was one of the best weekends ever and I hope to have many more!

Haircut Day

2007-10-18T18:01:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was haircut day. We had friends and family show up this time but the most dramatic was Chloe, who has been growing her hair longer for a quite some time, decided last as she sat in the chair to cut it off short in the cutest A-line bob ever. This has always been my favorite haircut on her. It fits her personality, attitude and face. Besides that, why would her and Morgan ever have hair that was even close to the same. They are about as different as salt and pepper. On this particular haircut day I only did 6 cuts. Seemed like a vacation! I only wish that I could take my head off, set it on the chair, and do my own. I guess I am a little picky and no one ever seems to see the same picture that I see!! Am I the only one that this happens too?

October Begins

2007-10-16T10:16:00.000-07:00

October started with our 14th anniversary. Then of course Mike and the boys went Elk Hunting for a week. They were unsuccessful, darn! The girls went to Gardener Village for the witch fest. What a way to get in the mood for Halloween. I think Oaklee ate it up. She has always loved to have her picture taken and kissing the witch was the best.