The Wisers

Family Update....

2011-06-12T21:23:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick or not so quick update on the fam......

JOSIE

Graduated from kindergarten

Had the cutest friends and a great teacher

I still can't believe she is reading

She loved school and misses it and her friends

Loves to play on the computer

She is mom's best helper

Oh...and she rode the goat...cuz that's how we roll...haha
PAYTON

where to begin...

most recent conversation

Payton: Mom if I tell you what I did will I get hot sauce?

Mom (very frightened): No...what did you do?

Payton: So I won't get hot sauce?

Mom: Tell me what you did....NOW!

Payton: When I pee, I pee on the wall

Mom: Come on lets go clean it up...

five minutes pass while mom and son scrub walls and floors of bathroom

mom begins lecture

Mom: Payton you cannot pee on the wall or you will have to pee sitting down. All pee must go inside the toilet. If you miss you must clean it up. Do you understand?

Payton (staring at mom intently): Mom what color are your eyes? I think they are a pretty color.

Mom(gives up): Payton go to bed.

Payton: Mom do I get hot sauce?

Mom: No Payton. Go to bed. I love you.

And who else in the world gets love notes from their son on a tulip leaf????

That is soooo Payton.....

HAYLEE

Haylee's current favorite sayings:

I'm hungry

Mom I'm hungry

Dat's boring (when I tell her to go to sleep)

Your greasy (if anyone passes gas)

Oopsey dupsey

She loves her little Zaners

Must get cereal ASAP in the morning or all H*$$ breaks loose

And you better put it in the right color of bowl

Loves to go to work with her Daddy

And still loves treats!

ZANE

Growing like a weed (make him stop)

Fussy after eating

Spits up a lot

Beginning to smile and make eye contact

Sleeps well (thank goodness)

MELISSA

Still adjusting to four kids

Searching for a mini-van

Dreading going back to work next week

Thinking about starting to exercise

Really hates the words "I'm hungry"

Loving our simple life

LANDON

Starting to go crazy with recent rainfalls
Getting sick of the rain

Wants the sun to shine
Needs the fields to dry up

Spending lots of extra time with the family ;)

1 month old!!!

2011-05-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

While I was trying to get a picture of Zane, Josie thought this would be a great idea. It actually turned out pretty funny.
I can't believe how time is flying by.

He has started to grin and smile just a bit the past day or two. And he's getting to be quite the chunker.

She Rocks!!!

2011-05-24T14:20:00.000-07:00

Thats right...my sis-in-law Mindy ROCKS. She is an amazing photographer and so talented. You can see more of her work at melindasmithphotography.blogspot.com. Go ahead and check it out! Seriously I even ended up liking my spur of the moment 9 month preggo pics....I don't even know how that is possible! I really liked the texture on this one...wait is that the right work Mindy?? Texture?? Whatever it is that gives that 70ish look - it's cool!

Although I realize I am huge here...I still don't understand how a baby fits in there. It scares me...seriously. Its a freaky, strange, beautiful miracle - just ask Josie.

Picture overload I know....But I just can't decide my favorite. I love them all!

Big Brother

2011-05-22T21:34:00.000-07:00

The best way to get a puppy is to beg for a baby brother - and they'll settle for a puppy every time. ~Winston Pendelton

....well about six puppies later we decided to go with the baby brother. And Payton is loving being the big brother. We can't wait for Zane to grow up and be just like him. No more being girl trapped Payton!!!(That is what Payton says whenever he is the only boy around.)

Blessings, Broken Legs and Babies

2011-04-25T19:04:00.000-07:00

Wow! It has been a busy past few months. Life has been hectic with preparing for the baby, the kids with spring fever (and Landon), working, watching the Jazz and so much more. In March Payton scared the heck out of us. I was working and Landon stopped in at his moms to check on the kids. He decided to leave them there and go home to feed the animals. All of the kids were inside with Patti and Landon left to go home. He began backing up but had to stop at the end of the driveway to wait for some cars to pass. He waited there momentarily and then continued to back out of the driveway and head home. In those few moments while waiting for the cars to pass Payton had decided he wanted to go with his dad. So Payton snuck out of the house and ran out the the truck without Landon ever seeing him. The truck began moving and Payton grabbed onto the ranch bumper of Landon's truck. He was low enough that Landon could not possibly see him. Landon continued to go home driving approximately 55 mph. A neighbor of Patti's was outside and could hear someone screaming. He was able to catch a glimpse of Payton hanging there and immediately jumped in his car in hopes of catching Landon before something tragic occurred. He said he could see Payton's little feet bouncing off of the road, but was never able to get close enough to Landon to stop him. Landon continued driving about two miles to Halls gas station and went to turn. A woman was at the stop sign and started waving her hands to get Landon's attention. Landon was so confused but pulled over and jumped out of his truck. He was shocked to see Payton hanging there crying. There is no explanation of how Payton was able to hang on. The bottom of his socks and pants were shredded...he was not wearing any shoes. But there was not a scratch or mark on his feet. A tender mercy without a doubt. There were so many how's and why's that still cannot be answered. The next night we were reading scriptures as a family in Second Nephi. I don't remember the chapter but I remember reading Nephi's testimony and conviction that we are in the mercy of our Heavenly Father and we must not trust in the arm of the flesh, but in our Heavenly Father. Never have I felt so strongly about this principle. We are so thankful that we still have Payton in our lives. I believe that he has a purpose and Heavenly Father has a plan for him. A family friend Ron Mumford also compared Payton's experience to holding to the Iron Rod. It is not an easy task, but we must hold on...through all afflictions and adversity. When Payton showed me how he was hanging on my stomach dropped...it is still unbelievable to me. As for Payton he was shook up for about an hour and then on to being a little boy...climbing ladders and asking Landon of next time he could ride on the back of the truck. Ahhhhh!!!! Boys will be boys!

About a week before my due date I got home from work and we were all spending time outside because it was FINALLY a nice spring day. The kids were loving it. Josie climbed up on the trampoline, jumped about three times and then I saw her land very awkwardly..to me it almost looked like she hyper extended her knee. She immediately went down and started moaning. I tried to get her to walk it off, but she refused to put any weight on it. Patti took her inside to lay her down. A few minutes later I came in and she was pale and sleepy....exactly how she was when she broke her arm. We took off her tights and and could see her leg beginning to swell below the knee. A few minutes later we were on our way to Instacare. After waiting a few hours, x-rays were taken and it was determined her leg was broken. I was soooo in denial!! I looked at the doctor and asked how she would get around and he looked at me and said 'You will carry her'. Um...I'm having a baby next week. He also said she would probably not be able to go to school for a few weeks. We were so bummed! She did not enjoy her first week on the couch. The next week we got her a walker and she has been much happier. So much for her being my little helper with the baby...ha. So now she's our little grandma with the walker. She has even decorated it with ribbons and buttons...the girl has still got to have some style. Today was her first day back at school and she is doing great.
The last few months of pregnancy were not great for me. I guess I'm getting older or something, but I was so uncomfortable this time. To top it all off I had this terrible itching on my hands and feet. So bad I couldn't sleep. About the only thing that gave me relief was to put my hands in ice cold water. My doctor thought it may be my liver not functioning correctly and releasing bile salts into my blood stream. The bad thing was there wasn't anything I could do for it other than have the baby. When 39 weeks came around we decided to have an induction. We were instructed to call Tuesday morning at 4 a.m. I called and they were too busy and they didn't slow down the entire day so we had no luck Tuesday. Wednesday we started calling at 6 a.m. and they were still busy. We finally got called in at 2:30 p.m. Overall everything went well and our baby boy was born at 10:50 p.m. The kids were so excited for their little brother they came to see him that night. It was fun to see their excitement and joy. They all love him so much. Payton has been especially excited to have a little brother.

Zane Landon Wiser

7 lbs 8 oz

21 inches !!

Happy Easter!

APRIL FOOLS UPDATE!

2011-04-04T13:51:00.000-07:00

So I forgot to post that I am still very pregnant and there is no BUD WISER here!!! I am feeling so bad that everyone actually believed me on April Fools Day...although Landon thinks its hilarious. We've still got a few weeks to go and thank goodness because I am so not ready!!!

WELCOME BABY WISER!!!!!

2011-04-01T13:50:00.000-07:00

Bud Larry Wiser

7lb 2 oz

20 inches

Apparently the Dr. visit sent things into motion yesterday. It was a crazy night but oh so worth it in the morning!!! In the rush we forgot the camera...luckily we had a cell phone. Mom and baby are doing great. We will have more updates later.

Oh.....and YAY for Spring weather!!!!!

First Day of School....

2010-09-02T15:38:00.000-07:00

Seriously can't believe this day has come......
A few years ago I was so ready for one of my kids to head off to school, but now that it is really time I have totally been dragging my feet. Never imagined it would be so hard for me to let her go. She is so happy and excited. Just growing up too fast!!!!

SEE WHAT I MEAN?!?!?!?!?!

As soon as we had turned the corner from the school Haylee said 'miss Josie' and I said 'me too'. So Haylee, Payton and I headed to the park to keep us from crying.

For Landon, Marti, and Hannah.....

2010-07-22T18:46:00.000-07:00

And whomever else thinks that my sabbatical from blogging should be over.......

I am so sporadic in everything else that I do...you guys should know that blogging would be no different. But Landon says since I don't write in my journal often enough that I need to atleast keep a record on our blog. So I guess the next few posts will be a quick catch up of spring and summer..WOW they really flew by! Time flies when you're having fun. We have actually had a pretty low key spring and summer, just spending lots of time outside. Landon has been working a lot, he's much busier in the summer than winter. I've been working about the same and have been struggling....it might be getting closer to the time that I should just stay home and be a mom....but then again the break might be good for me...and the money is definitely good....but staying home actually sounds sweeter than it's probably ever sounded to me right now....but we will see. Can you see my indecisiveness. Yes, it's bad! Josie is getting ready for school. I thought after having 3 kids so close together I would be more than ready for one to go to school, but I'm dragging my feet and trying to hang on to her. She is so sweet. Never wants to get in trouble. Complete opposite of Payton. Always getting in trouble, not really caring, and throwing annoying little fits. I'm still hoping it's just a stage. Haylee is so cute and funny I just want to hold her all day, but she's too busy for that. She loves shoes, gum, and money. She takes a purse about everywhere we go. It's a constant battle. It seems that every old lady I run into tells me that they would give anything to have the days of young motherhood back. I think they are crazy, but am trying to take some of their advice and enjoy the ride. I see some of the moments that I want to freeze in time and I relish in those moments.

Little Red Riding Hood

2010-06-04T14:01:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it is already here!!!!! Poor Spring weather has definitely made it a challenge to train. But ready or not here it comes. Tomorrow is Little Red Riding Hood. My first organized bike ride. We are aiming for the Century....yes that is 100 miles. Now lets just hope the weather will cooperate for us. Little Red Riding Hood is a continuing tradition that helps to raise money for Women's Cancer Research. I will be riding in remembrance of Britt....my dear cousin and friend that passed away after a long battle of cancer this past year. She was inspiring in so many ways but most of all she had amazing strength and perseverance. I love you Britt!!!!!

Dance Recital

2010-03-06T11:06:00.000-08:00

Josie did so great this year at the dance recital and wouldn't you know it...I thought the video cam was recording...but it wasn't. So bummed!!!! Good thing we got a few pics!

Emma

Maddie

All the Wiser girls posing

My Baby is Growing Up!!!

2010-03-06T10:50:00.000-08:00

Haylee had a birthday a few months ago and continues to change daily. She makes us laugh a lot. She is full of all kinds of spunk. She is talking more each day. We laugh at her grumpiness every morning, but by afternoon....I am not laughing at it anymore. She loves Elmo, reading her dad's farm/horse magazines, food (especially cereal and ice cream) and dancing. We are trying to convince her that she is a big girl and ready to go on the potty but she adamantly refuses to be a big girl and says 'Me baby'.

How much is that Doggie in the Window???

2010-02-11T22:43:00.000-08:00

Puppies for sale: Look at these adorable little things, with their big beautiful eyes and long floppy ears. And just by coming to visit me, you can take one of them home with you today! Or if you prefer a different breed I can probably get you one of those, chances are we will have it! (Oh boy Landon is going to kill me if he ever reads this...sshhh) These puppies are cute little things and Payton will be sad to see them go, but we all know they don't stay cute little puppies forever!

Snow much fun!!!!

2010-02-11T22:33:00.000-08:00

I swear it has been freezing here this year!!! And foggy...ugh!!! Anyhow we have managed to make it into the outdoors on a few days. The kids love to get out there! I think that November-January is plenty long for winter and motion that it be done....anyone with me here????

Happy Birthday Pete!!

2010-01-17T18:36:00.000-08:00

I somehow missed the blogging of Payton's Birthday. It came a little too quickly after Christmas. It's hard not to love Payton...he definitely has a unique personality. Oh so sweet and when he bats his big blue eyes at you it makes you melt.

Right now he is into dinosaurs, plants (yes plants), combines, Thomas the train and Lightening McQueen. Although his birthday present was a basketball hoop. I think it's time we worked on some physical coordination with him.

I don't usually do too much for a party for my kids on their birthdays. But this year for Paytons we had family in town visiting so we had everyone over for dinner and cake. It was a really fun night and the cousins had a blast together.

2009-12-24T08:26:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!!!!!

Hope everyone has a great Christmas. It looks like we are finally 'wrapping' things up around here. We survived all the family Christmas parties. I've made it past the guilt that I was receiving from every Christmas card that came in the mail, knowing that I had not sent any this year. And lets be honest it was the same thing with all of the neighbor gifts as well. I'm not sure why but this Christmas season we have been in survival mode. We have had some great moments as a family to reflect on the true reason for the season. On the nights that we have actually been home we have sat around the Christmas tree at night and been able to read Christmas stories and sing songs. It does seem to be a challenge to help the kids realize that the birth of our Saviour gives us much more joy than Santa could ever dream of. I love this time of the year it and the opportunity it gives each of us to remember the true divinity of Jesus Christ.

Christmas Dinner at my mom and dads

She needs to STOP growing up....

2009-11-14T21:54:00.000-08:00

Oh Jo-Jo look at you ..... all grown up. Seems like yesterday we were bringing you home from the hospital. You are such a sweet thing. Josie you make me laugh everyday....every single day. You have a very fun personality. You are also one tough chic, I don't think I will have to worry about you standing up to anyone. Thank you for being such a great big sister. I love to listen as you sing to Haylee each night. You spoil Haylee more than any of us, you are always worried about her feelings being hurt. I hope that you and Payton can continue to be best friends. You are my big helper and I am so thankful for you. You still love your Nana more than anything...I'm guessing you are going to grow up to be a shopper just like her. Your family loves you so much, thanks for bringing sunshine into our lives!!!

Happy 5th Birthday!!!!!

For Pants....

2009-11-06T10:31:00.000-08:00

1. Jump-roping
2. Mixed Nuts
3. The Middle

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!

2009-10-31T08:58:00.000-07:00

Nana had her annual Halloween Party and the kids all loved it. Some of the festivities were eating Mummy-dogs, carving pumpkins and frosting sugar cookies. Here we are at the neighbors pumpkin patch looking for the perfect pumkins.

The Witches....at Gardners Village

2009-10-31T08:48:00.000-07:00

Gangsta' Girls

Going to the Zoo with the Zoo....

2009-10-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

Savoring one of the last beautiful days of fall Hannah, Rachel, Holly and I decided to brave the crowds and take all the kids to Hogle Zoo. The weather was amazing. It was a really fun day. There were a lot of baby animals and that made it fun...baby animals are so much cuter. The day actually went well considering we had seven kids under the age of four. Holly even managed to save some poor lost child, we were all surprised she gave him back to his mom.

Josie and Payton chattin' it up with some monkeys...much to Annie's dismay.

Strange creatures I tell you....

Zuri - the baby elephant

Haylee was fine the entire time at the Zoo, EXCEPT at the elephants. I don't know why but she had a total breakdown there.

Haylee hanging on for dear life...

Tony Grove Lake

2009-10-30T11:46:00.000-07:00

Keeping the Tony Grove Lake Autumn Tradition

Anniversary Pack Trip

2009-10-26T20:48:00.000-07:00

This summer every Wednesday we would meet with friends and the boys would all rope. We had a great time and some great barbeque's. In August the group that we had been meeting with to go roping decided they were going on a pack trip to the Tetons. Landon and I thought there was no way we would ever be able to go...with missing work and figuring out what to do with the kids. Leaving the kids was my biggest concern. One day I was talking to my sister, Holly, and she said she would be more than happy to come and spend the week with our kids. And so we decided what the heck...lets do it. The first year we were married we were getting ready to go on a pack trip and Landon's boss broke his leg a few days before we were supposed to leave...so here we are eight years later and we finally made it on a pack trip!!!!
We left late one afternoon and drove up past Jackson Hole. It took us a lot longer than it should have due to a few trailer issues, but that is just our luck...we are use to it. So sometime after midnight we pulled the four trucks and trailers into the parking lot at the trail head. After taking care of the horses everyone pulled out their sleeping backs and slept under the stars...um everyone but me I decided I was going to sleep in the truck for one last WARM night. The next morning started early as everyone started to pack the horses and get ready. It takes a lot of work to accomplish this...especially with 20+ horses.

Papa Norda ready to head out. He has been going up to the Tetons for many years with his family. It has always been a family tradition for them and someday I hope we will be able to take our kids. I don't think we would have had any idea what to do without him.

Here is one of the half lingers, there names are Gib and Lyle...for real. I had to watch one of their fat butts almost the whole ride in.

The ride in was amazing. The wild flowers were beautiful. There weren't just a few patches of them...they were all around us the entire ride. It was a 5+ hour ride. Apparently when you ride back in there you are basically the farthest away from a road that you can be. I was worried that our whole trip was going to be cold, but I actually got hot that day. We rode through so many amazing spots. Landon was cursing the whole way...he forgot his fishing pole!!!

Eating some grub. The food was great the whole trip. Everyone helped out with the meals and cleaning up. Each night we would have to hang all of the food in a tree so bears would not come into camp. Thankfully we did not see any bears nor wolves...the men were all a bit disappointed.

Leo lost a "bet" and had to wear this beauty the entire trip.

The blessed pot of hot water for all of the hot chocolate!!!

Wade and Lily

Day 2 of no showering...eek!!

Hayden getting a little impatient with the fish up at Crater Lake

Landon relaxing at the Lake

Check out the fish we were pulling out of that Lake!!!

Ty reeling in one of his many catches...he was definitely the fisherman of the day.

Heading back to camp after a day at the lake. About two minutes after this picture we were caught in a hail/rain storm. What a way to end off Day 3 of no shampoo.

Kaleb with his horses
Whitt

I always knew Landon was a mule man...

Moving on to the next campsite...well that was until the snow/rain started and we decided to just head to the trucks and go on a day ride the next day.

Here is most of the crew...oh and those horse ears...they represent me. All in all we had an excellent time. Only one traumatic experience. No bears. I didn't get bucked off. We stayed warm the whole time. Slept on an air mattress. Had plenty to eat. Read a great Lois L'Amour book. It was the perfect vacation for Landon and I. I hoping it becomes a tradition!!! Thank you Holly for making it all possible!!!

Gone are the dog days of summer.....

2009-10-08T20:43:00.000-07:00

Wow I have really slacked off on this blogging thing. You know it is bad when Landon is the one telling me it is time to update. Well summer has come and gone but we sure enjoyed it while it lasted. Even the weather was great this summer, it never seemed to get too hot. The kids loved to be able to be outside all summer and I am definitely going to miss that come winter.

Below is a random collection of photos of some of the great times this summer. Nothing amazing- just a bunch of those little moments that you hope you can remember forever...remember how the sun felt, and the funny thing that one of the kids said, or how we all were laughing together.

Playing down by the river

All the girls

Isn't he hot?

We also got to spend lots of time with family and I loved loved loved every minute of it.

Cooper riding Bulls-eye while staying at our house

Annie Pie

Mother and Daughter

Peace in the Streets

Molly Sunshine

Hayden - what a stud!

Payton tried to brave the ride and in this picture he actually looks like he is enjoying it, but after a crying fit they finally stopped the ride and let him get off for the second half of it. Josie loved every second of it.

Haylee enjoying the 4th

Grandma and Grandpa Wiser with Taije

Sweet Maddie

Emma

Sarah and Grandpa sporting their new do's

Taije on the pony

A glimpse of the garden and my amazing Arbor that Landon built me for Mothers Day.

I've always wanted one and I LOVE it!!

Haylee pickin' peas and packin' Baby Larry

Father and Son

Oh Goodness this is really making me miss those summer days....

The whole Fam -Damily at the Park Valley Rodeo in which Landon was a contestant.

Catching Up on Summer and with Friends (Phase II)

2009-07-19T15:57:00.001-07:00

“Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget.”

It is fun to get together with old friends. I love seeing how we have all changed and how some things will never change.

Rachel's baby Whitney
Mindy's oldest- Travis

Mindy's baby Tanner

Payton, Josie and Ryder going for a cruise

Payton barebackin' the purple dinosaur

Rachel's oldest -Ryder

Catching Up on Summer (Phase I)

2009-07-19T15:23:00.000-07:00

So flashback a few months and bear with me the next few posts as I finally blog our summer. Way back in May/June we went on our annual family bear hunt. It is becoming a great tradition and we have a fun time seeing friends from the year before. We we headed out one late afternoon as we were hoping to make it with plenty of light to spare. Little did we know what was in store for us. One member of our caravan, which included 1 camp trailer and 2 horse trailers, got a flat tire. It ended up being on a horse trailer. It was late Friday night and it ended up that the bearing was shot and we had no where to go. Here is everyone assessing the situation.

Without many options and a trailer full of horses we decided to lighten the load a bit and move some of the horses into the other horse trailer and Spanish Fork canyon highway.
All went well and we continued on our trek, but much later than anticipated with light fading fast. It was very dark we when finally made it to camp.

Anyhow the rest of the trip went relatively well and it only rained once. The kids had a grand ole' time getting dirty and playing hard.

Payton was in heaven because all of the wild flowers were blooming everywhere. He LOVES flowers, more importantly he LOVES to Pick flowers and this way he could pick his little heart out.

Josie was reunited with her friend Livvy and they played together from sun up to sun down. Thank goodness they had each other because they were surrounded by boys.

Haylee posing while on our hike.

Don't you just love it when your kid is being the angry brat and the other one is full of sweetness!

Yep that's right...I even made it on a horse ride with Landon.

Oh and no bear....again, but that's totally OK with me!

Dance-Spring 2009

2009-06-11T20:37:00.000-07:00

Josie was not going to miss her dance recital for anything...even the broken arm. She was thrilled to be sporting her purple cast with sparkles. We get a kick out of the dance recitals all the little girls are so cute!!!

OK you might have to blow this picture up...but there is something in it that is cracking me up...yep I'm pretty immature!

Has it seriously been a month?!?!

2009-05-25T22:14:00.000-07:00

Josie is becoming quite the artist. She loves to draw and I love that she is able to be entertained. This was her first family portrait and I love it...I love everything about it....from Landon's glasses to the addition of Grandma on the far right!!! Unfortunately she recently broke her arm, her left arm and she is left handed. But it hasn't slowed her much...she now draws with her right hand and is continuing to dance. She is one tough cookie.

Payton is busy being all boy. One day he got stuck out in the middle of the garden lot and there was no way I was going to go get him. He was totally content stuck out in that mud. Landon eventually went to save him, only to have Payton throw mud at him...isn't that nice.

Then Payton proceeded to have a little bird bath.

We also got to enjoy a few tulips this Spring for a few days. That was until Payton picked every last one of them. And no he didn't bring his mother a bouquet of flowers...he fed them to the horses.
Payton is loving riding horses. This is him on Zip. Bulls Eye is getting trained and he can't wait to have his own horse.

Haylee stays busy tootling around all day. She likes to mimic everything that we do...kind of like this picture because I crouched down to get a picture and then she had to crouch down also. She is a funny little girl. She loves to sing at church and she is pretty serious about it...it cracks me up. She is finally getting teeth on the top...no more gumming it. Woohoo a total of four teeth!!!

2009-04-25T15:48:00.000-07:00

Last week it rained so much this is what our garden lot looked like. Landon was not so happy because he would like to get some farming done. So after a week of not being able to do much Landon was ready to get out of here, so we headed up to the Salmon Horse Sale and met some friends there. It was so beautiful there. And the weather was great...like 67*... it felt so good to soak it in. The kids were reasonably good on the long drive.

The kids weren't so interested in the sale so I stayed with some of them out in a pasture where the truck and trailer were. The pasture had shiz everywhere...cow, horse... you name it. Josie usually bawls about going to the barn because of the poop, but apparently it didn't have much effect on her here.

I found it humorous that we would sit and eat our lunches here with this sweet little cowpie as the centerpiece...nobody seemed to mind. Gotta love the country life!

Payton awing the boys with his double jointed thumbs up.

Speaking of pies...look at this sweetie pie.

Our friends have seven boys. And this is one of them being so sweet with Haylee.
Ty and Haylee

Gabe

Ty getting ready to do this........

Which leads to this........

All in all it was a fun little break for all of us. I can't believe I didn't get any pictures of the river.
Sunset in Pocatello on the way home...who knew Pocatello could look so beautiful?

Catching Up....

2009-04-15T20:23:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts lately...April is just flying by. The weather has been crazy. We have had a few nice days here and there, but mostly it has been raining or snowing or blowing. A few weekends ago we went to Vernal to see Brandon and Mindy and the Band. We all had a great time. The kids had so much fun playing. And we were all able to relax and listen to conference. Thanks again guys for letting us invade!!!

Landon was in charge of the kids Easter pictures this year while I was cooking and I think he did a pretty good job. It was a fun Easter weekend. We did Easter egg hunts and such on Saturday and got to spend time with our families throughout the weekend. The weather actually cooperated for us so that was nice. I really enjoy Easter. I am so grateful for Jesus Christ and know that through Him we will all be able to live again. What an amazing plan Heavenly Father has for each of us! I really enjoyed teaching more about this to the kids this year. Definitely something to celebrate...He is risen!

Enjoying the sun!

Monday Holly and Adam were so amazingly nice to share some Jazz tickets with us. Most of you know I am slightly crazy about the Jazz...even though they are stinkin it up lately...I've still got the faith! First we went out to dinner to Chipolte...it was so good, I'm still thinking about it. I don't know what my problem was but I didn't take my camera to the game, so Landon's phone will have to do. We were on the tenth row...it was so much fun!

So the Jazz won, but the most exciting news of the night was finally making it onto the Jumbo Tron. Not once....but twice!!!! Adam and Landon were dying...it was great. Thanks Holly for being my Bongo Drum partner!

Random pic here...

Landon and I celebrating the win!!!!

Snapping a shot of the Bear right before he sprayed me down.

Fireproof

2009-03-27T16:25:00.000-07:00

I just want to give a shout out to the movie "Fireproof". It was a great reminder for couples and their marriage. It made me want to be a better wife. So if you get a chance watch it!! It might not be the best acting, but the message is great!

My Heart is Smiling

2009-02-11T07:50:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning to Payton giving Haylee and I kisses. Landon had left early and I was trying to sleep in a bit. The last few days have been hectic. Yesterday alone, I left at 7:30 am and got home at 8:30 pm. Wednesdays are the days where it is time to get the house back in order and it is time for me to love my kids. Anyhow I was tired and Haylee was miraculously still sleeping, so I sent Payton downstairs, hoping that he would find something to do.

Ten minutes later I talked myself into getting my behind out of bed. I came downstairs to find Payton sitting quietly, waiting patiently for me to get up. A surge of guilt went through me. It was a quiet morning. Payton and Haylee sat and ate breakfast together. And we all kept singing little songs. Payton was making Haylee laugh by grinning his little smile, flashing his beautiful blue eyes and singing repeatedly "Haylee Megan, Haylee Megan, Haylee Megan". For some reason Payton has always used Haylee's full name.

Some of you don't know, but when I was 17 I had a sister named Megan who died in a car accident. She had just turned 19. Wow it is still so hard to write that, it always has been. We were and are still a very close family. It always bugs me that my husband and my kids don't know Megan.

I want them to know her.

I want them to know how funny she was.

I want them to know how great she was.

I want them to feel her friendship and love.

Like I did.

I have talked to Josie about her quite a bit. I tell her little stories. I tell her that we laid in bed together laughing and talking all the time. I tell her that we rode our bikes almost every night in the summers together. I've taken her to the cemetery with me. And she knows who Megan is.

Well this morning as Payton was singing Haylee Megan, I tried to explain that I used to have a sister named Megan. He didn't quite understand, he said "Yes she is right there, Haylee Megan."

I said "No, when I was a little girl I had a sister named Megan."

He sat for a moment contemplating and then calmly said "Ya we saw her."

"No Payton we didn't, Megan died."

"Died?" Payton stood firm, "We saw her."

Now I was really interested. "Where did you see her?"

"Remember we saw her where the rainbow lights were on the bushes."

I was so confused. Was this some psychedelic dream Payton had dreamed? Was this a dream about the pot at the end of the rainbow?

Payton said" I saw Megan when we saw the rainbow lights on the bushes and trees."

I stood there still so confused and Payton was trying so hard for me to understand. Then he repeated it again "I saw Megan when we saw the rainbow lights on the bushes and trees" but then he added "at the temple mom, remember?" Suddenly it hit me. This winter for our family Christmas party we went to the Salt Lake Temple to see the lights. It was a great night! Mom and Dad planned it to remind all of us how important the temple is, especially the Salt Lake Temple because that is where our family began.

It was all making sense now. I had forgotten that Payton had called colored Christmas lights Rainbow lights. "Payton, did you see Megan when we went to the temple?"

"Yes she was behind me."

"She was????"

"Yes, with Jesus."

Tears were filling my eyes and beginning to spill over. "Payton did she talk to you?"

"Nope she just walked by me."

Thank you Payton for reminding me how special kids are. Thank you for reminding me how close each of us walk with Jesus. I feel completely renewed. I want to be a better mother. I want to be a better person. Thank you Payton for sharing your light with me!

Recent (or not so recent) Happenings

2009-02-08T14:07:00.000-08:00

**WARNING: This Post Is Very Long**

It's cold here....Look at our poor horse.

And it has been very foggy? smoggy? from the dreaded Cache Valley inversion .

Landon was going to go Mountain Lion hunting by himself...(and I worry a lot when he does that) and I was needing some air and exercise so I tagged along.
Our engagement pictures were taken right there by that bridge, but in July. We hiked a few miles to get to this point then....
Landon told me this is where we would continue hiking....straight up the cliff side.
Looking down on the way up. I proved to be a better rock climber than Landon, but he did a better job going down. I mostly slid on my butt the whole way down.

Eating lunch at the top. It was a beautiful day. We ditched our coats about five minutes after we started. Unfortunately we forgot sunscreen!

Cinder our new puppy...she's 6 months old.

Landon showing off the shed he found.

A few weeks ago I had the week of work off and my kids and I need to see some new scenery so we headed down to Holly's house for some fun. The kids were great the whole time!

I totally lucked out and got to spend the night with Britt's kids while Brittany and Steven went to the Jazz game. I always wish I knew what I could do for Britt so I was so happy to finally do something to help her out. Her kids are so great. The girls had a ball and it was fun for Payton to finally have a boy to play with.

Look at these silly girls!

On another day we met a friend of mine from college at the Kangaroo Zoo. It's is like a big gym full of inflatable slides and trampolines.

Here is an example.

Josie and Avery on the turtle.

Josie entering the frog house.

Payton trying to be brave on the big slide.

Pete on the dino.

Haylee was nervous around all the inflatable creatures and stayed in this position 90% of the time.

The Crew: Josie, Payton, Me, Haylee, Avery, Steph, J.J.

Thanks for finally meeting up with us Stephanie!!!!

Happy Happy Birthday Haylee Dear

2009-01-31T08:20:00.000-08:00

Somebody HELP me please!!! My baby is growing up too fast!

Pigtails and walking.....I just can't take it.

Haylee is such a cutie! She is always making us smile

Haylee LOVES to sing. If you start singing she is bound to join in.

So when we all sang Happy Birthday she was right there with us singing along.

Mmm...Mmm Good
Holly and I once again made our Homemade Ding Dongs

I threw this picture in for Hannah...We finally tried some Baby Legs

Sweet Pea Creative Dance Recital

2009-01-31T08:00:00.000-08:00

Josie had her dance recital this week and as you can tell she was sooooo excited. My sis-in-law, Cristy Wiser and a friend started a little dance company this year called Sweet Pea and it has been so great. I had Josie in another dance class but it seemed like a bit too much (the costumes were over $50) so I was so excited when Cristy started Sweet Pea. It seems much more relaxed and more geared for younger girls right now and as one of my friend says "without the sexy moves". Anyhow dancing is really not my thing, but Josie has loved it and everyone enjoyed the fun recital. This is total picture overload....but if anyone knows Josie they know she loves to be the star of the show!!!!!

Josie's Solo

Cousins - Emma and Josie

Cowboy Up!!

2009-01-11T10:49:00.000-08:00

Like Father....Like Son

Roasting Marshmallows-Payton got a camping playset

Sweet and SourHaylee getting in on the camping fun

Doh!

2009-01-11T10:44:00.000-08:00

Notice a few differences?????

Merry Christmas!!!!

2008-12-27T12:50:00.000-08:00

This year we decided to spend the night at my parents for Christmas. It was a lot of work, but well worth it. We had such a great time with Tanner, Leisha, Holly, Adam, Mom, Dad and Grandpa. We enjoyed mom's great traditional candle lit dinner and then reading and reenacting the Nativity. It was a fun night filled with Tanner and Josie dancing, Grandpa singing Greensleeves, Christmas music and kids full of excitement.

Spreading some Reindeer Dust

During our Christmas Eve celebration we heard bells and a knock at the door. The kids were excited to find PJ's with a note from the Elves...it was time to go to bed!

All snuggled in....

Tanner's Christmas surprise in his stocking (Leisha I can't believe you!)

She asked for Dorothy shoes....I guess by the look on her face these were close enough

Tea Party with Belle

It's all about trains for this kiddo

Ho! Ho! Ho!

2008-12-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

Santa came to L-town on a firetruck to take orders last Friday. The kids have always been too scared to enjoy it, but this year they couldn't wait!!!!

Josie and Santa reading her letter:
Dear Santa,

I like you. I've been good. Please bring me fingernail polish, teaset, and Dorothy shoes.
Love, Josie

Payton explaining which trains he needs and our great babysitter as the Elf

Birthday Girl!!!

2008-11-17T19:56:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was Josie's Birthday. She has been anticipating this day since September. She had a great day and loved every minute of it. We love having Josie in our family. She is a little tease but always makes us laugh. She loves princesses, reading, tea parties and painting her nails. She loves her little sister so much she can't keep her hands off of her. Her and Payton are little buddies and play and fight and play and fight all day. Isn't that great? This is a picture of her with her favorite person in the world and she's holding the card that her Uncle Cole sent her from his mission. It was definitely a highlight for the day!

More Halloween Fun....Late

2008-11-14T09:14:00.000-08:00

Trunk or Treat in L-town

The Headless Horseman

Arrrgh Matey-Shiver My Timbers

Guess Who?

The Wild Party at moms

Halloween Party!!!

2008-10-27T22:13:00.001-07:00

Patti had an awesome Halloween Party. It was one of the most fun I've been to. We're not usually the type to get into dressing up, but we all had a great time! Patti went all out with a Spook Alley, Carving Pumpkins, a Pinata. Even the food was themed with Mummy Dogs, Goblets with Dripping Blood, Eyeball deviled eggs and more. Thank you Nana for the fun!

Austin Powers

Father and Sons

Austin Powers and Associate

Willy the Pirate

Hazel

Ariel

Kitty, Cheerleader, and the Incredibles (Helen, Bob, Violet and Dash all made an appearance)

The Hostess

Captain Pete

Mad House in the Garage

Power Ranger using his skills on the pinata

Even Grandma and Grandpa couldn't resist getting in on the fun!!!!

Autumn Adventures

2008-10-13T14:07:00.000-07:00

Well apparently Fall is here and we are hoping it will stick around for awhile. The past few days have been freezing so I am dreading Winter already. We've already had snow flurries. Hunting has begun...YeeHaw. Landon was gone last week hunting elk in the Uintas and alas was unsuccessful but had a good time freezing in a teepee dreaming of his bed at home. We did make it up Logan Canyon to enjoy some beautiful views a few weeks ago. We went to Tonys Grove, I can't believe I have never been there. It was great and we will definately be going back. On our way out we saw a deer, bull elk and bull moose all in about 100 yards. The kids thought we were at the zoo.

Time to clean the floors!!!!

2008-09-19T20:23:00.000-07:00

So its official Haylee is crawling. And she's not doing any of the army crawling like Payton, she's on all fours and cruising everywhere. My life just became much more difficult.

Wellsville Mountains

2008-09-14T22:34:00.001-07:00

Google "steepest mountains" and you will get the Wellsville Mountains. Rumor has it they are in the Guinness book of world records. I have always wanted to explore them but everyone has told me they are too steep. So when someone said they were going I jumped right on board. What an awesome adventure! Me, Patti, Jenny and Jenny
View from Wellsville Cone

Elevation: 9356 feet
Patti's victory flag
View of Box Elder County from first summit
The leaves were just starting to change and everything was beautiful and the weather perfect.

Other fun facts about the day:

I had an awesome babysitter and perfect cell phone coverage the entire time.

In this case going up was much easier than going down...the descent was so steep!

I found out that one of the girls I went with is a cousin to a good friend of mine.

There was a 70 year old woman doing the same hike...needless to say she gave me much inspiration.

Hikers are very nice people.

I remembered again how spiritual nature can be.

I forgot sunscreen...so ya I'm red.

I ate everything I took and drank all my water, so I guess I can't be classified as over-prepared.

I was thinking about Hannah most of the time, hoping she was surviving Hurricane Ike.

I'm still struggling with stairs...ouch I'm so sore.

The things kids say....

2008-09-04T21:13:00.000-07:00

Josie: Mom GIVE ME MY YOGURT.
Me: Josie I'm busy and you are not asking nicely
Josie: GIVE ME MY YOGURT!
Me: Josie stop seriously, I will when I'm finished
Josie: You never give me anything like fish, or peacocks, or yogurt!
Josie(holding her thigh): Mom I'm getting skinny.
Me: Oh no!
Josie: I think I better eat some cereal.
Me: I think you're ok
Josie: Are you skinny?
Me: No I'm kinda chubby.
Josie: Oh I don't want to be chubby like you and Haylee

Dad: Josie give me a kiss on the cheek
Josie: Let me kiss you with my foot

Me: Josie you can't ever grow up
Josie: But why?
Me: Because I want you to stay little forever and be my little girl. I don't want you to grow up and go to school or move away. I don't want you to grow up.
Josie: But mom I need to.
Me: Why?
Josie: Cuz I need to reach things.

Me: Josie eat your dinner, it's good.
Josie: No it's sick
Me: Payton likes it. Huh Payton it's good?
Payton: Uh Huh, it's good Josie
Josie: No it's sick
Payton: You're tupid

Driving past our church
Grandma: Payton there's you're church
Payton: Hate it
Grandma: What?
Payton: Hate church
Grandma: No you don't
Payton: Hate it
Grandma: Do you like to learn about Jesus?
Payton: Ya....

Clearly we need to work on Payton's language, seems how yesterday at the park he used a bad word like 50 times. I was so embarrassed! And just to defend myself he was trying to say witch....Oh and you know how he used to repeat all the animals sounds at church...Now he likes to identify all the animals behinds in all the books and then say "Bum" and then laugh...sorry to everyone who sits next to us. I usually apologize before the meeting just so they know what they are getting themselves into.

Camping with the Family

2008-08-25T20:19:00.001-07:00

Miracles do happen....the partial Smith Family went camping. It was spur of the moment, close to home, but so fun! I've decided mom and dad need a little more practice camping...I think mom forgot 90% of what she was supposed to bring..haha. Dad entertained us that night with his guitar..sorry bro's and sis's who weren't there you missed out. We made up some songs...I think the hit of the night was "You look good in your brother's shirt". Twin Lakes
Some say they look alike....whats your vote?

Oh see that boy laying in the dirt...yep thats Payton and dirt is one of his favorite things. He wanted to sleep their all night...in fact I think he might have fallen asleep there.

Haylee and Josie all tucked in.
Josie and Payton spent the morning entertained by a few eggs. They kept building nests for them and waiting for them to hatch.
Haylee's first piece of licorice.

Camping with the Kiddo's

2008-08-25T20:04:00.000-07:00

Well we finally went camping. Summer is coming to an end and we decided we better get some camping in before it was long gone. We planned this great little trip to Willow Flats but....things just wouldn't go right. The trailer lights wouldn't work which made Landon unhappy and then the wife got testy and Landon got more unhappy and then the kids locked the camper door with the keys inside. This made nobody happy. Eventually we got headed out on the road to a closer destination...High Creek.
Five minutes after we pulled in it started pouring... and it kept pouring and pouring and thundering and lightening. It was crazy...so we spent the rest of the night inside the camper. The kids thought it was great. The next morning it was beautiful.
Here's Landon checking out his muscles, he claims he was looking at the river. Ya right!! Haha Landon maybe this will inspire you to update the blog!!!!

West Side Class of 98'

2008-08-15T14:03:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe it has been 10 years since I graduated from highschool. We had a little reunion at the Dayton Park and it was fun to see some old friends that I never get to see anymore. We had a good time reminiscing and hearing what everybody it up to. Here's me and some of the old peeps.

My very good friend Bryce with his soon to be wife Lissa. We are so excited for them!

This is about how much fun Landon had.

Ryder and Rachel

2008-08-15T13:42:00.000-07:00

Rachel's husband was out of town a few weeks ago so her and Ryder came to visit. It was so nice to have an adult around to talk to and the kids had fun playing. One of the days we took a ride on the ranger down to the river and the kids play around for a bit.
The last night that she was here we went to the Famous Preston Night Rodeo and Parade. It was a lot of fun. Here's Josie and Payton anticipating an exciting ride on the Carousel.
Landon having a joyous ride, this is about the only ride he can handle.....haha.
Ryder and Haylee tuckered out while Rachel and I stayed up talking all night.

4th of July

2008-07-20T19:37:00.000-07:00

Bear Lake Reflections

2008-07-06T10:24:00.000-07:00

Tyler and Hayden
Tyler...cast free...Yay!!!!
Tanner and Leisha Sweet Molly
Funny story...Josie came crying to me saying something about mud. Well I saw a little on her face and I said "You're ok, just go and play" Then she turned around and this is what I saw...
Thanks for the mud scalp treatment Molly!!!
Grandma Lynda and Haylee

This what a little wind and water will do to you.
Thanks mom for the great piks!

Annie enjoyed a little licorice
All in all it was a great day! The weather was great and the water was perfect. I hope we keep this tradition. Then we headed over for fresh rasberry shakes...mmm!

First Swim of the Summer

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

It's always interesting to see how your kids will react to the water for the first time swimming in the summer. It was a little cold for Haylee but everyone else loved it!
Thank you Nana for all your help!!! There is no way I could take 3 kids swimming without your help. We love you!!!
Josie was a little water bug. She didn't get out of the pool all day. She was so brave, she even went off the diving board.
The beautiful view from Axtells pool. Thank you Axtells for letting us swim!!!!

Stinging Nettle, A Shiner, and Sitting around a Fire

2008-06-12T20:43:00.000-07:00

After debating over and over again if I could survive camping with 3 under 3 I finally took the plunge and I am so glad I did. Unfortunately Landon was leaving in the middle of the week and I had to work...so I took the kids up later alone. Of course we had a few delays...I left the lights on in our car so the day started with a dead battery and then a potty break at Holly's but other than that it was smooth sailing. The rest is history four wheeling, horseback riding, playing in the water, chasing lizards, smores and so much more.
The bears were clearly in the area, but no luck for Landon.....

It was so beautiful...Here's the boys heading out

We met new friends and had a great time. Their were lots of kids...but even more dogs. The kids entertained themselves the entire time by making a dam for swimming, building a bridge, target shooting, branding their names into wood. I love camping it brings out so much creativity.

Josie had a pal the entire time. Olivia just turned 3 and is about a head taller then Josie....genetics
Payton's favorite activity....throwing rocks into the water....did I mention I hate this activity
Gib, Larry, and Craig made a quick trip up and went riding one day
Landon and Payton
Josie was riding a four-wheeler with a cousin and bumped her cheek on the handle bars. Her cheek immediately started swelling and extended from her ear to her eye...she thought it was great because it was purple.
Haylee chillin' in the shade
Payton exploring...which explains the stinging nettle
We met a lot of new friends and everyone was so nice and helpful. All of the little girls loved Haylee so this helped me out a bunch!!!

Payton learning to rope
Definate signs of a good camping trip....this was about two minutes out of the parking lot

When I Grow UP

2008-06-12T20:40:00.000-07:00

I saw this on a friends blog and these were my results. What do you think????

You Should Be a Doctor

You are practical, sharp, and very intuitive.

Optimistic and energetic, you are a problem solver who doesn't get discouraged easily.

You are also quite compassionate and caring. You make people feel hopeful.

You're highly adaptable and capable. You do well with almost any curve ball life throws at you.

You do best when you:

- Are always learning new subjects

- Use your knowledge to solve problems

You would also be a good therapist or detective.

What Should You Be When You Grow Up?

Happy Birthday Emma

2008-05-28T22:54:00.001-07:00

Bear Hunting Weekend #2

2008-05-28T22:44:00.001-07:00

Heading into the snow
The posse
The Bear, unfortunately too young and too small
Fly in action
Heading home empty handed, but hey at least the snow melted

Summer Fun

2008-05-22T20:46:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true, summer really stopped by here for a few days. Of course it's gone now but lets not try to think about that. It came and I have pictures to prove it.
Josie got attitude...wait she already had that

I got to sit back and let the outdoors entertain the kids
1 Baby
2 Babies
3 Babies

Haylee had a photo shoot....but she got a little tired

Payton learned to mow the lawn

Landon started training his new colt
This is the first day and he almost made it on

Happy Mothers Day to me....

2008-05-08T21:11:00.001-07:00

I'm going to attempt to make a quilt for my bed and I'm so excited. Just think of the hours of entertainment this little stack of material is going to give me, now if I can just find the hours. Today Josie asked if we could paint her fingernails and I said "If we have time." She looked at me like I was stupid and said "We do have time mom, lots, look at all our clocks, see the time." We see things a little differently. Oh, and I still don't have a pattern for the quilt so if anyone has some ideas please share!!!

My Little Vampire

2008-05-08T21:06:00.001-07:00

I'm speechless and a little scared...

Bear Hunting Weekend #1

2008-05-08T20:55:00.001-07:00

Landon drew out a bear tag this year and he is sooooo excited! So am I, doesn't bear meat sound delicious? Do you think it would be good for food storage. Unfortunately weekend #1 was unsuccessful, but Landon did get in some good exercise. I'll keep you posted with future hunts. If you look really closely you can see Hayden and Kaleb following all the hounds.
This was the long hike. They started at the bottom of the canyon and walked all the way up to this ridge.
Landon liked this tree and so do I

Random Thoughts

2008-05-05T21:40:00.000-07:00

*I think I'm a real mom now, I cut off my hair. Yes, I've cut it 3 x's in 3 months. I usually average once a year.

*I work Mondays and Tuesdays. The weather has been beautiful on Mondays and Tuesdays for 3 weeks and sucks the rest of the week...go figure.

*I took charge and bought myself a mothers day gift this year....and it's early.

*Some of my favorite quotes from Josie this week:
"This is not a rocking chair...this is a bed." (while sitting on my bed sunday morning)
"Relationships" and a sigh
"Thanks young lady" in response to me helping her get in her car seat.
"Jesus is nice. Jesus died. Now he lives in the church, but I never see Him."

*I took my kids an a exhausting bike ride tonight....it was about 1/4 mile.

*I'm having issues with my braces. I thought I was almost done and I woke up this morning to a a diastema between my two front teeth. (Diastema: a big fat space)(ok it's small but come on)

*Cinco de Mayo has come and gone with not so much as even an arriba. Last year we partied hard, today I didn't even eat a taco or wear my cinco de mayo shirt.

I am in love with my Snuggle Peach Blossom fabric softner but I think they quit making it. I can't find it anywhere!!!!

I got released from Young Womens. It's sad, but now I don't have to feel guilty about skipping it on Wednesday night to watch the Jazz game.

Elder Wiser

2008-04-30T23:04:00.000-07:00

Landon's youngest brother left on his mission recently and will definately be missed around here. Cole has always been so great with our kids and is always willing to help out. Landon and him have really grown a lot closer the last few years and I'm sure Landon will miss all of the wrestling. We are so excited for Cole and know that he will be an awesome missionary. Cole was set apart as a missionary at Larry and Patti's house and it was such a spiritual experience we are so glad we were able to be there and are so proud of him. We are praying for him everyday!

Elder Wiser

Cook out and Nana and Poppa's a few days before Cole left

Houston with Hannah

2008-04-30T22:26:00.000-07:00

I was so blessed to be able to go and spend some time with my little sister Hannah and her family in Houston. I have missed Hannah so much since they moved back east a few years ago and now Jake got a job in Texas so I guess it will probably be awhile until we will live close again. I regret not spending more time with them when they lived in Logan. Anyhow, I took the plunge and bought the plane tickets to go. I had major anxiety about flying. Not really the flying part, but the part about me with two kids alone flying. Payton stayed home with Landon. He went to work with him everyday and was such a good boy. Now that I'm back he is really missing working with daddy. I missed them both so much while I was gone. Anyhow back to the airplane ride. Luckily Cole, my bro-in-law decided to go to SanDiego at the same time so I got him tickets that were similar to mine so he could help out at the airport. He was so great! Haylee slept almost the whole way there and Josie actually did great. She fell asleep 10 minutes before we landed and I had a hard time waking her up to get off the plane. When we got off the plane and were walking through the airport we looked up to see the Oylers waiting to greet us. Josie and Molly started running towards eachother and then hugged, it was so cute!!! It was really humid the day we got there and Josie kept saying "Mom, I'm sweaty" the whole day it was pretty funny. I thought Houston was great, it was so pretty and green, mind you it was still the frozen tundra here in Utah. The first night Jake and Hannah treated us to Mexican food, it was so good, I can still taste it!! The trip was well worth it and went way too fast. We had fun shopping, playing with the girls, staying up late , picnics, ice cream trucks, cooking, making tutu's (courtesy of Grandma Lynda), playing Wii, going to the zoo and holding eachothers babies. Thank you Oylers for letting me invade your house. And thank you thank you Landon for totally supporting me on this one....I owe you big time hello bear hunting! This is my favorite picture of the trip. Isn't Hannah beautiful and Annie so so cute!!!
Here's chubby wubby Haylee in her sun hat.

We loved having the warm weather. Hannah says it was chillier than usual but if felt good to us. Molly loved her whale pool. The water was so cold and she was shaking, but she didn't want to get out.
Annie taking a dip

Josie and I had our first experience with a Wii. Josie played racing cows and I kicked Hannah and Jakes behind in a game of bowling. Ya I got skills
Fun at the Zoo

The Oylers + Josie

Sista's and Babies

Love and Miss you Hannah!
Haylee and Annie

I'm back!!!!

2008-04-30T22:12:00.000-07:00

So I don't know where I have really been, but somehow life has kept me soooo busy. Nothing too exciting....kids, travel (that was the most exciting), work. Tonight I finally tried out the whole Redbox thing. The kids watched Alvin and the Chipmunks earlier today and then tonight Landon and I watched Juno. So it's a pretty crazy movie, reminded me of good old Napoleon Dynamite. I must be overly emotional because I actually cried. Holly told me earlier today that it made her cry but I rarely have emotions about movies so I thought I was home free. And I'm sure we cried about different things. As most or all of you know the show is about a pregnant teenager and some other wierd happenings. But anyhow when it got to the part where she is actually giving birth I broke down. It was reminding me how hard the whole process of having a baby is and then to think of a little 16 year old doing it. Hello, I'm 27 and struggle. Teen pregnancy that is a scary thing and its happening...all the time.
Wow this is a wierd post. Well I'll post more and let you know what we've been up to.

Flaming Gorge/Red Canyon Lodge

2008-04-06T14:22:00.000-07:00

Yes, we actually did it. I'm a little late posting it because this week has been crazy. We headed out last Friday and drove many hours going through Morgan, Evanston, Manilla (yes some pretty exciting places) and onto Flaming Gorge. Actually the drive was great. Our kids are so good in the car so we are pretty blessed. We saw a moose, deer, antelope, bald eagle, elk, and turkey on our trip so we were quite entertained. It was so beautiful there. This is passing on a bridge right before getting to the dam.
I am now realizing that I didn't do a very good job of documenting the trip with pictures although we did use our video camera quite a bit. Here is Payton he thought he was such a big boy.

Thats Haylee all bundled up in the baby sling.
Walking along the bridge and checking out all the fish. I couldn't believe how clear the water was and all the fish. It was awesome. Landon and I are planning on returning someday to float down the river together and fish.

Brandon and Landon went fishing and I begged them to bring me back a fish, I have the best husband!!!! Other than a little meltdown while eating out and Mindy losing her wedding band (which she found this week) we had a great weekend. The kids had so much fun playing with their cousins. My favorite part a puzzle contest that Tyler and I had, which he ended up winning because my puzzle was missing a piece. Thank you Aubrey for helping so much with the kids. And thank you Tyler and Cooper for sharing all your toys. We can't wait to do it again! On our way home we went to Vernal to see Brandon and Mindy's new house. It was so cute and fit them perfectly. Here's Mindy, Haylee and Me. Doesn't Mindy look great holding a baby?
We made it back Sunday evening and then Monday I was back to work, it was pretty rough. So here we are back to normal life for a bit. Now I am getting ready for the next big trip to go see Hannah. I'm so excited, but so nervous. Wish me luck!

Easter Sunday

2008-03-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

We had a awesome Easter Sunday. Landon's little brother Cole is getting ready to go on his mission to Peoria Illinois and was speaking in church so we went ahead and blessed Haylee the same day since most of our family would be around. Cole did such a good job speaking, he will be a great missionary. My cousin Bessie also spoke so it was fun to be there. They both spoke on faith, something that I think we all can use more of. We need to replace our fear with faith. Their ward had a youth orchestra, it was amazing, they played an arrangement of I Believe in Christ. Hayden and Caleb Smith were in it, they both play the violin. The last two speakers spoke of Christ and the Resurrection. We are so blessed. Because of Christ's sacrifice we can all, through Him, return to our Heavenly Father. My mind was on Megan throughout most of the day and I know that one day we will see her again. I am so grateful for Heavenly Fathers plan. It was a special day and perfect day for Haylee Megan to receive her name. A glimpse of Haylee smiling
Aunt Holly made her the perfect bracelet to go with the dress The beautiful dress that my mom made
Attempting a family picture with 3 under 3, who are we kidding?

My mom and Haylee
Sharing the Wisdom.
This is one of my favorite pictures of the day. My Grandpa started showing off his false teeth to these young boys and they sat and talked with him for quite awhile. It was fun to listen to my grandpa share stories with them. The past few years, since my grandma passed away, it has been difficult to watch him suffer the loss. A moment like this reminds me of what a special personality he has. He always has a joke to tell, a poem to recite, and a song to sing. As I was walking away one of the boys said 'so how old are you anyways.' It was so cute. I'm sure my grandpa loved it.

Later in the afternoon we had a little Easter egg hunt with the Wisers

When Payton was a baby we took a picture just like this one on Easter. As Grandpa would say "Oh how they grow."

Easter puppy?

2008-03-22T16:01:00.000-07:00

Landon and Payton went and got a puppy today and suprisingly she is pretty cute. What is even cuter is watching Payton play with her. He already has scratches all over is face, just in time for pictures at the blessing tomorrow.

I had to throw this one in so Hannah could see the new haircut and as always there's Josie the little Princess.

Pictures of Baby

2008-03-19T15:03:00.000-07:00

Probably not the baby you were looking for, but how cute is this little guy? Here is Haylee.....7 weeks old....time flies by so fast
Check out those chubby cheeks
These are her running shoes

Josie and Payton love their little sister and have been doing great. Our sleep schedule has been a bit off for the past few weeks so we are trying to get back on track, its been hard with the time change. Haylee is growing fast, I can't wait for her 2 month appt to see what she weighs.

Princess Wishes: Disney on Ice

2008-03-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

Josie spotted an ad for Disney on Ice in the paper and was obsessed so I decided to take the plunge. We got a hotel room off Priceline and headed to Salt Lake. We totally lucked out because we got the Radisson and it was a block away from everywhere that we needed to go. My in-laws came with us and Patti was so nice to stay at the hotel and watch Haylee. Landon and Payton went and rode on the TRAX, which Payton loved of course. I decided to let Josie dress up for the occasion and stupid me thought she would be one of the few. HaHa, there were millions of little princesses running all over Salt Lake. Josie was on cloud nine the entire day. Cristy, Emma and Maddie also came. It was so fun!! Once we got there and it started Josie could not take her eyes off the show. I barely watched the show I was so entertained by Josie. She danced in the isle most the night. This picture explains it all. Josie's favorite.....Sleeping Beauty
Cinderella
More of my lame-o pictures
Sleeping Beauty (Josie) and Bell (Emma)
Me and Josie, don't even ask how much the stupid crown cost. I can't believe the markup on that stuff. The lights blinked on it but the dang thing wouldn't stay on anyones head.
Three little Princesses coming home from the ball.

I love this picture. This is our everyday. Josie LOVES to play dress up. Multiple times throughout the day she comes to me enthusiastically and says "I have a good idear, lets play dress ups ok."

Watch out Ogden, Here we Come

2008-03-02T21:32:00.000-08:00

Since having the baby and Landon's boss being in Hawaii for 2 weeks we have all been getting a little restless and it was time for us to get out. Luckily I saw an ad in the paper for a model train festival and we thought 'what the heck.' So Saturday we headed out of Cache Valley and went all the way to Ogden, believe me it was a big step.

For those of you who don't know, Payton LOVES trains, the rest of us are so-so about trains. We were having a hard time telling if he was enjoying himself until we tried to go into the next room of displays. He started yelling and crying out CHOO-CHOO, CHOO-CHOO. I just had to laugh, I don't know were he got his passion for trains, but its amazing how they can light up his face.
There were rides for the kids to go on and some trains outside for them to play on, but unfortunately for us it started raining and then snowing while we were there so the kids didn't get to enjoy that part. The snow was coming down soooo hard when we were leaving. We were all soaked by the time we got to the car. I will never forget Josie squealing the entire walk back to the car, we both were laughing at the big snowflakes landing on eachothers noses, eyes and everywhere else. It was a great day and the kids were so good!

Shout out to Molly

2008-03-02T21:28:00.001-08:00

Hi Molly! My mom finally helped me make my crown and wand, it was kinda hard. I hope you liked yours. Are you having fun in Texas? I want a bike like yours. Love you, Josie.

Thank-you Grandma

2008-02-25T10:35:00.001-08:00

Thank you to Grandma Lynda. As you can see Josie loves her scriptures and scripture case that you made. We love you!!!!

3 Weeks!!!

2008-02-19T20:40:00.000-08:00

We have survived week 3. And I am willing to admit that I'm starting to get a little restless and can't wait to get out. Everytime I hear about Hannah and Cassie's families playing outside I am surprisingly jealous of where they live. The temps here are still going into the negatives. Luckily the Jazz are back in action, so I do have some entertainment in the evenings since we're not busy doing anything else. HaHa

Happy Valentines Day!!!!

2008-02-14T10:46:00.000-08:00

Today I keep thinking of all the things I love. First of all I am so thankful for my amazing husband. He has survived over six years of my mood swings, three pregnancies, two years of me in dental hygiene school, plenty of burnt food and all of my other innumerable flaws. Thank you Landon for everything. Landon and I often say we can't believe we are parents, I guess we better face the facts now that we have three, denial is pretty tough at this point. They are the sunshine in our lifes. They have added so much to our lifes and to our home. Each one brings something more to our family and at this point I couldn't feel more blessed. Happy LOVE day.

The Great Outdoors

2008-02-10T21:24:00.000-08:00

After two weeks of being stuck inside I told Landon today that I had to get out. Since almost everyone that we know is sick, we decided to go for a ride. We headed up Strawberry Canyon over to Bear Lake and then home through Logan Canyon. It was sunny and beautiful. At the top near Beaver Mountain Ski Resort it was about 47 degrees. The kids also must have needed an out because they also had a good time. It has been a beautiful winter. I have enjoyed watching the last few weeks from my window, we have gotten over two feet of snow. It is great to turn up the heat and watch it fall as long as I don't have to drive in it. The kids have loved the snow, I wish I was able to take them out more.

This was the view from out back door last night

And from the front door

Bear Lake

Landon found his dream barn

Josie's first Snow Angel

Marshmallow Payton trying out the sled

These pictures were taken about a month ago, it was another one of those days were I just had to get out, but we had so much fun

Josie and Payton attempting to catch some snowflakes

Josie displaying the Snowman that she built with her nine month pregnant mother, we were so proud....

One Week Old and then some.....

2008-02-07T11:47:00.001-08:00

Checking out the big wide world....

Getting some lovin' from Josie and Payton

Haylee Megan

Well we have survived a week with 3 kids. Everyone keeps telling us, "If you can have 3, you can have 8." I'm not convinced of that. And I think we are being blessed because so far everything has gone well. We are just enjoying the new baby. I have especially looked forward to not going anywhere and am thoroughly enjoying watching the snow fall this week. Landon on the other hand is very very sick of the snow, probably because he has to go out and work in it every day. Josie and Payton are loving having the baby but are missing my full attention. If anyone has any ideas for me to help them get some attention or fun activities for them, please share. Well wish me luck for week 2, because ready or not here it comes......

Finally....

2008-02-02T13:29:00.000-08:00

Well I spent most of the day yesterday looking into the eyes of our little baby, trying to figure out what her name should be. I still think that they should come with name tags.We were all packed and ready to go, all that was left the space to write her name in. As you can tell we were all ready to be home, even the baby was getting bored.
And finally I just decided that no one would be able to help but love her and her adorable little spirit. And so it was decided.....

Haylee Megan Wiser

It's A Girl!!!

2008-01-31T08:41:00.001-08:00

Our new baby girl was born on January 30 at 6:14 p.m. She weighed 7lb 1oz, our smallest baby yet, and was 20 inches. She is doing great and we are so excited to have her here. She was a surprise for us since she was a week early and we are used to a week late, but will take it.
Hello world, here I am.
Mom and Baby
Josie and Payton meeting there sweet new sister
Landon and his new woman, I mean the baby of course
We still have not decided on a name, so if you have any suggestions speak now or forever hold your peace. We once again have been blessed with the miracle of bringing another spirit into a world and want to express how grateful we are for this. We love all of you and wish you could be here.

Happy Birthday Payton!

2008-01-11T13:51:00.000-08:00

Payton's favorite gift, surprise it was a train!
Josie was so excited for Payton and a good helper all day. She loved wrapping the presents and keeping secrets.
The Train Cake
Fried Chicken Anyone?
Payton got the PJ's for his birthday and I still can't get them off of him.

2008-01-08T20:46:00.000-08:00

So first of all lets just say I am no good at being a mom and a photographer at the same time. Thus no Christmas pictures. Actually I was so excited this year, because Landon gave me a video camera for Christmas on christmas morning before the kids got up. I was so excited to tape everything, because lets face it, they are so cute and these are probably some of their sweetest days. Unfortunately I couldn't get the thing to read the discs and I was to preoccupied most of the morning trying to get it to work that I completely forgot to use my digital camera that was working. So although the pictures are scarce and won't prove much we did have an amazing Christmas. I love this time of year as we are focused on Christ and for us Family.

I finally finished the stockings on Christmas Eve and I'm still quite proud of them.

Josie with her new kitchen

Payton with his 'Choo Choo', it's his new favorite word and my new least favorite word

The kids got bubble bath in their stockings, this was their first experience with it and they were so cute!

Trying out their new towells, Josie's is a frog and Payton's is a dog.

The Tree

2008-01-08T20:33:00.000-08:00

We headed for Dayton to collect our yearly Christmas Tree, but the infamous tree farm must be going out of business soon. Instead of having a bunch of trees ready to go, they told us to go ahead and tromp through a field and pick a tree. This was a very lonely field of pine trees, like little orphans, and lets just say unique. It was also very cold and we were packing two toddlers. So this hurried the process, Landon saw a tree said this is the one, a man pulled up on a four wheeler to confirm our selection and then proceeded to start the chainsaw, which made the kids cry and tadaa we had our tree. Our massive tree. It completely covered our Explorer and our living room. I commonly referred to it as the bush as it wasn't exactly pine tree shaped but was actually blessed with five tops. I never did put a star up because I couldn't decide which top to put it on. Landon still claims its the best tree we've ever had. I say maybe the best forest we've ever had. Unfortunately I never could get it to fit in the frame of my camera so you'll just have to imagine...

Some things never change.....

2008-01-08T20:23:00.000-08:00

I long for friends often. Just ask my husband, I'm always saying I wish I had a friend. I crave for the type of friendships where you can completely be yourself and never worry about being accepted. It's a rare and precious thing, this I know for sure because I have lived in the same house for 6 years and have yet to find a friend like that here. But over the Holidays I was blessed to see two of my very best friends and my cup runneth over because I realized that that type of friendship never ends. First Rachel and her mom came and spent some time at moms and we all had a great time. After years of trying to connect, we also FINNALY got Marti to come visit us. It was a short visit but so fun

Confessions of a Pregnant Woman

2007-12-12T14:56:00.000-08:00

This post is actually for me, because right now I need a little reminder telling me how cute my kids are and how much I love them. I came downstairs today to find a huge mess because it is their new thing to get into my messy 'storage' closet and pull everything out. Then I shove everything back in it and the closet continues to get messier. It is a vicious cycle. I have threatened them, screamed at them, ignored them and nothing works, they are still drawn to the closet. When I walked in today I didn't even need to say anything they knew they were in big trouble and hid under Josie's bed while I shoved it all back in. And now they both feel asleep, which it is a little late for a nap but I'll take what I can get. They have also drove me to eat half of a big Symphony bar to calm my nerves and hey I think it's working.

Happy Birthday Josie!!!!

2007-11-16T14:07:00.000-08:00

It took us awhile to convince Josie but, it's true she turned 3. It was so much fun watching her this year and to see her so excited, I guess she gets it now. Actually the night before her birthday I was in charge of a YW/YW Combined activity and had ordered 6 dozen donuts that came in a huge box. Well I ended up bringing home plenty of left overs and the kids were already in bed. The next morning, Josie's birthday, Josie came upstairs and said, "Santa brought me donuts for my birthday." It was so cute. All of her excitement is making me excited for Christmas. She got a tent and insisted on sleeping in it that night. I think she thought everything was going to disappear, becasue when she woke up this morning she saw her loot and ran to me and said "My toys are here, it's magical." She did get the selfish birthday bug and poor Payton was at the other end of that, until she opened up the Leap Frog toy. She saw that it wasn't pink or purple and handed it right over to Payton, she's still not claiming it. So I'm guesing that Payton will be more intellectual and not as shallow as his sister who is more interested in Fashion Fever Barbies and pink Barbie cars.

The look on her face basically sums up how she was all day. She just couldn't contain it.

When she opened an Arial nightgown she immediately started stripping down in front of us all.

Well, here's the masterpiece. Ha Ha!!!!!

Happy Birthday Josie!

2007-11-08T19:34:00.000-08:00

Silly pictures from the Pumpkin Walk

Can you guess who this is?

Lex and Angela

The cutest little green monster around

This might look like Josie, but she would be quick to remind you this is Sleeping Beauty

Can you believe it is November? We have actually still been having great weather, but I'm sure that is not going to last too long. We all survived Halloween, it was fun and busy. The kids weren't too scared, except for Nana Patti, who was dressed as a witch. They wouldn't go near her till she washed her make up off. Josie thoroughly enjoyed being a princess for about a week, till she tore up her costume and Payton didn't mind being a monster as long as the candy kept coming.

Today we had our ultrasound and we survived not finding out the sex of the baby. Although the technician did tell me to call if I changed my mind. Landon and I are still in awe at the ultrasound and how amazing it is to see a baby developing. As far as we know everything looked fine. I also had my first experience at a chiropractor today. It was a little wierd and a little too much into my bubble space, but if it will help then I am willing to try it. Here are some of my horrible Halloween pictures I am definately not a photographer.

2007-10-27T22:26:00.000-07:00

Payton

Josie

Pictures from our 2nd annual elk hunting camping trip

Payton and Addie snuggling up

Ellie, Josie, Gabe

Cold and Dirty

Landon and Payton on Zip

2007-10-27T21:28:00.000-07:00

Well it's fall here and we are loving it. I think it is my favorite time of the year, minus the hunting. We are a little depressed because everyone is moving or has moved away from us...is that a sign. Landon says it is because you are all greedy and we are happy being poor ...ha ha. This is my first attempt at blogging so forgive me if this looks horrible. We are doing good here in Lewiston, I'm still trying to adjust to the fact that I will soon have 3 kids under 3. Wow that looks bad in writing. Josie and Payton are just getting easier, I noticed today, better late than never. Today I washed all our windows outside and raked about 1/4 of our leaves. Payton played with a spoon in the dirt for about 2 hours and Josie lost her slipper in one of the piles of leaves and spread all the piles back out again while attempting to find the purple slipper. It was great!